Review of Century Downs Racetrack & Casino

Why not try your luck at the slot machines while also placing some race bets? This is the unique combination that Century Downs offers. But what makes it truly special?

Join us in our comprehensive examination of the casino, where we shed light on the gaming environment, food services, and much more.

Ratings for Century Downs Racetrack & Casino

Table of Contents

• How we Rate and Review Century Downs Racetrack & Casino
• Slot Machines – 5/5
• Casino Games – 3/5
• Staff & Service – 4/5
• Loyalty & Rewards – 4/5
• Casino Atmosphere – 3/5
• House Rules (T&Cs) – 4/5
• Player Feedback – 4/5
• Operator – 5/5
• Exploring the Competition Faced by Century Downs Racetrack & Casino
• The Upsides and Downsides of Century Downs Racetrack & Casino
• Is a Visit to Century Downs Racetrack & Casino Worth Your Time?

How we Rate and Review Century Downs Racetrack & Casino

Through our detailed internal rating methodology, we scrutinize every detail of Canadian casinos such as Century Downs.

Having personally spent time at the casino, we offer genuine experiences that will assist you in deciding your next gaming destination.

Our Evaluation Process for Century Downs Racetrack & Casino

• Date of visit: 05/31/2024
• Time of visit: 7 PM – 12 AM
• Initial bankroll: C$100
• The Games We Played: Slots, Video Lottery Terminals, Electronic Roulette
• Final bankroll: C$180
• Next visit: 05/29/2025

What we looked at

Our evaluation criterion includes both factual and subjective elements. Objectively, we assess the availability of various games and progressive jackpots, while subjectively evaluating the dining experience, ambiance, and security measures.

What we found

Slot Machines – 5/5

A vast array of machines run by top-tier providers awaits you, offering exceptional variety and numerous progressive jackpots.

Slots We've Experienced at Century Downs Racetrack & Casino

We kicked off the evening with the Texas Tea slot aiming for the Big Oil Bonus, followed by a run with Lucky Hog, and capped it off with the classic Buffalo Gold.

A turn on the VLT machines rounded off our night, culminating in a session with Alberta Gold, though the jackpot eluded us.

The Number of Slot Machines Available at Century Downs Racetrack & Casino

It was confirmed that Century Downs boasts over 600 slot machines for gaming enthusiasts.

Do the slot machines accept coins?

No, slot machines are only playable with cash notes, Winner’s Edge free-play vouchers, or similar tokens.

Slot machine providers

• IGT
• Aristocrat
• Konami

Local progressive jackpots

You can pursue the local progressive jackpots featured in many of the slot machines available at Century Downs.

Casino Games – 3/5

Century Downs Racetrack & Casino lacks any live table games. Instead, it offers traditional VLT machines with beloved titles or the option to try out the Electronic Roulette.

Although an electronic format, it fosters a social gaming experience akin to what you'd find at a live roulette table.

Game types

• Electronic Roulette
• VLT machines

Betting limits

At Century Downs, bets on VLT machines and the Electronic Roulette start at a minimum of C$1.

Is VIP access necessary to bet at the highest levels?

No VIP constraints apply to any of the games here.

Staff & Service – 4/5

Food & Drinks

At the Derby Restaurant, you can find an assortment of meals including an All-Day breakfast menu, Southern-style dishes, and traditional offerings.

The Southern menu offers intriguing options like Louisiana Shrimp Etouffee and Peach and Blueberry Cobbler.

While most prices are fair, certain dishes on the main menu exceed C$22.

The Century Downs Lounge provides cocktails, local craft beers, and large screens for viewing sports or racing events.

Opening hours

• Derby Restaurant Hours: 9:30 AM to 11:30 PM (Friday/Saturday until 12:30 AM)
• Century Downs Lounge Hours: 9:30 AM to 1 AM (Friday/Saturday until 2 AM)

What’s the customary tipping amount at Century Downs Racetrack & Casino?

Standard tipping in Alberta ranges from 15% to 20%.

Does Century Downs Racetrack & Casino provide complimentary beverages?

Unfortunately, free drinks aren't offered while gaming here, which is understandable due to the absence of table games.

Is there a buffet available at Century Downs Racetrack & Casino?

No, the casino does not include a buffet among its offerings.

Parking

There's ample complimentary parking in front of the casino and racecourse.

Accommodation

Considering the lack of accommodation on-site, visitors have two choices.

You can either head to Calgary Airport 15 minutes away for various lodging options or stay at the Days Inn Wyndham nearby.

A room at The Days Inn costs around C$150 per night, and the casino is just a 20-minute walk away.

Are there smoking areas?

Smoking is prohibited inside, requiring smokers to step outside.

Security

Security conducts ID checks upon casino entry and for Winner’s Zone registration, with CCTV operational, though the parking area lacks surveillance.

Loyalty & Rewards – 4/5

How does the rewards system work at Century Downs Racetrack & Casino?

The Winner’s Zone, a free, cardless rewards initiative by Century Casinos, offers multiple perks and requires only a smartphone to access.

What you get

• Cash prizes & giveaways
• Dining & beverage discounts
• Exclusive promotions

How to register in the program

1. Visit Guest Services or use a Winner’s Zone kiosk.
2. Complete your enrollment form
3. Provide your photo ID
4. For account management, download the Century Casinos Canada App.

