Central Florida is well known for Disney, sunshine, amazing beaches, and fresh citrus. Every year, hundreds of thousands of people make their way to visit Tampa, Orlando, Daytona, and other Florida cities to soak up the sunshine, do some swimming in the ocean at the coastal areas, and to check out the theme parks.

The Sunshine State has a population of well over 15,000,000 and features great weather year-round, making it a popular destination for non-Floridians tired of the winter weather. Florida is also the home of many famous writers include the late, great John D. MacDonald. His Travis McGee series was set in many areas around Sarasota, Bradenton and Miami. These bestsellers are still on the racks waiting for non-Floridians to discover them.

ladies in sunglasses with drink trays standing behind blackjack table at a charity event

You Can Bet on Florida

In addition to all the great sun, surf and sights, casinos are a booming business in the Sunshine State. Florida gambling includes many well-known games: slot machines, blackjack, Texas Hold-em poker, roulette, and many others. Florida casinos are an excellent way to discover fun without the need for sunblock (or a theme park map).

While Orlando doesn’t have any Vegas-style casinos, there are ways to get around this and still have fun.

roulette table outside under palm tree

Orlando Casino Options

While we have yet to see an Orlando casino, this doesn’t mean your trip can’t include gambling. The Sanford Orlando Kennel Club (located on the appropriately named “Dog Track Road”) offers weekly races as well as online horse betting. Some casinos outside Orlando also feature this famous Florida pastime. Some books have even featured a day at the Florida dog track as part of the plot!

One way to enjoy classic casino games is through Victory Casino Cruises, which depart twice a day, seven days a week from Cape Canaveral. No need to pack a bag; these cruises only last five hours, but feature all the classic Vegas perks: free drinks while gambling, table games, sports betting, buffets, slot machines, dancing, and more.

For the land lubbers, the closest casino to Orlando is actually the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Tampa. Located about two hours from Orlando, the Hard Rock features all the games you’ve come to know and love in a casino as well as a non-smoking section.

people celebrating at blackjack table

Get Out There and Play!

There is a wide range of experiences on offer from Florida Casinos; the hardest choice you will have is where to start! From the dog track to the roulette wheel, and every game in between, you will find it all at Florida casinos.

You may encounter some casinos that have specific dress codes, so be sure to check online or by telephone to find out what the rules are at each casino. Some casinos specify a casual atmosphere, but may require no tank tops or flip-flops. Know before you go that you should gamble responsibly and above all, have fun!