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Casinos in New Brunswick

The region of New Brunswick is known for its vibrant culture and scenic views, but it's also home to a budding casino sector. You can find all sorts of different casinos, from major venues that put together different forms of entertainment, to more intimate casino parlours.

The region’s casino industry has gone through quite a transformation over the past few decades, with the legalization of gambling serving as a turning point in the province’s tourism industry. There are two main casino venues in the region and these draw players from all around Canada and the wider world.

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Through our guide, you’ll get a comprehensive insight into New Brunswick’s casino landscape. We’ll be taking a look at the two major casinos, their games, entertainment options and amenities, as well as smaller casinos that are dotted around the region. Our guide will also provide some tips on planning your visit and playing at these casinos.

Whether you’re a seasoned gambler or a casual player, our guide will make sure you’re prepared to visit New Brunswick and explore all the province’s casino sector has to offer.

History of Casinos in New Brunswick

Early Days of Gambling in New Brunswick

Gambling in the province of New Brunswick can be traced back to the early 19th century. Back then, it mostly consisted of informal betting games of chance which people played as common pastimes in social gatherings or at private clubs. This activity was largely unregulated with several different forms of gambling including card games, lotteries and horse racing, all of which were very popular with the locals. Gambling was particularly prevalent in the province’s coastal towns, where travellers and ship crew members introduced new games from around the world.

Legalization and Regulation of Casinos

The biggest shift towards the legalization and regulation of gambling came in the late 20th century. The province’s government saw the economic benefits that could come with regulated gambling and began taking the necessary steps. It started in 1985 when Canada’s federal government gave provinces the freedom to manage and license any gambling activity.

The new legislation began New Brunswick’s path towards the establishment of legal casinos, and in 2008, the province passed its gambling laws. This led to the development of the first commercial casino in the area.

Significant Milestones in Casino Development

The first casino to set up shop in the province was Casino New Brunswick. The venue opened in Moncton in 2010, marking a huge milestone in New Brunswick’s gambling history. It was the first of its kind, offering a vast range of games such as table games, slot machines and poker.

The success it enjoyed led to even more development in this sector, the effects of which included more tourism and an impact on the local economy. The casinos in the province would continue to grow over time to include wider facilities. These included hotels and entertainment centers which would solidify New Brunswick as a key destination for tourism and entertainment.

Major Casinos in New Brunswick

Casino New Brunswick

You’ll find Casino New Brunswick (sometimes referred to as Casino NB) in Moncton, the main entertainment destination in the province. It opened back in 2010 and has since become a cornerstone for the hospitality and tourism industry in New Brunswick. The casino was developed as part of a much broader initiative that aimed to boost the region’s tourism and as such comes with a wide range of amenities that go beyond gambling.

The venue is strategically placed just off the Trans-Canada Highway, making it easily accessible to locals and tourists. This proximity to major transportation routes means it’s a convenient stop for anyone exploring New Brunswick, especially since it’s just a short drive away from the Greater Moncton Romeo LeBlanc International Airport.

When it comes to gaming options, the casino boasts more than 500 slot machines, several table games and a dedicated poker lounge. There are also several amenities on-site, including a huge entertainment center that hosts music events, concerts and more. To top it all off, the casino also hosts various dining options that cover everything from casual eateries to fine-dining restaurants.

Grey Rock Casino

Grey Rock Casino is the more modern major casino in the province, located in Edmundston in the province’s northwestern region. The venue opened its doors in 2015 and, as it is a tribal casino, it's operated by the Madawaska Maliseet First Nation. It was developed as part of the community’s commitment to building a tourism sector, boosting employment opportunities, and offering a fusion of gaming and cultural experiences.

The casino is also located near the Trans-Canada Highway, making it a convenient location for anyone travelling across the region or even coming from Quebec. It’s only a few minutes away from the Edmundston city center or a short drive from the New Brunswick – Quebec border. So, both locals and visitors have easy access to the venue.

You’re treated to a great selection of gaming options thanks to over 200 slot machines and multiple table games including roulette and blackjack at Grey Rock Casino. The venue even has a dedicated poker room, hosting games and tournaments for all kinds of player levels. Step outside the gambling floor and you can go for a bite at eateries like the Valley View Restaurant or St. Anne’s Café. The casino also has live entertainment and hosts all sorts of events, adding even more value to the overall experience.

Smaller Casinos and Gaming Facilities in New Brunswick

Although the biggest casinos in the area are the Casino New Brunswick and Grey Rock Casino, the province also has several smaller gambling venues that offer all sorts of different experiences. You’ll generally find these casinos in smaller towns and communities, and while they can be more limited in their offerings, they still offer a great time for residents or visitors.

The majority of these small casinos can be found as part of hotels or community centers. Take CC's Entertainment Center, for example. It's a small but intimate setting, complete with more than 50 slot machines, four table games and a handful of restaurant options. Other hotels in Fredericton and Saint John also have small gaming floors with similar offerings for a more casual gambling experience.

