Black Hawk Colorado Guide | Casinos, Gaming & Things to Do

Your Guide to Black Hawk

Gaming, history, and mountain escape

Black Hawk is one of only three places in Colorado where casino gambling is legal. Located just 40 miles west of Denver through Clear Creek Canyon, this former mining town has transformed into a mountain gaming destination with large casino resorts.

The town sits at 8,500 feet in Gilpin County, adjacent to historic Central City. Colorado legalized limited stakes gambling here in 1991 to preserve historic buildings. The stakes limits were removed in 2009, and Black Hawk now features modern casino resorts alongside 19th-century mining architecture.

Beyond gaming, Black Hawk offers access to the Peak to Peak Scenic Byway and serves as a gateway to the high country. The drive from Denver through Clear Creek Canyon is scenic, winding past Golden and through dramatic rock formations.

Explore Black Hawk

Casinos, history, and mountain access

CASINO

Casino Gaming

Multiple casino resorts with slots, table games, and poker. Monarch, Ameristar, and others offer gaming, dining, and entertainment.

HISTORY

Mining Heritage

Gold rush history from the 1859 Pikes Peak rush. Victorian buildings and mining artifacts tell the story of Colorado's early days.

SCENIC

Peak to Peak Byway

Access to Colorado's oldest scenic byway. Drive north to Nederland and Estes Park through alpine scenery.

TOWN

Central City

Adjacent historic town with opera house, more casinos, and preserved Victorian architecture. One mile away.

DRIVE

Clear Creek Canyon

Scenic drive from Golden through the canyon. Rock climbing, fishing, and dramatic geology along the route.

DINE

Resort Dining

Casino resorts offer multiple restaurants from buffets to fine dining. Entertainment venues and bars throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

Planning your Black Hawk visit

How far is Black Hawk from Denver?

About 40 miles, roughly 45 minutes to an hour via Highway 6 through Clear Creek Canyon or Highway 119 through Nederland.

Is there a minimum age for casinos?

Yes, you must be 21 or older to enter the gaming floor. Some casinos have non-gaming areas accessible to all ages.

What's the difference between Black Hawk and Central City?

They're adjacent towns, both with casinos. Black Hawk has larger modern resorts; Central City has more historic character and the famous opera house.

Is Black Hawk worth visiting if I don't gamble?

The drive is scenic and the mining history is interesting, but casinos are the main draw. Consider combining with Golden or Nederland for a broader trip.

Black Hawk, Colorado