Oklahoma’s WinStar World Casino and Resort is not only the biggest casino in the US, but the biggest casino in the world!

Below you’ll find out everything you need to know about the sprawling casino-hotel-entertainment complex, which put a small town in Oklahoma on the map over 20 years ago.

Want to know how many table games you can play? Whether you can bring the kids? Which mega band are performing next? Or where you’ll be able to grab a bite to eat? We’ve got you covered…

WinStar World Casino & Resort Quick Facts

Owners: The Chickasaw Nation

Open since: 2003

Size: Roughly 600,000 sq. ft. of dedicated gambling space, including eight different plazas offering table games, slot machines, a poker room, bingo hall and betting parlor.

Where: 777 Casino Avenue, Thackerville, Oklahoma. Around an hour’s drive from both Oklahoma City and Dallas.

Fun fact: Located in Love County, only five miles away from the Texas border, Thackerville was last estimated to have a population of just over 400 people. So, the largest casino in the US is situated in one of the country’s very small towns…

Rooms: 1,495 with roughly 1,395 of those rooms at the main complex, and the remainder off-site.

WinStar World Bars and Restaurants

At last review, pre or post-casino snacks included staples such as pizza, fries, pies and burgers, with guests able to tuck into everything from fancy steak, through to Mongolian dishes and buffets.

WinStar has plenty of options to help you keep your hunger at bay. From fine dining to casual eats, restaurants and bars include:

• Vino’s Italian Kitchen
• Chips N’ Ales
• NYC Burgers & Dogs
• Matadors Pizzeria
• El Fenix
• Toby Keith’s I Love This Bar & Grill
• Capisce Ristorante Italiano
• Le Paris Bakery & Cafe
• Legends Bar & Grill
• IHOP Express
• Panda Express
• Gran Via Buffet
• The Rotunda Bar
• Dairy Queen
• Kirby’s Steakhouse
• Khan’s Fire Mongolian Grill
• Palladium Sports Lounge
• Terrace Cafe
• Red River Grill
• Cafes & Quick Bites
• Mist Nightclub
• Skyline Lounge

Winstar Age Limit: Is WinStar Family-Friendly?

To visit the gaming area or play any of the casino games, guests must be at least 18 years old. However, kids can still eat at the resort’s restaurants and attend shows in the events center if accompanied by an adult — but they must not be left alone.

What Can You Do At WinStar World Casino & Resort?

Get a glimpse backstage at the Global Event Center:

• The casino area offers more than 10,000 electronic games, 100 table games including crowd-pleasers and traditional favorites like blackjack and roulette, and a 55-table poker room. The bingo hall seats around 360 people.
• Away from the casino, WinStar boasts a 6,500-seat event venue, making it a big draw for live music. WinStar World Casino & Resort has previously hosted Pitbull, KISS, Bob Dylan, and many other huge names.
• For those that like to pair the fun of the gaming floor with pampering and wellness, there’s a championship golf course and academy, a spa, gym, hot tubs, and a swimming pool with cabanas, bungalows and day beds.
• There are plenty of places where visitors can carry on the party into the early hours, including Mickey Mantle’s and Palladium Sports Lounge.

The Good:

• Since its grand unveiling, the resort has hosted performances from famous faces such as Kelly Clarkson, Lynyrd Skynyrd, James Taylor and Maroon 5.
• The hotel offers a real holiday resort experience across its four different accommodation areas and showcases 24-hour room service, fitness facilities and a luxury pool.
• The casino’s nine gaming areas are named after world-famous cities such as Cairo, Paris, Rio and London, with a theme to match.
• The poker room and Rio gaming plaza are both non-smoking, so everyone can enjoy their time on the floor.

Wonder what the gaming plazas look like? Take a tour through WinStar’s Rio section:

The Bad:

• No dogs allowed. If you’re staying at the casino’s hotel you’ll have to leave your furry friend elsewhere. Only service animals are allowed on the casino’s premises. It might be the biggest casino in the US, but there’s no room for your pooch.

