Founded
Capitol Casino
Capitol Casino sits right in the heart of downtown, and honestly, it's been a fixture of our community for over three decades now. Walking in, you'll see everything from serious poker players to families celebrating birthdays and locals just grabbing a drink after work. The place has this real authentic vibe—not trying to be something it's not like those mega-resorts out west. You get regluars who've been coming since the 90s mixed with tourists passing through, and the staff actually knows people by name. It's become part of our local fabric in a way that feels genuinely organic.
History of Capitol Casino
From its founding in 1993 to today, Capitol Casino has grown into one of the region's most trusted gaming and entertainment destinations.
Grand Opening
Capitol Casino opened its doors in 1993 when the downtown area was really going through a revitalization. The founder, a local businessman named Robert Hendersen, had a vision to create a gathering place that felt like it belonged to the comunity, not just another corporate gambling spot. The original space wasn't huge—maybe 8,000 square feet—but it had about 200 slot machines and six gaming tables to start, mostly blackjack and poker. People lined up around the block on opening day, and the local news actually covered it as this big economic development story. The building itself was this beautiful restored 1920s structure with original woodwork, which I think really set the tone for keeping things classy.
Major Expansion & The Restaurant Addition
Around 2001, after nearly a decade of steady business, they knocked out a wall and expanded into the neighboring building, basicaly doubling the gaming floor space. That's when they added the restaurant—honestly, their burgers and steaks became famous around town, and people come in just for dinner now. The expansion also meant more poker tables, which was huge because the poker scene here was really starting to build. Local tournaments started getting organized, and you'd see guys coming from a few hours away just to play in our Tuesday night games. This period really solidified Capitol Casino as more than just a gambling place—it became a real community hangout.
Digital Era & Modern Upgrades
In 2009, they did a major technology overhaul that honestly surprised a lot of the older regulars at first. They installed updated slot machines with better graphics, added a sports betting lounge with multipple screens, and finally got a real reservation system so you could call ahead for the restaurant. The poker room got new felt, better lighting, and they added about 15 more tables during a time when the economy was really rough. It was this smart investment because while other casinos were struggling, Capitol kept drawing people in. They also started doing live tournaments on weekends, which brought in younger players and a whole new energy to the place.
Recent Renovations & Community Focus
Just recently in 2023, they did this beautiful renovation of the main floor that brought in new carpet, completely updated the lighting, and honestly made the whole place feel fresher without losing that historic character. They added a craft cocktail bar that's actually really good—the bartender, Mike, makes this old fashioned that people ask for specifically. Management also started doing more community events, like hosting local charity poker tournaments and sponsoring youth sports teams, which feels like they're giving back to the neighborhood. The poker room now seats about 40 players regularly, and they've added live-streamed tournaments that people watch from home. They also renovated some of the gaming tables and added better ventilation, which the regulars really appreciated.
Games at Capitol Casino
Our gaming floor balances 800+ slots with 12 table games where blackjack tables stay busier than craps during football season. The atmoshphere splits between our older crowd playing penny slots near the entrance and younger players hitting the $25 minimums at night. You'll find everything from classic three-reelers to the newest IGT and Konami cabinets, plus a dedicated poker area that fills up Wednesday through Sunday. Locals come for the familiar rhythm; tourists come for the layout that actually makes sense.
Slot Machines
Wide selection of penny to high-limit slots with the latest titles and progressive jackpots.
Table Games
Blackjack, Three Card Poker, baccarat and more with friendly professional dealers.
Roulette
American roulette tables with flexible betting limits for all experience levels.
Craps
Fast-paced dice action and one of the most exciting social games on the floor.
Restaurants & Bars at Capitol Casino
Four dining spots mean you're never more than 100 feet from food, whether you want a quick burger at Capitol Grill or sit-down cocktails at The Cardinal Steakhouse. Prices run $8 for a sandwich up to $45 entrees, so you can play for hours without leaving your budget. The coffee bar opens at 6 a.m. for the early-shift crowd, and the sports bar serves till midnight with solid happy-hour pricing. Players appreciate that the kitchen stays open late—you won't get stranded hungry during an 11 p.m. rush.
Live Entertainment & Events at Capitol Casino
Live music runs Thursday through Saturday nights with mostly local cover bands and occasional touring acts that draw 200+ people to the showroom. Our events calendar posts monthly, so regulars know when their favorite performers return. The crowd stays friendly and mixed—you'll see bachelor parties next to retirement groups, and nobody's pretending to be fancy. Check the website or ask any staff member; the entertainment lineup genuinely changes it's not just background noise.
Services & Amenities
Complimentary self-parking sits directly adjacent to the main entrance, and the floor plan loops logically so you won't wander lost looking for restrooms or the cage. We've installed ATMs at four stations so cash withdrawals don't mean abandoning your seat for long, and our Players Club desk staffs the lobby during all operating hours. The sports book has eight comfortable recliners and three large screens—it's basically a sports bar that happens to be inside a casino. Wheelchair accessible entrances and restrooms mean accessibility isn't an afterthough here.
Plan Your Visit to Capitol Casino
Everything you need to plan your trip to Capitol Casino — hours, parking, age requirements, dress code and directions.
Hours
24/7
Open every day
Parking
Free
Ample spaces available
Dress Code
Smart Casual
Neat appearance required
Age Requirement
21+
Valid ID required
Contact
Call ahead
Reservations welcome
Payment
Cash & Card
ATM on-site
📍 Capitol Casino
Visit Info
| Hours | 24/7 |
|---|---|
| Parking | Free |
| Dress Code | Smart Casual |
| Age Requirement | 21+ |
| Contact | Call ahead |
| Payment | Cash & Card |
Frequently Asked Questions about Capitol Casino
Common questions from visitors planning a trip to Capitol Casino — answered clearly and honestly.
This website is for entertainment and informational purposes only. Gambling involves financial risk. Please gamble responsibly. Problem gambling helpline: 1-800-522-4700 (24/7). Must be 21+ to enter.