By Christine Hayes
There are about two dozen Class III casinos in Arizona operated by Native American tribes and located on tribal lands. Available games include keno, slots, blackjack and poker, plus video versions of poker, craps and roulette. The Arizona Department of Gaming has a comprehensive list online (see link below), but there are many notable casinos in the state.
Gila River
Gila River operates three separate casinos south of Phoenix: Wild Horse Pass, Vee Quiva and Lone Butte. The largest of these is Wild Horse Pass, located beside the expansive Sheraton Wild Horse Pass resort featuring golf, a spa and a 500-room hotel.
Tel: (800) 946-4452
Website: www.wingilariver.com
Casino del Sol
Just outside Tucson you'll find Casino del Sol and its sister casino, Casino of the Sun. Both properties offer a wide range of dining options. Also nearby is the AVA Amphitheater, home to big-name concerts and cultural events.
Tel: (800) 344-9435
Cliff Castle
Close to Sedona, Cliff Castle Casino is one of the more family-friendly choices. It boasts a bowling center, arcade and the Kids Quest child care center for children ages 6 weeks to 12 years. The Lodge at Cliff Castle has 80 guest rooms and a heated pool.
Tel: (800) 381-7568
Website: www.cliffcastlecasino.net
Casino Arizona
Casino Arizona has two locations south of Scottsdale: Talking Stick and Salt River. These casinos are light on amenities, but The Talking Stick Resort and Spa is due to open in early 2010 with nearly 500 guest rooms and close proximity to golf and shopping.
Tel: (480) 850-7777
Website: www.casinoaz.com
Desert Diamond
The Desert Diamond Casino and Hotel near Tucson is known for its modern amenities, including a business center, free wireless Internet and flat-screen TVs. There are three Desert Diamond locations in all.
Tel: (866) 332-9467
Website: www.desertdiamondcasino.com
Resources
About the Author:
Christine Hayes has been writing and editing professionally since 1995. After earning a Bachelor of Arts in music from Brigham Young University, she built a career writing materials for both freelance assignments and corporate positions. Publications include the Lehi Free Press and in-house corporate magazines "The Excellent Word" and "Stampin' Success."
