DESTINATION SPOTLIGHT: TUNICA, MISSISSIPPI

by A L E X A N D E R C H O P R A

Tunica, Mississippi was one of the first counties in the Southern region to embrace the full expansion of casino gaming. The opening of Splash Casino in 1992 marked what would be decades of increased visitation and revenue to an area that needed some good luck in many ways. Splash was the only game in town for just over a year and gaming enthusiasts from miles around came to not only test their luck, but to pay a cover charge to do so! After great success, it didn’t take long for others to move in and Harrah’s, Bally’s and other all jumped in on the action. The expansion would continue until reaching the pinnacle of eleven casinos in the late 1990’s. In addition to the fast casino action and luxurious amenities of the casinos, Tunica also expanded the area offerings to include a county operated golf course and tennis center with Tunica National, a quaint downtown with shops, local eateries and more, that all make a visit to Tunica much more than just rolling the dice or playing the slots. Today, Tunica is home to six casinos, each possessing their own flair and charm that collectively caters to just about any type of gamer. We are excited to highlight a few of our favorite properties and places to check out on your next visit. Enjoy!

Gold Strike Casino Resort is an MGM-owned property and is one of the most prestigious casino resorts in the region. Like its sister property on the Gulf Coast, Beau Rivage, perfection is around every corner and there is always something happening at Gold Strike. Ever since its lavish grand opening in 1994, gaming enthusiasts have flocked to the 31-story golden hotel towering over Tunica to be pampered and live the life of luxury while playing in the 50,000 squarefoot casino. At the time it was constructed, Gold Strike was the tallest building in the state of Mississippi and to this day it remains the third tallest building in the state. From the moment you enter the marble floored hotel lobby, you know you are in for something special with a sleek, marble laden entrance that lead to hotel check-in or the casino floor and restaurants. Clear the calendar and stay for a few nights in your choice of over 1,100 rooms and 125 suites that are modern, with bright interiors and equipped with all the essentials you may need.

The casino at Gold Strike offers all your favorite gaming options including a full-service sportsbook, nearly 1,200 slots and a variety of table games in a well-spaced and placed casino floor. Whether it is your traditional blackjack and craps or the more contemporary games and slots, you’ll find it at Gold Strike.

When it comes time to place your sports bets, no need to look any further than the Moneyline Book, Bar & Grill located conveniently near the casino floor. Find your game, place a wager then sit back and enjoy the show. After the game, simply head down to the claims window and cash out- easy as pie. You can bet on just about any sporting event, horse race or other wagering interest at Moneyline so be sure to stop in on your visit. offering a more relaxed area for a glass of wine or cocktail paired with an appetizer, or even main course. If you are looking for more of a buffet-style experience, Buffet Americana is a must-visit spot! This Las Vegas-style buffet serves up a variety of world-cuisine from American classics to Asian and Italian in a relaxed dining room style table layout with different areas to enjoy your feast.

If you feel like taking a break from the tables, there are numerous other amenities offered at the complex including a full-service spa, indoor pool, Top Golf Swing Suite, and multiple nightlife and entertainment options. Be sure to check their web-site regularly as headlining entertainment is always making a stop at Gold Strike! The sportsbook at Gold Strike Casino Resort in Tunica, Mississippi.

We all know casino dining is some of the best you will find anywhere, and Gold Strike has a lot to offer. For fine-dining, Chicago Steakhouse is always spot on. This classic Chicago-inspired steakhouse has a great premium steak and seafood selection with one of the largest wine selections in the region. There is also a bar and lounge area separate from the main dining room Chicago Steakhouse at Gold Strike Casino Resort.

The next stop on our tour of Tunica takes us to the glitz and glamour of Hollywood with the exciting gaming action, amenities and memorabilia of Hollywood Casino.

You never know what you’ll see on your visit as they take great pride in treasured Hollywood movie memorabilia ranging from authentic outfits worn in hit movies to famous cars including the DeLorean from Back to the Future and the Batmobile from Batman. However, don’t let the visual attractions fool you, behind it all is a solid property offering fantastic accommodations, delectable dining, great gaming action and more to make your stay ‘star worthy’!

