Discover Tioga Downs Casino Resort near Binghamton, NY. Find information on gaming, horse racing, dining, and entertainment options available at this popular destination.

Tioga Downs Casino Resort A Premier Gaming Destination Near Binghamton NY

For those seeking premier gaming near the Southern Tier, Tioga Downs Resort in Nichols presents a compelling destination. Located approximately 30 miles from the city center, it offers over 890 slot machines, including popular titles like Wheel of Fortune and Lock It Link. Table game enthusiasts will find more than 28 tables featuring blackjack, craps, roulette, and various poker variants. The poker room, in particular, hosts regular tournaments and cash games, making it a focal point for regional players.

Beyond the gaming floor, the establishment provides a comprehensive entertainment experience. The on-site hotel features modern rooms with views of the harness racing track. Dining options range from the upscale P.J. Clarke's for classic American fare to the more casual County Fair Buffet. Live entertainment is a staple at the venue's concert hall, which has hosted acts like Travis Tritt and The Beach Boys. The harness racing season, running from May to September, adds another layer of betting and spectating opportunities.

Planning your visit should account for travel time from the urban center, which is typically a 35 to 45-minute drive via NY-17 W. The resort offers ample free parking, including spaces for RVs. For frequent visitors, the Tioga Rewards program provides points for play that can be redeemed for food, hotel stays, and free play, creating tangible value for repeat patrons. Checking their official events calendar before you go is advisable to align your trip with specific concerts or racing dates.

Tioga Downs Casino Resort: A Practical Guide for Visitors

Plan your visit for a weekday, specifically Tuesday through Thursday after 6 PM, to encounter smaller crowds and more available slot machines. Weekend evenings, particularly after 8 PM, are peak times with significant wait times for popular table games.

Location and Travel Time

• The resort is located at 2384 W River Rd, Nichols, New York.
• Driving from downtown, the journey typically takes 30-35 minutes via NY-17 W.
• From Ithaca, expect a travel time of approximately 50 minutes via NY-79 W and NY-17 W.

Gaming Floor Details

The gaming floor features over 890 video lottery terminals. Specific machine recommendations include:

• Wheel of Fortune: Denominations range from $0.25 to $5. Find these machines grouped near the main entrance.
• Lock It Link: Multiple themes are available, with popular versions located in the central area of the floor.
• Video Poker: A dedicated section with dozens of Jacks or Better and Deuces Wild machines is situated near the Virgil's Real BBQ entrance.

Table game minimums fluctuate based on demand. Expect $15 minimums for Blackjack on weekday afternoons, rising to $25 or higher on Friday and Saturday nights. Craps and Roulette tables usually maintain a $15 minimum throughout the week.

Dining Options and Recommendations

1. Virgil's Real BBQ: Reservations are highly recommended for weekend dinners (bookable via their website). The "Train Wreck" fries and brisket are signature dishes.
2. P.J. Clarke's: A better option for a quicker meal without reservations. Known for its "Cadillac Burger." Located directly off the gaming floor.
3. Coasters Sports Bar: Offers views of the harness racing track. Ideal for drinks and appetizers during live races.

Harness Racing Schedule

Live harness racing operates seasonally, typically from May through September. Races are held on Friday and Saturday evenings with a post time of 6:15 PM. Check the official Tioga Downs website for the exact schedule and special event days like the Tompkins-Geers Grand Circuit Stake.

Hotel and Amenities

• The hotel offers 161 rooms. For a quieter stay, request a room on a higher floor facing away from the racetrack.
• The AgeLess Spa provides massages and salon services; appointments should be booked at least one week in advance.
• The indoor pool and waterslide area is a key family attraction. Access is included with a hotel stay. Peak usage is between 10 AM and 2 PM on weekends.

Navigating Gaming Options: From Slot Machines to Table Games

For the highest Return to Player (RTP) percentages on slot machines at the Tioga Downs establishment, seek out the video poker terminals, specifically Jacks or Better and Deuces Wild, which often feature RTPs exceeding 99% with optimal strategy. The gaming floor houses over 890 machines. High-limit slots, typically located in a dedicated section, offer denominations from $5 to $100 per spin and generally provide a slightly higher payback percentage compared to the penny slots that constitute the majority of the floor's offerings. Popular themed machines like Wheel of Fortune and Lightning Link are grouped in high-traffic areas, but for less volatility, classic three-reel mechanical slots are a solid choice.

The table games area features 28 tables with distinct minimum bets. Blackjack tables, which use a six-deck shoe, present the lowest house edge, averaging around 0.5% for players using basic strategy. Look for tables with the "3 to 2" payout for a natural blackjack. Craps tables consistently maintain a minimum bet of $10, with odds bets offering a true zero house edge. Roulette provides both American (double-zero) and European (single-zero) variants; the single-zero wheel cuts the house advantage from 5.26% to 2.7%, making it the superior option. For poker players, the dedicated poker room spreads No-Limit Texas Hold'em with blinds typically starting at $1/$2 and Pot-Limit Omaha. A "Must Move" table is often active during peak hours to ensure the main games remain full.

Planning Your Visit: Directions, Parking, and Accommodation Deals

The entertainment complex is located at 801 Tioga Downs Rd, Nichols, New York, approximately 40 minutes from the greater Broome County area. For drivers coming from the north or south, use Interstate 86 (Southern Tier Expressway) and take Exit 62. The venue is just a short drive from the exit ramp, with clear signage guiding you directly to the entrance. GPS coordinates for direct navigation are 42.0215° N, 76.6503° W.

Upon arrival, you will find extensive on-site parking available at no charge. The main lot offers over 1,500 spaces, including designated spots for handicapped access close to the main entrance. For larger vehicles, there is a dedicated RV parking area with available hookups, though it is advisable to call ahead to confirm availability, especially during peak seasons or event weekends.  https://bzeebetcasinoplay.casino  is also offered for a nominal fee at the hotel's main entrance.

To secure the best rates on lodging, book your stay directly through the Tioga Downs Resort website. Look for "Stay & Play" packages, which frequently bundle a room with dining credits or free play vouchers for the gaming floor. AAA members and active military personnel are eligible for discounts on room rates, typically around 10%, upon presentation of valid identification at check-in. For midweek stays (Sunday through Thursday), room prices are generally lower compared to weekend bookings.

Beyond the Casino Floor: Dining, Entertainment, and Live Racing Schedule

For an upscale dining experience, make reservations at P.J. Clarke's, known for its classic American fare, including the "Cadillac" burger and fresh raw bar selections. For a more casual yet distinct option, Mian offers authentic quick-service Asian cuisine, featuring dishes like Vietnamese Pho and General Tso's Chicken. If you crave Italian food, L'Italia is the destination for pasta and traditional entrees. The Marketplace provides multiple quick-bite stations, from pizza to sandwiches, suitable for a fast refuel. For drinks and light fare, the sports bar presents numerous screens for game viewing alongside a full menu.

Entertainment is centered around the main events stage, which hosts a regular schedule of live bands, tribute acts, and comedians. Check the establishment's official events calendar for specific performance dates and times, as touring acts are booked months in advance. Past performers have included nationally recognized rock bands and stand-up comedy stars. The sports bar also features local musicians on select weekend nights, creating a more relaxed atmosphere.

The adjoining racetrack offers a seasonal schedule of live harness racing. Post times are specific and must be verified directly with the raceway's official schedule, as they are subject to change based on weather and track conditions. The season typically runs from late spring through early autumn.

All event schedules and dining promotions are subject to change. Direct confirmation through the venue's official website or by phone is recommended before planning your visit.