Unless you visit the Canberra Casino; you would not realize that the casino is a lot smaller than casinos in other cities across Australia. But the question many ask is why casino in Canberra is so small?
Well today we will enlighten you; we will spill the beans and give you the reasons why casino in Canberra is so small.
To put into perspective; the Casino Canberra is 38736 square feet while Crown Casino Melbourne is 221656 square feet and Sky City Adelaide is 104425 square feet. The difference is huge; as Sky City Adelaide is over 2 and a half times the size of Casino Canberra; and Crown Casino Melbourne is over five times the size.
It is small in comparison with other casinos in Australia; and does not incorporate any hotel accommodation, theatres, auditoriums or retail stores. It also holds the distinction of being the only casino in Australia that cannot operate poker machines. There are 39 gaming tables where you can play blackjack, roulette, baccarat and other games. The casino also has a poker lounge and sports lounge with TAB facilities.
A rewards program, the Senators Club, allows members to earn points; which can be redeemed for prizes, at the casino’s restaurant or selected hotels and businesses in the city. Senators Club members are entitled to secure parking and entry into gaming tournaments hosted by the casino.
Casino Canberra AU
Canberra Casino was built in 1994 after a temporary casino was closed; the casino is also the only casino in Canberra. The Aquis Group controlled by Hong Kong billionaire Tony Fung acquired the casino in 2014. While it may be the only casino there is a problem that dogs the casino and makes it as small as it is, this problem is that it does not have any poker machines.
While many of the other casinos across Australia enjoy rows and rows of poker machines, some even have over two thousand or more, Canberra Casino was never able to have them. The reason for this was that the government would not issue a licence because of the backlash it would feel for other entertainment venues in the area that are worried that it would reduce their revenue.
So without needed floor space for hundreds, or even thousands of pokies you can see why the casino is smaller.
Games at Casino Canberra
There are lots of table games here and you can play favourite Blackjack, roulette, pai gow, mini-baccarat, money wheel, and rapid roulette with table minimums starting as low as $1-$5. It’s true that there are no pokies machines at Casino Canberra, however their unique Gaming Packages more than make up for it. Party planners can rent out the Party Pit between 7PM and 9PM for their own private guest list to enjoy exclusive gaming action.
Canberra also offers poker with wagers starting at similar price points as the table games. You can play a unique variety of the game – Canberra Poker. Similar to five-card stud, players play individually against the house and receive five cards face down while the dealer receives four faces down and one up. From there, the game follows a traditional poker hand hierarchy with the bonus of large jackpots as the game goes along. Finally, sports bettors will enjoy Casino Canberra’s TAB facility.
Hotels at Casino Canberra
While Casino Canberra doesn’t have its own proper casino, it is affiliated with two nearby ones and offers a number of different packages at discounted rates. The Crowne Plaza Hotel Canberra is located immediately next to the casino and is a first-rate lodging experience. Inside you will find modernized rooms, fast Wi-Fi, a fitness centre, two restaurants, an outdoor pool, and much more. If you are planning an event, the Crowne has six large meeting rooms to accommodate your guests as well.
Another short walk away is the Waldorf Apartment hotel. Geared towards business travellers, every room (or “apartment”) at the Waldorf comes with a fully equipped kitchen, stainless steel appliances, a dining table, an in-room safe, room service, and much more. Staying at the Waldorf also grants you access to the heated indoor lap pool, a full gym, a rooftop half-size tennis court, a spa, and even table tennis equipment.
Restaurants to enjoy
Although Casino Canberra’s dining and drink selection is small, it has two bars that receive proper focus from management, just about guaranteeing a quality dining experience every time. The Main Bar is notable for its cocktail menu and comfortable lounge seating, perfect after a long day in the sun or at the casino. When you are ready to start ramping up or winding down your night, the Sports Bar is a great option for either with its great drink specials.
The 180° East restaurant features chefs from all over the world blending their cooking backgrounds and influences for a unique dining experience. Our personal favourites were the roast duck, grilled eye filet steak, and the chicken parmigiana. The restaurant also takes reservations for just about any size group, perfect for those special friends-in-town weekends.
Visit Canberra 21 Binara Street Canberra ACT 2608 | +61 2 6257 7074
For those looking for pokies in Canberra without visiting a club, why not log online and play at one of the great online casinos such as Rich Casino.
