Is there a casino in New York City? As of 2026, no full-scale Vegas-style casino operates within the five boroughs, but major developments loom. Resorts World and Empire City in Queens offer slots and simulcasting, while three downstate licenses promise Manhattan competition by 2028. This article explores current options, upcoming projects, and alternatives for NYC gamblers.
Governor Hochul's 2025 push accelerated approvals amid $1B+ tax revenue goals. From Hudson Yards bids to Coney Island dreams, here's the 2026 status.
Current NYC-Area Casinos and Racinos
Resorts World NYC (South Ozone Park):
6,500+ slots, ETBs, no table games. Empire
Resorts World NYC (South Ozone Park): 6,500+ slots, ETBs, no table games. Empire City (Yonkers): Harness racing + VGTs. Both 24/7, free shuttles from Manhattan.
Revenue hit $2B in 2025, fueling expansions.
- Resorts World: Largest in Northeast
- Empire: 5K machines
- Access: Subway-friendly
Manhattan Casino License Bids 2026
Top contenders: Wynn/Related (Hudson Yards), Hard
Rock/SLS (Times Square), Mohegan/Yonkers expansion. Public hearings
Top contenders: Wynn/Related (Hudson Yards), Hard Rock/SLS (Times Square), Mohegan/Yonkers expansion. Public hearings ongoing; groundbreaking eyed for Q4 2026.
Projects promise 1,000+ tables, hotels, 5K jobs.
- Wynn: $12B super-resort
- Hard Rock: Neon glamour
- Mohegan: Proven operator
Legal and Political Landscape
NY Constitution bans full casinos in NYC until voter approval, granted 2025. Downstate process awards three licenses: Nassau, Orange, and Manhattan.
Opposition from anti-gambling groups; unions support jobs.
- Licenses: 3 total
- Timeline: Open 2028
- Taxes: 39% rate
Best Alternatives for NYC Players
Foxwoods/Mohegan Sun (CT, 2h drive): Full tables. Atlantic City (2.5h): Borgata, Hard Rock. Online: BetMGM, DraftKings legal since 2022.
AirTrain to Resorts World in 45 mins from Midtown.
- Online: $10 min bets
- AC: Promo buses
- CT: Valet parking