What People Are saying:

• One TripAdvisor reviewer said, “I come at least once a month for a two day sabbatical of fun, relaxation and gambling”.
• “Awesome slot machines, many of which are interactive,” said one recent visitor, “We like how the casino is divided into different regions of the world and the shuttle service that will take you from one end to the other. Food choices are great and tasty”.
• One guest, writing on TripAdvisor described it as a “Fun place to visit and play” and the food as “excellent”.
• Another TripAdvisor review said that the “hotel accommodations were superior”, “gaming was enjoyable” and the “overall stay was a pleasure”.
• “Huge casino with all the sensory experience you could ever want. It was fun,” stated a customer on the casino’s Facebook page.

Upcoming Events

You can find a list of regularly updated events on their site, but notable entertainment in 2024 includes:

• Stevie Nicks: May 10th 2024
• Duran Duran: May 19th 2024
• Kevin Hart: June 22nd 2024

Blackjack is one of the most popular card games ever invented, perhaps because it is also one of the easiest casino games to pick up. Over the years, mathematicians and professional gamblers have strived to find the perfect formula for playing the game, with many believing that there are ways to beat the odds.

Some players have found great success over the years. This has led to some seriously huge payouts and accumulated winnings which have gone down in history. So, what have been the biggest blackjack payouts ever? We highlight five of the very biggest. And are these feats still possible today?

If you’d like to try a game of blackjack for yourself, then open an account on LiveRoulette and try over 15 unique tables on our Canadian online casino.

1. Shoeless Joe – $1.5 Million

A mystery man won $1.5 million after entering a US casino without any shoes on. As the story goes, he used a $300 security check and played a terrible game in terms of strategy, splitting and doubling when all the theory says you shouldn’t. He managed to take up quite the cash pot, but kept on playing and eventually lost the lot.

2. Dana White – $2 Million

Dana White is well-known as the president of UFC, and the American
businessman is used to being in the public eye. In 2012, he was in the media
for the wrong reasons, though. At this time, White was accused of card counting
by Palms Casino. He had won a considerable amount of money on blackjack but the
Las Vegas resort refused to pay up and banned him.

In 2014, White was allowed back into the casino after the CEO changed. Over
the course of a few months, the man with a net worth of $500 million managed to
accumulate winnings of $2 million. He may have been able to earn more if he
hadn’t faced a cap in the amount he could win. First, the casino made him lower
his bets from $25,000 to $5,000, and then they capped his wins off at $2
million to end his streak.

White continues to be a major blackjack fan and can be found playing at
casinos that will have him. But up to now, he has never recreated the streak
which gained him such notoriety back in 2014. White is not completely banned
from Palms Casino either, as he still holds UFC events at the Pearl Arena in
the complex.

3. Ken Uston – $4.5 Million

Ken Uston was often referred to as the King of Blackjack Strategy and one of
the technically most successful players ever to sit at the felt. It was
this American player, strategist, and author who actually came up with the idea
of teaming up to play blackjack. Along with mastering strategy and the
mathematical side of the game, Uston is credited with having pretty
much invented card counting.

During the late 1970s and early 1980s, Uston led a blackjack team around
various casinos in the USA. They would place outrageous bets which would
sometimes value at around $12,000 per hand, and rake in millions in winnings
from the process.

It is estimated that Uston and his team gathered around $4.5 million in winnings during their operational period. This could be considered among the first big blackjack wins and a catalyst that influenced a great number of other players.

4. Kerry Packer – $40 Million

Kerry Packer was a millionaire before he even played blackjack and he used his wealth to place gigantic stakes on the cards. At the time of his death in 2005, the Australian had a net worth of AUS $6.5 billion (over €3.9 billion or USD $4.3 billion). Obviously, the bigger the bet, the bigger the payout, and Packer made a name for himself by taking down two of the most insane blackjack pots ever seen. The first was in 1991 at the Hilton in Las Vegas, where he picked up a cool $7 million in a single night.

Unsatisfied with such meagre winnings, Packer returned to Las Vegas in 1995
and played blackjack at the MGM Grand. The media tycoon placed a series of
$250,000 bets and within forty minutes had racked up a stack of $40 million.

The dealers had a good time on that incredible night, too, as Packer decided
to leave a $1 million tip. While the casinos may not be too happy about
players taking down huge blackjack pots, it is certainly the dream of most
dealers to be at the table when it happens.

