2023 Central Las Vegas Strip Blackjack Review

From Aria to Planet Hollywood, Mirage to Harrah's, this comprehensive guide delves into the world of blackjack on the legendary Las Vegas Strip. Here, the stakes are high, with minimum bets ranging from $25 to $50 for a thrilling 3:2 blackjack game, even during the quieter moments. However, when the bustling crowds descend upon the casinos, prepare for the minimum bet to skyrocket to $100. Keep in mind that unless specified otherwise, the general rule is that the dealer hits on a soft 17 in these casinos. So, gather your chips, embrace the excitement, and let the games begin!

With the exception of Linq, every casino in this vicinity features a high-limit room. However, the high-limit rooms at Cromwell and Horseshoe are exclusively accessible during the busiest times.

Bet-NV.com receives backing from members, sponsors, and ads. In case of a gambling issue, contact 1-800-GAMBLER.

You have the opportunity to access our comprehensive Las Vegas Blackjack and Table Game Survey through our exclusive subscription service. By becoming a member, you not only benefit from this valuable resource but also contribute to the continued operation and growth of Bet-NV.com. We offer flexible membership options, allowing you to sign up for a monthly or quarterly plan that suits your needs. With frequent updates based on recent casino visits, our survey provides the most up-to-date and reliable data. Starting from as little as $3 per month, our affordable memberships ensure that you receive exceptional value for your investment.

Now you can access Bet-NV.com subscriptions on both Gumroad and Patreon, ensuring a seamless experience with top-quality content on each platform.

Early access to Bet-NV.com's Table Game Survey with monthly updates as we revisit casinos
Early access to Bet-NV.com's Comprehensive Study of Table Games with monthly updates as we revisit casinos

Should you or someone you are familiar with be facing difficulties related to gambling, please reach out to 1-800-GAMBLER for assistance.

Our terms of use require publishers of other websites to include a backlink to Bet-NV.com when using our data, within reasonable limits.

Discover: Las Vegas Blackjack Study for 2024

Blackjack games offered by casinos on the iconic Las Vegas Strip.

During the busy times, particularly at the 6:5 blackjack tables, you can expect higher minimum bets. The information we gathered in the summer of 2024 indicates the lowest possible bets, which are typically available in the mornings and afternoons. However, it is important to note that these minimums may increase during peak hours.

Bellagio

In 2020, Bellagio made a decision to lower the standing-on-all-17 pit near the craps tables. Nowadays, players need to venture into high limit areas to come across these particular tables.

Beyond the craps tables and adjacent to the front desk, you'll find a collection of both 6:5 eight-deck and Free Bet Blackjack tables. However, it's important to note that the rules have recently changed for the former stand-on-all-17 tables, as they now hit on soft 17. Starting at $50, these 3:2 games offer players the opportunity to double down before and after splitting, surrender their hands, and even split aces into four separate hands at the six-deck 3:2 games. If you're looking for a slightly higher-stakes game, there's a $300 blackjack table that adheres to these exact rules and stands on all 17's. For an even more thrilling experience, consider playing at the double-deck blackjack table, where a $500 buy-in will grant you the chance to double down before and after splitting, all while the dealer remains consistent in standing on all 17's.

On the casino floor of Bellagio, you won't find double-deck blackjack anymore. It has been moved exclusively to the salon area. Joining the ranks of other Las Vegas Strip casinos, Bellagio now offers stadium gaming as well. If you're looking for a different kind of blackjack experience, you can give their $5 6:5 video blackjack machines a try.

Caesars Palace

At Caesars Palace, you'll find a selection of five distinct blackjack games to choose from. Starting at $25, both the eight-deck 6:5 blackjack and the 6:5 Free Bet Blackjack offer an exciting gaming experience. What sets the eight-deck game apart is the ability to double down before and after splitting, adding an extra layer of strategy to the gameplay. For those seeking a higher-stakes option, there's the $50 3:2 blackjack game available under the iconic dome, complete with the option to double down and surrender. With these various choices, players can find the perfect blackjack game to suit their preferences and gaming style at Caesars Palace.

In the high-limit pit at Caesars Palace, you'll find a pair of blackjack games. One is a double-deck game where you have the opportunity to double down before and after splitting. It's worth noting that the dealer will hit on soft 17 in this particular game. On the other hand, there's a six-deck game that follows the same double-down rules but offers additional options like surrender and re-splitting aces. In this version, the dealer stands on soft 17. Both of these games require a minimum bet of $200.

