Casino Nova Scotia Halifax Review

We took a trip to Casino Nova Scotia, Halifax, to provide an up-close look at the prominent casino; exploring everything from low-cost slots to high-stakes gaming tables.

Our detailed review of Casino Nova Scotia delves into every dining option, game type, and more.

Casino Nova Scotia Ratings

Table of Contents

• How We Evaluate and Rate Casino Nova Scotia in Our Reviews.
• Slot Machines – 5/5
• Casino Games – 4/5
• Staff & Service – 3/5
• Loyalty & Rewards – 4/5
• Casino Atmosphere – 4/5
• House Rules (T&Cs) – 4.5/5
• Player Feedback – 3.7/5
• Operator – 5/5
• Casino Nova Scotia Competitors
• Casino Nova Scotia Pros and Cons
• Is Playing at Casino Nova Scotia Worth Your While?

How We Evaluate and Rate Casino Nova Scotia in Our Reviews.

While anyone can quickly browse a Canadian casino's homepage, our specialized review system approach offers readers a distinct perspective as we visit the casinos we review in person. Our team dives deep into the data and thoroughly explores the venues as genuine patrons.

How we inspected Casino Nova Scotia

• Date of visit: 07/07/2023
• Time of visit: 5 PM – 9 PM
• Initial bankroll: C$100
• The games we indulged in: Slots , Roulette, and Blackjack.
• Final bankroll: C$340
• Next visit: 03/29/2024

What we looked at

Our exploration of Casino Nova Scotia left no stone unturned—we tried our luck at countless tables, tested various slots, and sampled the generous progressive jackpots. Dining experiences and live music also formed a key part of our visit.

This immersive experience gave us a unique perspective on the casino's overall atmosphere. We spent over four hours at Casino Nova Scotia to gather critical insights for you.

What we found

Slot Machines – 5/5

With a vast selection of over 600 slot machines, including titles filled with progressive jackpots, theme variety, and machines catering to different budget limits, Casino Nova is a slot lover's dream.

Slots we played at Casino Nova Scotia

Upon entering Casino Nova Scotia, we went right up to a row of slot machines positioned directly across from Guest Central. We tried our luck with Kilimanjaro and pocketed a few winnings before switching to Buffalo Diamond, intrigued by its 2,400 winning possibilities and modest C$0.01 bet.

What is the slot machine count at Casino Nova Scotia?

Per Guest Services, the casino boasts over 600 slot machines, each featuring individual themes ranging from Egyptian mystique to classic fruit machines and aquatic adventures. fantasy slots .

Do the slot machines accept coins?

No, during our tour of the casino floor, we saw that none of the slots accepted coins. Patrons can either use banknotes or opt for the intuitive ticket system.

Slot machine providers

• Aristocrat
• IGT
• Everi
• Bally

Local progressive jackpots

We encountered numerous regional progressive jackpot slots like Pan Am Mighty Cash with a sizable jackpot of about C$2,000. The Smokin’ Hot Stuff Wicked Wheel jackpot was sitting above C$15,000 as well.

Casino Games – 4/5

Housing 27 gaming tables inclusive of roulette, blackjack, and poker variations, Casino Nova Scotia offers an array of gaming experiences. High-stakes players will find the high-limit tables enticing, though the minimum wagers may be steeper for more casual players.

Game types

• Roulette: 3 tables
• Blackjack: 13 tables
• Poker: 8 tables
• Baccarat: 3 tables

Betting limits

The betting limits differ across table games, with a maximum of C$2,000 noted at the baccarat tables. We also found a blackjack table with a high limit of C$1,000, while roulette table minimums stood relatively high at C$10 during our visit.

Is it possible for anyone to wager at the highest limits, or is special VIP access required?

There's no special requirement for betting at maximum limits; any player can stake the maximum table limit. High-limit tables are available from 5 PM to 4 AM.

The Casino Nova Scotia poker tournaments loom large for players.

You can join $1/$2 No Limit Hold’em or $5/$5 Pot Limit Omaha Hi poker games in a dedicated poker room. It’s advisable to secure a seat in advance. Buy-ins usually start at $40 for Hold’em and $200 for Omaha.

Staff & Service – 3/5

With two restaurants, extensive buffets, and secure parking, Casino Nova Scotia is well-equipped. However, complimentary parking depends on your Player’s Club status as accommodations are not available. The staff made our gaming sessions delightful and even served free drinks twice.

