The casino scene in St Charles, Missouri offers visitors one of the most comprehensive gaming and entertainment experiences in the Midwest. Located along the scenic Missouri River in the northwestern suburbs of St Louis, Ameristar Casino Resort Spa St Charles has established itself as a premier destination that attracts millions of visitors each year seeking world-class gaming, luxury accommodations, and diverse entertainment options.
Introduction to Casino Gaming in St Charles
St Charles represents a significant hub in Missouri's gaming industry, with Ameristar Casino Resort Spa serving as the cornerstone attraction. The property spans an impressive 130,000 square feet of gaming space, making it one of the largest casino facilities in the country. This scale allows for an extensive selection of gaming options that cater to both casual players and serious gamblers alike.
The casino's location in St Charles provides strategic advantages for visitors from throughout the St Louis metropolitan area and beyond. Situated at 1 Ameristar Boulevard, the property offers convenient access while maintaining a resort atmosphere that encourages extended stays. The facility operates as a permanently moored riverboat casino, a designation that reflects the evolution of Missouri gaming regulations since the industry's inception in the state.
Gaming Floor and Casino Offerings
The gaming floor at Ameristar St Charles features over 2,000 slot machines and video poker terminals, representing the latest technology and most popular titles in the industry. The selection ranges from classic reel slots to cutting-edge video slots with progressive jackpots and interactive bonus features. Video poker enthusiasts will find numerous variations including Jacks or Better, Deuces Wild, and multi-hand formats.
Table Games Selection
The casino maintains more than 70 table games covering all major casino classics. Blackjack tables offer various betting limits to accommodate different bankroll sizes, from low-limit games for beginners to high-stakes tables for experienced players. The property features multiple blackjack variations including standard rules, Spanish 21, and blackjack switch.
Craps tables provide the energetic atmosphere that dice game enthusiasts seek, with experienced dealers helping newcomers learn the game. Roulette wheels spin continuously, offering both American and European variations. The casino also maintains a dedicated Baccarat Pit for players who prefer this elegant card game, with both standard baccarat and mini-baccarat options available.
Poker Room Facilities
The dedicated poker room at Ameristar St Charles caters to both tournament players and cash game enthusiasts. The room hosts daily cash games with various stakes and game types including Texas Hold'em, Omaha, and mixed games. Regular tournament series provide structured competition with guaranteed prize pools, attracting players from across the region.
Sports Betting at Fanatics Sportsbook
The recent addition of Fanatics Sportsbook brings modern sports wagering to the property. This state-of-the-art facility allows guests to place bets on professional and college sports, including football, basketball, baseball, hockey, and more. The sportsbook features multiple viewing screens, comfortable seating, and a full-service bar, creating an immersive environment for sports fans.
Luxury Hotel Accommodations
The AAA Four Diamond hotel at Ameristar St Charles features 400 well-appointed suites designed to provide comfort and luxury. Each suite offers spacious layouts with separate living areas, premium bedding, flat-screen televisions, and modern amenities. The rooms feature contemporary decor that balances elegance with functionality, creating an inviting retreat after time spent on the gaming floor or exploring other property amenities.
Suite categories range from standard luxury suites to premium accommodations with enhanced views and upgraded features. Many rooms offer views of the Missouri River or the surrounding St Charles area. In-room amenities include high-speed internet access, work desks, mini-refrigerators, and premium bath products.
Pool and Recreation Facilities
The hotel features a distinctive seasonal indoor-outdoor pool that adapts to weather conditions throughout the year. During warmer months, guests can enjoy outdoor swimming with poolside service. The indoor section remains accessible year-round, providing a climate-controlled aquatic environment. Pool areas include comfortable lounging spaces, cabanas for rent, and attentive service staff.
Dining Experiences and Culinary Options
Ameristar St Charles offers seven distinct dining venues that span the spectrum from casual quick-service options to upscale fine dining experiences. The culinary program emphasizes quality ingredients, skilled preparation, and diverse menu options that cater to various tastes and dietary preferences.
