What Was the First Casino in Kansas City?

Kansas City’s first casino was the Steamboat Arabia, which set sail in 1856. The Arabia was a side-wheeler paddleboat that transported goods and passengers up and down the Missouri River.

The boat had a casino on board, which offered games such as blackjack, poker, and roulette. The casino was open to all passengers, regardless of class.

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PRO TIP:The first casino in Kansas City opened in 1989. It is the Isle of Capri Casino & Hotel, located on the Missouri side of the state line. It is known for its great gaming, entertainment, and dining experiences.

The Steamboat Arabia was not the only gambling vessel on the Missouri River. In the late 1800s and early 1900s, there were dozens of riverboats that offered gambling, including the Belle of Leavenworth, the Capitol, and the Queen of the Mississippi.

However, the Steamboat Arabia was the first casino in Kansas City.

The Steamboat Arabia is now a museum ship, and visitors can tour the vessel and see the casino where it all began.