840
The roots of riverboat gambling can be traced back to the 19th century when steamboats were the primary mode of transportation along the Mississippi River. As passengers went on long journeys, gambling became a popular pastime to pass the time. While gambling activities were generally illegal on land at that time, boats provided a loophole, as they were considered to be outside of state jurisdiction.
The Legacy and Historical Influence of Riverboat Casinos in the United States
Welcome aboard as we set sail into the captivating world of riverboat casinos in the United States. On this page, we’ll walk you through their legal status and historical implications, explore the where, what, and why of these floating gaming venues, and finally, take a close look at the modern condition of riverboat gambling.
As we explore the ins and outs of this unique chapter in American gaming history, we’ll also take a glance at if riverboat casinos have left a mark on the WV online gambling scene and gambling in the US in general.
The Legal Status of Riverboat Gambling
Historically, casino boats were allowed in many states, mostly those with access to the Mississippi River. Today, only six states still allow this form of gambling:
- Illinois
- Indiana
- Iowa
- Louisiana
- Mississippi
- Missouri
Gambling boats are essentially floating casinos operating on designated waterways. They offer a wide variety of gambling activities just like land-based casinos, including slots, table games, and poker.
Each state with legal riverboat gambling has its own regulatory body responsible for licensing and ensuring compliance with state laws and regulations. These regulations typically address aspects such as gambling activities allowed, revenue sharing with the state, security measures, responsible gambling practices, and environmental considerations.
While sharing similarities with land-based casinos, riverboat casinos face additional regulations due to their unique setting, such as:
- Licensing requirements. Land-based casinos typically have more stringent licensing requirements than riverboat casinos. For instance, land-based casinos may be required to undergo a more rigorous background check and financial audit process compared to riverboat casinos;
- Location restrictions. There are usually fewer restrictions on riverboat casino locations than on those of the brick-and-mortar venues. For instance, land-based casinos might not be allowed to operate in certain areas, such as residential neighborhoods or near schools. Riverboat casinos, in turn, are more flexible when it comes to location, as they can be moored on rivers that flow through various areas;
- Taxation. The taxation of land-based casinos and riverboat casinos can vary depending on the state. In some cases, land-based casinos may be subject to higher tax rates than riverboat casinos;
- Building codes. Land-based casinos are typically required to meet more stringent building codes than riverboat casinos. This is because land-based casinos are permanent structures, while riverboat casinos are considered temporary structures;
- Inspection and enforcement. Land-based casinos usually undergo more frequent inspections and stricter enforcement of regulations compared to riverboat casinos.
Generally, the regulation of land-based casinos tends to be more strict and comprehensive than the regulation of any casino on the Mississippi River. The reason is likely that land-based casinos are considered to have a greater impact on the surrounding community, both in terms of economic benefits and social costs.
State-by-State Riverboat Gambling Regulations
As of 2024, it’s legal to run and visit a riverboat casino in six states. Let’s take a closer look at each of them:
Illinois
Here, riverboat casinos are allowed on the Mississippi River, the Illinois River, and the Des Plaines River. The casinos must be located at least 300 feet from the shore and be accessible to the public by land or water. Riverboat casinos in Illinois are regulated by the Illinois Gaming Board.
Indiana
In Indiana, boat casinos can operate on the Ohio River, the Indiana Harbor, and the Patoka Lake Reservoir. They must be located at least 600 feet from the shore. Riverboat casinos in Indiana are regulated by the Indiana Gaming Commission.
Iowa
In this state, it’s legal for riverboat casinos to operate on the Mississippi River and the Missouri River. They must be located at least 300 feet from the shore and are regulated by the Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission.
Louisiana
A riverboat casino in Louisiana is allowed to operate on the Mississippi River, the Red River, and the Gulf of Mexico as long as they are located at least 300 feet from the shore. The casinos here are regulated by the Louisiana Gaming Control Board.
Mississippi
Obviously, a riverboat casino in Mississippi can be located on the Mississippi River at least 300 feet from the shore. Boat casinos in Mississippi are regulated by the Mississippi Gaming Commission.
Missouri
Last but not least, Missouri riverboat casinos are allowed on the Mississippi River and the Missouri River at least 300 feet from the shore. Riverboat casinos in Missouri are regulated by the Missouri Gaming Commission.
