The Mississippi River is part of the American identity, after having been an important travel and trade point for centuries. Of all the surrounding cities, New Orleans has the closest and longest relationship with the river. This relationship has varied throughout the years, with many factors changing it, including economic, cultural, and environmental. The river has turned New Orleans into one of the busiest port cities in the world, while also becoming the city’s connection to the world of gambling.
From back when gambling was first available on the boats alongside the Mississippi River, to the mobile apps and online casinos available everywhere today, things have come a long way. This is partly because customer needs are constantly changing, and so the gambling industry has adapted in line with these changes to maintain its popularity. The main way this has been achieved is through modernization and technological innovation.
For example, one of the most popular games, bingo, has gone through modern changes which saw a progression from an in-person event to become available to play bingo slot games for real money on any device. What’s more, there are now different types of bingo as well as slots and scratch cards all available online, which would have been considered a pipe dream a mere 30 years ago.
Bingo is not the only game that has been disrupted by technology, either. The advent of smartphones becoming widely available has led to an entire technological overhaul of the online casino industry. The accessibility and availability of these games, plus relatively-new offerings like Slingo, jackpots, and chat boxes, have helped gambling grow into the mammoth industry it is today.
However, despite this industry having been disrupted by technological advancements, the well-known riverboat casinos are still one of the most popular attractions in New Orleans. Back in the 1800s, when the Mississippi River was mainly utilized for trading and transportation, merchants and passengers alike picked gambling as their activity of choice. When music and dancing were later added to the mix, boat owners saw the real potential of this form of entertainment.
After that, riverboats became home to music, entertainment, and all types of casino games, from old card favorites like poker and blackjack to slot machines. Now, tourists and locals alike can still enjoy the perks and atmosphere of the old times, simply by paying a visit to the Mississippi River. Most tourists that decide to visit nearby cities want to try out a riverboat casino experience. Fortunately, there are still plenty of options for them to choose from.
Most tourists that decide to visit the cities alongside the Mississippi stream want to try out a riverboat casino experience. Fortunately, there are still a few options for them, with one of the best ones being the Grand Palais which is home to more than 1,175 slot machines and 34 table games. Its pavilion area also features great dining options, including Lone Wolf Express, Otis & Henry’s Bar and Grill, Farmers Pick Buffet, and a bar with a live entertainment show every weekend.
This nostalgic part of American history is still prevalent in cities located near the Mississippi river, contributing to their economy and nightlife. The gambling industry seems to be growing at an exceptional speed, with revenues expected to reach $647.9 billion by 2027. So it seems likely that riverboat casinos will continue to host people from around the world and provide them with a complete American experience for a long time to come.
