Best Western By Winstar Casino
If you’re planning a trip to the World’s Biggest Casino, you’ve probably realized the on-site hotel prices can be eye-watering, especially on weekends. That’s the exact situation the Best Western Plus by Winstar Casino solves. Located just minutes from the Winstar World Casino and Resort entrance in Thackerville, Oklahoma, this hotel offers a practical, comfortable alternative to staying right on the casino floor—without the hefty resort fees or the noise of slot machines at 3 AM.
Why Location Matters for Winstar Visitors
Winstar draws players from all over the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex and beyond. It’s a massive complex, and navigating it can be exhausting. The Best Western Plus sits right off I-35, making it incredibly easy to find and access. You aren't dealing with the winding internal roads of the resort or fighting for a parking spot in the main garage. For many regulars, the short drive—or even a walk if you're feeling energetic—is a fair trade-off for saving $100 to $200 a night compared to the Inn at Winstar or the Casino Tower. You get a quiet night's sleep and keep more bankroll for the tables.
Room Amenities and Comfort Levels
This isn't a glamorous Vegas high-roller suite, and it doesn't pretend to be. It’s a solid, reliable hotel room designed for people who need a good night's rest. The rooms are spacious, clean, and come equipped with the essentials that actually matter after a long gambling session.
You can expect:
- Pillow-top mattresses: Crucial for recovering from those hours spent in casino chairs.
- Flat-screen TVs with cable: Standard, but reliable if you want to catch a game before heading to the sportsbook.
- Mini-fridges and microwaves: Great for storing leftovers from one of Winstar’s many restaurants or saving money on breakfast.
- Free Wi-Fi: The connection is generally stable enough for streaming or checking lines on your sports betting apps.
The bathrooms are standard hotel issue—clean and functional with plenty of hot water. If you’re traveling with a partner, the vanity area usually has enough counter space, which is a small but significant detail often overlooked in budget accommodations.
Complimentary Breakfast and Dining Options
One of the biggest perks here is the free hot breakfast. Casino trips can drain your wallet quickly, so getting a solid meal without spending $20 at a buffet is a win. The breakfast spread typically includes eggs, meat, waffles, cereal, and fresh fruit. It’s not gourmet, but it fills you up before you hit the casino floor.
For lunch and dinner, you have options. Since the hotel is so close to the casino, you can easily drive back to the resort for meals. However, there are also local spots in Thackerville and nearby Gainesville, Texas, if you want to escape the casino atmosphere for an hour. The hotel also features a small cocktail lounge in the lobby, perfect for a nightcap that won't cost you casino bar prices.
Gaming Access and Player Benefits
Staying off-property doesn't mean you miss out on the action. The drive to Winstar takes less than five minutes. The hotel often runs shuttle services, though schedules vary, so it's worth checking with the front desk. If you drive yourself, you’ll find ample parking at the hotel and easy access to the casino's perimeter lots.
While you won't get the direct comped room offers that high-tier Winstar club members might get in the Casino Tower, the Best Western participates in Best Western’s own rewards program. You can earn points for free nights at other locations, which is valuable if you travel frequently for gambling trips to other jurisdictions.
Comparing Nearby Hotel Options
Thackerville has a few lodging options, but few match the value proposition of the Best Western Plus. Here’s a quick look at how it stacks up against other nearby accommodations:
| Hotel | Avg. Nightly Rate | Distance to Casino | Key Perk |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best Western Plus | $90 - $150 | 2.5 miles | Free Hot Breakfast |
| Winstar Casino Tower | $200 - $400+ | On-site | Direct Casino Access |
| Comfort Inn & Suites | $100 - $160 | 3.0 miles | Indoor Pool |
| Days Inn by Wyndham | $70 - $120 | 4.5 miles | Budget-Friendly |
Booking Tips for Weekend Trips
Winstar is a major destination for Texas residents, meaning weekends are incredibly busy. Rates at the Best Western Plus can double or even triple on Friday and Saturday nights. If your schedule allows flexibility, booking a Sunday through Thursday stay can save you significant cash. Always book directly or through reputable aggregators, and keep an eye out for AAA discounts, which this location typically honors.
FAQ
Does the Best Western Plus provide a shuttle to Winstar Casino?
Yes, the hotel typically offers a complimentary shuttle service to and from Winstar World Casino. However, availability and operating hours can change, so it is highly recommended to call the front desk before your trip to confirm the current schedule.
How far is the hotel from the casino entrance?
The Best Western Plus is located approximately 2.5 miles from the Winstar World Casino main entrance. It is roughly a 4 to 5-minute drive or a pleasant walk if the Texas weather cooperates.
Is the breakfast actually free for guests?
Yes, guests receive a complimentary hot breakfast every morning during their stay. It usually runs from 6:00 AM to 9:00 AM on weekdays and extends to 10:00 AM on weekends, featuring hot items like eggs and waffles.
Can I smoke in the rooms at the Best Western Plus?
No, this is a strictly non-smoking facility. This is actually a benefit for players who are tired of the smoky casino air and want a completely fresh environment to sleep in. Designated smoking areas are provided outside the building.
Is the hotel pet-friendly for players traveling with dogs?
Yes, the Best Western Plus by Winstar is pet-friendly. They usually allow up to two pets per room for a small additional fee per night. It's a great option if you take your dog on road trips, but be sure to request a pet-friendly room when booking.