“I had my own problems and most of them had to do with gambling.” — Dr. Hunter S. Thompson(Generation of Swine)
A spokesperson for Horseshoe said it is building a temporary sports betting facility on deck two of its casino boat. There will be a permanent space when the casino moves to land in December. Indiana (IN) Online Sports Betting Apps. Horseshoe Casino Hammond. Horseshoe Hammond, owned by Vici Properties and operated by Caesars Entertainment, opened in 1996. The facility is now 400,000 square feet, with gaming, restaurants, and entertainment. The Horseshoe Hammond sportsbook.
Despite all the myths, you can’t lose your sanity by spending all day in a sportsbook. But you can come awfully close.
Roughly 20 minutes south of Chicago in Hammond, Indiana are two casinos right next to Lake Michigan. Separated by two miles, each property has embraced Indiana sports betting in its own unique way. However, the casinos are not only separated by distance, but they are also separated by $5 million in retailsports bettinghandle.
These days, anyone of legal age can place a wager on a phone or computer. But I decided to strip the mobile equation out of the picture. I wanted to experience what it would be like to spend an entire day inside a sportsbook. I wanted to sit next to the casual bettor and experience absolute loathing or the excitement of triumph.
The idea of hunkering down by the bar, monitoring my surroundings and trying to figure out why people do this, came to me in September when sports betting became legal in Indiana.
In those three short months, Horseshoe Casino, a Caesars property, has been the leader in retail sports betting. In November, the property recorded $13 million in handle, according to figures from the state gaming commission.
Its neighbor, Ameristar Casino, a Penn National property, cleans up on the mobile wagering side due to its partnership with DraftKings. But when it comes to retail wagering, it only recorded $8 million in handle for November.
November Indiana sports betting numbers for Horseshoe & Ameristar:
- Ameristar Casino/DraftKings/Penn National
$64.1 million = mobile handle (DraftKings): 1st
$7,987,097 = retail handle: 3rd
$4.3 million in taxable adjusted gross revenue - Horseshoe Hammond/Caesars
$0 = mobile handle (no mobile app)
$12,964,573 = retail handle: 1st
$671,826 in taxable adjusted gross revenue
Each property offers the same product — but why the difference in money? I suppose some of it comes down to preference, loyalty, atmosphere. But I wanted to make sure I wasn’t missing something. My curiosity led me to check things out for myself.
A menu of games inside Horseshoe Casino and one misguided Buckeye fan
On a foggy Saturday morning during college football rivalry week, I traveled to Horseshoe, which is the closest to the Illinois border. What better day to experience all sports betting had to offer? That morning, the appetizer games were Ohio State vs. Michigan and Clemson vs. South Carolina, the entree was Alabama vs. Auburn. The nightcap was one of my favorite games to watch, Florida State vs. Florida.
The Book at Horseshoe Hammond is a 5,300 square-foot space located on the casino’s main floor. The focal point is a grid of TV screens: 12 total, six-screens long, and two high. In the center of the sportsbook were rows and rows of recliners, all facing the TV screens and complete with wooden tables and drink holders.
I arrived around 8:30 AM and hunkered down at a table next to the bar about five feet from the closest slot machine. From my vantage point, I could survey everything. Already there were dozens of people filling the space and another hundred or so waiting in line to place bets at the service desk.
Sitting behind me was a group of 20-somethings already loading up on pitchers of beer and wearing Ohio State scarlet and grey. Midway through that game, I overheard one of the fans talking about the electric JK Dobbins, OSU’s high-profile running back.
The fan said Dobbins was probably the best back in OSU history. I immediately questioned two things. One, his knowledge of OSU history and two, how many Buckeye running backs he’d seen in person.
“I mean there is Archie, Hershel, and Zeke, but Dobbins is right there with them,” the misguided fan said.
In a swift reflex motion, I instantly turned around and corrected his mistake.
Hershel played for Georgia, I said. And Chris “Beanie” Wells, Eddie George, and Carlos Hyde all performed equal to or better than Dobbins.
If there is one thing worse than Ohio State, it’s Ohio State fans.
Why this Indiana sportsbook and not that one?
By noon, the betting line all but disappeared. Sitting to my right was a group of three men casually talking parlay bets and discussing betting strategies for the rest of the day.
