Casino Trip
Hello, besides making a reservation for a boat casino trip that will take you to the middle of the ocean, is there a casino close to Orlando that we can drive ourselves to?
Thank you.
If you’re looking for a casino experience near Orlando without going on a boat trip, options are somewhat limited since Florida has specific gambling regulations. There are no major land-based casinos directly in Orlando, but there are a few nearby options worth considering for a drive:
- Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino – Tampa: About 85 miles southwest of Orlando (roughly 1.5–2 hours by car). This is a full-scale casino with slots, table games, poker, dining, and entertainment. It’s the closest large land-based casino offering a full experience.
- Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino – Hollywood: Located near Fort Lauderdale, about 230 miles from Orlando (roughly 3.5–4 hours drive). Larger resort-style casino with a wide range of gaming and shows, but a bit far for a day trip.
- Gulfstream Park Casino – Hallandale Beach: Also near Miami, about 240 miles from Orlando, mainly for thoroughbred racing and slots. More suitable if combining with an extended trip south.
- Native American Tribal Casinos on the Space Coast: Smaller operations exist around the Space Coast, such as the Miccosukee or tribal gaming facilities, but these are typically limited in size and amenities.
For a more immediate option within Orlando itself, many visitors opt for boat casino cruises departing from nearby ports (such as Port Canaveral or Daytona) since Florida allows “cruises to nowhere” with full casino gaming once in international waters. These usually last 3–5 hours and offer table games, slots, and poker, providing the closest experience to a traditional casino without driving several hours.
In summary, if you want to stay within a reasonable drive from Orlando, the Seminole Hard Rock in Tampa is your best land-based option. Otherwise, boat casino trips from Port Canaveral or Daytona are convenient alternatives that leave you in Orlando for most of your day.
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