Casino Atmosphere – 3/5

An Inside Look at Century Downs Racetrack & Casino

Discover the casino ambiance, local area attractions, and other entertainment options at Century Downs Racetrack & Casino.

Design experience

Distinct from other Alberta venues, this casino embraces a darker aesthetic with subdued lighting and a modern feel.

While bar areas appear sleek, some slot machine seating may now feel slightly outdated.

Is photography permitted at Century Downs Racetrack & Casino?

Without live tables, security seems relatively relaxed about photography, though excess near gaming machines is discouraged.

Location and surroundings

Situated in Balzac, just north of Calgary, this location isn't a typical holiday hotspot.

Although green spaces are present, not much else exists, but downtown Calgary is only a 20-minute drive away.

Is a passport required for entry to Century Downs Racetrack & Casino?

No passport is necessary; however, any government-issued photo ID, like a driver's license, is acceptable.

Events

Every Friday evening, visitors can enjoy free live music from local artists.

House Rules (T&Cs) – 4/5

Operating Hours for Century Downs Racetrack & Casino

You can visit the casino daily from 9:30 AM to 3 AM, with extended hours until 4 AM on Fridays and Saturdays.

Does Century Downs Racetrack & Casino charge an entrance fee?

No, entry to the casino is free.

Is it necessary to make a reservation for gaming at Century Downs Racetrack & Casino?

No reservation is needed; simply arrive and play. If busy, just wait for an available seat.

Does Century Downs Racetrack & Casino require membership?

To enjoy playing at Century Downs, you don’t need to sign up for any membership. Nonetheless, joining the Winner’s Zone comes with added benefits and it’s free of charge.

Dress code

Century Downs Casino does not strictly enforce any formal dress code, allowing visitors flexibility in their attire. You can be as casual as you want.

Despite the casual dress policy, during major racing events, it's common to see guests opted for a smart-casual look.

As a general rule of thumb, avoid wearing clothes that might be seen as controversial or linked to violence or gang affiliations.

Key regulations at Century Downs Racetrack & Casino

The rule book at Century Downs Racetrack & Casino is quite standard without any unusual regulations.

Player Feedback – 4/5

With over 1,700 collective reviews on platforms like Tripadvisor and Google, Century Downs Racetrack & Casino has been extensively reviewed by many patrons.

Feedback from gamblers about Century Downs Racetrack & Casino

Google – 4.1/5

Reviews on Google lean towards discussions on horse racing and off-track betting, but there's also plenty of praise directed at the dining experience.

On the downside, some customers have noted that the restaurant service might be slow at times.

Tripadvisor – 4/5

The culinary offerings are widely appreciated by reviewers, though mention of sluggish restaurant service appears in comments on Tripadvisor too.

Most common issues

• Slow service

Operator – 5/5

Ownership details of Century Downs Racetrack & Casino

In September 2023, Century Casinos was taken over by Vici Properties.

Other casinos by the same operator

• Harrah’s New Orleans
• The Venetian Las Vegas
• Century Casino St. Albert

Contact info

Exploring the Competition Faced by Century Downs Racetrack & Casino

With numerous options, online casinos in Canada The landscape includes vibrant competition from numerous other land-based casinos in Calgary as well.

Comparative overview: Century Downs Racetrack & Casino Vs. ACE Casino Airport

The facility features an extensive collection of over 600 slot machines, a diversity of gaming tables, and a dedicated poker room open around the clock with 12 tables.

The live performances are a treat, featuring some of the more prominent cover acts in North America.

At ACE Casino Airport, table game enthusiasts will find their paradise with a variety of live gaming options.

A range of authentic live tables is on offer at the casino, which includes games such as blackjack and roulette, alongside progressive jackpots and side bet options.

Comparative overview: Century Downs Racetrack & Casino Vs. PURE Casino Calgary

PURE Casino Calgary Offers intense poker gaming opportunities, a 24-hour poker room, exclusive baccarat and blackjack games, and one of Canada's busiest event schedules.

For poker aficionados, PURE Casino Calgary presents an optimal alternately with high-level poker tournaments, 24-hour availability, limitless progressive jackpots, and Bad Beat jackpots.

Unique features of Century Downs Racetrack & Casino that distinguishes it from others

Century Downs takes pride in offering an unmatched variety of slot games. Though competitors also provide slots, Century Downs appears to have a more diverse array of themes and styles.

Includes an impressive array of over 600 slot games.

The Upsides and Downsides of Century Downs Racetrack & Casino

Pros

• Features authentic live racing events and off-track betting options.
• Offers plenty of additional advantages as part of membership in the Winner’s Zone.
• Gastronomy enthusiasts can discover unique dishes at the Derby Restaurant.
• If your idea of a casino involves a relaxed and informal atmosphere or a fun night out, Century Downs Racetrack & Casino is definitely a strong contender.

Cons

• No live gaming tables

Is a Visit to Century Downs Racetrack & Casino Worth Your Time?

Though serious table game players may find the absence of traditional table games disappointing, Electronic Roulette can still offer a comparable experience—albeit, it's not quite the same.

The bar areas are vibrant with energy, the culinary offerings are distinctive, and live racing with the opportunity for wagering adds an exciting element.

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