5. MIT Blackjack Team – $50 – $100 Million

The MIT blackjack team is well known in popular culture from the film, 21, and
the book that it was based on, Bringing Down the House. The team operated over
a number of years and featured around eighty different members.

They went to a wide variety of casinos across Atlantic City and Las Vegas from the 80s and 90s in order to avoid suspicion. This was because they employed a card counting technique which helped to influence their bets on the games. If a shoe contained a lot of cards of high value it was regarded as hot, which meant that the players should bet big on it. If the majority of remaining cards were instead low in value, it would be a cold shoe.

During their prime, it is estimated that this world-renowned blackjack team
earned anywhere between $50-100 million. Understandingly, then, the major
casinos didn’t look lightly upon the methods used by these
genius mathematicians and the film plot rests on an attempt to thwart the
students’ efforts.

If any of these success stories have inspired you to try your hand at mastering the classic casino game of blackjack, you could play live blackjack online to develop your skills.

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Las Vegas, with its convenient location and welcoming spaces, is known for hosting some of the world’s largest and most popular conventions. In 2024, the city is set to welcome an exciting lineup of conventions, from expansive technology showcases to a unique world pizza summit, along with promising opportunities for networking, knowledge sharing, and new experiences for hobbyists, professionals, and entrepreneurs of all types.

Regardless of the convention you attend, Las Vegas in 2024 is set to offer an unforgettable experience. To get ready for what’s in store, we’re highlighting some of the biggest conventions in Las Vegas in 2024.

2024 International CES, Consumer Electronics Show

January 9-12, 2024, Las Vegas Convention Center

The International CES Consumer Electronics Show, taking place from January 9-12, 2024 at the Las Vegas Convention Center, is a must-visit for tech enthusiasts. This globally renowned event is a powerhouse of innovation, showcasing the latest breakthroughs in consumer technology. From next-generation gadgets to transformative tech trends, the CES Show is where the world’s tech community comes together to shape the future. It’s an unparalleled opportunity to witness the future of technology, network with industry leaders, and gain valuable insights. An immersive experience awaits in 2024 at the heart of Las Vegas.

Who Should Attend: Technology enthusiasts; business professionals, especially those involved in technology, electronics, or related fields; Retailers and distributors journalists, bloggers and influencers who cover technology and consumer electronics; investors looking for promising tech startups or innovative products; academics, researchers and students in technology-related fields or social science scholars interested in technology and society.

The NAHB International Builders’ Show® (IBS)

February 27 – 29, 2024, Las Vegas Convention Center

The National Association of Home Builders’ International Builders’ Show® (IBS) is another marquee Las Vegas 2024 convention. Taking place from February 27 to 29 at the Las Vegas Convention Center, IBS is the largest annual light construction show worldwide. Attendees can look forward to a flurry of exciting exhibits, educational sessions, and networking events focusing on the most pressing topics in the home building industry. From emerging design trends to innovative building technology, IBS offers an exclusive glimpse into the future of home construction. Prepare to be inspired at this comprehensive, multifaceted convention in the heart of Las Vegas.

Who Should Attend: Builders, both residential and commercial; real estate developers and architects; suppliers and manufacturers involved in the home construction industry; investors and property consultants; academics, researchers, and students in fields related to construction and architecture; journalists and influencers covering the housing and construction industry.

International Pizza Expo

March 19-21, 2024

The International Pizza Expo, the largest pizza show in the world, is slated to unfold in Las Vegas from March 19-21, 2024. This unique and delectable convention gathers pizza professionals from around the globe, offering an unparalleled platform for networking, learning, and pizza tasting. Featuring an array of exhibits showcasing the latest innovations in pizza making, attendees can explore emerging trends, engage in creative workshops, and participate in the much-anticipated pizza-making competitions. The International Pizza Expo is a must-attend event, promising a thrilling, delicious, and insightful experience for every pizza enthusiast.

Who Should Attend: Pizza professionals, including business owners of pizzerias and pizza franchises; suppliers and distributors in the pizza industry; chefs and culinary enthusiasts looking to refine their pizza-making skills and learn about the latest trends; investors seeking promising ventures in the pizza industry; food bloggers, critics, and influencers looking for content and insights to share; pizza lovers and enthusiasts.