When comparing the Caesars Palace high-limit salon to other properties under the same company, it's important to note the differences. One unique feature that sets Caesars Palace apart is the ability to double down after splitting in the double-deck game. This is not something commonly found within the company. Additionally, re-splitting aces in high-limit games is also uncommon at Caesars Palace. Another aspect to consider is the blackjack options available, such as video and stadium blackjack. These particular games have a 6:5 payout ratio and start at a minimum bet of $5.

Cosmopolitan

At Cosmopolitan, you can begin playing blackjack for as low as $15. It's worth noting that at this price point, there is often an eight-deck variant with a 6:5 payout ratio. If you're willing to wager $25, you'll have the opportunity to play Free Bet Blackjack, which also follows the 6:5 payout scheme. During quieter periods, you might even stumble upon a $25 game with a more favorable 3:2 payout ratio. For those seeking a minimum of $50 to join a game, there are plenty of options available with a standard 3:2 payout and an eight-deck shoe. These games adhere to the traditional double-down rules, allowing for surrender and re-splitting of aces. High-limit players looking for a more exclusive experience can enjoy a six-deck version of the $100 minimum game, where the dealer stands on all 17's. Lastly, if video blackjack is more your style, you can start playing for as little as $5.

Cromwell

Table games at Cromwell

At Cromwell, the high-limit area offers exclusively 3:2 blackjack, available during peak hours, while on the general floor, all blackjack tables now have a payout ratio of 6:5.

These tables offer the usual double-down and surrender options, and we came across them with a minimum bet of $15. Additionally, there is a variant called Free Bet Blackjack with a minimum bet of $15 and a payout ratio of 6:5.

I stumbled upon these captivating high-limit games with a minimum bet of $100. There are two options available, each with its own set of rules and strategies. The first game employs two decks and allows hitting on a soft 17. However, it disappointingly doesn't permit players to double down after splitting. On the other hand, the second game features a six-deck shoe and stands firmly on all 17's, presenting an opportunity for surrender. What's even more enticing is the ability to double down both before and after splitting. Intriguingly, during our exploration, we unearthed an alternative to traditional blackjack known as 6:5 video blackjack. Astonishingly, this variation can be enjoyed for as low as a $3 wager.

Flamingo

At Flamingo, you can start playing blackjack for as little as $15. With this amount, you can secure a seat at either the 6:5 Free Bet table or the standard 6:5 eight-deck games. The eight-deck games at Flamingo come with a few enticing features such as the ability to double-down before and after splitting, as well as the option to surrender. So, whether you prefer the excitement of Free Bet or the familiarity of the standard eight-deck games, Flamingo has got you covered. Grab a seat and try your luck at one of these thrilling blackjack tables today!

In the high-limit area of the Flamingo, there's a variety of blackjack games to suit your preference. Among them, you have three options for 3:2 blackjack. First up, we have a double deck game where you can double down before splitting, but not after. The minimum bet for this game is $50. If you're looking for more decks in play, there's a six-deck game also with a $50 minimum. This one offers surrender and follows the normal double down rules. Lastly, we have the 3:2 Free Bet Blackjack, which was newly added in 2024. With a minimum bet of $50, this game offers its own unique twist.

At the Flamingo casino, the rule for soft 17 differs in the standard six-deck game compared to the other blackjack games offered.

Harrah’s

At Harrah's, the blackjack experience is quite similar to that at Flamingo. Usually, the 6:5 games have a minimum bet of $15, while the 6:5 Free Bet Blackjack requires a minimum of $25. The double-deck blackjack at Harrah's follows the 6:5 payout rule and starts at $25 as well. For higher limits, where the minimum bet is $50, the dealer stands on soft 17 in a six-deck shoe, but in all other games, the dealer hits on soft 17. It is worth noting that the salon now features a new $50 3:2 Free Bet Blackjack table. Additionally, there is video blackjack available, with a 6:5 payout and a minimum bet of $5.

Horseshoe

In December 2022, Bally's underwent a transformation and emerged as Horseshoe. Among the various blackjack options available, there is an eight-deck table where players can double down both before and after splitting, as well as surrender. The minimum bet for this table is set at $15. For those willing to invest a little more, there are alternative options like the 6:5 Free Bet Blackjack, 6:5 Double Up Blackjack, and a 6:5 double-deck blackjack, all available at a minimum bet of $25.

At Horseshoe, you can find both 3:2 double-deck and six-deck games, with the former having a $50 limit. The six-deck game, on the other hand, allows players to surrender, giving them a bit more flexibility. However, it's important to note that the double deck game at Horseshoe does not permit double down after splitting. Keep in mind that these high-limit games have limited hours, so make sure to plan accordingly. Lastly, it's worth mentioning that all blackjack games at Horseshoe follow the rule of hitting soft 17.

