If you're in Burbank, California, and itching for some casino action, you're in luck—sort of. Burbank itself doesn't have any casinos due to local regulations, but within a short drive, you'll find a mix of lively card rooms and full-scale tribal casinos. Whether you're after poker, slots, or just a night out, here's where you can go to place your bets legally in the Golden State.
Card Rooms Just a Short Drive from Burbank
Your closest options are card rooms in Los Angeles County, where you can play poker and other table games. The Bicycle Hotel & Casino in Bell Gardens is about a 20-minute drive southeast on the I-5. It's one of the largest card rooms in the world, with over 100 poker tables and games like California Blackjack. Commerce Casino, another giant in Commerce, CA, is roughly 25 minutes away and boasts a massive poker room with daily tournaments. Hollywood Park Casino in Inglewood is also within 30 minutes, offering poker and a relaxed atmosphere. Remember, in California card rooms, you're betting against other players, not the house, for most games.
What Games Can You Play at Card Rooms?
You'll primarily find poker variants like Texas Hold'em and Omaha, plus California-style blackjack where the house acts as the bank but players compete against each other. Some spots offer pai gow poker and baccarat. These venues often have high-limit rooms and daily promotions, like Commerce Casino's "Bad Beat Jackpot" that can pay out thousands.
Tribal Casinos Within a Couple Hours' Drive
For slot machines and traditional table games, head to tribal casinos east of Burbank. Morongo Casino, Resort & Spa in Cabazon is about 80 miles away via I-10, taking around 1.5 hours. It has over 2,000 slots, 50 table games, and a high-limit room. San Manuel Casino in Highland is roughly 70 miles east, offering 2,700 slots and games like roulette and craps. If you're up for a longer trip, Pechanga Resort Casino in Temecula is 90 miles south with a huge gaming floor. These casinos are owned by Native American tribes and operate under state compacts.
Player Rewards and Comps at Tribal Casinos
Sign up for free player's clubs to earn comps. For example, San Manuel's Momentum Rewards gives you points on slot play that can be redeemed for dining or hotel stays. Morongo's Club Morongo offers tiered benefits, with bonuses like $10 free play on your birthday. Always bring a valid ID—you must be 21 to enter.
Legal Gambling Age and Payment Methods
In California, you must be 21 to gamble at casinos. Bring a government-issued ID like a driver's license or passport. While casinos don't accept credit cards directly for betting, they have ATMs and cash advance services. Most take cash, debit cards, or wire transfers for chips. Some tribal casinos, like Pechanga, also have on-site banks for convenience.
Online Alternatives for Burbank Residents
Since online casinos aren't legal in California, many players use social casinos like Chumba Casino or sweepstakes models for practice. For real money, you'd need to visit physical locations. However, sports betting apps like DraftKings or FanDuel aren't available for casino games in CA—only in states like New Jersey or Pennsylvania.
FAQ
Are there any casinos actually in Burbank, CA?
No, Burbank has no casinos due to city ordinances. The closest gambling venues are card rooms in neighboring cities like Bell Gardens or Commerce, about 20-30 minutes away by car.
What's the difference between a card room and a tribal casino in California?
Card rooms, like The Bicycle Hotel & Casino, offer poker and games where players bet against each other, with the house taking a rake. Tribal casinos, such as Morongo, have slot machines and traditional table games like blackjack where you bet against the house, thanks to tribal-state compacts.
Do I need to bring cash, or do casinos accept credit cards?
You'll need cash for betting. Casinos don't accept credit cards for wagers, but they have ATMs and cash advance options. Some player's clubs might link to bank accounts for rewards, but always plan to bring physical money.
What's the best time to visit to avoid crowds?
Weekdays, especially mornings and afternoons, are less crowded. Evenings and weekends get busy, particularly at popular spots like Commerce Casino. For tribal casinos, avoid holiday weekends if you want shorter lines for slots.