The Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians owns the state’s two Harrah’s-branded tribal casinos. Tribal casinos are possible because of the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act of 1988. It is still difficult to get agreements in favor of gambling in a state as conservative as North Carolina. When compared to states like New Hampshire and New Jersey, which do not encourage electronic gaming machines, only slots and electronic poker were allowed casino games up until 2012. The success of Harrah’s Cherokee prompted lawmakers to increase state income by allowing live dealer games in casinos. These games include blackjack, roulette, and craps.
Through its affiliations with Slotomania, Bingo Blitz, and Caesar’s Slots, the casino also provides social gaming alternatives. There are other free casino app providers like Double Down Casino and Zynga, but they are independently operated. The MyVegas app from casino giant MGM allows players to earn comp points that can be redeemed for cash, discounts, vouchers, and other rewards, making for a more lucrative social gaming experience.
There is no clear approval or outright prohibition of DFS. Lawmakers have shown little interest in the issue of internet casinos, while horse and dog racing are both illegal. Fortunately, there is a lot for sports lovers to cheer about. In early 2019, North Carolina became the latest state to enact a measure legalizing sports betting. Although it is restricted in that only active tribal casinos may run sportsbooks, sports betting enthusiasts are anxiously awaiting its release.
The lottery didn’t debut until the latter half of 2005. Despite this, it has consistently been one of the largest contributors to the gaming industry in the state. Recent yearly statistics show that the lottery grossed $2.85 billion in revenue and paid away $1.84 billion.
Bingo and raffles are the only forms of gambling permitted at charity organizations’ two weekly gaming events. Casino night fundraisers for nonprofits are only legal in a few cities across the state.
Exciting Nuts and Bolts About the State
The people of North Carolina are known as “Tarheels” after the state’s nickname, “Tar Heel State.” Historians aren’t positive, but the city’s long history as a major producer of tar, pitch, and turpentine may have something to do with the name.
The Baltimore Estate near Asheville is the largest private residence in the United States. A 255-room mansion constructed in the latter decades of the 19th century. Travelers come from far and wide to view the chateau-style buildings and wineries.
Known as the “furniture capital of the world,” the state is home to some of the world’s best wood producers. Almost 20% of all U.S. Christmas trees come from North Carolina, namely the Fraser Fir.
Places to Gamble in North Carolina
Harrah’s casinos may be spread out over thousands of square miles, but even the closest one is still likely to be quite a distance from most people’s homes. Harrah’s Cherokee is located 180 miles from Charlotte, while the state capital of Raleigh is over 300 miles away.
Harrah’s Cherokee Valley River Casino & Hotel debuted in 2015 and features 1,000 slot machines, compared to the 3,500 at Harrah’s Cherokee Casino.
Harrah’s is doing quite well thanks to its local monopoly and the fact that it faces no serious competition from other states. Both casinos are quite close to the Georgia border, despite the fact that residents in that state have far fewer gambling options as a result of regulation. The majority of North Carolina’s gambling income comes from Atlanta players. They are also the only places to gamble face-to-face, as there are no other casinos, bingo halls, or poker rooms in the area.