Offering 500 rooms, as well as a 123-space RV park, overnight guests have no trouble making Hollywood feel like home. The rooms have been renovated and updated on the last few years and offer both interior facing rooms (overlooking the casino floor) as well as exterior facing rooms overlooking the golf course and landscape of the area.

The hotel also features one of the largest indoor pools in the state and is great spot to relax in the climate-controlled area or take a dip in the hot tub. As one of the premiere casinos in town, Hollywood Casino offers over 50,000 square-feet of gaming space including a stage area for evening entertainment and a poker room with a full spread of live games at various levels. The casino floor is well laid with ample space between games and machines with high ceilings to give a nice open feeling that you don’t see very often in casinos. In addition to the casino, be sure to check out The Sportsbook at Hollywood. You can enjoy the biggest names in sports while sipping on a beer or other beverage in the lounge, which have some of the best video screens around. Dining is a premium at Hollywood and you can experience that first hand at the award-winning Fairbanks Steakhouse. Located on the second floor, the restaurant offers some of the best steak, seafood and service around in a welcoming dining area. Escape to a big city style steakhouse just steps away from your favorite casino games.

If you want to recreate the classic Vegas experience, you can check out the Epic Buffet- which is truly epic, with a variety of stations and cuisines that will fill any craving. Options like roast beef, shrimp, and sushi rolls, alongside decadent desserts will have you ready for anything.

In addition to all of the features mentioned above, the casino is also an entertainment hub for the area. If you want to catch a show before, after, or even during your gaming time, you can check out The Stage Bar, which hosts local and national music acts in front of a live audience. Have a drink and play some video poker while you listen to eclectic music styles from blues, to rock to country.

While Gold Strike and Hollywood top our list of “Preferred Properties” of Gaming and Destinations, there are other options in Tunica including Horseshoe, 1st Jackpot, Sam’s Town and Fitz. Each property has its own niche offering guests an all-around casino offering for just about any gamer. In addition to the casinos, the area offers several great attractions to keep you busy. Be sure to stop by these popular attractions on your next visit. A resource for ‘All that is Tunica’ is TunicaTravel.com where you will find information about the area attractions.

If you are a fan of the Blues, or just a music lover in general, you need to make the Gateway to the Blues Museum your first stop when arriving in Tunica. Located on Highway 61, stop by and see the story of the blues come to life in all its tormented and anguished glory. You’ll experience interactive exhibits, artwork and more — including a recording studio where you’ll learn the basics of blues music with a chance to record your very own blues song. This must-see attraction for all music lovers, will tell the remarkable story of how The Blues was born and the role Tunica played in building the genre’s legacy.

No trip to Tunica is complete without a trip to The Hollywood Café. You may have heard the song Walking in Memphis referring to Muriel playing the piano at the Hollywood on Friday nights. Well, this is the Hollywood referred to in the song. While she may not still play, it is always a sure bet to get a great meal for a fair price so be sure to stop in for lunch or dinner. They are also home to the famous Fried Pickle so be sure to get an order for an appetizer, you won’t be disappointed! The Café is open until 9:00 pm during the week and 10:00 on weekends.

Downtown Tunica Located just a few miles from the casinos is a quaint downtown area with unique boutiques, antique shops and more. There are also festivals throughout the year so be sure to check out TunicaTravel.com for more information.

Don’t miss your chance to tee it up at one of the areas two golf courses. Tunica National Golf & Tennis is country owned and operated and is always in great shape for a quick round. Designed by PGA tour player Mark McCumber, players will find water features, long carry shots and undulated greens that will make you bring your top game to the course. For tennis players, don’t miss the indoor, clay court facility located on the property. For more information visit TunicaNational.com or call 662-357-0777. River Bend Links offers a Scottish-links style layout over 6,900 yards of lakes, bunkers and other obstacles for a challenging round. This privately owned resort style course is conveniently located near Hollywood Casino for a great stay and play experience. For more information and tee-times visit RiverBendLinks.com or call 662-363-1005