Bucket List Destinations For Poker Fans In Las Vegas
Every year, thousands travel to gamble and to immerse themselves in poker's living history. Las Vegas, the crown jewel of American gambling, remains the ultimate pilgrimage for poker fans, as the casinos both on and off The Strip offer exciting games.
Author:Sophia HarperReviewer:Liam JonesJun 10, 20256.7K Shares89.9K Views
Casino tourism in the United Statesis surging, with poker shuffling its way into the spotlight. According to Future Market Insights, the U.S. casino tourism market is set to leap from $2.4 billion in 2025 to $4.2 billion by 2035, growing at a robust 6.1% CAGR. At the heart of this growth? The table games that bring people together, none more iconic than poker. Games like 3 Card Poker drive revenue thanks to their simplicity and speed, but it’s the community, strategy, and cultural weight of traditional poker variants that turn casual players into traveling fans.
Every year, thousands travelto gamble and to immerse themselves in poker's living history. Las Vegas, the crown jewel of American gambling, remains the ultimate pilgrimage for poker fans, as the casinos both on and off The Strip offer exciting games. With excellent gaming, food, and entertainment, casinos and cardrooms in Vegas tell stories, legends, and unforgettable moments. If poker is your passion, Las Vegas is a rite of passage.
Here’s your ultimate guide to bucket list poker stops in Las Vegas, where the past, present, and future of the game collide.
Binion’s Gambling Hall: The Birthplace Of Poker’s Biggest Stage
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Before it became Binion's Gambling Hall and Hotel, this landmark was known as Binion’s Horseshoe, and it holds sacred status among poker aficionados. This was the original home of the World Series of Poker (WSOP), founded by Benny Binion in 1970. For decades, the WSOP Main Event unfolded here, turning it into a mecca for poker purists. To quote professional poker player Daniel Negreanu, "[...] People still make it a bucket list item to play in the World Series of Poker Main Event." Negreanu acknowledges that this, in part, is due to the birth of poker's "Everyman" at Binion's in 2003.
Here, accountant-turned-underdog Chris Moneymakerstunned the poker world by winning the WSOP Main Event after qualifying online. His improbable victory sparked what’s now known as the
“Moneymaker Effect,” tripling the Main Event field in 2004 and more than doubling it again in 2005. Today, Moneymaker continues to champion the game with Americas Cardroom, advocating for online poker legalization and helping inspire new generations of players.
Even though the WSOP has since moved venues, visiting Binion’s still feels like walking through poker’s hallowed halls. Grab a drink at the bar, stand where legends were crowned, and soak in the gritty charm of a place where history was made one hand at a time.
Horseshoe Las Vegas: A New Era For A Familiar Name
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Don’t confuse it with Binion’s. The Horseshoe Las Vegas is a separate, modernized venue located at the heart of the Strip. Formerly known as Bally’s, this resort recently underwent a transformation and embraced the legendary Horseshoe name, complete with a fresh emphasis on poker heritage.
This was the site of one of the game’s most emotional recent moments: the Doyle Brunsontribute in 2023. Held at the Jubilee Theater, the memorial honored the life of the “Godfather of Poker,” who passed away after a seven-decade career. Brunson was a storyteller, an ambassador, and a symbol of poker’s evolution. The Horseshoe's tribute brought the poker world together, highlighting the venue's growing importance in the game's modern culture. The resort also serves as a host for the World Series of Poker, ensuring that it remains an epicenter for high-stakes action and unforgettable moments. With state-of-the-art poker rooms and historic reverence, the Horseshoe Las Vegas blends the old-school with the new wave.
Roma Deli And Roma Coffee: Where Poker Meets Pastrami
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Poker isn’t all cards and casinos; sometimes it’s about camaraderie, good food, and stories over espresso. That’s exactly what you’ll find at Roma Deli and Roma Coffee, an off-Strip gem co-owned by poker pros Todd Brunson, Max Pescatori, and Fabio Coppola.
Originally known for hearty Italian fare, Roma Deli has evolved into a community hangout where poker strategy meets authentic carbonara. Adjacent to it is Roma Coffee, launched in 2021 as a stylish, European-inspired café offering craft brews and a relaxing break from the buzz of the Strip. The vibe is casual but rich in poker culture, with frequent sightings of well-known players and a welcoming atmosphere for fans of the game. Visiting Roma Deli is something to do if you want to experience the personal side of poker. It’s a chance to see the people behind the personas, to grab a cappuccino where champions unwind, and to feel like you’re part of the inner circle.
Aria Resort & Casino: The Playground For Poker Pros
If you're chasing high-stakes dreams or just want to rub shoulders with the pros, Aria is where you need to be. Known for its sleek design, elite clientele, and one of the most prestigious poker rooms on the Strip, the Aria is a modern paradise for serious players.
This is where poker legends like Daniel Negreanu come to play. With regularly running $10,000+ buy-in games, the Aria’s poker room has become synonymous with big names and even bigger pots. The room is professionally managed, elegantly designed, and features a mix of daily tournaments and high-stakes cash games. Negreanu himself has called Aria one of his favorite poker venues in Las Vegas, and it's no wonder why, with its professional environment, competitive games, and unmatched hospitality. Whether you're an aspiring grinder or a fan hoping to spot your favorite player, the Aria offers a front-row seat to poker's elite.
The Bellagio: Timeless Elegance And Legendary Action
No list of poker destinationsin Las Vegas is complete without The Bellagio. Its poker room is legendary, home to the iconic “Bobby’s Room” (now renamed “Legends Room”), where the world’s most elite cash games have taken place for years. This is the room where millions have changed hands over whispered conversations and steely-eyed bluffs.
What sets the Bellagio apart is its reputation. For over two decades, it has attracted the most successful and respected players on the planet, from Phil Ivey to Patrik Antonius. It’s a place where the chips are high and the stakes are real. The Bellagio also offers a variety of table limits and daily tournaments, making it accessible for skilled amateurs looking to dip into world-class poker waters. Plus, with its luxurious setting, iconic fountains, and upscale dining, it's a destination that satisfies beyond the felt.
Las Vegas is where poker lives. From the historic tables of Binion’s to the modern luxury of Aria and the social flavor of Roma Deli, the city is poker's beating heart. Whether you’re hunting bracelets, celebrity sightings, or just a killer plate of pasta served by poker royalty, this city delivers. So, if poker is on your mind and Vegas is on your horizon, make these destinations a part of your journey. Because in the game of life, a pilgrimage to Las Vegas might just be your best hand yet.
Sophia Harper
Author
Sophia Harper’s photography acts as a portal to the soul of the places she visits. Drawn to South America’s landscapes and cultures, she has spent years capturing everything from the majesty of ancient ruins to the vibrancy of urban streets.
Sophia’s work isn’t just about documenting moments; it’s about evoking the emotions and stories behind them. A dedicated photographer, she has worked with local communities across South America to capture their rich cultural narratives through her lens.
Liam Jones
Reviewer
Liam Jones has made it his mission to prove that adventure doesn’t need a hefty budget. Having traveled to over 40 countries, he specializes in finding affordable ways to experience the world, from the best street food in Bangkok to hidden gems in Lisbon.
Liam’s travel tips have reached thousands of readers, empowering them to see the world on a shoestring budget without sacrificing quality. With a deep passion for local cultures, he continues to share his travel hacks, ensuring adventure remains accessible to all.
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