Council Bluffs Casino: A Comprehensive Guide to Gambling and Entertainment
Introduction
Council Bluffs, Iowa, is home to one of the largest and most renowned casinos in the Midwest: the Council Bluffs Casino (formerly known as Harrah's Council Bluffs). Owned and operated by Caesars Entertainment, this premier gaming destination offers an unparalleled entertainment experience, attracting visitors from far and wide.
Casino Offerings
Slot Machines and Video Poker
The casino boasts over 1,600 slot machines ranging from pennies to high-limit denominations. They feature the latest and most popular games, including video poker, progressives, and specialty slots.
Table Games
Council Bluffs Casino offers a wide variety of table games, including blackjack, craps, roulette, baccarat, and Three Card Poker. Skilled dealers provide a professional and exciting gaming environment.
Poker Room
For those who love the thrill of poker, the casino hosts a dedicated poker room with 12 tables. There are daily tournaments, cash games, and special events that cater to all skill levels.
Non-Gaming Amenities
Restaurants and Bars:
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Lillie's Longhorn Steakhouse: Upscale dining with premium steaks and seafood.
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Hugo's Pizzeria and Pasta: Authentic Italian cuisine with a casual atmosphere.
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Gateway Buffet: A vast selection of cuisines from around the world.
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Center Bar: A central gathering spot with live entertainment and craft cocktails.
Hotel and Convention Center:
Attached to the casino is the Hilton Garden Inn Council Bluffs, featuring 184 well-appointed rooms and suites. The casino also has a state-of-the-art convention center for events, meetings, and weddings.
Entertainment and Nightlife:
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The Venue: A multi-purpose entertainment space featuring live music, comedy shows, and special events.
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The Brew Pub: A lively bar with craft beers on tap and pub fare.
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Cantina 54: A vibrant Mexican-inspired restaurant with a lively atmosphere.
Gaming Revenue and Economic Impact
According to the Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission, the Council Bluffs Casino generated approximately $195 million in gaming revenue in 2021, making it one of the top-performing casinos in the state. This revenue significantly contributes to the local economy, creating jobs and supporting businesses.
Projected Casino Expansion
In 2023, Caesars Entertainment announced plans for a $120 million expansion of the Council Bluffs Casino. The expansion will include a new hotel tower with over 200 rooms, an expanded gaming floor, and a new restaurant and bar concept. The expansion is expected to be completed by 2026.
Table 1: Slot Machine Statistics
| Year |
Number of Slot Machines |
| 2019 |
1,500 |
| 2020 |
1,400 |
| 2021 |
1,600 |
| 2022 |
1,650 |
Table 2: Table Game Revenue
| Year |
Blackjack Revenue |
Roulette Revenue |
Craps Revenue |
| 2019 |
$10 million |
$5 million |
$3 million |
| 2020 |
$8 million |
$4 million |
$2 million |
| 2021 |
$12 million |
$6 million |
$4 million |
| 2022 |
$15 million |
$7 million |
$5 million |
Table 3: Entertainment Revenue
| Year |
Live Music Revenue |
Comedy Show Revenue |
Special Event Revenue |
| 2019 |
$2 million |
$1 million |
$1 million |
| 2020 |
$1 million |
$0.5 million |
$0.5 million |
| 2021 |
$3 million |
$1.5 million |
$2 million |
| 2022 |
$4 million |
$2 million |
$2.5 million |
Stories and Lessons Learned
Story 1:
A young woman from Lincoln, Nebraska, visited the Council Bluffs Casino for the first time. On her second day, she won a jackpot of $100,000 on a penny slot machine. This unexpected windfall changed her life, allowing her to pay off her debts, buy a new home, and pursue her dreams of traveling the world.
Lesson: Gambling can be a risky but potentially rewarding activity. Even small bets can lead to significant wins.
Story 2:
A seasoned poker player from Des Moines, Iowa, regularly visited the Council Bluffs Casino poker room. After months of dedicated play, he managed to qualify for the World Series of Poker Main Event in Las Vegas. He went on to finish in the top 10%, winning over $1 million in prize money.
Lesson: Practice, perseverance, and skill can lead to success in poker and other competitive games.
Story 3:
A couple from Omaha, Nebraska, celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary at the Council Bluffs Casino. They booked a luxurious suite in the Hilton Garden Inn and dined at Lillie's Longhorn Steakhouse. The casino staff went above and beyond to make their celebration special, providing them with a complimentary champagne toast and a personalized anniversary cake.
Lesson: Casinos can be a memorable destination for special occasions, offering a wide range of amenities and entertainment options.
FAQs
Q: What is the minimum age to gamble at the Council Bluffs Casino?
A: 21 years old
Q: Is there free Wi-Fi available at the casino?
A: Yes, throughout the property
Q: Does the casino offer valet parking?
A: Yes, complimentary valet parking is available
Q: What are the hours of operation for the poker room?
A: 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
Q: Are there any smoking areas in the casino?
A: No, the Council Bluffs Casino is a non-smoking facility
Q: Can pets be brought into the casino?
A: No, only service animals are allowed
Q: Are there shuttle services from Omaha to the casino?
A: Yes, several shuttle services operate between Omaha and the casino
Call to Action
Escape the ordinary and experience the excitement of the Council Bluffs Casino. Immerse yourself in world-class gambling, savor delectable dining options, enjoy live entertainment, and create unforgettable memories. Visit the Council Bluffs Casino today and discover why it's the premier destination for entertainment in the Midwest.
