In 2020 Nebraska voters legalized casino gambling but only at the state’s horse tracks in five different locations. Four of those five casinos have now opened in Columbus, Grand Island, Lincoln and Omaha with a fifth casino in South Sioux City due to open in 2026.
Outside of these racinos, there are an additional four tribal-owned casinos in Nebraska ran by three federally-recognized tribes under the 1988 Indian Gaming Regulatory Act.
So what can you expect from these Nebraska casinos? Let’s take a look.
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Read MoreNebraska Land-Based Casino Operators
With a mix of tribal and commercial casinos in Nebraska, there are a variety of operators, some more well-known than others.
- Caesars Entertainment– One of the biggest names in US casinos, Caesars own Harrah’s Columbus Racing and Casino
- Elite Casino Resorts – An Iowa based company who own casinos in Iowa, South Dakota and Illinois, they run the newly opened Grand Island Casino Resort at Fonner Park
- Winnebago Tribe – Own three of the commercial racinos - Warhorse Casino Lincoln and Warhorse Casino Omaha and currently developing Warhorse Casino South Sioux City. The Winnebago Tribe also own two tribal casinos – Iron Horse Casino and Native Star Casino
Nebraska Casino Resorts
Because all of the race track casinos have been built in the last couple of years, all of them offer a modern, fresh gaming environment which is great news for gamblers. However, some have more in terms of size, games and amenities, here’s a few you should check out.
- Harrah’s Columbus – The first casino to open in Nebraska, Harrah’s opened in May 2024. The venue offers the usual Caesars flair in design and has a one-mile thoroughbred racetrack, a restaurant, a sports bar and a Caesars Sportsbook. The casino has around 400 slot games, 11 live table games and electronic games too.
- Warhorse Casino Lincoln – Opened November 2024, Warhorse Casino has a 26,000 square foot casino floor featuring over 830 slots, 10 live table games, electronic games and a Warhorse Sportsbook. The venue also has quick eats restaurants but has plans to open a 220-room hotel, steakhouse restaurant, and event center in the next phase of development.
- Grand Island Casino Resort – The newest casino in Nebraska, Grand Island Casino opened in April 2025. The venue offers a162-room hotel, spa, an indoor/outdoor pool and several eateries including a rooftop steak and seafood restaurant. The casino has 750 slot machines, 20 live table games, electronic table games, a sportsbook, and some high limit gaming.
More Than Gambling
Nebraska is a cool place to visit, so while you’re in state, make sure you spend some time away from the casino soaking up the local wonders too. Here’s a few ideas to things to see and do:
- Natural Beauty – Nebraska has beautiful landscapes and landmarks that leave a lasting impression. Sandhills Region, Toadstool Geologic Park, Scotts Bluff National Monument and Chimney Rock National Historic Site are just a few of the places well worth a visit.
- Wildlife and Outdoor Activities – For a one-off experience visit Rowe Sanctuary during the Sandhill Crane Migration (March–April) to see hundreds of thousands of cranes stop along the Platte River. Alternatively you can ride horses and explore trails and Fort Robinson State Park or go tubing, kayaking, or canoeing through beautiful canyons and waterfalls at Niobrara National Scenic River.
- Fun Days Out – Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium is regarded as one of the best zoos in the world, the Museum of American Speed is perfect for car enthusiasts, the Fun-Plex waterpark has rides and waterslides for the whole family or visit Smith Falls to splash in Nebraska’s tallest waterfall.
- Food and Drink – You can try Nebraska’s signature fast food at Runza Restaurants which is a warm bread pocket stuffed with ground beef, cabbage, and onions. If you like trying local brews, then look for Nebraska Craft Breweries such as Zipline Brewing and Brickway Brewing for their unique creations.
Important Considerations
The minimum age to gamble in Nebraska casinos is 21 years old. It’s advisable to bring photographic ID with you on entry.
Unlike Las Vegas, Nebraska casinos do not serve complimentary alcohol to gamblers as it is against state regulations.