Resorts World Casino New York City is one of the state’s newest gambling options, which opened just a few years ago in 2011. It is currently a “Racino,” opening as an extension of the Aqueduct Racetrack. The Aqueduct is actually the 5th oldest horse track in the United States, and is is located across the Belt Parkway from JFK International Airport in Jamaica, Queens.
Unlike some other casinos in upstate New York and those in nearby areas like Atlantic City which offer full-fledged gaming, Resorts World only offers Virtual Lottery Terminals, which are essentially electronic scratch off tickets that are regulated by the state. They do also offer a few table games, but they are electronic and fully automated. Because the Aqueduct Race Track is in the same location as Resorts, you can obviously bet on horses or watch live races here.
Casino at Resorts World NYC
The casino at Resorts World is somewhat disappointing, especially if you are used to visiting places like Atlantic City or Las Vegas which utilize a Randomly Generated Number system. The “slot machines” at Resorts do not use RNG’s (randomly generated numbers), but rather utilize a virtual lottery system. These machines appear similar to slots at first glance, but are essentially the same thing as buying a scratch off ticket.
The casino floor here does feature many popular electronic games made by brands like Ballys and IGT, even though they utilize a lottery system which is different from what you would normally see on these types of machines. This can offer some excitement if you happen to be in the area. If you do not live close-by, it might do you well to consider driving the extra few miles to Atlantic City, especially if you enjoy table games like Blackjack, Paigow, Poker etc.
One of the benefits (depending on who you are) is that this casino is 100% smoke-free. This is a nice change if you are someone like myself who does not smoke, considering most casinos in other parts of the country can get pretty smoky. Resorts World Casino does offer two fairly large gaming floors, which includes one high-limit room on the 2nd floor in the 5th Avenue Club. Other than the high limit room, the slot machines here generally range from 1¢ to $100.
All in all, Resorts has over 3,000 electronic games which includes all the popular slots like Wheel of Fortune and Triple Double Diamonds as well as video poker, virtual craps, virtual baccarat and other popular table game variations. In my personal opinion, it is more exciting to play these games with a live dealer vs a virtual machine like those at Resorts. In recent years there have been some rumors that Resorts is seeking to expand into offering table games, but nothing has been made official yet. It goes without saying that there are no poker tables here.
Racetrack at the Aqueduct
Resorts World Casino exists today all because of the Aqueduct Racetrack. The Aqueduct is the 5th oldest horse track in the United States, opening in 1894 and it is also the only horse racing track located within the New York City Limits. It is one of the most historic tracks in the country, and offers a thoroughbred dirt racing track. When you are on the gaming floor of Resorts World Casino, you can walk right out any of the back doors and be right on the racetrack. This can be an exciting and cheap source of entertainment if you want to take a break from playing slots and electronic games. The Aqueduct Racetrack is fairly nice and well maintained, and it offers over 200 days of racing each year.
Traveling to Resorts World Casino
One of the major draws regarding Resorts World Casino in Jamaica, is the ease of transportation. New York City is known as having one of the most comprehensive public transportation systems in the world, and Resorts World is no exception. Many buses (both shuttles and standard buses) run to and from Resorts, with service running from many popular areas of the city. You are also able to get here via the LIRR, NYC Subway and the daily shuttle bus that runs from Sutphin Blvd and Archer Ave. You can learn more about transportation options here.
Restaurants and Bars at Resorts World Casino
Resorts World Casino offers several options in regards to restaurants and bars. The most popular and eye-catching bar you’ll find here is Bar 360, which is located in the center of Times Square Casino and includes a massive television screen with live bands performing nightly. The television is actually the largest in Queens, and is a great place to watch sports games. Bar 360 features video poker machines at each seat, which if you are actively playing, you can get free drinks.
Aside from the popular Bar 360, Resorts World Casino also offers several dining options. The most popular of which includes the food court which features several options from burgers to asian food and popular chains like Starbucks and Subway. Aside from the food court, there is also a RW Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar for those with more expensive taste. Compared to other large casinos, Resorts has a somewhat underwhelming offering of restaurants and bars.
Hotel at Resorts World
Though the name is somewhat misleading, there is not an actual hotel or resort at Resorts World Casino. Because it is essentially located next-door to JFK International Airport, there are hundreds of hotel options you can choose from nearby on or near the Belt Parkway. Needless to say, there are not any spa options or pools here either. This is somewhat disappointing considering that is pretty standard, but considering Resorts is a Racino, it is not too surprising.