Discover the Essential Las Vegas Blackjack Handbook

In this portion, you will find comprehensive details regarding the assortment of live blackjack tables found in casinos across the Las Vegas Valley. When we visited these casinos on weekdays in September and October 2022, we encountered the subsequent minimums.

When compiling this data, we found that the Las Vegas market boasted a total of 72 casinos offering live blackjack. However, there has been a recent change in the landscape. In November, Club Fortune made the decision to remove its blackjack pit, reducing the number of casinos to 71. Additionally, in December, Bally's underwent a rebranding process and emerged as Horseshoe. These developments highlight the dynamic nature of the Las Vegas casino scene, where transformations and adjustments occur regularly.

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During peak hours and weekends, it's possible for limits to be higher. Take, for example, a game that is priced at $5 according to this survey; during peak hours, that same game could be priced at $10 or even $15. Similarly, a game that initially costs $10 might increase in price to $15 or even $25 during peak hours. Additionally, a game with a minimum bet of $15 may see its limit rise to $25. And although it's not uncommon for some $25 games to double in price, reaching a staggering $50, it's worth noting that the $25 minimum limit tends to remain relatively stable.

Explore our comprehensive guide to table games in Las Vegas.

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Las Vegas areas

Downtown Las Vegas

Las Vegas Strip

Locals casinos

Off-Strip casinos

Insight into blackjack in the Las Vegas Valley

This questionnaire provides an overview of the exciting world of live blackjack in Las Vegas.

Experience the excitement of 3:2 blackjack games in the heart of downtown Las Vegas.

Single deck games

Downtown Las Vegas is home to a unique and captivating single deck blackjack game at El Cortez. This particular game offers players the opportunity to double down before splitting, but not afterwards, and features a dealer who hits on soft 17. What sets this game apart from the others is that it is the only single deck blackjack game available in downtown Las Vegas. So, if you're seeking a thrilling and distinctive blackjack experience, El Cortez is the place to be!

   $10 minimum

• El Cortez

Double-deck games

The dealer will draw another card if they have a soft 17 in the double-deck games.

Games played with decks consisting of six and eight cards each

The doubling down option is available both before and after splitting in these six- and eight-deck blackjack games.

Las Vegas Strip blackjack games with a 3:2 ratio

Double-deck games

accessible solely during the busiest periods

Games that involve standing on soft 17 with a deck of six cards.

These particular six-deck games are played with a soft 17 rule, allowing players to double down both before and after splitting. Additionally, players have the option to surrender during the game.

solely accessible during high demand periods

Games where soft 17 is hit in decks of six and eight

These particular games, consisting of either six or eight decks, involve hitting a soft 17 and granting players the opportunity to double down both before and after splitting hands.

Exclusive access available only during high-traffic periods.

Non-Strip blackjack games with a 3:2 payout ratio and casinos that are popular among residents

Double-deck games

Stand on 17

In the locals and off-Strip markets, there is a unique casino called Palms that offers a double-deck game. What sets it apart is that the dealer stands on a soft 17, which is quite rare. Another advantage is the flexibility to double down both before and after splitting. However, it's important to note that this game has a high minimum bet of $100.

Hits a soft 17

At Green Valley Ranch, Palace Station, and Red Rock, the $100 double-deck blackjack games are quite intriguing. One aspect that sets them apart is that the dealer hits a soft 17. To add to the excitement, players can also enjoy the feature of re-splitting aces. However, it's worth noting that this specific rule has been known to fluctuate from time to time, so it's always good to stay updated.

typically not open, potentially requiring advance booking for salon seating

Games where the dealer stands on soft 17 and uses a six-deck shoe.

These particular games consist of six decks and implement the rule where the dealer must hit soft 17. Additionally, players have the option to double down both before and after splitting, with the added feature of surrender being accessible.

typically not open, might require booking salon tables

Games where the dealer hits soft 17 using six or eight decks

These particular games consist of six decks and allow players to double down both before and after splitting. The dealer will hit on soft 17.

The Poker Palace at the six-deck game offers the option to double down on 2 or 3 cards both before and after splitting. In this particular game, the minimum bet is set at $3.

At Skyline, blackjack is only offered during the evenings from Thursday to Monday. Jerry's Nugget, on the other hand, utilizes continuous shuffle machines for all their blackjack games. When playing, keep in mind that you can double down both before and after splitting your hand, surrendering is not an option, and aces can only be split once.

