Best Courtenay Casinos, Table Games, Slots & Bingo Guide 2024
Courtenay, BC, offers a variety of casino gaming options that cater to both casual gamers and seasoned veterans. From slot machines and table games to poker rooms and off-track betting, there is something for everyone. Additionally, the establishments in Courtenay take pride in offering top-notch service, luxurious surroundings, and a welcoming atmosphere. This combination of factors makes this city an appealing choice for anyone seeking an enjoyable casino experience in British Columbia. Whether you are a local resident looking for a night out or a visitor searching for entertainment during your stay, Courtenay’s casinos promise a memorable experience.
List of Courtenay Casinos
-
Chances Playtime Casino
361 Hunt Rd, Courtenay, BC V9N 9B8Chances Playtime Casino in Courtenay BC enriches the gaming experience with diverse promotions, 200 slots, electronic bingo, and live entertainment. Serving as a local entertainment hub, it adds vibrancy to Courtenay's cultural scene beyond gaming.
Map of the Best Courtenay Casinos
Top Casinos to Visit in Courtenay, BC
If you find yourself in British Columbia and are looking to have a memorable gaming experience, then Courtenay is a must-visit destination. Among the various entertainment options available in this town, one of the best casinos, Chances Casino stands out as a premier choice for both locals and visitors alike.
Chances Courtenay, BC
Chances Courtenay is a prime destination for those seeking an exciting and entertaining gaming experience in Courtenay, BC. It boasts a sprawling 17,000 square feet of gaming space, including an exciting slot floor and live weekend entertainment.
Visitors can choose from 200 slots, traditional and electronic bingo, virtual blackjack, or even enter a slot tournament. Additionally, guests can enjoy pull tabs, sport viewing, and lottery.
Unique Features and Offerings:
- Gaming Options: 200 slots, traditional and electronic bingo, virtual blackjack, slot tournaments, pull tabs, sport viewing, and lottery.
- Dining Options: The RED21 Gaming Tap + Grill and Coasters Express provide bar-top video poker, appetizers, and entrees, while the MATCH Eatery & Public House offers a casual and contemporary dining and entertainment experience with libations, comfort food, and live entertainment.
- Established Presence: The casino opened its doors on February 29, 2008, and since then, it has been a go-to destination for those seeking entertainment and betting in the Courtenay area.
The Economic Impact of Casinos in Courtenay, Canada
Casinos play a crucial role in the local economy of Courtenay. From creating employment opportunities to boosting tourism and generating revenue for local projects, the impact of the industry on the local economy is significant.
Job Creation and Employment Rates
The gambling establishments in Courtenay, BC, offer a variety of job positions, from gaming to hospitality. For example, the Gateway Casino is always on the lookout for customer-service pros and supportive team players for positions like Slot Attendant and Human Resources Coordinator.
These roles not only provide vital front-line customer support but also help with talent acquisition, development of new team members, and maintenance of staff information. Such opportunities contribute to the employment rates in the community and provide an exciting, supportive, and fun work environment.
Revenue Generation and Contributions to Local Projects
The revenue generated by the online casino sector in establishments like Chances Playtime Courtenay, is invested back into local initiatives and organizations in the community. For example, in 2022-23, Chances Playtime Courtenay, BC generated $11.52 Million in provincial revenue since its opening, and $1.29 Million funded local initiatives in 2022/2023. This funding supported various local projects and organizations, such as:
- The Cridge Centre for the Family: This centre assists residents from all walks of life throughout the Greater Victoria area, delivering services such as general child care and a residence for survivors of brain injury.
- Kus-Kus-Sum Watershed: In 2018, the City of Courtenay contributed $135,000 to support the watershed restoration of Kus-kus-sum, the site of a former field sawmill in the K’omoks Estuary.
- Sid Williams Theatre: In 2018 and 2019, $105,000 of the City’s share of provincial revenue for hosting Chances Playtime Courtenay went to support the Sid Williams Theatre, a performing arts hub and community space in operation since 1971.
- Comox Valley Transition Society: This society received a cheque for $5,000 from Chances Courtenay as part of GatewayGIVES’ 25 Days of Giving, in celebration of Gateway Casinos 25th anniversary.
- RCMP in Courtenay: A portion of the City’s share of provincial revenue from hosting Chances Courtenay was invested in the RCMP, as a safe community is a top priority for the City of Courtenay.
Safety and Responsible Gambling in Courtenay
Casinos in the city prioritize safety and promote responsible wagering. They have implemented various measures, programs, and tools to educate about responsible gambling and to ensure a secure environment.
Initiatives Promoting Responsible Gambling In Courtenay, like in other locations, casinos have rolled out responsible gambling initiatives. The B.C. Government offers support through Gambling Support BC, providing free information and resources to encourage informed choices and healthy gambling behaviors. Services available include:
-
Gambling Outreach: This service offers education and training at provincial, community, and organizational levels. It includes information sessions, community workshops, campaigns, materials, and social media outreach, focusing on early intervention.
-
Clinical Counselling: Free, confidential, multilingual services for British Columbians affected by their own or a family member's gambling. It includes individual, group, couples, and family support services.
-
Discovery Program: A multi-day group treatment program aimed at skill-building for recovery, increasing self-awareness regarding gambling, and creating visions for the future.
