You’ve seen it from I-29. That massive, slightly imposing structure sitting right on the Missouri River. If you're driving through Council Bluffs, it’s basically impossible to miss the Ameristar. But honestly? Most people just think of it as "that big boat casino near Omaha." That’s a mistake.
Ameristar Casino Council Bluffs IA isn't just a place to lose twenty bucks on a penny slot while waiting for a steak dinner. It’s a massive piece of the regional economy and a weirdly specific slice of Midwestern culture. When Penn Entertainment (formerly Penn National Gaming) took over, things shifted. It stopped being just a local haunt and started feeling more like a refined, albeit loud, destination.
But let’s get real for a second. The "riverboat" thing is kinda a legal leftover. You aren't actually sailing anywhere. You're on a stationary vessel that happens to be on the water because, once upon a time, Iowa law was very particular about where you could legally double down on an eleven. Today, it’s one of the most profitable gaming spots in the state, and for good reason.
The Gaming Floor: More Than Just Bright Lights
If you walk in expecting a dark, cramped boat, you’re gonna be surprised. The ceiling height is actually decent. It’s got over 1,500 slot machines. That sounds like a lot because it is. You’ve got everything from the old-school mechanical reels that clack and hiss to those giant, curved-screen 4K monsters that look like they belong in a flight simulator.
The table games are where the actual energy is, though.
Blackjack is king here. You’ll see the regulars—the guys who have been sitting at the same $15 table since 10 AM—and the weekend warriors who don't know when to split aces. They also run craps, roulette, and a pretty decent poker room. One thing most people don't realize is how the limits shift. During a Tuesday afternoon, you can find a seat for cheap. Try that on a Saturday night when a concert is letting out at the Stir Cove nearby, and you’ll be hunting for a spot.
It's loud. It’s smoky—though they have improved the ventilation significantly over the last five years. If you’re sensitive to that, the non-smoking areas are okay, but you're still in a casino. It’s part of the vibe.
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Where to Eat When You’re Up (or Down)
Most casino food is either "sad buffet" or "overpriced steak." Ameristar actually tries to break that mold.
The Amerisports Bar & Grill is the heavy hitter. It’s massive. They have a TV wall that is honestly distracting if you’re trying to have a conversation, but if you’re there for a UFC fight or a Sunday NFL slate, it’s the best seat in the house. The wings are surprisingly good. Not "good for a casino," but actually good.
Then there’s Heritage Steakhouse. Look, it’s pricey. You know it is before you walk in. But if you just hit a jackpot or you're celebrating an anniversary, it’s the move. The service is that old-school, high-end style where they actually remember your name if you go twice.
For the quick-and-dirty meals, there’s the deli. It’s basic. It’s functional. It’s where you go when you’ve been at the Pai Gow table for four hours and realize you haven't eaten since breakfast.
The Hotel and the "Staycation" Factor
Staying at the Ameristar is a different experience than staying at a Hilton. The rooms are surprisingly plush. They went through a renovation a while back that moved them away from that "90s boat" aesthetic into something much more modern—lots of dark woods and heavy linens.
The views? Well, you’re looking at the Missouri River or the industrial sprawl of Council Bluffs and Omaha. It’s not the Swiss Alps. But at night, with the lights of the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge in the distance, it’s actually pretty cool.
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The pool is an indoor-outdoor setup. Kids love it. Adults usually ignore it in favor of the bar. If you're booking, try to get a room on a higher floor. The noise from the casino floor doesn't really travel up, but the elevator wait times can be a bit of a pain during peak check-out hours.
What Actually Sets It Apart?
Honestly, it’s the loyalty program. Since it’s a Penn property, your PENN Play (formerly mychoice) cards work here. If you gamble at all in Vegas or other regional spots like Kansas City or St. Louis, your points follow you. This is why you see so many out-of-state plates in the parking garage.
Also, the location is unbeatable. You are five minutes from downtown Omaha. You can go see a show at the Orpheum or a game at the CHI Health Center and then be back at the blackjack table in ten minutes.
A Few Things to Keep in Mind:
- Parking: Use the garage. The surface lot is a hike, especially in an Iowa winter.
- The Crowd: It’s a mix. You’ve got the high rollers in the back and the people who just want to spend $20 and people-watch.
- Atmosphere: It feels more "grown-up" than some of the other local casinos, but it’s still a gambling den. Adjust expectations accordingly.
The Reality of Winning and Losing
Let's talk about the math. Iowa's gaming commission is pretty transparent. Ameristar consistently has some of the highest "coin-in" numbers in the state. That means people are playing a lot of money. Does it mean the machines are "looser"? Not necessarily. It just means the volume is higher.
Gambling is entertainment. If you go in thinking you're going to pay your mortgage, you're gonna have a bad time. But if you go in with a set budget and the goal of having a few drinks and seeing some chaos at the craps table, it’s a blast.
Actionable Steps for Your Visit
If you’re planning a trip to Ameristar Casino Council Bluffs IA, don't just wing it.
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First, check the event calendar. If there’s a major concert or a sporting event in Omaha, the hotel prices triple. Book early.
Second, sign up for the rewards card immediately. Even if you don't play much, it usually gets you a discount at the buffet or the grill. It takes two minutes at the kiosks near the entrance.
Third, explore the area. Don't stay stuck on the boat. Take the short drive over to the Historic 100 Block of West Broadway in Council Bluffs for some local bars, or cross the river into Omaha’s Old Market.
Finally, set a limit. The layout of the casino is designed to keep you there. It’s easy to lose track of time when there are no windows and the drinks are flowing. Use your phone to set a "time to leave" alarm.
The Ameristar is a staple of the Council Bluffs riverfront for a reason. It’s consistent, it’s big, and it offers a level of polish you don't always find in regional casinos. Whether you're there for the slots, the steak, or just a bed for the night, it delivers exactly what it promises.