The Rivers Casino in Des Plaines, Ill., opened in the summer of 2011 after years of talk and debate about allowing a casino in the O’Hare International Airport (ORD) area. From all reports, it has been a major success. My nephew and I visited the casino earlier this week, and we were impressed with the facility and operations.
The first thing that we experienced was a user-friendly parking garage. Colored lights hung over each parking space. A red light meant the space was filled, while a green light (blue for handicapped) meant the space was empty. This allows drivers to skip aisles showing all red lights. It’s a simple but nice feature. The garage was also roomy, well-lit and clean.
ID 20407911 © Dimfizz | Dreamstime.com
The casino houses 43,000 square feet of gambling action, including 1,050 slots and 48 game tables. That is about average for the casinos in this area. There was a nice mix of games, although penny slots seemed a bit scarce. We tried our luck at a couple tables (poker and pai gow) and found the dealers to be friendly and helpful.
There are seven dining choices in the casino. The Canopy is a large buffet. The Cube was a lively bar with several flat screens. Hugo’s is a steak and chop house operated by Gibson’s. The other choices looked quite popular, too.
My only small complaint was the absence of hand-sanitizers within the casino. While I am not a germaphobe, I do like an occasional shot of hand sanitizer. Most casinos have automatic hand sanitizers in abundance.
It was a fun experience, and I would certainly go again. For travelers at O’Hare with some time to kill, Rivers Casino can be an option. I think Rivers will do quite well, and the area will benefit, too.
— John Wroblewski, distribution specialist
Introducing
FX Excursions
FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.
#globility
Insta FeedDaily
Nov 5, 2024Don’t Miss Idaho’s Upcoming Fall, Winter Activities and Events
Boise, Idaho, welcomed a new education center, Philip E. Batt Education Building, this October. Named in honor of former Idaho Governor Phil Batt for his contribution to human rights in the state, the building houses offices for Wassmuth Center for Human Rights, along with a classroom, meeting space, catering kitchen, research library, exhibitions room, gift shop and a human rights-themed art gallery showcasing works from Idaho artists. Here, visitors can explore immersive experiences, including a virtual reality tour of Anne Frank House in Amsterdam and an A.I.-powered interactive display featuring Holocaust survivors’ stories.
Sponsored Content
Royal Air Maroc Relaunches Direct Casablanca–Beijing Route, Debuts Toronto Flight
As part of its international network expansion, Royal Air Maroc will reinstate the direct Casablanca–Beijing route initially launched in January 2020 and suspended just a few weeks later due to the health crisis.
November 2024
Nov 5, 2024Set Off on a Tour of Extraordinary Mechanical Clocks Around the World
It’s approaching 3 o’clock in the afternoon in Bern. Jutting slightly into view at the end of the uneven stone street in the Swiss city’s historic heart stands a medieval tower adorned with the famous 15th-century “time bell,” Zytglogge. A small gathering forms at the tower’s base as the clock prepares to announce the hour — an event heralded by the crowing of a golden rooster, music and a dance of mechanical figures that include an assortment of jolly bears.
Daily
Nov 5, 2024Arlo Washington DC to Debut Nov. 18
Arlo Hotels is slated to make its Washington, D.C., debut. Arlo Washington DC will open its doors in the heart of downtown D.C. on Nov. 18. Situated in the city’s oldest surviving apartment building, the property boasts 445 rooms, plus a 12-story addition.
Sponsored Content
United Airlines First to Purchase Sustainable Aviation Fuel for ORD
Chicago O’Hare International Airport will soon receive sustainable aviation fuel, all thanks to United Airlines, which became the first airline to purchase SAF for use at the airport, one of the largest in the United States. Neste, a producer of SAF, will provide up to 1 million gallons of its Neste MY Sustainable Aviation Fuel. The first supply arrived in August.
Daily
Nov 5, 2024AlUla Designated as Gulf Cooperation Council’s First-Ever Dark Sky Park
AlUla, Saudi Arabia, is officially the first destination in Gulf Cooperation Council’s to be designated a Dark Sky Park by DarkSky International. This destination continues to commit to minimizing light pollution, preserving and protecting the nighttime environment, and ensuring its skies remain crystal clear for stargazers.
7 Hotel Restaurants Worth the Travel
Daily
Nov 4, 20248 Must-Have (and Must-Pack) Perfumes for 2025
Daily
Nov 4, 2024New Boutique Hotel Collection Comes to Tulum
Hotels
Nov 3, 2024Daily
Nov 1, 2024SWISS First Lounge Named World’s Best Airline Lounge for Dining
Swiss International Air Lines recently ranked No. 1 in the World’s Best Airline Lounge for Dining category for its first-class lounge in Terminal E at Zürich Airport in the 2024 World Culinary Awards.
Sponsored Content
Sailing the Ionian Sea: Explore Greece’s Nautical Gems
Sailing the Ionian Sea is an enchanting way to experience Greece's breathtaking islands and pristine waters. Known for its favorable winds, calm seas and stunning landscapes, the Ionian Sea offers a paradise for both experienced sailors and those looking to explore for the first time. From lively beaches to secluded bays, these waters have something for every traveler seeking adventure and relaxation.
November 2024
Nov 1, 2024A Helping Hand
As we edge our way toward winter, I want to remind you how lucky we have been and how we can help those who have not been as fortunate. Please continue to donate to the American Red Cross, which stands ready in any disaster to provide items people need such as water, clothing, food and other supplies.
ShareThis