Those looking to place a bet or two will also be delighted to hear that there are three brick-and-mortar casinos offering table games, slots, horse racing, sports betting, and more. We have broken down the pros and cons of each of the casinos to help you choose the one that best suits your interests.
Image by Bally’s Dover
Bally’s Dover Casino Resort, Dover, Delaware
Classically elegant casino with a beautiful, Roman-inspired facade
Located in the state’s capital and second-largest city, Bally’s Dover is a hotel, casino, and racetrack complex known nationally for its NASCAR track nicknamed “the Monster Mile”. The multipurpose facility, previously known as Dover Downs, is rated 4 out of 5 on Tripadvisor, making it the top spot in the state.
History of the Establishment
The harness racing track and the 1-mile speedway used for NASCAR events were opened all the way back in 1969. Due to its difficulty, the speedway coined the nickname “the Monster Mile” in the mid-1970s. Nearly three decades later, in 1995, the casino first opened its doors under the name of Dover Downs Slots following Delaware’s decision to legalize slot machines at the horse tracks.
After the hotel expansion in 2007, Dover Downs became the largest hotel in the state with a total of 500 rooms. A $56-million expansion of the casino was completed the following year but gamblers had to wait another three years for table games to be introduced due to the state’s legislation.
The asset is owned by Gaming and Leisure Properties and the business is owned and operated by Bally’s Corporation. The complex was renamed Bally’s Dover in November 2021. The Dover Motor Track is owned and operated by Speedway Motorsports.
Image by Bally’s Dover
Game Selection
Bally’s Dover is a haven for all gambling enthusiasts! With nearly 2,000 slot machines and over 30 table games to choose from, you will find all the classics and soon-to-be new favorites on the casino floor. In addition, you can stop by a 250-seat sportsbook with live racing. The thoroughbred racing is on around the year and the simulcast harness racing season runs from November to March, so there is always something to keep you occupied and excited.
Entertainment
The venue has hosted some first-class entertainers such as country star Tracy Lawrence, the famous musical trio Boyz II Men, and the Canadian comedian Howie Mandel. The casino’s entertainment venue, the Rollins Center, has also hosted some high-profile events such as the First State Democratic Dinner in which Joe Biden delivered the keynote speech in 2019, Miss Delaware competitions and professional boxing matches.
Bally’s Dover is also a great spot to hire for special events. Whether it’s a company meeting for 15 people or a luxurious wedding for up to 1,500 guests, the 13 event spaces will surely accommodate your needs.
Image by Bally’s Dover
Cherry on Top
Those looking to score some social media likes while enjoying their meal should head over to the Sugar Factory. Dubbed “The Most Instagrammed Restaurant in the United States” by Food & Wine Magazine, Sugar Factory offers an impressive layout and design, in addition to glamorous food, and the chain has been endorsed by many class-A celebrities.
The most popular spots for those stunning Instagram photos are definitely the several floor-to-ceiling flower walls with red, pink, and white roses and pink neon signs stating positive affirmations such as “Beautiful” and “Hello gorgeous”.
The restaurant’s Carousel Bar, decorated according to its name with carousel-like light bulbs, offers colorful, Instagram-worthy snacks and drinks from stunning pink milkshakes to smoking goblet drinks. Celebrities from Kim Kardashian to J.Lo, and Justin Bieber to Pitbull, have been spotted celebrating at the joint.
Image by Bally’s Dover
Dining Options
Bally’s Dover is home to eight restaurants and bars. The lovers of Italian cuisine should head over to Jerry Longo’s Meatballs & Martinis which is open from Thursday to Sunday. The Longo restaurants are known to attract some notable people as well. For example, the cast members of the Sopranos have been seen enjoying the authentic American-Italian menu from time to time. Macau Kitchen Express offers a limited Asian menu with egg rolls, pork fried rice, and beef pho. For mouth-watering prime cuts, duck confit, or oysters, head over to the Royal Prime Steakhouse located in the hotel lobby.
For a quick pick-me-up, Sweet Perks Too offers delicious coffees along with hand-made pastries, muffins, salads, and more. Those who are looking for something stronger should check out the Fire & Ice bar for signature cocktails, premium wines, and draft and bottled beers. Additionally, guests can head over to The Terrace bar, which is open seasonally, to enjoy their favorite cigars. With multiple TVs at the venues, visitors will not miss any action of their preferred matches.
