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5 Best Casinos in Maryland

We ranked the state's licensed land-based casinos based on their overall gaming experience, floor variety, and local amenities.

Maryland Casino Rankings8 min readUpdated July 13, 2026
Quick answer

The top five casinos in Maryland are MGM National Harbor, Live! Casino & Hotel Maryland, Horseshoe Baltimore, Ocean Downs Casino, and Hollywood Casino Perryville. MGM National Harbor ranks as the absolute best pick due to its premier resort experience, high-end dining, and extensive table game selection.

Reviewed by SlotRigorLast updated July 13, 2026

Maryland has grown into a major hub for East Coast casino gaming. The state offers a mix of massive luxury resorts, energetic urban gaming centers, and relaxed regional properties. Players can find thousands of slot machines, hundreds of live table games, and dedicated poker rooms spread across different regions, from the scenic Potomac River to the bustling streets of Baltimore.

To rank these properties, we evaluated the diversity of their gaming floors, the quality of their overall amenities, and how well they cater to different types of players. Whether you want a high-stakes weekend getaway with fine dining or a quick, casual afternoon playing your favorite slot machines, Maryland has a venue that fits your style. This guide breaks down the top options to help you choose your next destination.

Maryland Casinos at a Glance

Compare the top physical casinos in Maryland by their location, key focus, and dining options.

#SiteOur ScoreLocationPrimary FocusKey Amenity
1MGM National Harbor4.6/5Oxon HillLuxury Resort GamingTheater & Fine Dining
2Live! Casino & Hotel Maryland4.5/5HanoverHigh-Volume ActionAttached Luxury Hotel
3Horseshoe Baltimore4.3/5BaltimoreUrban Table GamesOutdoor Gaming Terrace
4Ocean Downs Casino4.1/5BerlinSlots & Harness RacingRacetrack Views
5Hollywood Casino Perryville4.2/5PerryvilleCasual Regional PlayOff-Track Betting

Understanding Maryland Casino Regulations

Casino gaming in Maryland is fully regulated at the state level to ensure safety and fair play for all participants. The state permits land-based casinos to offer a complete range of gaming options, including slot machines, video poker, live table games, and dedicated poker rooms. Every physical casino must hold an active license and undergo regular audits of its gaming equipment and payout percentages.

  1. Age Requirement. You must be at least 21 years old to enter the gaming floor or place a wager at any Maryland casino.
  2. State Taxation. Winnings are subject to both federal and state income taxes, and casinos are required to report significant wins to the tax authorities.
  3. Responsible Play. All state-licensed venues must provide resources for players who need help managing their gambling habits.

Popular Table Games and Retail Offerings

When visiting a physical casino, you will encounter a diverse selection of games designed to suit different playing styles and budgets. Slot machines dominate the floors, ranging from classic three-reel games to modern video slots with complex bonus features. For players who prefer strategy and interaction, table games offer a completely different dynamic.

  1. Blackjack. The most popular card game where players try to beat the dealer by getting closer to 21 without going over.
  2. Craps. A fast-paced dice game featuring a wide variety of betting options and a highly social atmosphere around the table.
  3. Roulette. A classic game of chance where players bet on where a small ball will land on a spinning numbered wheel.

Smart Bankroll Management for Casino Visits

A successful trip to the casino starts before you even step foot on the gaming floor. Managing your money wisely ensures that your gaming remains fun and within your personal limits. Setting a clear budget and sticking to it is the absolute golden rule of casino play, regardless of which games you choose to play.

  1. Set a Loss Limit. Decide on a specific amount of money you are comfortable losing before you arrive, and never exceed that limit.
  2. Avoid Chasing Losses. Accept that losing is part of the game and do not increase your bets in an attempt to win back money you have lost.
  3. Take Regular Breaks. Step away from the gaming floor periodically to clear your head and keep your decisions rational.

Common Casino Game Types Compared

Compare the general characteristics of popular casino games to find the right fit for your playing style.

Game TypeSkill Level RequiredAverage House EdgeGame Pace
Slot MachinesLow5% to 10%Very Fast
BlackjackMedium to High0.5% to 2%Moderate
CrapsMedium1.4% to 5%Moderate to Fast
RouletteLow2.7% to 5.26%Slow to Moderate
BaccaratLow1.06% to 1.24%Moderate

How to Choose the Right Maryland Casino for You

Every player has different priorities when planning a casino trip. Use this quick checklist to find the venue that matches your specific preferences.

  • Consider the travel distance and whether you want a quick day trip or an overnight stay.
  • Check the table game minimums to ensure they fit your comfortable betting range.
  • Look at the dining and entertainment options if you want a complete night out.
  • Review the parking situation and whether free parking is available for guests.
  • Verify the specific gaming options available, such as live poker or off-track betting.

The 5 Best Casinos in Maryland, Reviewed

  1. #1
    1. MGM National Harbor 4.6/5
    Best for luxury resort gaming

    The premier destination for players seeking a high-end resort experience near the nation's capital.

    Established in 2016, this property delivers a premium gaming environment overlooking the Potomac River. The massive casino floor features a wide variety of table games, a dedicated poker room, and a vast selection of modern slot machines. Players can use cash, credit cards, or visit the casino cage to fund their play, making transactions straightforward.