The Level Up Up Expo 2024

April 26-28, Las Vegas Convention Center

The Level Up Expo (Lvl Up Expo for short), scheduled for April 26-28, is a popular convention for gaming, technology, and pop culture enthusiasts. Attendees can anticipate a thrilling array of exhibitions, interactive gaming tournaments, and exclusive panels featuring industry leaders. This event is the perfect platform to explore cutting-edge gaming technologies, network with like-minded individuals, and celebrate the vibrant world of pop culture. More information can be found on the official Lvl Up Expo website. Experience the excitement of this convention and level up your Las Vegas visit in 2024.

Who Should Attend: Video game enthusiasts;  anime and manga fans; cosplayers; pop culture bloggers and influencers; tech startups and industry professionals; retailers and distributors; students and academics.

Waste EXPO

May 6-9 2024, Las Vegas Convention Center

The Waste EXPO, taking place from May 6-9, 2024, is a crucial event for professionals and emerging leaders in the waste management industry. Hosted by the National Waste and Recycling Association, it offers an immersive platform for showcasing innovative waste disposal technologies, networking, and industry-specific educational sessions. Attendees can gain valuable insights into sustainable waste handling practices and the latest industry trends. This event is a must-attend for those in the waste management and recycling industry, promising an enriching and informative experience.

Who Should Attend: Waste and recycling industry professionals, including waste service companies, recycling firms, and municipal sanitation departments; suppliers and manufacturers of waste management equipment and technologies; environmental consultants and sustainability officers; academics, researchers, and students focused on environmental science and waste management; public policy makers and environmental advocates; journalists and influencers covering environment, sustainability and waste management; anyone involved or interested in the future of waste management and recycling.

Ascend

July 30 – August 1, 2024

The American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA) is set to host Ascend 2024, a unique convention slated for July 30 through August 1, 2024, in Las Vegas. Ascend is a groundbreaking event that gathers aerospace professionals, policymakers, and students, providing a platform to discuss and shape the future of space exploration and aeronautics. Packed with collaborative sessions and interactive exhibits, attendees can delve into the latest innovations, network with industry leaders, and gain invaluable insights into emerging aerospace trends. Ascend promises to be an enlightening, inspiring, and not-to-be-missed event in the 2024 Las Vegas convention calendar.

Who Should Attend: Aerospace engineers and technicians; aircraft manufacturers and suppliers; pilots and aircrew: pilots and aircrew members; aviation authorities; air traffic controllers: investors and venture capitalists: aviation enthusiasts; scholars and students in the field of aeronautics; aviation and aeronautics journalists and influencers.

SEMA Show 2024

November 5-8, 2024  

Set to occur in November at the Las Vegas Convention Center, SEMA Show is one of the automotive industry’s most prestigious events. Organized by the Specialty Equipment Market Association, it attracts innovative minds and showcases hot new products. The event offers visitors an opportunity to witness the future of automotive technology, with displays of groundbreaking technologies, parts, and accessories. It also serves as an ideal networking platform, linking manufacturers, buyers, and media from all over the globe. 

Who Should Attend: automotive manufacturers and suppliers; auto repair and maintenance; automotive retailers; custom car builders; racers and race teams; automotive journalists and bloggers; automobile enthusiasts; investors and venture capitalists.

Attending Las Vegas Conventions

These are just some of the great conventions and expos that Las Vegas has to offer this year. However, new shows and convention spaces are appearing all the time, so be sure to keep an eye out for the perfect time to book your trip. Staying in Downtown Las Vegas offers the best convenience for convention attendees. Positioned at the heart of the action, Golden Gate provides comfortable accommodations within distance of major convention venues.

Circa Las Vegas and the D also offer excellent things to do for 2024 Las Vegas convention-goers with an impressive array of amenities. Sample world-class cuisine, enjoy a refreshing dip in the pool, bet at the largest sportsbook in the world, or unwind at a bar after a long day at the convention. Circa also offers a versatile meeting and convention space perfect for smaller gatherings or breakout sessions.