Downside
Despite the casino being open throughout the week, the restaurants have limited opening hours.
For More Information
Players should head over to our review of the best online casinos in Delaware for exclusive offers. If you have more questions about the venue, you can visit Bally’s Dover website at www.casinos.ballys.com/dover.
Address: 1131 N Dupont Hwy, Dover, DE 19901, United States
Harrington Raceway & Casino, Harrington, Delaware
Follow the beautiful dance of colors and light to the charismatic casino floor
Harrington Raceway & Casino, formerly known as Midway Slots, is located half an hour’s drive from Dover and can be found on the grounds of the Delaware State Fair. Rated 4 out of 5, the casino and harness racing track is one of the customer’s favorites in Delaware and tops the list of things to do in Harrington.
History of the Establishment
Dating back to 1920, the racing track was built for the annual Kent and Sussex County Fair. Fourteen years later, the fair became part of the Central Fair Circuit, which coordinated racing dates in the area. Parimutuel betting began in 1946 following the state’s decision to legalize it a year prior.
After the racing season extended to colder autumn months, improvements in heating were made to the grandstand and an enclosed clubhouse was built. When the construction was complete, the venue opened as Harrington Raceway in 1968.
After the decline of the horse racing market, Delaware legalized slot machines at the tracks, partly in a bid to help out the industry in 1994. Midway Slots and Racebook, the venue’s new slot machine parlor, was opened two years later. The venture was jointly managed by the Full House Resorts and Gtech Corporation.
The track was renovated in 2003 and the renovation and expansion of the parlor began three years later. The $50-million project was completed in 2008 and included a new restaurant, lounge, cafe, and new gambling areas. The establishment changed its name to Harrington Raceway. Table games were introduced after the state passed the legislation in 2010.
The venue is now owned and operated by Harrington Raceway, Inc. owned mainly by the non-profit organization Delaware State Fair.
Game Selection
In addition to 1,400 slots ranging from classics to the newest ones on the market, Harrington Raceway & Casino offers a range of table games. Gamblers looking for more traditional ones can find all the classics, including blackjack, roulette, and craps, but more little-known variations are also available.
Horse racing fans can head to the simulcast room to follow thoroughbred or Arabian horse races from around the world. Sports fans may also put their wagers on football, hockey, soccer, and others.
Entertainment
Bōnz Lounge and Patio has plenty of action between Wednesday and Saturday. Add karaoke to your calendar if you’re visiting mid-week or dance to the newest music on Thursday nights (from May to late August). Weekends are filled with live music year-round: Fridays are dedicated to country music and Saturdays are for weekly dance parties. While you’re there, you should also try their award-winning food. The establishment was voted the Best Restaurant in the city by readers of Delaware Today.
Cherry on Top
If you are not scared of the masses, you should time your visit to coincide with the Delaware State Fair at the end of July. The 10-day event is popular among locals and out-of-towners alike, with the 2022 attendance nearly breaking 300,000 fairgoers. The first fair was held over a century ago in 1919, and the only interruption to the annual event has been due to the Second World War.
There’s a plethora of activities for the whole family, including a carnival with exciting rides, educational exhibitions, circus performances, pig racing, and even pig kissing! The fair has also attracted several A-list musicians, and previous lineups have seen the likes of Kelly Clarkson, Paramore, Gloria Estefan, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Flo Rida, Yellowcard, 3 Doors Down, and many more.
Between September and May, the fairgrounds are home to the Centre Ice Arena, where visitors can go indoor ice skating or to play ice hockey. They also run programs that teach kids how to skate and play ice hockey. The venue can be hired for birthday parties and will be a definite hit with the younger crowd!
Dining Options
Whether you are looking for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, Onion Jack’s there for you throughout the week. From burgers to seafood and from Pesto Shrimp Alfredo to Hot Honey Chicken, they have something for the whole family.
If you’re busy or just don’t want to miss a second of gambling action, you can simply get a gourmet sandwich from Bolo’s or a slice of pizza from Grab & Go. Racing fans will be delighted to hear that they don’t have to miss anything during live races as the Clubhouse with a buffet is situated by the trackside. Food can also be ordered from Murphy’s Race and Sports Book which serves food from appetizers to entrees.