Food & Drinks

Besides Friday and Saturday Italian and BBQ buffets, you can dine at the 3Sixty Lounge or May Garden for unique experiences.

May Garden is your go-to for Chinese cuisine, serving hundreds of delectable dishes at reasonable prices. A “Dinner for Two” ranges between C$38 and C$48, or less if you select your own menu. Group dining is also an option with a C$95 platter.

The 3Sixty Lounge—a hub for dining and entertainment—presents live performances, large-screen sports broadcasts, and a diverse menu from burgers and tacos to seafood chowder and poutine. Player’s Club members enjoy discounts equivalent to C$1 off each menu item.

3Sixty Lounge

• Monday – Sunday: 12 PM – 10 PM
• Tuesday (Club 55): 11 AM – 10 PM

May Garden

• Friday – Saturday: 3 PM – 12 AM
• Sunday – Thursday: 3 PM – 10 PM

What’s the tipping culture like at Casino Nova Scotia?

It's customary following Nova Scotia’s HST, so a 15% tip is well-regarded.

Are free drinks on offer at Casino Nova Scotia?

Yes, players at slot machines or table games may receive complimentary drinks—including alcoholic beverages—while seated, avoiding movement while carrying a drink.

Does Casino Nova Scotia host a buffet?

Indeed, it does. Buffets operate from 5 PM to 10 PM on Fridays and Saturdays. Enjoy an Italian feast on Fridays, while Saturday offers a Prime Rib Buffet, each starting at $19.99 for Players Club Members.

Parking

With a massive parking garage offering 550 spaces, including 14 wheelchair-accessible ones, Casino Nova Scotia has your parking needs covered.

Parking charges

• 1 hour: C$3.00
• Daytime: C$15.00
• Overnight: C$8.00

Accommodation

Originally situated within the Sheraton Hotel in 1995, Casino Nova Scotia has a rich history. The casino relocated in 2000, though the hotel remained allied until both were sold in 2005. The Marriot Halifax Harbourfront now links to the casino via a pedestrian path.

Should you consider tipping room service at Casino Nova Scotia?

The expected 15% tip applies to dining at the Marriot Halifax Harbourfront restaurant or when ordering room service.

Are there smoking areas?

A fully non-smoking venue, the Marriot Halifax Harbourfront sets the bar high—Casino Nova Scotia follows suit. Smoking is prohibited within the casino, prompting visiting smokers to step outside.

Security

Like many casinos, discreet cameras monitor the premises, powered by facial recognition tech.

Loyalty & Rewards – 4/5

It’s easy to join the Casino Nova Scotia Player’s Club, which bestows free bonuses and buffet discounts. Loyalty programs Offers spanning casino bonuses and Player’s Club accrue points redeemable for cash rewards.

How does Casino Nova Scotia’s rewards system function?

Players receive a scannable card used during gameplay to earn points. Your points over six months determine your tier, from Bronze to Club Privé, unlocking tier-specific privileges.

What you get

• Free gifts
• Points can be exchanged for dining and parking benefits.
• Cash rewards
• Monthly rewards
• Qualification for free parking

How to register for the program

1. Head to Casino Nova Scotia
2. Upon entering the casino, visit Guest Services.
3. Ask to sign up for the Player’s Club
4. Complete required forms and show your government-issued ID.

Casino Atmosphere – 4/5

Weekly, take in free live music, blockbuster rock events, and admire the serene Halifax harbourfront views from a traditionally styled casino setting.

Inside Casino Nova Scotia

Our aim was to capture the essence of Casino Nova Scotia, extending our focus beyond games to the facility’s infrastructure and design.

Design experience

In contrast to some Canadian casinos resembling generic gaming rooms, Casino Nova Scotia stands as a premium establishment. Its lofty ceilings add a sense of grandiosity, blending with the near-endless span of slot machines.

Perfectly placed, the 3Sixty Lounge serves as a convenient rest stop or sports check.

Are photographs allowed within Casino Nova Scotia?

Yes, but under restrictions—photos of the main gaming area are off-limits, especially at gaming tables. Snapping a photo of a slot game may alert security. Stick to selfies or photos of your meal.

Location and surroundings

Situated on Halifax’s scenic harbourfront, Casino Nova Scotia offers breathtaking North Atlantic Sea vistas. The neighboring artisanal shops, art galleries, historic Halifax Citadel, and charming boardwalk create a picturesque surrounding, with downtown Halifax brimming with distinctive cafes nearby.

