Sycuan resort
Are you feeling lucky? Then you’re in the right place. Casinos in Southern California, Arizona, and Las Vegas are filled with hot slots and glitzy games, and their luxurious suites, golf courses, nightclubs, pools, and spas really raise the ante. Plus, live entertainment is back on the table, so get ready to buy in and plan that vacation or staycation. Here are a few of our best bets.
Harrah’s Resort
STAY CLASSY
San Diego County isn’t exactly known as a gambling destination, but local casinos are looking to change that. In recent years, the region’s tribal casinos have bet big on renovations and expansions. Sycuan Casino Resort underwent a $260 million revamp that expanded its gaming area and added a 12-story luxury hotel tower, an event space, a full-service spa, and a fitness center. The East County landmark also joined forces with Vegas-based Clique Hospitality to open a swanky steakhouse, a high-end lounge, and an outdoor pool complex where guests can float along a lazy river or lounge on the sun-soaked deck with a cocktail in hand. Harrah’s Resort Southern California, near Valley Center, has raised the limit by forming its own city named Funner. It’s had a series of celebrity mayors, most recently actress and comedian Jane Lynch. The 86,000-square-foot resort features more than 1,000 luxury rooms and suites, the region’s first swim-up bar, and a full-service spa; it’s also home to the first tribal-owned brewery.
The Cosmopolitan
VIVA LAS VEGAS
Vegas is back to business as usual. High rollers will enjoy luxury accommodations, creative dining concepts, premium shops, and world-class entertainment along the iconic Las Vegas Strip. For a contemporary and elegant stay, visit The Cosmopolitan. The chic hotel and casino in the heart of the strip is dripping with sparkle and intrigue, filled with thrilling slots and table games and loaded with ultramodern innovation, including the latest in sports-betting technology and a digital concierge that can make restaurant reservations, suggest nightlife hot spots, and fill you in on special events in the area. Vegas, baby!
Talking Stick Resort
DESERT ROSES
Visitors to the Grand Canyon State can get in on the gambling fun, too. Arizona boasts more than 30 casinos, with the largest being the 240,000-square-foot Talking Stick Resort and Casino in Scottsdale. The region’s top entertainment destination features a 36-hole championship golf course, a variety of bars and restaurants, and a luxe spa. It’s part of an even larger activities-and-attractions district that has a Major League Baseball spring training facility, life-size animatronic dinosaurs, an aquarium, virtual reality experiences, indoor skydiving, and a go-kart track. Another reason to visit Arizona: Sports betting was legalized last year.
Sycuan resort
SYCUAN CASINO RESORT
Experience the ultimate Retreat at Sycuan Casino Resort. Retreat’s unique layout features two beautiful pool areas and a cleverly designed slow-moving lazy river. The expansive pool deck is furnished with pool chairs, oversized daybeds, and plush cabanas for a more exclusive experience for up to six guests.
Since no getaway is complete without delicious food and drinks, guests can enhance their experience with a variety of creative offerings. The Pool Bar & Grill menu features seasonal bites and a full bar serving everything from fresh mojitos and margaritas to Champagne-infused cocktails. Enjoy other one-of-a-kind amenities, including relaxing spa services in a private luxury cabana—or try your hand at blackjack at Retreat Casino, an indoor-outdoor gaming venue that’s only steps away from the pool.
For even more fun, be sure to check out Retreat’s popular poolside entertainment and events. Go for a dip during San Diego’s only country pool party at The River, dance to live DJs every Saturday at Night Swim, and take advantage of exclusive deals during Industry Mondays.
