Navigating the Casino

Navigating the casino of your choice doesn't have to be tough, even if the property is large. Parking can be a challenge if the property is large, but don't be embarrassed to write down where you park - east, west, whatever, and your floor and space number. Most casinos on the West Coast offer free valet parking, but many on the East Coast charge for valet. Tipping is optional.

Once you get inside the property orient yourself with where you entered. If you use valet, you will most likely be entering next to the hotel check-in desk. If you enter from a parking garage you might come out next to a specific restaurant, the poker room, or even a player's club desk.

If you do happen to be right by the player's club, now is a good time to get signed up. The club desk is also a great place to hear about the casino itself, what specials they might have such as free slot play or tournaments, and they usually have a map of the casino floor.

When arriving with friends it's always a good idea to set a time to gamble and then meet to plan a meal or a return home. Wandering the new property is fun and you shouldn't worry about getting lost. The key is in knowing a specific point where you will be able to meet again.

Casinos can have several "pits" or table game areas and they often have several thousand slot machines. Telling your friends to meet at the blackjack tables could put you all in entirely different areas of the casino. Be specific.

One of the best things about wandering the casino a bit before you start gambling is that you will get comfortable. You won't be frantic when you hit that first slot machine and you'll be able to find your own favorite games. Many casinos offer non-smoking slot areas and most have no-smoking blackjack tables.

If you don't see any no-smoking tables you should ask your dealer about the casino's policy. The pit boss can make a table no-smoking for you. Cigar and pipe smoking is probably not allowed. All casinos in some states like Colorado prohibit smoking.

Most casinos have several restaurants. Many have a 24-hour coffee shop and a buffet. Some have a traditional steak house - which will be considerably more expensive than the coffee shop. Reservations and business casual dress may be required for the steak house.

If you are staying in the hotel, make sure you acquaint yourself with all the amenities offered. Most casino hotels have concierge service. This is available to everyone. The concierge is geared towards the casino's best players, but they also have detailed information about the property. You can find out about rooms, night clubs, spa and fitness club packages, and of course the casino's restaurants. Sample menus are usually on hand so you can choose the restaurant that best fits your mood and budget. The concierge office can make your reservations. Tipping is not expected.

Once you are ready to leave the casino, the cashier's cage can give you cash for your gaming chips or for the vouchers from coinless slot machines. If you are ever uneasy in a casino due to any reason, there are security officers available for your comfort. They will assist you if you have a medical emergency, are lost, or are unable to find your friends.

If for some reason you would like an escort to your car they will be happy to help. Many casinos also have extra wheelchairs if you need help getting around. Any casino employee can help you find a security officer. Don't be afraid to ask.