Courtesy Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs
When it comes to gaming in Pennsylvania, groups have plenty of chances to test their luck.
Casinos and horse tracks are sprinkled all across this state, with room for the whole group to spread out and unwind at the gaming tables or around the table at a buffet. From betting on thoroughbreds to keeping the dice rolling while they’re hot, here are a few favorite spots for group gaming in Pennsylvania.
The Sands Casino Resort
Bethlehem
Located in the heart of charming Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, the Sands Casino Resort Bethlehem is an integrated compound that combines more than 3,000 slot machines, 180 table games, a poker room, a high-limit slot and table area, casual and fine dining, nightlife, live entertainment, outlet and high-end shopping and a luxurious hotel, all onsite.
“We are situated on the former Bethlehem Steel site, and the resort has many architectural designs that pay homage to the steel mill that was once the second-largest steel mill in the U.S.,” said Patrick Ryan, national sales manager for the Sands Casino Resort Bethlehem. “The still-standing blast furnaces are a reminder of the rich history in Bethlehem, giving the Sands all the offerings of a true destination.”
Along with a free Outlets at Sands Bethlehem coupon book for each group member, the resort also offers groups discounted rooms, free slot play, special incentives for group leaders, a state-of-the-art motorcoach facility and personalized step-on welcome and farewell. But even with so many incentives, the biggest gift the resort offers groups is the pleasure of a full belly, with eight dining options and three Emeril Lagasse restaurants, including his only Italian restaurant.
Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs
Wilkes-Barre
With a 238-room hotel and 20,000-square-foot convention center set to open this year, the Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs is more primed for groups than ever before. Touted as the first casino to open in Pennsylvania, the Mohegan Sun has been offering groups exceptional gaming experiences since 2006, with more than 2,500 slot machines, 80 electronic and live table games, casual and fine dining options, five retail shops, entertainment, an onsite radio station and a racetrack with harness racing.
“We offer so many gaming, dining, entertainment and shopping options that guests can visit every day and have an outstanding yet different experience every time,” said Michael Bean, president of the Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs for the past seven years. “We also offer live harness racing from March through November and simulcast betting on racing at our race book facility 364 days per year.”
The casino is open 24 hours per day, seven days per week, and offers more than 15 food options, including fine dining at Ruth’s Chris Steak House and the Rustic Kitchen, which includes a live gourmet-cooking studio. Other food options include the Pearl sushi and martini bar, Bar Louie, Timbers Buffet, the Pacer’s Clubhouse —which overlooks the racetrack — Wolfgang Puck Express, Johnny Rockets, Ben and Jerry’s, Wetzel’s Pretzels, Betty and Joe’s Coffee House and Winner’s Circle Café.
