It's one of the first things newcomers notice.

If I've heard it once, I've heard it a hundred times, "wow, there sure are a lot of casinos in Billings." While most states have some form of casinos (only eight have none) most of those gaming establishments in other states are owned and operated on Native properties. In Big Sky Country, it's kind of a free for all. If you possess a beer/wine/liquor license, you can have a casino.

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I wish we had this game in Billings! Canva
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Nothing like Vegas

Each Montana casino is limited by law to 20 machines. Keno, video poker, and reel games (technically not slots) are your options. If you want to play blackjack, craps, and other Vegas-style table games your nearest fix is Deadwood, SD. A handful of casinos in Billings offer live poker tables.

Photos by Michael Foth, TSM
Photos by Michael Foth, TSM
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With so many choices, what makes one better than the other?

If all the casinos have basically the same machines, what sets them apart? As an occasional Montana gambler, I usually go to the casino/bar nearest my house, simply for convenience. If I'm bouncing around town, I try to find one that has fun, friendly staff. Generous complimentary drinks while playing are always nice, as is a decent rewards program.

Photo by Michael Foth, TSM
Photo by Michael Foth, TSM
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You said The Bet Casino is your favorite.

In our completely non-scientific Facebook query, "Which Casino is Billings is Best, and Why?" you overwhelmingly said The Bet Casino, at 1911 King Ave West. Staci M. wrote,

The BET CASINO!! Amazing owners and staff. Fun & exciting promotions, clean atmosphere. Oh, and you can’t say no to all the delicious snacks!

Numerous others chimed in, echoing those same qualities. Of course, we all have our neighborhood favorites or favorite bartenders. Billings gamblers mentioned Cash Casino, Doc and Eddy's West, Sapphire, Casino 8, Maverick Casino, and a handful of others as their favorite places to play. One person said they dig the atmosphere at the Crystal. Ah, the Crystal. Good times.

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