One of them, Zachary Bujaki, 32, from Highland, Indiana, said he prefers the seating of Horseshoe but is not a fan of waiting in line for extended amounts of time.
“I enjoy the atmosphere of the sportsbook and watching the game here in person,” he said. “But I spent an hour waiting in line to place my bet.”
Bujaki, a stalky young man and casual better, was enjoying a few drinks with his father and a friend. He was patiently waiting to see if his three-team parlay bet was a winner — it wasn’t.
Bujaki said he enjoys watching a game at Horseshoe but prefers the kiosks provided by Ameristar.
“I like the betting kiosks. A good [sports]book would be a combination of both [Horseshoe and Ameristar].”
A few other casual bettors I spoke with confirmed the same thing. Shane, 23, from Sugar Grove, Illinois, who preferred not to have his last name mentioned, said Horseshoe is easy to get to.
“It’s right off the skyway so I can stay for a couple of games, then hop right on the highway and head out,” he said.
I asked Shane and Bujaki their opinions about the DraftKings mobile app and if there was anything I should know about Ameristar when I visit.
“I use the William Hill app, and I prefer it,” Shane said. “If this place had an app, I would use it.”
Bujaki was a bit more hesitant about mobile wagering.
“DraftKings asks too many questions, so I decided not to do it,” he said. “And try the steak burrito at Ameristar — it’s the best.”
By the end of the Florida State game, I was exhausted. Maybe it was the sound of a thousand slot machines going off behind me or perhaps the piss poor performance of FSU. Regardless, I left with my sanity intact, and a new outlook on spending the day in a sportsbook, something I would most likely never do again.
A restless morning inside Ameristar Casino
After the Christmas break, I decided to set up arrangments to watch the NFL Wild Card games from the comfort of the Ameristar property. I took a 7:20 AM Amtrak train from Chicago’s Union Station, a short 29-minute trip that cost me $9. I was dropped off at the Hammond train stop, and from there, I took a quick Uber to the casino front door.
The sportsbook is easy to find, up the escalader and to the right. But when I arrived, the space felt different. Not in a bad way, just different. Instead of being mixed with the chaos of the casino floor like its Caesars neighbor, the sportsbook was secluded from everything else. Except for a few table games and a small eatery, the seclusion made the sports betting experience more intimate.
The Sportsbook at Ameristar is small. It’s a tiny nook carved into the corner on the second floor with a service counter and four betting kiosks. Over at the Stadium Sports Bar, which is adjacent to the sportsbook, there are another three betting kiosks. The bar has several high tables, an abundance of TV screens, but at 9 AM on wild card weekend, only eight people were visible. Roughly two hours later, I counted at least 60 people waiting to place bets. A majority of them were waiting at the betting kiosks with a small handful of people waiting at the service counter.
Much of the criticism about Horseshoe and Ameristar from the people I spoke with seemed accurate. It appeared that the lines were moving at a substantially quicker pace at Ameristar, but unlike Horsehoe, the seating arrangments provided no extra benefit. Unfortunately, due to communication errors, I was banned from speaking with anyone at Horseshoe until I met with the head of marketing. So I waited patiently for six hours.
Pre-game talk with an Ameristar executive
Around 2 PM, shortly before the Buffalo Bills vs. Houston Texans game, I sat down with Jaime Williams, vice president of marketing for Ameristar, to try and discover what made this sportsbook special.
Williams said the feedback from customers so far had been great. “[Sports betting] has brought a whole new crowd to us, which is a little bit different from our typical casino customers. Our process at the sportsbook is quick and easy — with the kiosks — its a great location. Guests can come in, place their bets quick and easy, have a drink and watch the game,” she said.
“I think kiosks provide convenience,” Williams said. “People know what they want to bet, and we have several of them across the property. In today’s world, everything is technology-based, and our customers also have the ability to go on our website, select their bets, come to the property and scan a QR-code and make them very quickly.”
In terms of people occupancy, Williams said he sees no favoritism when it comes to college football Saturdays or NFL Sundays.
“Weekends are a good balance. Our weekends have been jam-packed, you probably wouldn’t be able to see a lot of difference between Saturday and Sunday, it’s just busy all the time,” she said.