Video blackjack has a minimum bet of $3 and offers a payout ratio of 6:5.

Linq

At Linq, players can enjoy the $15 6:5 Free Bet promotion along with eight-deck blackjack. However, high-limit tables and 3:2 blackjack games are not available at Linq. For those looking for affordable options, video and stadium blackjack are offered with a minimum bet of $5.

O’Sheas forms an integral part of Linq, offering an exclusive $15 6:5 Free Bet and an exciting 6:5 eight-deck blackjack experience.

Mirage

At Mirage, you can find two different blackjack tables with varying minimum bets. One table has a minimum bet of $10 and uses an eight-deck shoe, while the other table has a minimum bet of $15 and also uses an eight-deck shoe. However, there is a key difference between the two tables. The $10 table offers a 6:5 payout for blackjack, whereas the $15 table offers a 6:5 Free Bet Blackjack payout. In terms of gameplay, the eight-deck table allows players to double down both before and after splitting. On the other hand, if you're willing to bet $25, you can enjoy a six-deck blackjack game that follows the traditional 3:2 payout structure. This game also includes standard double down rules, as well as options for surrendering and re-splitting aces.

In the high limit section, you'll find six-deck games where standing on all 17's is allowed. These games utilize six decks and have a minimum bet of $100. What sets them apart is the option to double down both before and after splitting pairs, as well as the ability to surrender and re-split aces. Moving on to Mirage's salon, they offer a double-deck game as well. The minimum bet is also set at $100, but the dealer hits soft 17 in this variation. It's worth noting that players are only allowed to split pairs once in this particular game, and as mentioned before, the dealer hits soft 17.

Paris

In Paris, there has been a recent change in the blackjack offerings on the casino floor. The previous blackjack variant, which had more favorable odds for players, has been downgraded to a less advantageous 6:5 payout ratio. Now, visitors have three options to choose from: double-deck, eight-deck, or Free Bet Blackjack. The double-deck option requires a minimum bet of $25, while the other two variants have a lower starting point of $15. This change in the blackjack options gives players a variety of choices based on their preferences and betting strategies.

I've got some insider information about the blackjack games at Paris. They've got a high-stakes game where you can stand on all 17s, and it'll cost you $100 to play. The good news is that you can double down before and after splitting, and surrender is an option too. If you're looking for a more budget-friendly option, you can actually request to play the same game but for only $50 during the slowest hours. Now, if you're into double-deck games, they've got one for $100 as well. However, this one hits a soft 17 and only allows doubling before splitting, not after. So, you've got a few choices depending on your preferences and bankroll.

Paris High Limit Salon

Planet Hollywood

Planet Hollywood offers a selection of 15 games, all of which are eight-deck 6:5 games. Among these, one is a classic version while the other is Double Up Blackjack, potentially priced at $10 during off-peak hours.

At night, the stakes go up to $50 for a thrilling game of eight-deck blackjack, where you can double down before and after splitting, and even surrender if you're feeling strategic. However, if you prefer a more exclusive experience, there's a double-deck game with a 6:5 payout ratio, where you can only double down before splitting, starting at a minimum bet of $25. It's a different kind of challenge, but one that can still bring excitement to the table.

In the high-stakes lounge, you'll find a variety of blackjack options to test your luck. There are two tables dedicated to this popular card game. The first one is a double-deck game that allows you to double down before splitting, but not afterward. The dealer hits on soft 17, which adds an extra layer of excitement to the gameplay. The second table features a six-deck game where the dealer stands on all 17's. This version follows the standard double-down rules and even offers the option to surrender. However, keep in mind that the minimum bet for this game is set at $100, ensuring a heightened level of anticipation and risk.

Variations of blackjack available in the heart of the Las Vegas Strip.

Double deck games

These specific double-deck games offer a 3:2 payout for achieving a blackjack.

Stand on soft 17

Increase the bet amount both before and after dividing the cards.

$300 minimum
  • Bellagio

Hits soft 17

Take advantage of the opportunity to increase your bet both before and after dividing your hand.

$100 or $200 minimum
  • Caesars Palace
  • Mirage (divide pairs once)

Hits soft 17

double prior to dividing, but not subsequent to the act of splitting.

$50 minimum
  • Planet Hollywood
$100 minimum
  • Cromwell
  • Flamingo
  • Harrah’s
  • Paris

Horseshoe, Harrah’s, Paris, and Planet Hollywood provide a $25 6:5 double deck blackjack game. Players are not permitted to double down after splitting their hand.