Additional resources such as Choices & Chances, iMinds Gambling Literacy Curriculum, GameSense by BC Lottery Corporation, Voluntary Self-Exclusion Program, and Fold 'em Podcast provide guidance, support, and tools to help individuals manage their gambling activities responsibly.
Security Measures for Visitors
Casinos in Courtenay prioritize the well-being and comfort of their guests by implementing several security protocols and measures. These include restrictions on photography or filming in certain areas of the venue, video surveillance in high-risk and gaming areas, and recording details of security or criminal incidents.
These measures are implemented to safeguard the well-being of employees and third parties, ensure adherence to relevant laws, and prevent theft, vandalism, cheating, and harm to the venue's assets and property. Additionally, if a visitor or their family member becomes ill or is involved in an accident while visiting, certain information may be collected for risk management and law enforcement purposes.
Other Great Casinos in BC
Other BC Casinos
Lodging and Accommodation Near Courtenay Casinos
When planning a trip to Courtenay, accommodation is a crucial factor to consider. Fortunately, this city offers a wide range of lodging options to suit different preferences and budgets. Whether you are looking for luxurious resorts, budget-friendly options, or special package deals that combine gaming and stay, you will find something that fits your needs.
Luxury Accommodation
For those seeking a premium experience, the city has several luxury resort options to choose from. These upscale accommodations offer a range of amenities, services, and attractions to ensure a memorable stay.
Kingfisher Oceanside Resort & Spa
Nestled along the Salish Sea's picturesque shores, this resort presents an idyllic setting with a seaside spa, onsite dining options, and well-appointed rooms featuring amenities such as a compact refrigerator, DVD player, and complimentary WiFi. Guests can also relish beautiful ocean and mountain views, unwind in the unique Pacific Mist Hydropath steam room, or stay active in the gym.
Old House Hotel & Spa
This sophisticated Courtenay hotel boasts an outdoor pool, a fitness center, and contemporary rooms complete with a fireplace, flat-screen cable television, and convenient amenities including a fridge, microwave, and provisions for tea and coffee. The Ohspa onsite offers services that focus on wellness and relaxation, including manicures, pedicures, facials, and massages.
-
Crown Isle Resort & Golf Community
A residential golf community in the heart of the Comox Valley, Crown Isle Resort & Golf Community embodies a lifestyle of friends, family, and year-round outdoor enjoyment. At this resort, you'll find an 18-hole championship golf course, generously sized rooms adorned with elegant gold accents and cherry wood furniture. There is also the Timber Room Bar & Grill, where you can indulge in a diverse selection of delectable dishes.
Budget-Friendly Options
For fans looking for affordability without compromising on comfort and convenience, Courtenay offers several budget-friendly accommodation options.
- The Cliffe: This property offers laundry facilities, free in-room WiFi, daily housekeeping, and free self-parking. All 91 rooms have amenities such as desks and private bathrooms.
- Riding Fool Accommodation: Located in Cumberland, this accommodation offers a terrace, coffee shop/cafe, arcade/game room, and free in-room WiFi. Guests can also enjoy bike rentals, express check-out, and newspapers in the lobby.
Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors to Courtenay
First-time visitors to the city may find the following practical travel tips helpful in enhancing their experience. These insights cover timing, transportation, and etiquette to ensure a memorable and enjoyable stay.
Best Times to Visit
The city climate varies throughout the year, with moderately cold temperatures in the spring, comfortably cool weather in the summer, chilly temperatures in the fall, and cold weather in the winter. The busiest season for tourism is June through August, while the slowest months are September through November.
To take advantage of special promotions, events, or attractions at the casinos, it is recommended to visit during promotional events or when new attractions are introduced. These limited-time offers provide an opportunity to enjoy exclusive casino bonus opportunities and activities.
Transportation Options to and From Casinos
Public transportation is available for visitors traveling to and from the casinos. For example, from Courtenay Airpark to Chances Playtime, visitors can walk for about 10 minutes to Fitzgerald at 21st St, take the bus to Ryan 1140 block, and then walk for about 2 minutes to Chances Playtime. More information on transportation options can be found on Google Maps.
Essential Dos and Don'ts for a Memorable Experience
To make the most of your experience, consider the following dos and don'ts:
- Do set a budget and stick to it.
- Do learn the rules of the games before playing.
- Do tip the dealers and service staff.
- Don't chase losses.
- Don't consume excessive alcohol while betting.
- Don't use your phone at the gaming tables.
Conclusion
Courtenay attracts visitors from all over the world to its luxurious and vibrant casinos. The casinos in this city are renowned for their economic benefits, stringent safety measures, and a vast array of entertainment options. These aspects combined make the town unique and attractive choice for casino enthusiasts.
FAQs
- When are the casinos in the city open? Chances Casino is open from 10am to 12am on most days of the week.
- Is there an age limit for gambling at casinos in BC? The legal age for playing at casinos in BC is 19 years and older.
- What precautions are in place at casinos in BC to prevent the spread of COVID-19? The casinos provide free sanitization spots throughout the establishment, and guests are required to wear masks and use other personal protection equipment in accordance with the guidelines provided by the relevant health and safety authorities.
- Do the casinos in BC have a specific dress code? While there is no specific dress code in place at these establishments, we would recommend wearing appropriate attire.
Meri Zimic is our Head Content Publisher on BCGambling.ca, with more than five years of expertise she is well versed in the online gambling space. Not a native of BC, but following the British Columbian market since the release of the first BCLC website.