A bus trip to the south side
After my sitdown with Williams, I wondered around the casino a bit, grabbed a quick lunch, and watched the first half of the Bills-Texans game. I had had enough of sports betting for the day, so I decided to leave. Much like all casinos, Ameristar provides a shuttle back to Chicago. The bus so happened to drop off right next to Guaranteed Rate Field, home of the Chicago White Sox, and a short walk to my apartment.
During the trip home on a bus filled with gamblers, I reflected on the 21 total hours I spent inside the sportsbooks and why one property was better than the other. Much like Dr. Thompson said, I had several problems floating around my head and most had to do with gambling. Thirty minutes later, the bus pulled to the curb, and I exited into the bitter cold of Chicago’s southside. I was still formulating my answer by the time I arrived home and thought, best not to burn any bridges. My teams may not have performed their best during these particular games, but I secretly couldn’t ignore my nagging anticipation to go back to either sportsbook, place my bet and watch the action unfold.
Horseshoe Council Bluffs is the largest casino in Council Bluffs, Iowa, with 68,000 square feet of gaming space. The square footage here dwarfs those found at Ameristar Casino Council Bluffs and Harrah’s Council Bluffs.
So, if you’re into the larger casino scene, Horseshoe Council Bluffs is your answer—not that the other two don’t have their perks that will draw you in. But if you name the game or dining option, you will find it at this Caesars Entertainment-operated location.
Today’s post will cover everything within the confines of the area’s largest casino. From a quick overview of the casino gaming, dining, promos, entertainment, and even nearby attractions to an in-depth look in the following sections, if you’re heading to Horseshoe Council Bluffs, discover everything you need to know here.
Ready for the casino tour? Let’s get started.
A Look Ahead at the Horseshoe Council Bluffs
Horseshoe Council Bluffs includes an Old West and Pavilion Theme that will add to the interest if those old Western films pique your interest. But apart from the classic theme, you will find slot machines, table gaming, electronic table gaming, horseshoe golden treasures gaming, and the William Hill Sportsbook.
You will find more variety among the gaming options here than at the smallish Harrah’s and the Ameristar riverboat. So, if the aforementioned casinos didn’t have what you’re looking for, you can be sure that Horseshoe Council Bluffs has it.
They also have three distinct dining options. You’ll find an upscale and casual option under the familiar name Jack Binion. Plus, you also have a smashing buffet option if you’re looking to go all out. Regardless of what you’re craving, satisfy it right here at the casino.
Along with partner hotels, on and off-site attractions, plus two other local casinos, you can turn your time at Horseshoe into an all-out vacation.
Ready for a closer look at the venue? Keep reading for the full rundown.
Casino Gaming
Casino gaming at Horseshoe Council Bluffs includes nearly 1,400 real money slot machines in what they tout as “the biggest jackpots just east of Omaha.” Sounds good, right?
You’ll find multiple denominations at Horseshoe Council Bluffs, plus your favorite themes, reels, and high-tech options. Discover a new favorite game or come in and play a classic.
Plus, if you’re looking to learn how to play poker, check out the real money video poker options at the casino. It provides an outstanding one-on-one setting where you can learn how to play the game at your own pace.
But if you’re ready for the live poker room, head on over and try your hand against the area’s best. Who knows? You may just end up as the next great poker playing legend at Horseshoe Council Bluffs.
Or if you’re not into poker, head over to the live dealer table gaming and play classic favorites like blackjack, craps, and roulette. Other fine games include Pai Gow, Mini Baccarat, Mississippi Stud, Criss Cross Poker, and Ultimate Texas Hold ‘em.
Looking for a unique gaming experience? Try the Whiskey Pit for a unique and entertaining gaming experience. Whiskey Pit highlights the excitement at the casino and provides an atmosphere unlike any other in the area.
Horseshoe Golden Treasures provides yet another fun table gaming option. Featuring blackjack, Pai Gow, and roulette, brace yourself for a treasure ship-like experience right at the casino.
And don’t forget to try the electronic table games for yet another unique experience. Play Lucky Roulette, Roll to Win Craps, and coming soon, Diamond Video Blackjack.
If you’re an avid sports bettor, head over to the William Hill Sportsbook located right on the casino floor. Place your bet on your favorite sports team or league and cheer them onto victory. Straight bets, parlays, over/unders, and many more betting options are available at the sportsbook.
Featuring the world’s most diverse sports betting menu, make the game more interesting when you venture to the William Hill Sportsbook.
