Missouri's Casino Authority

The Complete Guide to Missouri Riverboat Casinos in 2025

Everything Missouri players need to know — legal history, the best properties by market, what to expect at the tables, and how Missouri stacks up against neighboring states.

Missouri's casino industry traces its roots to 1994, when the state authorized commercial gambling on the Missouri and Mississippi rivers. Today, 13 licensed properties operate across the state, generating over a quarter-billion dollars in annual gaming revenue that flows directly to Missouri education funds. Whether you're a first-timer planning a trip to Ameristar Kansas City or a seasoned player hunting the best high-limit rooms in St. Louis, this guide walks you through every major property, what each does well, and how to get the most out of your visit.

Ameristar Kansas City: Is It Still Missouri's Best Casino?

Ameristar KC has anchored western Missouri's gaming scene for decades, but newer competition has arrived. We put it through its paces — slots, table games, hotel, and VIP.

The Best Casinos Near St. Louis in 2025

Hollywood St. Louis and Lumiere Place anchor the eastern Missouri market. Here's how to choose between them and what each property does better than the other.

Online Gambling in Missouri: What the Law Actually Says

Missouri does not permit online casino gambling as of 2025, but that hasn't stopped the debate. Here's the current legal picture and what Missouri players are doing instead.

First Time at a Missouri Casino? Read This First

Everything a first-time visitor needs — from understanding table minimums to using a player's card and what to expect at the cage. Missouri casinos are welcoming to newcomers.

Kansas City Casino District: A Player's Neighborhood Guide

Multiple casinos cluster in the Kansas City metro — each with its own personality. This guide maps out your options by property, distance, and specialty.

How Missouri's Riverboat Casino Law Changed Everything

Missouri's 1994 riverboat gambling legislation was a turning point for the state's economy and entertainment landscape. The story of how it happened — and what it made possible.

The KC metro is Missouri's most competitive casino market, with multiple properties clustered near the river and along the I-70 corridor.

• •Ameristar Kansas City — the flagship, poker room, 3,000+ slots
• •Harrah's North Kansas City — value play, live entertainment
• •Hollywood Casino at Kansas City — mid-tier, good food & beverage
• •Isle of Capri Kansas City — smaller, local crowd, accessible

St. Louis anchors the eastern Missouri casino market, with properties along the Mississippi and a historic gaming culture dating to the earliest days of Missouri riverboat gambling.

• •Hollywood Casino St. Louis — largest in STL metro, premium slots
• •Lumiere Place — downtown St. Louis, high-energy, city location
• •River City Casino — south St. Louis, large property, local favorite
• •Argosy Casino Alton — technically IL across the river, frequently visited by STL players

Missouri has not legalized online casino gambling, and as of 2025, no licensed online casino operates legally within the state. Missouri players who want online gaming options face limited choices:

Missouri Sports Betting Bill Fails to Pass in 2024 Session

Missouri lawmakers again failed to advance sports betting legislation in 2024. Advocates expect another attempt in 2025.

Ameristar Kansas City Completes Hotel Renovation

Ameristar KC unveiled a full refresh of its hotel tower, adding upgraded suites targeting high-value players.

Missouri Casino Revenue Hits $260M in FY2023

Missouri commercial casino revenue remained strong in fiscal 2023, with proceeds supporting Missouri's education funds.

Missouri Gaming Commission Updates Compliance Guidelines

The MGC released updated responsible gaming compliance guidelines for all licensed properties.

Find the Nearest Missouri Casino

Use our interactive map to find licensed Missouri casinos by distance from your city. Enter a ZIP code or city and see your options.

How Missouri Casino Player's Cards Work

Every major Missouri casino offers a loyalty/rewards card. Here's how to sign up, what you earn per tier, and which programs offer the best value for your style of play.

Gambling Help & Resources

Missouri's responsible gaming program provides free, confidential help to anyone affected by problem gambling. Resources are available 24/7 at no cost.

All 13 Missouri Licensed Commercial Casinos

Source: Missouri Gaming Commission | Updated 2025