The Dos and Don’ts of Going to a Las Vegas Casino

Happy Woman Playing Slots in Las Vegas Casino

Viva Las Vegas! With a whopping 175 casinos throughout the metropolis, Las Vegas is the destination for table games, slot machines, and almost every other type of gambling you can imagine. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned gambler, knowing what to do in a casino is key. Here’s your guide on how to handle cards, what to wear, and just how much to tip your dealer.

 

Do: Dress to Impress

 

Each year, nearly 40 million people travel to Las Vegas for tourism. With guests from around the globe, it’s important to dress to impress. While the city itself may have lax dress codes, casinos have different standards. During the day, many establishments embrace the casual; which means you’re free to game in your cargo shorts and flip-flops. However, come night, that all changes. Once the city comes alive after dark, plan to play in your best cocktail attire!

 

Don’t: Drink Too Much

 

Las Vegas casinos offer casino drinks free of charge to those gambling. As a general rule, cocktail servers come by each table every 20-30 minutes. Although it’s important to note dealers can neither serve drinks nor speed up cocktail service. Everyone loves an open bar, but that doesn’t mean it’s an excuse for bad behavior. Drinking too much is a rookie gambler mistake that can get you in hot water quickly with the casino and fellow gamblers. Show respect for the game and other players by drinking responsibly.

 

Las Vegas Casino Dealer at Blackjack Table

 

Do: Tip Your Dealer

 

Good service deserves good tips. Just like you tip your server at a restaurant, it’s best practice to tip your dealer when leaving a table game in Las Vegas. While tips aren’t expressly required, they keep the atmosphere light and fun. Plan to tip $1 on small wins and $5-10 when leaving the table, especially if you plan to return to the dealer later.

 

Don’t: Ask Your Dealer for Advice

 

There’s no such thing as a stupid question, but there’s a time and place. If you ask the dealer for their advice, it puts them in an awkward position if you lose. Advice doesn’t guarantee a win. Las Vegas casino rules encourage players to use their own insights to gamble and see what happens.

 

Do: Know Hand Signals

 

For many games, especially blackjack, you need to know a set of hand signals to properly play. Memorizing each of these nonverbal cues makes you look like a pro and helps you gamble more efficiently. 

When the cards are dealt face up:

  • Hit: When you want to take another card, use your finger to tap the table in front of you. 
  • Stand: If you like your cards and don’t want to pick up another, you stand. Wave your fingers over your cards to indicate you’re done. 
  • Double: If your cards look good, it’s wise to double down. Select the correct amount of chips, place them next to your original stake, outside the betting box, and use one finger to point. 

 

When the cards are dealt face down:

  • Hit: Gently run the corners of your cards against the felt of the table. 
  • Stand: Slide your cards under your bet without lifting your chips. 
  • Double: Put your cards face up on the table right above your bet. Hold up one finger if you are doubling. 

 

Friends Exchanging Chips with Las Vegas Dealer

 

Don’t: Give the Dealer Disorganized Chips

 

Learning how to exchange chips the right way is a Las Vegas right of passage. Dealers prefer to exchange smaller denominations of chips for large ones. When you’re ready to cash out, hand the dealer neatly stacked chips to count and change in. Be sure to exchange between hands and not during play to keep the game flowing smoothly.

 

Do: Understand the Rules

 

Some dealers are happy to explain the rules of a game, but it’s more fun for everyone if you’re familiar with the game before you sit down at the table. It takes the pressure off of you to map out your next move and makes the experience better for all players.

 

Don’t: Miss Out on Players Club Benefits

 

Last, but not least, don’t forget to do something for yourself. If you’re going to Las Vegas casinos and haven’t signed up for a players club, you’re missing out on some amazing benefits that help make your experience even better. With the free Club One membership, you’ll be able to start earning points when you play, which will help you earn things like upgraded rooms, priority dining reservations, invitations to casino events, and more!

 

Understanding what to do in a casino and proper casino etiquette is a crucial aspect of having a seamless experience in the vibrant world of Las Vegas casinos. By familiarizing yourself with the dos and don’ts, you can navigate the casino floor with the confidence of a seasoned pro. Remember to be mindful of your behavior, maintain a courteous attitude toward others, and follow the regulations set up by the casino. Now that you know the rules, it’s time to put your knowledge into practice! Get ready to embrace the excitement, head to the Golden Gate Casino, and revel in the unforgettable moments that Las Vegas casinos have to offer.