Harrah's Reno

Introduction

Harrah’s Reno is on the lower end of Caesars Entertainment holdings.  There is little to be impressed by at Harrah’s.  It is similar in condition to Harrah’s Las Vegas.  It opened in 1937.  Some of the property shows that age. 

There are two sections of Harrah’s.  It takes up two city blocks in downtown Reno.  The second floor connects the two casino floors.

Casino at Harrah’s Reno

The eastern side of the casino floor spreads machines and four blackjack tables in a party pit.  All four blackjack tables pay 6-5 on a natural.  There are three eight-deck shoes and a single deck table in this party pit.  As if the 6-5 payout isn’t bad enough, players at the single deck table can only double down on 10 and 11.

The western side of the casino is much larger.  It has three table game pits.  An Asian game pit specializes in baccarat.  The limits are $10 to $1,000.  The large pit spreads $10 single deck blackjack that pays 3-2 but only allows double down on 10 and 11.  It also has shoe blackjack that pays 3-2 with a $10 minimum where players can double down on any two cards and after splitting.  The dealer hits soft 17 at all blackjack games at Harrah’s.  There is also $10 Pai Gow Poker and baccarat.

There are two double zero roulette tables with a $5 minimum.  Harrah’s is the only place in Reno where we found High Card Flush, also with a $5 minimum bet.  Texas Hold’em Bonus, Three Card Poker and Four Card Poker also had $5 minimum bets.

Harrah’s is one of a few casinos in Reno that offers a high limit table game area.  There are three tables.  Two are shoes where players can double down on any two cards and after splitting.  Surrender is permitted.  There is also a 3-2 single deck game where players can only double down on 10 and 11 but not after splitting.  The dealer hits soft 17 in the high limit salon.

The video poker at Harrah’s is acceptable.  Players will find $1 and higher full pay Jacks or Better.  There is 8/5 Bonus Poker all over the casino at $.25 and higher denominations.  Total Rewards players receive .1 percent in comps at video poker.  Mailers from Harrah’s are very generous.  These include free hotel rooms.  Players should check the Total Rewards website for offers as these often do not get mailed.

Hotel at Harrah’s Reno

There are 950 rooms at Harrah’s.  They are split between the original Harrah’s hotel and a tower that was formerly a Hampton Inn.  Rates start at $40 on weeknights and $109 on weekends.  Rates go up $10 per night for each higher tier.  The last remodel was in 1999 and some of the rooms show that wear and tear.  There is a $10 per night resort fee.

Restaurants at Harrah’s Reno

There are seven restaurants at Harrah’s Reno.  This is one of the largest selections for dining in the market.  Quiznos is a sub shop located in the east casino.  Joy Luck Noodle Bar is located steps away from the Asian table games pit.  Breakfast diners can choose between Starbucks and Hash Hash A Go Go.  Ichiban is a tappanyaki-style Japanese restaurant that also offers sushi.  The buffet is open for brunch and dinner daily. 

The Harrah’s steakhouse is the casino’s fine dining option.  It opens nightly at 5pm.  It offers a $29 special on weeknights that includes an entrée, starter and desert. 

Entertainment

Harrah’s is only a casino.  There is little in the way of amenities or entertainment beyond typically hotel services and lounges.

Environment

Harrah’s Reno is an older casino that is in need of a remodel.  It is perfectly acceptable for downtown Reno, but players looking for something more of a resort may be disappointed.

My Conclusion

Harrah’s is adequate for gambling, but there are better options available in downtown Reno.  Those that choose to gamble at Harrah’s will at least get great comps for their action compared to other casinos in the area.  These comps carryover to other Caesars Entertainment resorts in other markets.  Gamblers that travel may find this to be a good deal. 

The hotel rates are not a good value considering the condition.  Weekday guests can find a much better room at newer properties for $10 or $20 more per night.