Is a passport necessary for Casino Nova Scotia visits?

No, a general government-issued ID suffices. International guests should bring a passport to ensure local ID compatibility.

Events

Every Friday and Saturday night, 3Sixty Lounge becomes the stage for vibrant performances by local musicians, while the more renowned talents light up the Schooner Room. Expect an evening of quality entertainment, with ticket prices generally ranging from C$40 to C$50.

House Rules (T&Cs) – 4.5/5

At Casino Nova Scotia, you'll find a welcoming atmosphere with a laid-back dress code. Feel free to capture memories with friends at the bar without any entry fees. However, note that the casino isn't open around the clock on weekdays.

Casino Nova Scotia’s opening hours

If you're planning a weekend visit to Casino Nova Scotia, you'll be glad to know it's open 24/7. During weekdays, the gaming action begins at 10 AM and winds down by 4 AM.

Is there an admission fee at Casino Nova Scotia?

Enjoy complimentary admission when visiting Casino Nova Scotia.

Is a reservation necessary to play games at Casino Nova Scotia?

Reservations aren't required for gaming at Casino Nova Scotia. There's a wide array of slot machines and table games available for you.

Is membership mandatory at Casino Nova Scotia?

While you don't need a membership to enjoy the offerings at Casino Nova Scotia, the Player’s Club card promises a host of perks.

Dress code

Attire at Casino Nova Scotia is pretty flexible; just make sure to wear appropriate clothing and shoes.

Remarkable rules at Casino Nova Scotia

The regulations at Casino Nova Scotia are fairly standard and straightforward.

Player Feedback – 3.7/5

With over 3,100 reviews across Google and Tripadvisor, the general consensus highlights the enjoyable experiences of Casino Nova Scotia's visitors.

Casino Nova Scotia player reviews

Google – 3.9/5

The staff, including security, are frequently praised for their friendliness, and the buffets win considerable acclaim. However, some felt the casino's focus on slots left the variety of games wanting.

Tripadvisor – 3.5/5

Many patrons applauded both the food and the hospitality, though some older guests weren't impressed with the buffet, and seasoned gamblers noted a lack of fresh gaming options.

Most common issues

• Lack of gaming variety
• Some long queues at the buffet

Operator – 5/5

Great Canadian Entertainment, reputable for managing over 20 gaming venues across Canada, owns Casino Nova Scotia.

Who owns Casino Nova Scotia?

Great Canadian Entertainment acquired Casino Nova Scotia from Caesars in 2005. The Sheraton Hotel that was initially linked to the casino on the Halifax waterfront was bought separately by the Marriott Corporation.

Other casinos by the same operator

• Casino Nova Scotia Sydney
• Great Canadian Casino Resort
• Casino New Brunswick
• Hard Rock Casino Vancouver
• River Rock Casino Resort

Contact info

Casino Nova Scotia Competitors

Casino Nova Scotia’s main competitor is its own branch in Sydney, though its scope is limited with a small number of VLT machines around other entertainment centers.

Comparison between Halifax and Sydney locations of Casino Nova Scotia

The Sydney branch of Casino Nova Scotia is compact compared to its Halifax counterpart, lacking table games but offering around 300 slot machines and e-tables for roulette and blackjack.

Cost-effective gaming is the forte of Casino Nova Scotia Sydney.

Enjoy games with notably low stakes, where slots spin with a minimum of C$0.01, and e-tables start at just C$1.00.

What gives Casino Nova Scotia an edge over its rivals?

Casino Nova Scotia Halifax distinguishes itself with its impressive size and offerings, unmatched elsewhere in Nova Scotia for table games and a Vegas-like experience. online casino in Canada .

Casino Nova Scotia Pros and Cons

Pros

• Exclusive location for genuine table games in Nova Scotia
• Enjoy free live music every Friday and Saturday night.
• Numerous progressive jackpot slots
• C$2,000 maximum bet on high-limit tables

Cons

• The standard bet for table games starts at C$10, reflecting a premium experience.

Is Playing at Casino Nova Scotia Worth Your While?

Experience a truly unique casino ambience in Nova Scotia, akin to Las Vegas or Atlantic City, complete with a rich variety of high-limit table games and slots. It's the finest casino in the area.

Combining Chinese fusion cuisine, a diverse array of slots, and thrilling poker tournaments all under one roof, Casino Nova Scotia offers unmatched entertainment. Become a Player’s Club member to reap even greater rewards with each visit.