    Beyond the gaming floor, the resort offers upscale dining options, a luxury hotel tower, and a high-tech theater hosting national acts. The property operates under a license from the Maryland Lottery and Gaming control agency, ensuring fair play and secure operations. It remains the top choice for those who want a complete entertainment experience alongside their casino play.

    Why it stands out

    • Stunning waterfront views
    • Excellent fine dining options
    • Large modern poker room

    Worth noting

    • Parking can be expensive during peak weekend hours.
    Read our review
  2. #2
    2. Live! Casino & Hotel Maryland 4.5/5
    Best for high-energy slot action

    A massive, action-packed casino floor with some of the best slot layouts in the state.

    Located in Hanover and established in 2012, this casino is one of the largest gaming facilities in the region. It features a sprawling layout packed with thousands of slot machines, electronic table games, and traditional live tables. The venue accepts cash, credit cards, and transactions directly at the casino cage to keep your gaming session moving.

    The attached hotel and entertainment venue make it highly convenient for weekend visitors. Licensed by Maryland Lottery and Gaming, the casino offers a reliable and safe environment. Its central location near major highways makes it incredibly easy to access for players from both Baltimore and Washington, D.C.

    Why it stands out

    • Massive selection of slot machines
    • Convenient highway access
    • Lively 24/7 atmosphere

    Worth noting

    • The gaming floor can feel crowded and loud on Friday and Saturday nights.
    Read our review
  3. #3
    3. Horseshoe Baltimore 4.3/5
    Best for urban table games

    An energetic multi-level casino offering great table game variety in the heart of Baltimore.

    Opened in 2014, this urban casino sits right in Baltimore's entertainment district. The multi-story layout features a strong focus on table games, including blackjack, craps, and roulette, alongside plenty of slot machines. Funding options are standard for the state, including cash, credit cards, and the casino cage.

    The property is licensed by Maryland Lottery and Gaming, providing a secure and regulated environment. Its location near major sports stadiums makes it a popular pre-game and post-game destination. The outdoor gaming areas offer a unique way to play your favorite games with a bit of fresh air.

    Why it stands out

    • Great table game variety
    • Walkable to local sports stadiums
    • Unique outdoor gaming terraces

    Worth noting

    • The surrounding city traffic can be heavy on game days.
    Read our review
  4. #4
    4. Ocean Downs Casino 4.1/5
    Best for slots and racing

    A relaxed Eastern Shore casino combining modern slot play with live harness racing.

    Dating back to 2000, this venue is the oldest casino property on our list, located near Ocean City. It offers a cozy, friendly gaming floor focused mainly on slot machines and electronic table games. You can easily fund your play using cash, credit cards, or by visiting the casino cage.

    Licensed by Maryland Lottery and Gaming, it provides a safe and honest betting experience. The standout feature here is the historic harness racing track, allowing visitors to enjoy live racing during the season. It is the perfect stop for beachgoers looking to add some gaming excitement to their coastal vacation.

    Why it stands out

    • Close proximity to Ocean City
    • Exciting live harness racing
    • Friendly and casual atmosphere

    Worth noting

    • The selection of live dealer table games is smaller than the big resorts.
    Read our review
  5. #5
    5. Hollywood Casino Perryville 4.2/5
    Best for casual regional play

    A welcoming, easy-to-navigate casino ideal for a relaxed and casual gaming session.

    Established in 2010, this Perryville casino was the very first retail casino to open in Maryland. It offers a comfortable, single-level gaming floor that is easy to navigate, featuring a solid mix of slot machines and select table games. Like its sister properties, it supports cash, credit cards, and cage transactions.

    The venue operates under a license from Maryland Lottery and Gaming, ensuring all games are fair and payouts are secure. It is a fantastic option for players who prefer a quieter, more straightforward casino experience without the overwhelming crowds of the massive resort destinations.

    Why it stands out

    • First licensed casino in the state
    • Easy parking and navigation
    • Less crowded than major resorts

    Worth noting

    • Fewer dining and hotel options on-site compared to competitors.
    Read our review

Frequently Asked Questions About Maryland Casinos

Are casinos legal in Maryland?

Yes, retail casinos are fully legal and regulated in Maryland. The state has licensed several physical casino properties that offer slots, table games, and poker.

What is the minimum age to gamble in Maryland?

You must be 21 years of age or older to enter casino gaming floors and place real-money wagers in the state.

Do Maryland casinos offer hotel accommodations?

Several of the larger resort-style casinos in the state offer luxury hotels directly attached to their gaming facilities, while smaller regional venues do not.

Can I use credit cards at Maryland casinos?

Yes, physical casinos in Maryland generally accept credit cards for non-gaming purchases and allow cash withdrawals at ATMs or the casino cage.

Are casino winnings taxed in Maryland?

Yes, all gambling winnings are subject to federal and state income taxes. Casinos will issue tax forms for winnings that exceed specific regulatory thresholds.

Do Maryland casinos have live poker rooms?

Yes, several of the larger licensed casinos in the state feature dedicated, regulated live poker rooms offering various limits and tournaments.

Must be 21 or older to gamble. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, help is available. Call 1-800-GAMBLER (National Council on Problem Gambling) for free, confidential support. All rankings and reviews are independent editorial opinions.

Last updated July 13, 2026