Craps is a game I hope everyone plays at least once in their Vegas adventures. While it is seemingly very intimidating, the basic, smart bets are actually quite simple to understand. To me, what makes craps so great is that, for the most part, everyone is winning together. That’s why it’s typically the loudest, most exciting table in the casino. Not all tables are created equal though. Sometimes we find an atmosphere that is to our liking or dealers we have fun with. So, if you’re a novice looking to cut your teeth, or a pro looking to change it up, here are a few of the best places to roll the bones:
Overwhelming favorite:
Golden Gate
Friendly dealers, low limits, and 10 X odds makes this downtown property a must visit. You can still find $5 minimums on weekend nights.
@VegasFanboy best craps in vegas? Al at @GoldenGateVegas has your answer https://t.co/xic7UiGXRh
— Nick WanderscheidPGA (@NWander1) April 1, 2015
Other downtown suggestions:
The D
Golden Gate’s sister property (both are owned by Derek Stevens) is another great choice. 10 x odds just like GG and a raucous, party atmosphere. You can find $5 tables most days and into the early evenings. Tables usually jump to $10 on weekend nights.
Main Street Station
MSS is a great example of a casino doing all the right things for gamblers. Their craps table features 20X odds, which is one of best offerings in the city. Couple that with good video poker and plenty of inexpensive and quick dining options, and you get a property that really knows how to cater to gamblers.
Downtown Grand
DG is somewhat the opposite of MSS, as it is struggling to attract gamblers. It has certainly been going through some growing pains. One bright spot, it seems, is the craps pit, as multiple people recommended the Grand as a decent spot downtown. Many players mentioned the friendly dealers and low minimums. A nice bonus is that it’s the only casino downtown that has the Fire Bet.
The California
When you get into the California, they won’t ask you “Whaaaat are you doing here?” Despite the limited, 2x odds, the craps pit at the Cal is usually fairly “hopping” and a lot of fun. Plus, you can grab @sportsbooktom’s favorite, Lappert’s Ice Cream, on the second floor.
The Strip:
The Cromwell
This boutique property may be small in stature, but it is proving to be big in customer service. Players, like Mark, co-host of You Can Bet on That, cited the Cromwell as one of their favorite places to play because of the friendly dealers and great service. Its $10 minimums are quite a good value given the the prime center Strip location. Some have even spotted $5 minimums early in the day. The Cromwell is quickly moving its way into the top spot of my favorite places to gamble. It’s seems to be doing the same for others.
Margaritaville
Close to the Cromwell, this themed casino attached to the Flamingo is close to the door, so you get an outdoor feel. The drink services and low minimums make this a fun place to roll the dice. That is, if you don’t mind excessive Jimmy Buffett music.
O’Sheas
If you love to party and play craps, you need to stop by this Linq extension. It’s cleaner and more open than the old O’Sheas, but the liveliness remains. Get loud, get drunk, and if you happen to lose a few dollars at their craps table, you can drown your sorrows by playing a round of beer pong.
Wynn/Encore
We’ll step up the class and head to the Wynn for our next suggestion. Surprisingly, you won’t have to pay much more the elegant experience. $10 tables can still be found in the morning into the afternoon. The Wynn pool even offers $10 craps at times. Gaming statutes require general access to all gambling areas. So, even if you are a non-hotel guest, you are allowed to access the pool area if the tables are active, free of charge. Before you leave, be sure to grab their signature cocktail, the Sinatra Smash.
*Note: Wynn recently changed it’s tables to limit the odds to only 2x. This may not be a deal breaker for some, but a consideration nonetheless. (7/22/15)
The tables at the Encore have the popular, but awful (odds wise) “all or nothing” bet. This bet usually pays 175-1 and hits when the numbers 2,3,4,5,6,8,9,10,11, and 12 are rolled before a 7.
Bellagio
Modern Vegas elegance makes this my favorite place to hang out and grab a drink. Something about the ambiance makes this property a must visit every trip. You can even, on occasion, find a $10 table. If you’re a low-roller like me, but want to class it up every once in a while, Bellagio is a great option at the right time.
Cosmo
You’re not likely to find low minimums, but this is a classy, fun, and hip place to play. Plenty of “eye candy” walking strolling through the property as well. Plus, Chandelier is probably the most unique set of casino bars in Vegas. Grabbing a well crafted drink from one of their mixologists is a must.
Other inexpensive Strip options:
Monte Carlo
Luxor
Casino Royale
Off Strip:
Sunset Station
Great limits and friendly dealers make this a local favorite. Plus, it’s a myVegas partner, so you may be able to score discounted food and drinks or even a free stay.
Gold Coast
Low minimums in another local favorite. Inexpensive gambling just a short cab ride away.
Joker’s Wild
A 25 minute drive southeast of the Strip will land you at a this low-roller hot spot. Its not the nicest place, but it may be the cheapest. The casino only has one craps table, but it can be a great place to learn the game. This is because it has the lowest minimum of any casino I’ve surveyed, $1. A cab ride would be quite pricey, so I’d only visit if you or your group has access to a rental car.
$3 Craps:
Fremont
El Cortez – early hours
A big thanks to Barry and the Craps! FB group for all of their suggestions. If you are looking for tips or have questions regarding the game, the group is a great source!
Do you have a favorite place to play not on this list? Let me know. I’m always looking for a new joint to roll the dice!
(photo: Lisa Brewster)