Fine dining options provide elevated cuisine in sophisticated atmospheres, perfect for special occasions or business dinners. Steakhouse offerings feature premium cuts of beef, fresh seafood, and extensive wine selections. Casual dining restaurants serve American favorites, Italian cuisine, and Asian specialties. Quick-service venues provide convenient options for guests who want to grab a meal between gaming sessions.
Bar and Lounge Venues
The property maintains 12 bars throughout the casino and hotel, ensuring guests always have convenient access to beverages. Bottleneck Blues Bar provides live music entertainment in an intimate setting, while globar offers craft cocktails and premium spirits. The bars range from high-energy gaming floor locations to relaxed lounge environments suitable for conversation.
Entertainment and Nightlife
Entertainment options at Ameristar St Charles extend well beyond the gaming floor. The property hosts regular live entertainment on its event calendar, featuring tribute bands, comedy shows, and special performances. The entertainment venue accommodates various show formats, from intimate acoustic performances to full-scale production shows.
RYSE Nightclub Experience
RYSE Nightclub represents the cutting edge of nightlife entertainment with immersive technology and modern design. The venue features state-of-the-art lighting systems, premium sound equipment, and visual effects that create an energetic atmosphere. Guest DJs and special events keep the nightclub calendar fresh and exciting for regular visitors.
Topgolf Swing Suite
The Topgolf Swing Suite provides interactive entertainment that combines golf simulation with social gaming. Groups can enjoy virtual golf on famous courses worldwide, along with other interactive games. The suite includes comfortable seating, food and beverage service, and climate-controlled comfort regardless of outdoor weather conditions.
ARA Spa and Wellness
The full-service ARA Spa delivers comprehensive wellness experiences with VIP treatments and extensive facilities. The spa menu includes massage therapy, facial treatments, body wraps, and specialized services. Licensed therapists customize treatments to individual needs and preferences, using premium products and proven techniques.
Spa facilities extend beyond treatment rooms to include a steam room, sauna, Swiss shower, and hydro-pool. These amenities allow guests to create their own wellness journeys, spending time in various therapeutic environments. The spa boutique offers retail products for guests who want to continue their wellness routines at home.
Conference Center and Event Spaces
The 60,000+ square foot conference center positions Ameristar St Charles as a premier venue for business meetings, conventions, and social events. The facility includes multiple meeting rooms of various sizes, a grand ballroom, and flexible spaces that can be configured to meet specific event requirements. Modern audiovisual equipment, high-speed internet, and professional event planning services support successful gatherings.
Wedding Services and The Event Lawn
Wedding services at Ameristar St Charles provide comprehensive planning and execution for ceremonies and receptions. The Event Lawn offers an outdoor venue option with scenic views, while indoor spaces provide climate-controlled alternatives. Dedicated wedding coordinators work with couples to customize every detail, from catering menus to decor arrangements.
Historical Context and Evolution
Ameristar Casino St Charles opened on May 27, 1994, as Station Casino St Charles, making it one of Missouri's first two riverboat casinos. The original facility offered 24,500 square feet of gaming space with 52 table games and 813 video poker machines. Early regulations required admission fees and restricted gambling to two-hour cruises with $500 maximum loss limits.
Regulatory changes in 1996 allowed riverboat casinos to remain permanently moored, eliminating the cruising requirement. By 1999, the entire casino operation consolidated to a barge format. Station Casinos sold the property to Ameristar Casinos in October 2000. A major expansion in 2008 added the hotel, pool, and spa facilities that transformed the property into a comprehensive resort destination.
Ownership transitioned to Pinnacle Entertainment in 2013 when it acquired Ameristar Casinos. Penn National Gaming purchased Pinnacle Entertainment in 2018 but immediately sold Ameristar St Charles to Boyd Gaming as part of regulatory approval requirements. Boyd Gaming currently operates the property, maintaining its position as a leading entertainment destination in the St Louis market.