Wine and Dine
Dining at Horseshoe Council Bluffs include options ranging from upscale to casual, and even a buffet.
Oasis Casino Sportsbook
If you’re looking to go all out upscale for the evening, Jack Binion’s Steak House is where it’s happening. They require reservations because of limited space, so be sure to book yours before heading to the venue.
Once you reserve your spot, prepare for something amazing. Amazing features fine aged steaks and fresh seafood prepared with close attention to detail. Their chefs go all out to ensure they cook your entrees to perfection.
Oh, and don’t forget to save room for dessert and to start the night off with a fine appetizer like the pan-roasted crab cake or lobster scampi. Sounds good, right?
If you’re looking for something more casual, check out JB’s Cafe. Open daily from 8 AM until 10 PM. They feature signature sandwiches, soups, salads, burgers, and more of your favorite comfort foods. Oh, and if you’re craving dessert, JB’s Cafe is the place to stop for all of your favorites.
Whether you’re looking for lunch, dinner, or a place that’s still open after that hot streak on the casino floor, trust JB’s Cafe to deliver.
Village Square Buffet offers the finest all-you-can-eat option in the area. So, if you’re looking to fill up before an afternoon of casino gaming, this is the place to be. Head on over before you hit the floor or after and indulge in the richest fare from all over the world.
And if you’re looking for the finest place in the venue to unwind, head over to Whiskey Roadhouse, which serves as an outstanding bar, nightclub, and concert venue.
If you’re looking for a fine place to hang out, look no further than Whiskey Roadhouse.
Promotions and Events
Promotions at Horseshoe Council Bluffs features some of the finest promotions around, and they will rival the other casinos in the area. But if you want to take full advantage of the casino’s promotions along with outstanding perks and benefits, look no further than joining Caesars Rewards.
Caesars Rewards is arguably the most renowned loyalty program in the nation, and you join for free and start earning tier points just by playing your favorite games at any participating Caesars-operated location.
Be sure to check the events calendar and see which shows are invading Horseshoe Council Bluffs before you head over. It’s all happening at Whiskey Roadhouse, so once you’ve warmed up at the bar, be sure to punch your ticket into the big concert or act frequenting the venue.
The fun never ends at Whiskey Roadhouse when there’s music, comedy, and endless clubbing that epitomizes the nightlife. If you love partying all night long to pair with world-class music and entertainment, Whiskey Roadhouse is the place to be.
Accommodations and Nearby Attractions
If you need accommodation, consider staying at the Horseshoe Council Bluffs Hotel partners. Hotel partners include the Holiday Inn Express, Country Inn, and Hilton Garden Inn. Whether you crave economy or luxury, you will find what you’re looking for at one of these 3 options.
Looking for convenience? Head over to the Hilton Garden, which is attached to the casino itself.
Want to combine thorough furnishing with convenience? The Country Inn is where it’s happening.
And if you’re here for leisure but aren’t looking to break the bank, head over to Holiday Inn Express and you will find what you’re looking for.
Set aside a day or two to explore the area and its local attractions. Go golfing at Dodge Park, located near Harrah’s. But the local attractions don’t stop there.
Horseshoe Casino Sportsbook
Other cool places to add to your vacation itinerary include the Mid-America Center, Old Market, Ameristar Casino Council Bluffs, and fellow Caesars-operated Harrah’s Council Bluffs. And what you have above is no more than the tip of the iceberg.
The Council Bluffs area is riveting with fine attractions at every turn. So much that you may have to take more than a couple of days to explore the entire area.
Oddsmaker Casino Sportsbook
Conclusion
Horseshoe Council Bluffs Casino & Hotel offers more gaming opportunities and ways to win than the other local casinos in the area. So if you like variety and a larger overall gaming floor, head over to Horseshoe before or after you play at Ameristar or Harrah’s.
Online Casino And Sportsbook
Along with dining options, stellar promos, entertainment, and the perks you will receive with Caesars Rewards, you’re looking at a one-stop casino stop in America’s Midwest. And with the nearby attractions and multiple lodging options, it’s a winning bet that you just found a prime vacation destination.
Have you been to Horseshoe Council Bluffs? If so, tell us about your experience in the comments and let us know if you visited the other area casinos. We look forward to reading your stories.