From Beginner to Expert: A Guide to Blackjack in Wyoming

Blackjack is one of the most recognizable casino games ever. This could be because of its simplicity or because of its role in pop culture, specifically movies. No matter the reasoning behind its popularity, you’ll be hard-pressed to find anyone who doesn’t know about this game, even in a state like Wyoming, where the history of gambling is a little muddied. The history of blackjack by itself is interesting, and it gets even more interesting as it moves into Wyoming. Learn about where this game came from, its history in Wyoming, and where you can go to enjoy it.

General History

The true origins of this game have been lost to time, but one rumor that has gained popularity over the years is that it was invented in Rome and played on wooden blocks before it became a popular card game. It didn’t reach the U.S. until French colonists brought it with them in the 1800s. Unlike most of American history, which starts in New England and moves west along the Oregon Trail, the alleged story of blackjack starts in New Orleans and works its way west to Nevada and California. The game eventually spread to the wild west and ended up everywhere, including Wyoming.

History of Blackjack in Wyoming

Blackjack, like all card games, has a unique history in Wyoming. While the state was founded by rough-and-tumble cowboys in the Wild West, it quickly took a more conservative route in the early 20th century, outlawing all forms of gambling in the state. It wasn’t until the 1970s that even charitable gambling like bingo and pull tabs were legally allowed. The idea of legal blackjack in Wyoming seemed like a pipe dream for those interested; it wasn’t until over 100 years later that something changed. In the early 2000s, two native tribes sued for the right to operate class three casinos in Wyoming, and after a lengthy legal battle, they won. While the options are still rather limited, the Shoshone and Arapahoe tribes were able to open four class three casinos in Wyoming. Currently, only three of those casinos offer blackjack tables, and one of those is part-time, but three are better than zero.

Where to Go In Wyoming

While the tribes have the authority to open more casinos, they have only opened four so far, and only two of them currently offer blackjack tables full-time. Both casinos are beautiful, with fantastic accommodations and plenty of activities in and outside of the casino.

The Wind River Casino in Riverton, WY, has four dedicated blackjack tables. They operate from mid-afternoon to midnight Monday and Tuesday and mid-morning to 2 a.m. every other day of the week. The other casino where you can find blackjack and other table games is the Shosone Rose in Lander, WY. These tables operate from noon to 8 p.m., Thursday through Monday.

There is a third, smaller casino that is operated by the tribes that specializes in slot machines. The Little Wind Casino in Ethete, WY, does offer blackjack occasionally, but they don’t have dedicated tables like the other casinos, and the size of the building can sometimes be a hindrance. If you are looking for blackjack, call ahead to ensure there are tables operating. This casino is small but operates 24 hours a day on Friday and Saturday and 8 a.m. to midnight every other day.

Another Option

While there are a few options for blackjack in person in Wyoming, they are all close together near the center of the state. That doesn’t work for players who are on borders and still want to enjoy the card game. Online casinos aren’t explicitly legal in Wyoming yet, but there are some that you can still access from the state. In most cases, it is all automated, so it doesn’t feel like the real thing, but if you get lucky, you will find an online casino with live dealers. Casinos with live games may be the best bet if they are available because you get the excitement of live play in the comfort of your living room. Unlike traditional casinos, online casinos are usually open 24/7, with customer support at all times.

Looking Forward

Looking at Wyoming’s gambling history over the past century can be a little disheartening. However, if you look at what has happened since the turn of the century, things are looking up. Since the tribes won the right to operate casinos, the state has passed laws legalizing both state lottery and, more recently, online sports books. Hopefully, sometime soon, they will fully legalize online gambling so everyone in all parts of Wyoming can experience live blackjack gameplay.