Although they ultimately lack the sophistication of the table games and live entertainment found in the larger venues, these minor casinos are very convenient and accessible. They’re aimed at players looking for a more relaxed and personal experience, while also serving as ideal social hubs for local communities.

Casino Games and Entertainment

The casinos in New Brunswick come with a vast range of gambling and entertainment offerings that can cater to both new and seasoned players. Whether you’ll be playing at one of the major venues like Casino New Brunswick or a smaller gaming facility around the province, you’ll be able to play some of the following games.

Slot Machines

The most popular casino games in New Brunswick venues are slot machines. These games are very accessible and come with all kinds of themes, paylines and payout possibilities that can appeal to players at different experience levels. Some may go for traditional three-reel slot machines, while others prefer modern video slots with eye-popping visuals and advanced mechanics.

You’re likely guaranteed to find slot machines at every casino in New Brunswick and high rollers will want to keep an eye out for high-limit machines or even progressive slots. These come with growing jackpots that increase the more bets are placed on them, creating huge potential rewards.

Table Games: Poker, Blackjack, and Roulette

If you’re looking for a more traditional, in-person casino experience, then you’ll want to steer toward New Brunswick’s table games, which include poker, blackjack and roulette.

Blackjack is a well-known casino classic with very straightforward rules and arguably favourable odds. Your aim here is to get a hand with a combined value close to 21. But if you go over that limit, you bust out and lose the game. You always play against the dealer and need a mix of luck and strategy to claim the prize.

If you want to focus on a more strategic type of game, then head over to the poker lounge. You’ll find variants like Texas Hold’em which put your strategy and poker face to the test. Casinos in New Brunswick hold regular tournaments for you to challenge other players and potentially claim the prize pot.

If you’re not quite into cards, then why not play a few rounds of roulette? The game has you betting on where the ball will land, mixing a selection of different betting options that go from simple black or red colours to more specific numbers around the roulette wheel. This is more of a chance-based game when compared to blackjack and poker.

Visiting New Brunswick's Casinos

Planning Your Trip

New Brunswick’s casinos give you a mix of gambling, entertainment and local culture. This applies to both seasoned gamblers and first-time visitors, so planning your visit is always key to making sure you get the most out of the experience.

First off, we recommend taking a closer look at the amenities on offer at major casinos like Casino New Brunswick and Grey Rock Casino. Both casinos offer unique attractions and gaming options, so the choice ultimately falls into your personal preferences. No matter what casino you pick, you can book accommodation in advance, which is ideal especially during peak season, making sure you have comfortable lodging close by.

Best Times to Visit

Every time of the year is suitable for visiting New Brunswick casinos, so this will largely depend on the atmosphere you prefer. Summer and early fall are peak times for tourists because of the beautiful weather and multiple outdoor activities that can accompany your casino activity. This is the best time to visit if you’re up for concerts and events and want to experience a lively casino scene.

If you prefer a quieter experience, then aim for the off-peak seasons or visit during the weekdays. This will give you a more relaxed atmosphere and you’ll also get shorter wait times for games and dining.

Travel and Accommodation Tips

Getting to New Brunswick casinos is very easy since the region has well-connected highways to travel between cities and casino destinations. If you’re flying, then the Greater Moncton Romeo LeBlanc International Airport is the ideal hub. The main casinos offer package deals that put together accommodation, meals and even gaming credits, so you can grab one of these offers to make your stay all the more affordable.

Casino Etiquette and Tips

There are a couple of helpful etiquette rules to consider too. Attend casinos in smart casual wear and always approach players and dealers with a friendly attitude. It’s also customary to tip dealers in games like blackjack and poker. We also recommend managing your bankroll efficiently when playing. Set a budget before you start and then stick to it. Practicing responsible gambling ensures the best experience possible.

FAQs

Does New Brunswick Have Casinos?

New Brunswick has two major casinos and several smaller ones.

Does Casino NB Have a Buffet?

Yes, Casino NB has a buffet on the casino floor.

How Many Slot Machines are in the Casino in New Brunswick?

Casino New Brunswick has more than 500 slot machines.

What is the Capacity of the Casino in New Brunswick?

The entertainment facilities at Casino New Brunswick have a capacity of up to 2,100 people.

You must be over 19 to gamble in New Brunswick.

Which is the Largest Casino in New Brunswick?

The Casino New Brunswick is the largest casino in the province.

How do New Brunswick's Casinos Compare to Those in Other Provinces?

New Brunswick’s casinos are slightly smaller than some of the casinos you find in provinces like Quebec and Ontario.

Grey Rock Casino

Grey Rock Casino in New Brunswick has 270 slots and stadium gaming terminals to entertain guests seeking live shows and gaming in the Madawaska Maliseet First Nation.