Brief History of Riverboat Casinos
Explore the history of riverboat casinos in the United States, tracing their origins, development, and impact on both the gambling industry and American culture.
19th Century: The Origins of Riverboat Gambling
Early 20th Century: Decline and Revival
The invention of railroads in the early 20th century led to a logical decline in riverboat travel, and respectively, riverboat gambling. However, the 1970s saw a reappearance of interest in riverboat casinos, primarily because of the push to revitalize urban areas.
1990s: Expansion and Legalization
The 1990s marked a period of significant growth for riverboat casinos. Several states legalized riverboat gambling, and the industry expanded rapidly. By the late 1990s, there were over 150 riverboat casinos operating in the United States.
2005: Hurricane Katrina and Its Devastating Blow
In August 2005, Hurricane Katrina struck the Gulf Coast, causing widespread destruction and displacement. The storm severely impacted the boat casino industry in Mississippi and Louisiana, with several casinos suffering significant damage or complete destruction.
Late 2010s: Post-Katrina Recovery and Adaptation
The consequences of Hurricane Katrina brought significant changes to the riverboat casino industry. While some casinos managed to rebuild and reopen, others had to close permanently. The industry also faced increased competition from brick-and-mortar casinos, which were gaining popularity at that time.
Today: A Mature Industry
Today, a casino boat remains a popular form of entertainment in the United States. However, the industry has matured and consolidated, with the number of riverboat casinos decreasing in recent years. Despite these changes, riverboat casinos continue to be an important economic driver in many regions.
Popular Riverboat Casinos in the US
Now that we know all the theory about riverboat gambling, let’s get to practice and take a look at the most popular water casinos in the United States.
The Grand Victoria Casino – Elgin, Illinois
Located along the beautiful Fox River, The Grand Victoria Casino is a home (or rather a boat) of true gaming elegance. Known as the largest riverboat casino in Illinois, it boasts an impressive 65,000 square feet of gaming space including slots, table games, and a poker room. The casino also offers a variety of dining and entertainment options, including a steakhouse, a buffet, and a concert venue.
Ameristar Casino Vicksburg – Vicksburg, Mississippi
The Ameristar Casino Vicksburg is one of the oldest and most crowded riverboat casinos in Mississippi with over 50,000 square feet of gaming space. The wide choice of slots, table games, and poker tables is complemented by all kinds of entertainments, from the flavors of a diverse buffet to comedy clubs and nightclubs.
Horseshoe Casino – Bossier City, Louisiana
The Horseshoe Casino is one of the largest riverboat casinos in Louisiana and one of the most popular. It features over 100,000 square feet of gaming space, including slots, table games, and a poker room. The casino also offers a variety of dining and entertainment options, so players can choose between a steakhouse, a buffet, a concert venue, and others.
Sam’s Town Casino – Shreveport, Louisiana
Sam’s Town Casino is a popular destination for all kinds of gaming enthusiasts in and out of state. With a gaming space of over 34,000 square feet, this casino offers an intimate yet exhilarating experience. Beyond the slots, table games, and poker room, Sam’s Town welcomes gamers to savor a culinary journey with a steakhouse, a buffet, and a unique entertainment experience at the in-house bowling alley.
FAQ
What is the Diamond Lady casino boat?
The Diamond Lady Riverboat Casino was a paddlewheel riverboat casino that operated on the Mississippi River in Bettendorf, Iowa, from 1991 to 2008. In 2021, the Diamond Lady sank during a severe winter storm. It was later raised and brought to shore, where it remains today. The future of the Diamond Lady is uncertain, but it is possible that it will be restored and reopened as a casino or museum.
Why do casinos have to be on water in the US?
Casinos in the US don’t necessarily have to be on the water, but there are some casinos that are. This practice originated when gambling laws were more restrictive on land, and the association of riverboat gambling with waterborne transportation became a legal requirement in some states.
Why are casinos on the water so popular?
Riverboat casinos are popular for their unique charm and historical allure. The on-water setting offers players a distinctive and memorable gaming experience, contributing to the popularity of these establishments. Additionally, the regulations associated with riverboat gambling create a controlled and regulated environment that appeals to both operators and players.
