Seven Best Casinos in Vegas for Beginners

All the flashing lights and cocktails aside, the best casinos in Vegas for beginners are welcoming to all players. With separate beginner tables or even free lessons at some casinos, our list of the seven best novice casinos provides excellent entertainment for all players. These prominent locations have great rewards programs, a laid-back atmosphere and small bets for extended play. Let’s dive in!

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Excalibur

Excalibur casino

Located on the south side of the Strip, opposite McCarran International Airport, Excalibur hotel and casino complex is renowned for its medieval theme and vibrant atmosphere. It offers various attractions, including bingoslots, and table games, and even features an arcade room. The hotel boasts a spa, four swimming pools, WiFi, and a gym.

Excalibur tops our list due to its beginner-friendly table games. The casino staff can often assist during gameplay and organize free lessons. The general atmosphere at Excalibur is welcoming, making it easier for beginners to ease into their first game and encouraging continued play and learning.

The Excalibur Hotel is also one of the most budget-friendly options, offering low-bet tables for those new to the game and looking for fun.

Rio

Rio Casino

Although Rio isn't on the Strip, it has stunning views of it. Those searching for slot fun and poker action will likely fall in love with this hotel and casino. It's part of the Ceasar's Entertainment Group, which means buzzing action and fantastic rewards.

It's been home to the World Series of Poker (WSOP) since 2005, so poker players can have the time of their lives at beginner-friendly or expert tables. You won't break the bank by playing here due to low minimum deposits, but significant fun is guaranteed.

Although the latest customer reviews mention that the place needs a renovation, it's still a classic among Vegas casinos and has people returning for nostalgia.

New York, New York

New York New York Casino

Right next door to Excalibur, this casino is one of the most eye-catching properties in Vegas. Its towers bring to mind the New York skyline. Whether you're searching for a sportsbook or casino table, this location can give you everything.

Due to its location, the casino is almost always buzzing with visitors. The atmosphere is relaxed and casual, so new players won't have to overthink their inexperience.

Players on a budget can find craps and blackjack tables for a minimum of $5, which is quite affordable for a casino on the Strip.

Golden Nugget casino Vegas

Casino Golden Nugget

If you're considering Vegas as a destination, the Golden Nugget is a landmark you must see, even if you choose to stay at another hotel complex. Many visitors are sure it's the best casino in Vegas for beginners. It was one of the first casinos built in Vegas. While it might not offer as many attractions as other sophisticated locations, you'll still find casino tables and slots to fill your entertainment hour.

The Golden Nugget can sometimes be overcrowded, but you can find decent tables for a low budget during the week. It's not far from the Strip and offers a luring membership for loyal players. In 2020, the casino won the 'Best of Las Vegas Downtown' award.

In addition to traditional casino games like blackjack, baccarat, and craps, the casino also offers a sportsbook with many TVs and a laid-back atmosphere.

Planet Hollywood

Planet Hollywood Casino

Planet Hollywood might be loud, but it's a must-see for a first-time Vegas visitor. You might need relaxed surroundings to play your first game, but entering the lively, buzzing environment will give you the real casino experience you see at the movies.

If you're seeking a quiet game of poker, you won't get it, but Planet Hollywood sparks excitement due to the variety of available game options. As another Caesar's property, it shares many similarities in terms of service quality and rewards.

For those easily distracted by sparkling dancer outfits, lights, music, and noise, it may be challenging to focus on the game. However, this is the destination if you're searching for entertainment and variety.

Flamingo

Flamingo Casino

Flamingo is one of the oldest casinos on the Strip. If you are looking for the best Vegas casino for beginners, which has been around for decades, this is the right choice. Its hotel encompasses 3,460 rooms, modern amenities, a spacious swimming pool, and a courtyard with exotic flamingos. In addition to becoming part of Vegas history, you get classic casino entertainment.

The 72,299-square-foot casino hosts 130 game tables and over 1,600 slot machines. Whether you choose to try your luck at roulette or play poker 24/7, this casino can accommodate any whim. Attending the sportsbook for a few bets is yet another choice to make and go with the flow.

After you get tired or, even better, win big, you can also try out other entertainment options. These include shows, a fantastic steakhouse, and bustling nightlife.

Treasure Island

Treasure Island Casino

If you're looking for comfort in your first Vegas gambling experience, Treasure Island is the perfect choice. While it's not as mind-blowing as other nearby casinos, it's an excellent option for first-time players. You'll find affordable tables with minimal bets. Plus, if you still need to learn the rules of a given game, the staff is eager to help.

If you're a slot enthusiast, joining the TI Players Club may be smart. Perks include free spins, merchandise, room nights, and show tickets.

This destination is also excellent for those who like international cuisine and buzzing nightlife. Treasure Island offers Mexican, Vietnamese, and Italian dining, a spa and a swimming pool.

Best Vegas Beginner Casinos Compared

Besides the beginner-friendly features at our selected Vegas casinos, other aspects like the city area and game availability might influence your casino choice. Therefore, we’ve compared these key features in the table below. 

Best Vegas Beginner Casino Compared
Casino Location Slot machines Table games
Excalibur Paradise, Las Vegas Strip 2,600+ 100+
Rio Paradise, West of the Las Vegas Strip 800+ 90+
New York, New York Las Vegas Strip 1,500+ 70+
Golden Nugget Downtown Las Vegas 1,000+ 90+
Planet Hollywood Las Vegas Strip 1,000+ 90+
Flamingo Las Vegas Strip 700+ 55+
Treasure Island Las Vegas Strip 2,200+ 40+

Beginner Tips for Gambling in Vegas

To enjoy your experience in Vegas as a beginner, ensure you know all the essentials about gambling in the city. Here are some tips to consider:

  1. Choose casino games with lower house edges. Roulette, for example, has a high house edge of 5.26%, giving the casino a firm advantage. Blackjack offers a low house edge of 0.75%, making it suitable for beginners.
  2. Plan your gambling budget: On average, a beginner in Vegas will lose $5.26 for every $100 wagered. However, the best budget strategy is to predetermine how much you can afford to lose and not exceed that.
  3. Learn the game rules before playing: If you’d like to hit a table of an unfamiliar game, ask the dealer how to play the game before sitting at the table. In that case, choose an empty table to learn in a stress-free setting.
  4. Consider gambling etiquette: It’s good manners for players to tip the dealers. Generally, players are expected to tip 1-2% of their winnings.

FAQ

What is the best Vegas casino for beginners?

The best Vegas casino for beginners is Excalibur. It has plenty of games, beginner friendly incentives like free lessons and a selection of low-bet tables. 

How do I know if a casino is good for beginners?

There should be enough games with a wide betting range, including low-stakes, and high-RTP games like video poker. 

What is the legal age for gambling in Las Vegas?

The legal age to gamble in Las Vegas casinos is 21. To get into a casino, you must show identification documents. People not old enough to gamble can only be accompanied by an adult over 21.

What casino games are the best for beginners?

The best casino games for beginners are slots and low house edge table games. Slots don't. require any previous knowledge to play them, whereas certain table games like blackjack have a low house edge, which minimizes your losses as a beginner. 

Is there a dress code for attending Vegas casinos?

Generally, there isn’t a strict dress code in Las Vegas casinos. However, stricter dress codes might be required during evenings or dining, especially at more upscale venues. If in doubt, men should opt for a collared shirt and dress shoes, while women can choose a smart top or dress. 

Gerda Grinova
Chief Editor
University of Latvia
A degree from the University of Latvia combined with experience in affiliate marketing, content management and quality assurance.
Expert in:
  • Casino reviews
  • Online Games
  • Online Slots

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