For More Information
If you have more questions, please visit their website at www.harringtonraceway.com/home or check out our list of the real money online casinos available in Delaware.
Address: 18500 S Dupont Hwy, Harrington, DE 19952, United States
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Delaware Park, Wilmington, Delaware
Traditional casino with a unique atmosphere and old-world charm
Located in Stanton, a 15-minute drive from Delaware’s largest city Wilmington, Delaware Park is the only thoroughbred horse racing track in the state. Rated 3.5 out of 5, Delaware Park and Racetrack is third on our list of the best casinos in Delaware.
History of the Establishment
Horse racing in Delaware Park dates all the way back to 1937, but due to fierce competition and financial struggles, the racetrack was forced to close in 1982.
Many predicted that the track would never open its doors again. However, it was purchased by horse breeder and real estate developer William Rickman Sr. in 1983, who managed to revive the business in the following years. The state’s decision to legalize slot machines in 1995 further helped Delaware Park finance the track’s purses and according to the New York Times, nearly $460 million was put through the slots in the first six months. The racetrack stayed in the ownership of the Rickman family for nearly 40 years until it was purchased by Clairvest Group Inc and Rubico Gaming LLC in November 2021.
The Casino at Delaware Park, or sometimes DelPark, was founded in 2009, after the state’s decision to make betting on National Football League games legal. Over a decade later, sports betting expanded to include individual games and all professional sports, whilst before 2018, bettors could only place bets on parlay cards with multiple teams or championship winners.
Image by Delaware Park
Game Selection
The 100,000-square-feet gaming floor is home to over 2,000 slot machines with denominations from a penny up to $25. Those looking to spend some more cash should head over to the High Limit room which is accompanied by a High Rollers Bar. For gamblers who like table games, the casino has over 40 tables with options ranging from Blackjack to Face up Pai Gow Poker.
The horse racing season runs from the end of May to early November. Delaware Park even has their own YouTube page with videos from previous races.
Image by Delaware Park
Entertainment
If you need a break from gambling and want to enjoy some time outdoors, White Clay Creek Country Club, an 18-hole golf course, is situated right next to Delaware Park. They offer affordable prices for visitors and flexible membership options, so guests are sure to find an alternative that fits their needs. Designed by Arthur Hills, whose projects include over 200 golf courses worldwide, the 7,007 yards of greenery offer golfers a great experience in addition to a magnificent view.
Image by Delaware Park
Cherry on Top
Beer enthusiasts will be delighted to know that the venue has its own craft brewery onsite. 1937 Brewing Company, which opened in the summer of 2021, offers specialty cocktails and up to 10 hand-crafted tap beers such as Kingsman (7.5% ABV), described as a “dry imperial pilsner fit for a king,” or Watermelon Kicker (5.5% ABV), a “tart ale brewed with house made Watermelon Puree”. The gastropub also offers food and has a wide range of tapas-style options in addition to proper meals. As guests can enjoy their refreshments while betting on their favorite sports shown on the TVs across the brewery or opt for live entertainment at the nearby Stage 1937, this is a place to be on a Friday night!
Image by Delaware Park
Dining Options
If you get hungry during the races, finding a restaurant will certainly not be an issue. Located by the trackside so you won’t miss any of the action, Del Cap offers classic, American meals including wings, burgers, salads, and sandwiches. In case you are thirsty as well, you can head over to The Terrace which overlooks the track to have a glass of wine, beer, or one of the delicious cocktails to go with your meal. For specialty draft beers, head over to the Paddock Pub on the 1st floor to get a closer look at the action.
For guests who want to enjoy a quieter meal without the hassle of the races in the background, Racing Legends offer fresh seafood and other more upscale options. For a quick bite, you can opt for Picciotti’s Pizzeria or grab a cheesesteak or a panini to-go. Even more food and drinks are available at the Sport’s Bar, located next to the casino side of the action and the Sport’s Book.
Downside
For those not interested in gambling or golfing, there is not too much to do on the premises.
For More Information
You can visit the Delaware Park website at www.delawarepark.com.
Address: 777 Delaware Park Blvd. Wilmington, DE 19804, United States
