The Windy City's Gamble: How Many Casinos Can You Handle, Chicago?
Ah, Chicago. City of broad shoulders, deep-dish pizza, and... a surprising number of casinos? That's right, folks. Forget the days of gangsters and speakeasies (although, a good speakeasy-themed casino would be pretty darn cool). Gambling in the Windy City has become a full-blown pastime.
But here's the question that keeps us up at night (not after a night at the roulette table, mind you): Exactly how many casinos are we talking about?
Here's where things get a little tricky. There's a difference between casinos within the city limits of Chicago and casinos that are close enough to smell the popcorn from Garrett's (a Chicago must-try, by the way).
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Inside the City Limits: As of today, there are currently zero casinos within the official Chicago city borders. Shocking, right? Apparently, the aldermen are still debating the finer points of craps etiquette.
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Chicago's Not-So-Distant Cousins: But fear not, gambling enthusiasts! Venture out just a tad and you'll be met with a welcoming cacophony of slot machine chimes and poker chip shuffles. We're talking about places like Des Plaines, Elgin, and Joliet - all boasting casinos that would make Vegas blush (well, maybe not blush, but at least raise an impressed eyebrow).
So, how many casinos are there in the greater Chicagoland area? Buckle up, because this is where it gets interesting. Depending on who you ask and how you define "casino" (is a riverside boat with slots a casino? We're asking the real questions here!), the number can range from around 9 to a whopping 12.
Here's the bottom line: Whether you're a high roller or a penny slots kinda player, there's a good chance you can find your gambling fix within a reasonable distance of Chicago. Just be sure to pack your lucky socks and maybe a designated driver (because, let's be honest, those buffets can be a gamble in themselves).
P.S. If anyone's got the connections to open a speakeasy-themed casino, hit me up. I've got some ideas that would make Al Capone proud (and maybe a little woozy).