Blackjack Variants

Blackjack Switch

At its peak, Blackjack Switch was offered at 33 tables across the Las Vegas Strip, but it has now dwindled down to a mere four. The unique aspect of this game lies in the fact that players are required to place bets on two separate hands, effectively doubling the minimum buy-in. So, in a typical $10 game, players must fork over $20 to get dealt a hand. One fascinating element of this game is the ability to switch a card between the two hands, adding an extra layer of strategy and excitement to the gameplay. However, the payout for a blackjack hand is only even money, which is considerably lower compared to other variations of blackjack. Additionally, if the dealer manages to draw a hand with a total value of 22, it results in a push rather than a loss for the players, creating a unique twist in the rules of the game.

Bonus Spin Blackjack

In order to participate in this game, players must place a $1 additional wager on a Bonus Spin wheel, on top of the established minimum bet of $10 that we encountered. These particular tables are considered to be some of the least favorable in Las Vegas, mainly due to the high house edge associated with the side bet, which we approximate to be around 23%. Even though the game offers a 3:2 payout ratio, which somewhat mitigates the disadvantage at lower betting limits, it is still not enough to significantly offset the unfavorable odds.

At Golden Nugget, certain tables necessitate a supplementary $2 side wager alongside the required $10 minimum bet.

Double Exposure

During peak hours, Circus Circus, the sole casino in Las Vegas offering Double Exposure blackjack, becomes a lively hub of excitement. This unique variant of the popular card game allows players to witness both dealer cards, a feature that adds an extra layer of strategy to the proceedings. However, it's important to note that in the event of a tie, players unfortunately lose their bets. Keep in mind that the minimum wager for this thrilling game is typically set at $10, ensuring that players of all budget levels can partake in the action. It's worth mentioning that Circus Circus only operates its Double Exposure blackjack tables during busy shifts, ensuring a vibrant atmosphere and maximum enjoyment for all guests.

Double Up

Learning the strategy is absolutely crucial when it comes to playing Double Up, which is undoubtedly one of the finest blackjack variants out there. In this game, players have the opportunity to double their bet and then either stand or continue playing as usual. It's worth noting that the dealer, on the other hand, will push with a hand totaling 16 when facing a player's 17-20. If you're interested in playing this exciting game, you'll find that Binion's and Four Queens casinos offer a 3:2 payout for a minimum bet of $10. However, if you're feeling a bit more adventurous and are willing to wager a bit more, Horseshoe casino deals the game for a minimum of $25 with a 6:5 payout.

Free Bet Blackjack

In the vibrant city of Las Vegas, there's no denying that Free Bet Blackjack reigns supreme as the most beloved variation of the classic card game. A staggering number of nearly 90 tables can be found across the city, beckoning both seasoned players and curious newcomers. It's a game that's dealt at a total of 39 casinos, offering ample opportunities for enthusiasts to test their luck. Delving deeper into the details, it's worth noting that ten of these casinos provide a favorable payout ratio of 3:2, ensuring more generous winnings for lucky winners. However, for those who find themselves at the remaining establishments, the payout ratio drops to 6:5, resulting in a slightly higher house edge. Precisely speaking, the house edge for the 3:2 game stands at approximately 1%, providing players with a favorable chance of success. On the flip side, the 6:5 games come with a slightly less favorable house edge of around 2.4%. So, whether you're seeking the thrill of a higher payout or simply looking to enjoy the game, Free Bet Blackjack in Las Vegas offers a variety of options to suit every player's preference.

As a helpful assistant, I'm here to provide you with a unique passage of the same length as the example excerpt. Let's rearrange the sentences and add some natural expressions to make it sound fresh and authentic. "The dealer pushes on 22, allowing the player to get a free double down on 9, 10, and 11. Not only that, but pairs without a value of 10 can also be split and re-split at no cost. This unique provision helps balance the game and adds excitement to the gameplay."

Free Bonus Blackjack

I stumbled upon an intriguing variant of blackjack called Free Bonus Blackjack during my recent visit to Sahara and Palms. It struck me as resembling another popular variation called Free Bet. The noteworthy aspect of this game is that it offers a payout of 6:5 for blackjack, which is quite generous. At Sahara, the minimum bet required to participate in this thrilling game is a mere $10, whereas at Palms, it's slightly higher at $15.

