Las Vegas Casino Etiquette Rules
It’s Vegas Baby – so, do people really care about etiquette in a casino? The short answer is YES! Although Vegas may feel like an anything-goes place, that’s not the case in the casinos. Many of these rules are unwritten; however, don’t worry – we’ve got you covered. Here are 10 etiquette rules to know before you go on your next Las Vegas vacation.
Rule #1: If in doubt, tip
Vegas is a tipping town. Most workers rely on tips. We are not trying to get into a discussion of whether workers should be paid a better wage and not have to rely on tips; the reality is that in Vegas, almost everyone works for tips. Here is a list of the most common tipped workers: Servers, Bellmen, Drivers, Housekeepers, Dealers, Valet, Tour Guides, Slot Attendants and Pool Attendants.
The $20 tip trick is rumored to work in a variety of circumstances. If you didn’t make a reservation, a $20 tip to the Maître d' may find you a table. Similarly, a $20 tip to the front desk clerk at the hotel could score you a room upgrade.
Rule #2: Don’t take pictures of other people
Today, everyone wants to post on social media. For a while, casinos didn’t allow any photos to be taken in the casino. However, today, they have even embraced social media and encourage you to take pictures of yourself enjoying the casino. Please do not take pictures of anyone else without their permission. It can be exciting to see someone win a big jackpot. Feel free to congratulate them, but don’t take their picture. Keep in mind that even though photos are now okay, most casinos still prohibit videos.
Pro Tip: Some casinos really lean into social media posts about their casino. Check out #STRATselfie on Instagram
Rule #3: Don’t Stalk the Cocktail Servers
We know you are thirsty from the Vegas heat and need a drink now. You see a cocktail server and go running up to them. They cannot serve you unless you are seated and playing at a machine. Each server has a very specific area of the casino floor. It’s not that they don’t want to get you a drink, it’s that they can’t. If you need something right now, walk up to the bar or purchase something from the sundries shop.
Pro Tip: Be sure to tip your cocktail server. Most people tip between $1-$5 per drink.
Rule #4: Learn the Rules and Basic Strategy
There are lots of reasons to learn the rules of table games before playing – this is especially important for Blackjack. If you take a card when you are supposed to “stay”, don’t be surprised if the player next to you makes a negative comment. Yes, it’s your money and you can play it however you want, but there are common rules that players expect other players to follow.
Pro Tip: Check out our article: Learn How to Play Table Games in Las Vegas.
Rule #5: Minors are not allowed on the Casino Floor
This is not an unwritten rule – it’s written EVERYWHERE. Minors are not allowed on the casino floor and are never allowed to be seated at a slot machine. They are also not allowed to lurk. If they are on the casino walkway, they need to keep moving.
Pro Tip: If you have younger children with you and want to gamble, consider visiting one of the Station Casinos. Each casino has a Kid’s Quest on-site. This is a licensed childcare facility where your kids can play while you play.
Rule #6: Never touch someone else’s slot machine
Never touch someone else’s slot machine. Don’t rub it for luck, don’t hit a button or “spin” for them.
Don’t let anyone else touch your machine either. In some places, the person who pushes the button is the one who wins the bet. If you let someone else push the button, they may be able to claim your winnings.
Rule #7: Don’t ask strangers to watch your machine
After playing the slot machine for a while and enjoying the complimentary beverages, you have to go to the restroom. Don’t ask a person next to you to “watch” your machine. Don’t tip your chair to “reserve” your machine, and never walk away and leave your money in the machine. Cash out, take your belongings, and go to the restroom.
Pro Tip: If you want to keep playing, you can ask a slot attendant to watch your machine while you go to the restroom – however, remember rule #1 and tip them for their service. $5 is the suggested amount.
Rule #8: Don’t sit at a table game or machine if you are not playing
Don’t sit at a table game or slot machine if you are not actively playing. The machines are reserved for players. In many cases, there may only be 1 or 2 of each machine type, and players get upset if they have come to play and can’t because someone has taken up residence at a machine to doomscroll on their phone. It’s okay to stand behind a table game and watch if you want to learn more about the game. However, it’s not okay to stand behind a slot player.
If you need a place to sit, consider the food hall. They usually have a lot of open seating. This is also a great meeting place at the end of the day for your entire group. All ages are welcome in the food hall.
Rule #9: Respect Casino Staff & Dealers
The fastest way to get ‘86ed from a casino is to disrespect their staff. Casinos are private property, and each one has its own rules. Just because you could do it at casino x, doesn’t mean you can do it at casino y. Don’t argue with casino staff, take their advice, and follow it.
Pro Tip: If in doubt, ask a casino staff member. Don’t be embarrassed to ask; remember, there are no dumb questions.
Rule #10: Know when to Stop
Know when to stop gambling and know when to stop drinking. Free drinks can be a problem for some people. Know your limit; just because you can order another free drink, doesn’t mean you should order it.
Pro Tip: Go 1 for 1. For each alcoholic drink you order, order one water or non-alcoholic drink. This will help pace yourself. There are some fun non-alcoholic drinks to try – one of our favorites is the Watermelon Juice at Wynn.
These rules aren’t made for breaking, not even a few. We suggest you follow them, so the casino doesn’t walk all over you!