A Journey Through Canada’s Five Earliest Casinos and Their Gambling Legacy

The first casino in Canada was opened its doors in the 1970s, set up by the Klondike Visitors Association in Dawson City, Yukon, where it continues to thrive. This venue is themed around a classic 1898 saloon, perfectly intertwining with the historical backdrop of the Klondike Gold Rush. It is named after the legendary Gertie Lovejoy, one of the most celebrated dancers from the Gold Rush period, famed for her unique diamond-studded front teeth. Every day, the casino hosts a lively vaudeville show reminiscent of her performances. At Gertie's, guests can try their luck at various games while enjoying live performances in a vibrant atmosphere. The audience is captivated by the stunning dance routines of the Gold Rush Girls, who perform alongside the iconic queen of Klondike. The casino hosts three shows each night, offering games like blackjack, poker, and roulette, alongside over 60 slot machines. Open daily from May through September, the building was originally known as Arctic Brotherhood Hall and dates back to 1901. The funds generated by the casino support the preservation of historical sites, local events, and the promotion of the Yukon area.

The Cash Casino made its debut in Calgary in 1980, marking Alberta’s first privately-owned casino. Initially, it was restricted to hosting charity-based table games and events focusing on agricultural and religious causes. Fast forward to today, the casino

now houses over 500 slot machines. Its gaming tables cater to a wide audience with options for blackjack, roulette, baccarat, poker, craps, and even Pai Gow. The tables are open from noon until 3 AM every day. Cash Casino Offering Calgary's longest-running free entertainment, The Blackjack Beauties perform every Friday and Saturday evening. Additionally, poker enthusiasts can participate in weekly tournaments held in the Nevada Poker Room, which is active six days a week. With two restaurants and a bar on-site, the casino is conveniently located less than 10 miles from Calgary International Airport.

Treasure Cove Casino – Established in 1986 (Prince George)

The Treasure Cove Casino Until recently, Treasure Cove featured an expansive 5,500-square-foot show lounge accommodating 180 guests, perfect for comedy shows or similar entertainment. The casino is currently undergoing renovations to enhance its offerings, with plans to expand its show lounge to seat 800 patrons, transforming it into a concert venue. Guests can also enroll in Encore rewards programs, allowing them to earn and use points on various gaming options.

Originally called the Royal Casino of Quesnel, this venue began as a charitable gaming establishment. Today, it symbolizes the historic charm of Quesnel, British Columbia, proudly owned by a family. The casino's striking exterior design resembles a luxurious paddlewheel boat, mirroring the vessels that traversed the Fraser River during the Gold Rush days, founded by a miner from the 19th century. slot machines and tables.

When it opened in 1987, Billy Barker Casino Significant renovations have revamped the casino, including complete redesigns of the lobby, restaurant, and lounge to appeal to high rollers. The complex features a gaming room filled with diverse slot machines and roulette tables, along with a hotel, café, lounge, and a showroom. The venue also includes facilities for conventions and banquets that accommodate 100 visitors, ideal for seminars and workshops. Its tagline, \"old world elegance & modern amenities,\" truly encapsulates its character.

Canada's gambling history holds yet another treasure –

which opened in 1988 in Calgary, following the successful operation of Cash Casino. This venue is located in the trendy Victoria Park area, just a stone's throw from the Calgary Stampede grounds. Spanning 96,000 square feet, it features a gambling area, a stylish bar, two dining establishments, and a dance hall. True to its name, the casino embodies the cowboy theme. Cowboys Casino As Calgary's premier gaming establishment, Cowboys Casino boasts 33 tables and over 350 slot machines, including a high-stakes gaming area. The poker room is open 24/7, with dealers offering a variety of games, including Texas Hold'em, Omaha, Pineapple, and both Limit and No Limit poker. Customers can also enjoy nightly massages, convenient late-night dining options, and complimentary breakfast services. Many guests appreciate the heated underground parking, especially during the frigid Canadian winters!

Summary of Canada’s Oldest Casinos

While online gambling continues to surge in popularity, visiting a physical casino remains a uniquely thrilling experience. Many of the older venues serve as multi-faceted entertainment centers, ensuring your enjoyment extends beyond gambling to include dining, shopping, and attending engaging shows. A visit to one of Canada’s top casinos has the potential to become an unforgettable highlight of your vacation. Ask yourself – is there anything more exhilarating than experiencing the joy of someone’s win alongside a full house? Well, yes – it could very well be the thrill of scoring a win yourself!

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