If you're in Norfolk, Virginia, and looking for a casino, you're in luck—sort of. Norfolk itself doesn't have any land-based casinos, but just a short drive across the Elizabeth River, you'll find Virginia's first full-scale casino. For US players in the area, understanding your options is key, whether you're after slots, table games, or just a night out. Let's break down what's available right now.
Rivers Casino Portsmouth: Your Go-To Spot
The closest casino to Norfolk is Rivers Casino Portsmouth, located about 10 minutes away by car in Portsmouth, VA. It opened in January 2023 and is Virginia's first permanent casino resort. This isn't some small-time operation; it's a full-fledged gaming destination with over 1,400 slot machines, 50 table games including blackjack, roulette, and poker, and a dedicated sportsbook. They've got multiple dining options, from quick bites to sit-down meals, and live entertainment. For Norfolk residents, it's the most convenient place to gamble legally without crossing state lines.
What You'll Find on the Gaming Floor
At Rivers Casino Portsmouth, the slot selection ranges from penny slots to high-limit machines, with popular titles like Buffalo Gold and Wheel of Fortune. Table game minimums typically start at $15 for blackjack and roulette, but they can vary by time and day. The sportsbook, operated by BetRivers, lets you wager on NFL, NBA, and more with kiosks and teller windows. They accept cash, Visa, and Mastercard for withdrawals, but bring your ID—you must be 21 or older to enter.
Online Gambling for Virginia Players
While Virginia hasn't legalized online casinos for slots or table games, online sports betting is fully live. That means if you're in Norfolk, you can use apps like BetMGM Casino, DraftKings Casino, and FanDuel Casino to place bets on sports, but not play casino games. These platforms often offer sign-up bonuses; for example, BetMGM has a "risk-free bet" up to $1,000 for new users. Payment methods include PayPal, Visa, and bank transfers. Keep in mind, playing online casino games like slots is illegal in Virginia, so stick to the sportsbooks.
Other Nearby Physical Casinos
If you're willing to drive farther, there's Rosie's Gaming Emporium in Richmond (about 1.5 hours away), which offers historical horse racing machines that feel like slots. For a full casino experience, you'd need to head to Maryland or West Virginia, which are over 3 hours from Norfolk. For most folks, Rivers Casino Portsmouth is the practical choice.
FAQ
Is there a casino in Norfolk, Virginia?
No, Norfolk doesn't have any casinos within city limits. The closest one is Rivers Casino Portsmouth, just a 10-minute drive away in Portsmouth, VA.
What is the legal gambling age at Rivers Casino Portsmouth?
You must be at least 21 years old to gamble at Rivers Casino Portsmouth, whether for slots, table games, or sports betting. They check ID at the entrance.
Can I play online casino games in Virginia?
No, online casino games like slots and blackjack are not legal in Virginia. However, online sports betting is permitted through licensed apps such as BetMGM and DraftKings.
Does Rivers Casino Portsmouth offer any player rewards?
Yes, they have a Rush Rewards loyalty program where you earn points on gameplay that can be redeemed for dining, hotel stays, and more. Signing up is free at the casino.
What payment methods are accepted at nearby casinos?
At Rivers Casino Portsmouth, cash, Visa, and Mastercard are common for ATMs and cash advances. For online sports betting apps in VA, you can use PayPal, credit cards, or bank transfers.
