Updated by Ziv Chen
Writer
Fact Checked by Michael Graham
Content Editor
Calgary is a city with many personalities. Known as Cow-Town to some and the City of Festivals to others, Calgary is a vibrant area with both a rich Western heritage and a cool urban feel.
Home to more than 50 annual festivals and the 10-day Calgary Stampede - the biggest outdoor rodeo event in the world - Calgary attracts more than 8 million tourists annually.
Calgary also has the richest gambling landscape in Alberta. Its dozen or so casinos offer something for everyone, from lively downtown casino-nightclub hybrids to relaxed and remote resorts. Alberta is one of the few provinces that allows gambling from the age of 18, so you’ll find a real mix of ages inside Calgary’s casinos.
If you’re planning a trip to Cow-Town and want to explore one of the city’s casinos, look no further than this guide. There are a fair few to choose from, so we’ve highlighted the top land-based casinos Calgary has to offer.
Whether you want a quiet session on the slots or a few rowdy rounds of roulette, you’re certain to find a casino that suits your style.
Calgary’s liveliest casino, Cowboys mixes gambling with nightlife. It has 350 slots, 30 tables, and a 24/7 poker room that attracts serious players. Known for drink deals, live DJs, and its proximity to the Saddledome and Cowboys Dance Hall, it draws a young crowd. Great for a fun night out, but not the place for quiet play.
For more information, read our full Cowboys Casino review.
Located on First Nation land, Grey Eagle is Calgary’s only casino that still allows smoking indoors. With 900+ slots, 37 tables, bingo, and a large hotel, it caters to a mature audience. Guests enjoy buffets, spa, and live shows in its concert venue. The smoke can be overwhelming, but it’s part of the casino’s unique character.
For more information, read our full Grey Eagle Resort review.
A popular downtown spot with 600+ slots, 35 tables, poker, and off-track betting. Dining is casual with Sammy’s Sports Bar and Jester’s Buffet. Live music at Bayou Stage adds entertainment, while the poker room runs late into the night. Known for its horse-racing theatre and lively weekend atmosphere.
For more information, read our full Elbow River Casino review.
Small but packed, Pure squeezes 850 slots and 30+ tables into 52,000 sq ft. It’s famed for its $6.99 breakfasts, prime rib dinners, and friendly service. A highlight is the Replay Arena, an immersive gaming zone, plus uncapped poker tables for high-stakes play. No hotel, but it’s minutes from downtown.
For more information, read our full Pure Casino Calgary review.
More of a resort, Deerfoot offers a 60,000 sq ft casino with 780 slots, 30 tables, and a WSOP poker room. The 188-room hotel features a waterpark, spa, live music venue, and special stay packages. It’s a favorite for RV visitors during the Stampede and hosts regular poker tournaments.
For more information, read our full Deerfoot Inn and Casino review.
Attached to Calgary’s airport, ACE is a 72,000 sq ft “luxury” venue with 600+ slots, 38 tables, and a new 24/7 poker room. Known for its daily tournaments and affordable buffets, it’s a great pre-flight stop. Stylish design and Alberta’s only private electronic table lounge set it apart.
Calgary’s oldest casino, recently revamped, offers 600+ slots and 20+ tables with games like blackjack, roulette, and pai gow. Popular with poker fans thanks to unique progressive jackpots and regular promotions, including prize draws. Features high-limit slots, themed Asian games, and a fresh modern look.
Ziv Chen has been working in the online gambling industry for over two decades in senior marketing and business development roles. Ziv writes about a wide range of topics including slot and table games, casino and sportsbook reviews, American sports news, betting odds and game predictions. Leading a life full of conflict, Ziv constantly struggles between his two greatest loves: American football and US soccer.
Read Full Bio