Everything you need to know about Maryland's Rocky Gap Casino Resort

USA Today
 
Everything you need to know about Maryland's Rocky Gap Casino Resort
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Rocky Gap Casino Resort, located in the Mountain Maryland region of the state, offers guests a unique experience — access to all the typically expected casino resort amenities but in a setting unlike any other. Instead of being situated along the Las Vegas Strip or a busy boardwalk, Rocky Gap Casino Resort is located within Maryland's Rocky Gap State Park.

With nearly 1,000 casinos to choose from in the United States, it can be tricky to decide which one is worth the gamble. Here’s why Rocky Gap Casino Resort is a sure bet.

Win big on the casino floor

From video poker and lottery tickets to slots and table games, gamblers at Rocky Gap Casino Resort have much to look forward to. The casino offers 630 interactive slots ranging from penny slots to $25 games, while table games include lucky ladies blackjack, double deck pitch blackjack, roulette, bonus craps, Mississippi stud, three card poker, and ultimate Texas hold 'em.

The True Rewards Players Club allows guests to earn points redeemable as cash back, comps, and free slot play. Rewards can be redeemed at Rocky Gap or several other properties, including The Strat and Gold Town in Vegas.

One perk you won't find at Rocky Gap Casino is free drinks, but don't blame them: State law requires casinos to charge for alcoholic beverages. But hey, it will leave you with a clearer mind at the blackjack table!

Enjoy the casino amenities

While gambling is certainly a draw, there are plenty of other things to do to keep you busy. For starters, there’s an indoor pool (with a retractable roof), a hot tub, and a fitness center. And giving more summer camp than casino vibes are the resort's back patio and terrace, which feature fire pits and Adirondack chairs with views of Lake Habeeb — perfect for enjoying your morning coffee or unwinding before bed.

Play Maryland's only Jack Nicholas Design golf course

The resort’s 18-hole golf course, by Jack Nicklaus Design, is nestled within the Appalachian Mountains and boasts lake views. Suitable for golfers of all skill levels, the front nine on this 7,000-yard, par 72 course take inspiration from its surroundings, incorporating the mountainous terrain and trees, while the back nine travel across gently rolling meadows. The golf course also features a driving range, putting green, chipping areas, a practice bunker, club rentals, and a pro shop.

Unwind at the spa

Whether you want to splurge with your casino winnings or work out some knots after rock climbing in the gorge, a visit to the Spa at Rocky Gap Casino Resort won't disappoint. Services include facials, massage therapies, waxing, body scrubs, and mani-pedis.

Eat your way across the resort’s several dining options

Between all the excitement on the casino floor and exploring the state park, you'll surely work up an appetite. Luckily, Rocky Gap Casino Resort has a few spots at which to grab a bite. For a laid-back atmosphere, perfect for when you've just finished kayaking on the lake or after a round of golf, Signature's Bar and Grill offers your typical sports bar experience with great views of the lake and live music from April through October.

The Lobby Lounge and Cafe offers convenient grab-and-go options, whether that's a cup of coffee to take with you as you stroll the Lakeside Trail in the morning or a late-night snack as you head back to your room after a night of big wins.

For a more upscale experience, head to the Lakeside Grill and Lounge. This beautiful, 4,000-square-foot steakhouse overlooks Lake Habeeb and serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Find the right room for you

Rocky Gap Casino Resort has 198 guest rooms that feature either a king or two queen beds. Each of these 318-square-foot rooms is equipped with an armchair, workspace, complimentary Wi-Fi, luxury bedding, coffee maker, mini-fridge, and a flat-screen TV. Mountain View rooms offer picturesque views of the lake, while Resort View rooms overlook the golf course. Accessible rooms are available upon request.

If you're planning an extended stay or traveling as a family, the Golf View Junior Suite may be the perfect fit. This 550-square-foot, two-room suite has a bedroom outfitted with a king bed and a separate sitting room with a sofa bed that converts to a queen bed.

Rocky Gap Casino & Resort

Explore the surrounding Rocky Gap State Park

Step outside and you'll discover a 3,000-acre state park with miles of trails accessible for hikers and bikers of all abilities. The Touch of Nature trail is perfect for those looking for something less strenuous, while the 5.3-mile Lakeside Loop trail is moderate and accessible from various access points. The state park's nature center offers interpretive programs, like nature crafts, guided hikes, demonstrations, and campfire programs. Rock-climbing opportunities are also available, and there’s a swimming beach and playground about a five-minute walk from the resort.

To explore the beauty and serenity of Lake Habeeb's 243 acres, you can rent a kayak, paddleboard, canoe, or pedal pontoon from WheelzUp Adventures. Fishing gear is also available.

Explore the surrounding Mountain Maryland region

Beyond the resort and state park, there’s much to see and do in Mountain Maryland. The resort offers a shuttle service to downtown Cumberland, where you can easily spend a day exploring. Breakfast at Cafe Mark is a must, while visiting the Allegany Museum will offer valuable context on the area. Just up the street at Emmanuel Episcopal Church, visitors can walk through earthworks in the basement that were once part of Fort Cumberland and were later used as part of the Underground Railroad to help individuals escape slavery.

Don't leave the area without spending time on the Great Allegheny Passage (GAP), one of the Best Recreational Trails in the US, according to the USA TODAY 10Best Readers' Choice Awards. While most folks choose to rent bikes to explore the GAP, others enjoy a scenic trail ride along the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad. Ideally, combine the two for a ride along the rails with a Tracks and Yaks rail bike.

Before you head back to Rocky Gap, treat yourself to a bite to eat and a scoop of homemade frozen custard at The Queen City Creamery & Deli.