See where Biloxi ranks in study of nation’s best casino party cities
Biloxi was recently named the ninth-best party destination in the United States for casino lovers, according to a new study by SlotMatrix.
The study analyzed more than 50 top U.S. locations across eight key factors.
The research evaluated casino-specific and cultural elements, including the number of casinos per 100,000 people, slot machines, poker and table games per casino, late-night bars, average weekend hotel costs, and shifts in online search interest.
Biloxi earned a score of 28.6 out of 100, standing out for its 11 casino hotels—the fifth-most of any U.S. city.
The study also found Biloxi to be one of the more affordable casino cities among the top 10, with the third-lowest average nightly hotel rate at $154. The city boasts 62 casino restaurants, ranking sixth among the 55 cities analyzed.
Interest in Biloxi’s casino scene is surging. Casino-related Google searches for the city have jumped 258.7% since 2022, trailing only San Jose, Detroit and Philadelphia in growth.
However, Biloxi’s ranking was tempered by its limited nightlife, with just 10 late-night bars. While this may dampen the party atmosphere, researchers noted it could appeal to travelers seeking a more refined experience.
Meet the top five
Chicago topped the list as the nation’s premier casino holiday destination, scoring 57.6 out of 100. The Windy City leads in table games and poker tables per casino, averaging 159, and ranks third for slot machines per casino with 2,100.
Detroit ranked second with a score of 54.9, offering the highest number of slot machines per casino at 2,833 and a robust nightlife with 184 late-night bars. The city’s casino-related search volume soared 339.8% over the past three years.
Atlantic City secured third place with a score of 53.1, cementing its reputation as the East Coast’s gaming capital. The city boasts 26 casinos per 100,000 residents, 16 casino hotels and 157 casino restaurants.
Las Vegas, often considered the nation’s gambling capital, ranked fourth with a score of 42.1. Despite its global reputation, Las Vegas averages 510 slot machines and 26 poker and table games per casino—among the lowest of the top destinations.
Pittsburgh rounded out the top five, scoring 34.2. The city features 1,600 slot machines per casino, 237 late-night bars, and a 202.1% increase in casino-related searches, signaling its growing popularity among gaming enthusiasts.
“It’s fascinating to see the incredible variety of gambling experiences available across the U.S.,” a SlotMatrix spokesperson said. “Biloxi’s presence in the top 10 highlights the city’s growing appeal as a destination for gaming and nightlife. From its strong mix of slot machines, table games, and late-night venues to more accessible hotel prices, Biloxi offers unique experiences that are resonating with travelers looking beyond the traditional casino hubs.”
According to Global City Travel data, Las Vegas has experienced an 11.2% drop in tourism since 2019, suggesting travelers are seeking new thrills in emerging destinations like Biloxi.
This story was originally published June 26, 2025 at 12:14 PM.
