Call it a sign of the times.
Golden Gate Casino in downtown Las Vegas is a property steeped in history. But it is making a change to its casino floor that will be hard to ignore. The casino will eliminate traditional table games in favor of more modern gambling experiences.
This means that by mid-September 2025, nearly all live dealer tables will be replaced with electronic table games and high-energy slot machines, marking the end of an era for the 119-year-old establishment.
The Golden Gate is the oldest casino property in downtown Las Vegas, and the move is similar to the one Treasure Island made in June.
A Brief History of Golden Gate Casino
Golden Gate Casino, originally known as Hotel Nevada, opened its doors in 1906.
Located at 1 Fremont Street, it is considered the oldest casino in Las Vegas. Over the years, Golden Gate has become a cornerstone of downtown Las Vegas, offering a slice of old-school charm combined with the thrill of traditional gaming. The vintage vibe and live dealer tables helped it stand out in a city known for its glitz and glamour.
The casino changed hands and underwent several transformations over the decades, adapting to the evolving landscape of Las Vegas each time, while always maintaining a nod to its storied past. In 1955, it was renamed Golden Gate Casino, and since then, it has been a beloved fixture on Fremont Street.
Eliminating Live Dealers Is a Significant Change
The decision to phase out live dealer tables at Golden Gate is not merely a financial one.
While the financial success of a similar transition at Circa, another property owned by Golden Gate's owner, Derek Stevens, influenced this move, it also reflects broader changes in the gambling industry. Younger, tech-savvy visitors are increasingly drawn to electronic gaming options, which offer a blend of interactivity and instant gratification.
The shift also aligns with economic realities. Operating live dealer tables requires more staffing and resources compared to electronic alternatives. By reducing these costs, Golden Gate aims to streamline operations while providing an experience that appeals to a new generation of gamblers.
“We’ve always embraced the future, and now we’re reimagining our casino floor with a high-energy electronic table games pit unlike anything downtown has seen,” Stevens told KVVU-TV.
Stevens noted that all table games team members at the Golden Gate would be offered roles at Circa or the D, adding that they could also explore “new departments within the company.”
Bittersweet End at Golden Gate Casino
While it's a bittersweet moment for fans of traditional gambling, this change marks an exciting new chapter for Golden Gate. The introduction of high-energy slot and electronic table games is expected to rejuvenate the casino floor, offering visitors a fresh and engaging experience. By embracing innovation while honoring its historic roots, Golden Gate Casino continues to adapt to the ever-changing world of Las Vegas gaming.
As we bid farewell to the iconic live dealer tables, we also celebrate the enduring legacy of Golden Gate Casino and its ability to reinvent itself, ensuring that it remains a significant part of the Las Vegas story for years to come.
Play Live Dealer Table Games Online
For those who prefer live dealer experiences, you can still enjoy the excitement of traditional table games online.
Many legal online casinos offer live dealer games that bring the authentic casino atmosphere right to your screen. With real-time video streaming and professional dealers, these platforms allow you to interact with the game as if you were on the casino floor.
Additionally, sweepstakes casinos provide a unique opportunity to enjoy similar gaming experiences with the added benefit of participating in sweepstakes promotions. Whether you're a fan of blackjack, roulette, or poker, these digital alternatives ensure that the thrill of live gaming is always within reach, blending convenience with classic casino entertainment.
