The best destinations with both casinos and golf courses
Summary
Now whether you are a gambler or a casual golfer, you’d have to admit that golfers have gamblers and in particular, casinos to thank for their modern, luxurious public golf courses. While back in the day Las Vegas was the top destination for golfers and casinos things have changed a lot in recent years. Today many Midwestern States and the Southern States are major players in this space.
In many casinos with golf courses, owners often don’t see the need to make money off the golf course even though it is more than just an afterthought. That often means golfers get better-golfing facilities at a much lower price, so as long as there is a casino on the same property.
In this article, we’ll cover some of the best casinos with top golf courses around the world.
Albuquerque, New Mexico – Sandia Resort and Casino
Albuquerque is known for its sprawling landscape, with historic pueblos, turquoise, and the balloon fiesta. The backdrop of unique landscapes makes it the perfect destination for those who are looking to play golf as well as shoot some Blackjack since it’s very nearby. Interestingly all these resorts are on tribal lands where having them has created jobs and improved the economy. However, out of all the casinos with golf courses, the Sandia Resort, and casino which is owned by Sandia Pueblo stands out.
Opened in 2005, the 140,000 square feet gaming facility is decorated with all southwestern interior, with beautiful views of the Sandia Mountains. The wrap-around patio bar located on the 9th floor offers 360-degree views of the mountains, city, and the challenging golf course.
There are currently plans underway to add yet another Golf Pavilion. The one presently on site has a pueblo-style clubhouse, a restaurant, and bar. The 18-hole weekday rates start at around $36 which is the most competitive you’ll find anywhere.
The Twin Warriors Golf Club and Santa Ana Casino
The New York Times lauded the Twin Warriors Golf Club as the best true links course in America. It is also adjacent to the Santa Ana Casino. The Twin Warriors hosted the 2009 PGA Championship chosen mainly for its eight lakes smack in the middle of the tee boxes with a set of 5 tees on a 27 hole championship course.
Nearby visitors can enjoy gourmet food with a slight southwestern flair at the Prairie Star restaurant. The Santa Ana Star Casino just a minute away offers a massive selection of games from table games to live poker and over 1400 slot machines. Perhaps the only thing missing is online gambling at this casino.
Phoenix, Arizona – The We-Ko-Pa Golf Club
At just around 23 miles from northeast Phoenix, AZ, the casino is located on the land of the Yavapai Nation lands. Golfweek Magazine named it one of the best resort courses and for a good reason. The 18-hole public course was designed in part by Ben Crenshaw and offers some breathtaking views of all the surrounding mountain ranges.
Patrons also enjoy a 10,000-foot clubhouse that has both outdoor and indoor dining. The onsite casino offers an array of popular games like slots, live bingo, keno, and card rooms. They also host a number of events like the Silver Car Auction, which can be attended by anyone.
Cherokee, North Carolina – Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort
Now, if you are in search of the best lush green with an accompanying equally good gambling establishment you can’t go wrong with this 21-story resort in North Carolina. The over 150,000 feet of gaming includes live table games along with a 3000 seat auditorium that has played host to stars like Lady Antebellum, Reba McEntire, and Robin Thicke.
Located ideally amongst fir trees, oak, and valleys with lots of wildflowers, the 18-hole Sequoyah National Golf Club is one of the best places to tee off. Beautiful views of the Great Smokey Mountains National Park are certainly a distraction, but that’s part and parcel of its charm. If you want preferred rates and special access we recommend you stay at the hotel.
Conclusion
Apart from the above mentioned resorts offering excellent golfing and gambling opportunities, they are also excellent places to spend the weekend. Almost every one of the resorts above has restaurants, spas, and the city itself offers loads of sightseeing opportunities. So, there is a lot more to them than just golf and gambling!
Tom Irwin
Tom is a lifetime golfer, now over 30 years playing the game. 2023 marks 10 years in golf publishing and he is still holding down a + handicap at Alwoodley in Leeds. He has played over 600 golf courses, and has been a member of at least four including his first love Louth, in Lincolnshire. Tom likes unbranded clothing, natural fibres, and pencil bags. Seacroft in Lincolnshire is where it starts and ends.
