Casinos Near Atlanta: What’s Available and How to Play Legally

If you’re wondering “Does Atlanta have a casino?” the short answer is: no, there are currently no full-service casinos within the city of Atlanta or anywhere in Georgia.

However, Atlanta residents and visitors still have several legal gambling and casino-style options—they just work a little differently than in traditional casino states.

Why Atlanta Doesn’t Have a Casino

Georgia’s gambling laws

Atlanta does not have a casino because Georgia law currently prohibits traditional casino gambling. That means:

• No land-based casinos
• No slot machines or table games (like blackjack, craps, or roulette) in Georgia
• No legal sports betting (as of the latest widely known regulations)

The Georgia Constitution restricts most forms of commercial gambling. Any move to allow casinos in Atlanta—or anywhere in the state—would require state-level changes, often involving both the General Assembly and a statewide vote.

You may occasionally hear talk about proposed “destination resorts” or casino bills in the Georgia legislature, but so far those efforts have not resulted in legal casinos opening in or near Atlanta.

Legal Gambling Options for People in Atlanta

Even without a casino in the city, you still have several legal ways to enjoy gambling or casino-like experiences if you live in or visit Atlanta.

1. The Georgia Lottery

The Georgia Lottery is the most visible form of legal gambling in Atlanta. It offers:

• Scratch-off tickets
• Draw games like Powerball and Mega Millions
• In-state draw games

You can buy lottery tickets at gas stations, grocery stores, and many convenience shops all around Atlanta.

Key points:

• You must be 18 or older to play the lottery in Georgia.
• Winnings above certain amounts generally need to be claimed at official lottery offices.

If you need information or to claim larger prizes, one of the main offices serving metro Atlanta is:

Georgia Lottery Corporation – Headquarters
250 Williams Street NW, Suite 3000
Atlanta, GA 30303
Phone: (404) 215-5000

Always verify current business hours before visiting.

2. Charitable Bingo and Raffles

In and around Atlanta, some nonprofit organizations, churches, and community groups may offer:

• Bingo games
• Raffles

These are typically run under state-regulated charitable gaming rules. They are not casinos, but they can provide a social, low-stakes way to participate in games of chance.

If you’re interested in hosting or participating in charitable games, regulation and licensing usually fall under statewide offices such as the Georgia Secretary of State or similar oversight agencies. Atlanta residents often check with:

Georgia Secretary of State (Main Office)
2 Martin Luther King Jr. Drive SE
West Tower, Suite 802
Atlanta, GA 30334
Phone: (404) 656-2817

They can direct you to the correct division handling charitable gaming rules.

3. Casino Cruise from Nearby Georgia Ports (Limited Relevance to Atlanta)

Georgia has, at times, seen “casino cruise” operations that sail offshore into waters where certain gambling is legal. These are not based in Atlanta, and operating locations can change over time.

For someone in Atlanta:

• They usually require a drive to the coast (often 4–6 hours).
• Availability is inconsistent and should be checked carefully before planning a trip.

Because these offerings can come and go, most Atlanta residents looking for a dependable casino experience look outside Georgia entirely.

Casinos Near Atlanta (Out-of-State Options)

While Atlanta itself has no casinos, it is within driving distance of several casino destinations in neighboring states. Many locals take weekend trips or overnight getaways to these areas.

Common destinations Atlanta players consider

Below is a simplified overview of general regions (not a full list of properties) that are popular with people from Atlanta:

*Drive times are approximate and depend on traffic and your starting point in the Atlanta metro area.

Western North Carolina casinos (popular from Atlanta)

Many Atlanta residents choose Western North Carolina because:

• It’s usually a 3 to 4-hour drive from much of metro Atlanta.
• You can combine gambling with mountain scenery, hiking, and weekend getaways.

These casinos are typically operated by Native American tribes under federal and state compacts, and they often feature:

• Slot machines
• Table games (such as blackjack, roulette, craps, and poker, depending on the property)
• On-site hotels, restaurants, and entertainment

If you’re planning a trip from Atlanta, it’s wise to:

• Check property websites or call ahead for game offerings, hours, and age requirements
• Consider weather and mountain driving conditions
• Book lodging in advance on busy weekends and holidays

What About Sports Betting in Atlanta?

As of the most widely known rules, sports betting is not legal in Georgia, either in person or through state-regulated mobile apps.

This means:

• You cannot legally place sports bets at a casino or sportsbook in Atlanta.
• There are no licensed retail sportsbooks at Atlanta venues like Mercedes-Benz Stadium, State Farm Arena, or Truist Park.

There is often debate and proposed legislation regarding sports betting in Georgia, but until laws change and a regulatory system is established, you should assume sports betting is not permitted within the state’s legal framework.

Social & Private Games in Atlanta

Some Atlanta residents ask about home poker games or social gambling. Rules can be nuanced, but generally:

• Any game where someone is operating as a “house” and taking a cut can trigger legal issues.
• Even casual games may be affected if money, organizing, or frequency give them a commercial or public character.

If you’re considering hosting games:

• Keep them truly private and social, not open to the public.
• Avoid any admission fees or “rake” that could make it look like a business.

For specific legal interpretation or if you’re unsure whether your plans are allowed, speaking with a licensed Georgia attorney is the safest route.

How to Stay on the Right Side of the Law in Atlanta

If you’re in Atlanta and interested in gambling, here are practical guidelines:

• ✅ Use legal options like the Georgia Lottery and properly licensed charitable games.
• ✅ If you want full casino gambling, travel to a neighboring state where casinos are clearly legal and regulated.
• ✅ Verify details directly with the casino property or official state agencies before you go.
• ❌ Avoid underground casinos, unlicensed betting rooms, or informal “casinos” advertised through private channels.
• ❌ Be cautious with any app or website claiming to offer “real money casino gaming” to Georgia residents—many are not authorized or regulated in the state.

For questions about what is and isn’t allowed, residents sometimes contact or review information from:

Office of the Attorney General – State of Georgia
40 Capitol Square SW
Atlanta, GA 30334
Phone: (404) 656-3300

They can provide general guidance materials or direct you to resources on Georgia’s gambling laws.

If You’re Planning a Night Out in Atlanta Instead

If you were hoping for a casino but want nightlife options inside the city, Atlanta still has plenty to offer:

• Bars and lounges in Midtown, Buckhead, Westside, and Downtown
• Live music venues and late-night spots throughout the metro area
• Trivia nights, pool halls, arcade bars, and bowling alleys that provide games without gambling

This can give you some of the energy and excitement of a casino night—without leaving town or navigating gambling regulations.

In summary: Atlanta does not have a casino, and Georgia law currently prevents traditional casinos and sports betting. If you’re in Atlanta and want full casino gaming, you’ll need to travel to nearby states like North Carolina or Mississippi, while using legal in-state options like the Georgia Lottery and regulated charitable games for any gambling you do at home.