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

These specific six-deck games follow a 3:2 payout ratio and allow players the option to double down both before and after splitting, while also offering the possibility of surrendering.

Re-split aces

$100 minimum
  • Cosmopolitan
  • Mirage
  • Paris
  • Planet Hollywood
$100 or $200 minimum
  • Bellagio
  • Caesars Palace

Cannot re-split aces

$50 minimum
  • Flamingo
  • Harrah’s
$100 minimum
  • Cromwell

Games in which soft 17 is hit, played with decks of both six and eight

These specific games, with a ratio of 3:2 and played with either six or eight decks, involve hitting a soft 17 and granting players the option to double down both before and after splitting. Additionally, surrendering is also permitted.

Re-split aces

$25 minimum
  • Mirage
$50 minimum
  • Bellagio
  • Caesars Palace
  • Cosmopolitan ($25 when slow)

Cannot re-split aces

$25 or $50 minimum
  • Planet Hollywood

Six- and eight-deck games that offer a 6:5 payout in blackjack.

All twelve casinos located in the central area of the Strip offered shoe games with a 6:5 payout on blackjack.

  • Mirage – $10
  • Bellagio – $15
  • Cosmopolitan – $15
  • Cromwell – $15
  • Flamingo – $15
  • Harrah’s – $15
  • Horseshoe – $15
  • Linq – $15
  • O’Sheas – $15
  • Planet Hollywood – $15
  • Paris – $15
  • Caesars Palace – $25

In addition to that, each of the twelve primary Strip casinos also offer an electronic variant with a 6:5 ratio to accommodate lower betting limits.

  • Cromwell – $3
  • Bellagio – $5
  • Horseshoe – $5
  • Caesars Palace – $5
  • Cosmopolitan – $5
  • Flamingo – $5
  • Harrah’s – $5
  • Linq – $5
  • Mirage – $5
  • O’Sheas – $5
  • Paris – $5
  • Planet Hollywood – $5

Discover the exciting 3:2 Free Bet Blackjack experience exclusively available on the famous Las Vegas Strip.

In the vast expanse of the iconic Las Vegas Strip, where glittering lights and vibrant energy reign supreme, a discerning gambler would be wise to seek out the elusive 3:2 Free Bet Blackjack tables. Alas, they are a rare gem, for only two casinos on this renowned thoroughfare dare to deal this enticing variant of the beloved game. If one is willing to venture into the esteemed high-limit salon at Flamingo or Harrah's, they shall find themselves amidst the exclusive company of these coveted tables. However, it is essential to note that the dealers at these establishments are not to be trifled with, as they possess the formidable ability to hit soft 17, adding an element of challenge and intrigue to the proceedings. As for the minimum bet required to partake in this thrilling endeavor, one must be prepared to part ways with no less than $50, for such is the cost of indulging in the pleasures of this unique variation. Yet fear not, for those who prefer to tread the path less traveled, seeking respite from the bustling crowds and neon-lit extravaganza of the Strip, the locals and downtown markets hold a secret trove of 3:2 Free Bet Blackjack tables. Here, the minimum bets take on a more modest nature, beckoning both the seasoned gambler and the curious novice with their tempting allure, as low as a mere $10. So, dear seeker of fortune, armed with this knowledge, may your journey through the enchanting realm of Las Vegas be one of discovery, excitement, and fruitful endeavors at the tables of Free Bet Blackjack.

Free Bet Blackjack 6:5

In the central part of the Las Vegas Strip, you'll come across Free Bet Blackjack, the sole blackjack variant available. While the 3:2 games mentioned earlier boast a meager 1% house edge, the 6:5 game comes with a slightly higher edge of around 2.4%.

As a player in this game, I am offered a fantastic opportunity to double down for free when my hand consists of 9, 10, or 11. It's a great advantage that adds excitement and potential winnings to the game. Additionally, I am allowed to split pairs that don't add up to 10 without any additional cost. This strategic move can enhance my chances of winning by creating two separate hands to play. However, it's important to note that the dealer has a unique rule in this game. If the dealer's hand reaches a total of 22, it results in a push, meaning neither the player nor the dealer wins or loses. This rule adds an interesting twist to the game, keeping the suspense alive until the very end.

$15 minimum

  • Bellagio
  • Cromwell
  • Flamingo
  • Harrah’s
  • Horseshoe
  • Linq
  • O’Sheas
  • Paris
  • Mirage

$25 minimum

  • Caesars Palace
  • Cosmopolitan

At Cosmopolitan, you can enjoy 6:5 Free Bet Blackjack electronically with a minimum bet of $5.

As of August 26, 2024, William Stevens has provided the most recent update.