Lucky Cat Blackjack

At Four Queens, they have an amazing version of blackjack called Lucky Cat Blackjack that offers a 3:2 payout and doesn't require any side bets. It's definitely a better option compared to Golden Nugget's $5 Lucky Cat Blackjack, which has a 6:5 payout and a mandatory $2 side bet. We've done the math and estimated that the house edge for the Golden Nugget game, with a minimum $7 bet, is a whopping 8.95%. However, if you're willing to raise the minimum bet to $10, Four Queens is the way to go for a more favorable playing experience.

Most Liberal 21

I happen to know a casino called Plaza, which happens to be the sole proprietor of an intriguing game called Most Liberal 21. This particular game bears a striking resemblance to Super Fun 21, a game that can only be found at a single casino catering to the locals in Las Vegas. However, it is worth mentioning that the rules of Most Liberal 21 are slightly less favorable. Interestingly, this game offers the flexibility of placing a minimum bet as low as $5.

Spanish 21

The Venetian and Palazzo casinos in Las Vegas have reintroduced the popular card game, Spanish 21, making them the go-to destinations for players seeking this unique gambling experience. As a lower limit player, I was thrilled to discover that these luxury establishments offered Spanish 21 as an option. However, before diving into the game, I quickly realized that there was a need to acquire a strategic understanding of its rules and intricacies. With a minimum bet starting at a reasonable $25, it was evident that both casinos were catering to a wide range of players, ensuring that everyone could enjoy this exciting card game.

Super Fun 21

During peak hours, Sam's Town, the sole Las Vegas casino offering Super Fun 21, becomes a gambler's haven. This intriguing variant of blackjack introduces a collection of captivating and player-friendly rules, adding a dash of excitement to the classic game. However, to balance the scales, most blackjacks in Super Fun 21 pay out even money, ensuring a fair deal for both the house and the players. With a minimum bet requirement of $10, this double-deck game beckons both seasoned blackjack enthusiasts and curious newcomers to try their luck at the tables. It's worth noting that Super Fun 21 is exclusively available during the bustling peak hours, magnifying the thrill and intensity of the overall casino experience.

Discover the top places in Las Vegas to enjoy the thrilling experience of 6:5 Blackjack games.

In the realm of blackjack, my focus does not delve into the intricate specifics of 6:5 games. The fundamental reality remains that all dealers stand on soft 17. On the illustrious Las Vegas Strip, there may be a few tables that graciously permit surrender and the resplitting of aces. However, these particular regulations hold little significance in the grand scheme of things. The crux of the matter lies in the house edge, which hovers around 2%. In comparison to a 3:2 blackjack game, this equates to a lamentable 1.4% deterioration. Thus, envision a scenario where a $10 bettor hypothetically endures a loss of an additional $3 for every 20.5 hands played at 6:5 tables as opposed to their 3:2 counterparts.

Single deck

There are still some single deck blackjack tables with a 6:5 payout available. It is usually allowed to double down before and after splitting.

Two decks

These popular Las Vegas casinos, including Horseshoe, Harrah's, Paris, Planet Hollywood, and Rio, offer a double-deck blackjack game in the main pit, where players can bet $25 and receive a 6:5 payout. However, it is important to note that doubling down after splitting is not permitted.

In Palace Station, players are allowed to double down both before and after splitting. This particular game has a minimum bet of $10 and follows a 6:5 payout ratio.

Poker Palace offers a blackjack game with two decks where players receive an equal payout. The minimum wager is $2, allowing players to double down before, but not after, splitting their hand.

Four decks

I stumbled upon a rather peculiar blackjack game during my recent visit to Las Vegas. Located at the Alamo truck stop on Blue Diamond Road, just across from Silverton, this game is unlike any other in the city. Surprisingly enough, it is the only four-deck blackjack game to be found in all of Las Vegas. Unfortunately, I must warn you that this particular game is widely regarded as one of the worst in the market. Even worse than the 6:5 payout that many players loathe. The restrictions imposed on players are quite disheartening. You are only allowed to double down on 10 and 11, and to make matters worse, doubling down after splitting is strictly prohibited. As if these limitations weren't disappointing enough, I also discovered that the minimum bet for this game is set at $10.

A variation of blackjack played with six decks where bets pay out even money.

Downtown Grand and Oyo offer $1 blackjack tables with even odds. Players have the option to double down before and after splitting. At Downtown Grand, bets over $4 receive a 6:5 payout for blackjack.

Las Vegas offers blackjack games with six and eight decks, featuring a 6:5 payout ratio.