Location and Accessibility
The casino's address at 1 Ameristar Boulevard in St Charles, Missouri places it in an easily accessible location for visitors throughout the metropolitan area. The property sits along the Missouri River, providing scenic views and a resort atmosphere while remaining close to major transportation routes. St Charles itself offers additional attractions including historic Main Street, the St Charles Trolley, and various shopping and dining options beyond the casino property.
Loyalty Programs and Player Rewards
Boyd Rewards serves as the loyalty program for Ameristar St Charles, offering tiered benefits based on gaming activity. Members earn points through slot play and table games, which can be redeemed for various rewards including free play, dining credits, hotel stays, and merchandise. Higher tier levels unlock enhanced benefits such as priority check-in, exclusive promotions, and invitations to special events.
Responsible Gaming Resources
Ameristar St Charles maintains a commitment to responsible gaming practices. The property provides resources for guests who may need assistance with gambling-related concerns. Information about setting limits, self-exclusion programs, and counseling services is readily available. The casino displays responsible gaming messaging and provides access to the Missouri Gaming Problem Helpline at 1-800-GAMBLER.
Conclusion
The casino in St Charles, MO represents a mature and comprehensive gaming destination that has evolved significantly since Missouri first authorized riverboat gaming in the 1990s. Ameristar Casino Resort Spa St Charles delivers an integrated resort experience that combines extensive gaming options with luxury hotel accommodations, diverse dining, professional spa services, and varied entertainment venues. The property's scale, amenities, and strategic location have established it as one of Missouri's premier tourist attractions, drawing over 5.5 million visitors annually who seek both gaming excitement and resort relaxation. Whether visiting for a weekend getaway, special event, or extended stay, the casino in St Charles provides the facilities, services, and entertainment options that define modern casino resort destinations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What gaming options are available at the casino in St Charles MO?
Ameristar Casino St Charles offers over 2,000 slot machines and video poker terminals, more than 70 table games including blackjack, craps, roulette, and baccarat, a dedicated poker room with cash games and tournaments, and a Fanatics Sportsbook for sports betting.
Does the casino in St Charles have a hotel?
Yes, Ameristar St Charles features a AAA Four Diamond luxury hotel with 400 well-appointed suites. The hotel includes a seasonal indoor-outdoor pool, premium amenities, and various room categories to suit different preferences and budgets.
How many restaurants are at Ameristar Casino St Charles?
The property features seven dining venues ranging from fine dining steakhouses to casual restaurants and quick-service options. Additionally, there are 12 bars throughout the casino and hotel offering beverages and light fare.
Is there a spa at the St Charles casino?
ARA Spa at Ameristar provides full-service wellness treatments including massages, facials, and body treatments. The spa also features a steam room, sauna, Swiss shower, hydro-pool, and spa boutique for a comprehensive wellness experience.
What entertainment options are available beyond gaming?
Entertainment options include RYSE Nightclub with immersive technology, Bottleneck Blues Bar with live music, regular performances and shows, Topgolf Swing Suite for interactive golf simulation, and various special events throughout the year.
Can I host events or meetings at Ameristar St Charles?
Yes, the property offers over 60,000 square feet of conference and event space including meeting rooms, a grand ballroom, and The Event Lawn for outdoor gatherings. Professional event planning services support business meetings, conventions, weddings, and social events.
What is the history of the casino in St Charles?
Ameristar Casino St Charles opened on May 27, 1994, as one of Missouri's first two riverboat casinos. It has undergone several expansions and ownership changes, evolving from a small riverboat operation to the current comprehensive resort destination owned by Boyd Gaming.
How do I join the rewards program at Ameristar St Charles?
Guests can register for Boyd Rewards at the casino's rewards center or online. The program offers tiered benefits based on gaming activity, with points earned through slot and table game play redeemable for free play, dining, hotel stays, and other rewards.