Great Blue Heron Casino

Great Blue Heron Casino Review

Open Hours: 24/7
Phone: 905-985-4888
Address: 21777 Island Road, Port Perry, L9L 1B6, ON Canada
Additional Amenities: On-site hotel

Nestled to the east of Port Perry, Great Blue Heron Casino offers an inviting and thrilling gaming experience. Featuring a range of slot machines, table games, and poker tables, it caters to gaming enthusiasts of all levels. With a 24/7 operational schedule, it ensures round-the-clock entertainment for its visitors.

Guests can also enjoy the convenience of an on-site hotel and diverse dining options, making it an ideal destination for both short visits and extended stays. The casino is part of a larger rewards system, providing members with an array of benefits. Moreover, Port Perry, renowned for its Victorian-era charm and scenic landscapes, enhances the overall experience for guests with its picturesque surroundings.

The casino is operated by One Toronto Gaming, a leading company that oversees several gaming facilities across the Greater Toronto Area. The name “Great Blue Heron” is inspired by the majestic wading bird native to the wetlands of North and Central America, adding a touch of local natural heritage to the venue’s identity.

Great Blue Heron Casino: A 24/7 gaming destination blending modern entertainment with scenic charm in the heart of Ontario

Gaming Options at Great Blue Heron Casino

The casino boasts a broad and diverse gaming selection, making it a prime spot for an electrifying gaming experience. Visitors can explore:

• Slot Machines: With 545 slot machines available, the casino provides both classic favorites and the latest blockbuster games, ensuring there’s something for every preference.
• Table Games: From traditional favorites like Roulette, Blackjack, and Baccarat to specialty games like Mississippi Stud, Let It Ride, Three Card Poker, and Four Card Poker, players can test their skills and strategies.
• Poker: Featuring action-packed tables, the poker section offers both limit and no-limit games, including Texas Hold’em and Omaha. Open daily from 12 p.m. to 4 a.m., it’s a hotspot for poker enthusiasts.

In addition to these offerings, Great Canadian Entertainment (GCE) has pioneered on-site sports betting in Canada, providing visitors with the opportunity to wager on their favorite sports. This exciting option is not limited to Great Blue Heron Casino but is also available at other GCE venues, including Pickering Casino Resort, Elements Casino Brantford, and Shorelines Casino Belleville, as well as six additional Ontario locations.

Payment and Withdrawal Options

At Great Blue Heron Casino, guests can use cash, credit, and debit cards for transactions. The casino provides ATMs on-site for convenient cash withdrawals. Cash advances on credit and debit cards are also available at the cashier, though additional bank fees may apply.

Restrictions

• Age Limit: Entry is restricted to guests aged 19 and above, with valid photo ID required.
• Betting Limits: Minimum and maximum bets vary by game, e.g., $15 for Blackjack and $10 for Let It Ride or Mississippi Stud.
• Behavioral Rules: Aggressive or inappropriate conduct is prohibited, ensuring a safe environment for all.

Accommodation: Great Blue Heron Hotel

Set amidst the scenic beauty of Scugog Island, the Great Blue Heron Hotel provides guests with a comfortable and modern stay. The hotel prides itself on its competitive rates, flexible cancellation policies, and enhanced cleaning protocols, making it an excellent choice for both casual visitors and dedicated gamers.

Room Options:

• Standard King: Featuring a cashmere king-size bed and upscale furnishings.
• King Accessible: Designed with accessibility in mind.
• Standard Two Queen: Perfect for small groups or families.
• Suites: Boasting spacious layouts, luxurious bathrooms, and premium amenities.

Facilities:

• Fitness Center: Equipped with modern workout machines, including treadmills, free weights, and Element’s Neutron Functional Trainer.
• Business Centre: Located in the front lobby, this open-concept facility is accessible 24/7, catering to professionals who need a workspace.
• Meeting Rooms: Ideal for interviews, video conferences, or team training sessions.

Dining Options

Food lovers are in for a treat with the casino’s two dining establishments, catering to a variety of preferences and schedules.

1. Water’s Edge Restaurant: This full-service restaurant offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner alongside a well-stocked bar. Highlights include:

• Signature Dishes: Blue Heron Chicken Burrito, Cheese Quesadilla, and Blue Heron Caesar Salad.
• Desserts: Indulgent options like Chocolate Lava Cake and Apple Caramel Blossom.

1. Quick Bites: Perfect for visitors on the go, this eatery is open daily from 6:30 p.m. to 3:30 a.m. It specializes in fast, delicious offerings such as baked goods, sandwiches, and more.

Entertainment and Nearby Attractions

While the casino does not house a nightclub, visitors seeking nightlife and entertainment can explore the vibrant town of Port Perry. Notable attractions include:

• Scugog Shores Museum Village: A charming historical site showcasing local heritage.
• Ocala Winery: A must-visit for wine enthusiasts.
• Kent Farndale Gallery: Offering a glimpse into the local art scene.

Port Perry’s dynamic culture ensures that guests have plenty to enjoy beyond the casino.

Rewards Program

As part of the Great Canadian Rewards network, the Great Blue Heron Casino offers a comprehensive loyalty program for its players. The program extends across 12 destinations in Ontario, as well as locations in British Columbia, New Brunswick, and Nova Scotia.

How It Works:

• Rewards Points: Earned through slot and electronic table gaming, these points can be redeemed for free play.
• Comp Dollars: Accumulated through all gaming activities, these can be used for amenities and services at participating locations.

Both rewards and comp points are valid for six months after the last activity. Additionally, members can enjoy a welcome package, free play coupons, and hotel discounts, adding extra value to their visits.

Event Spaces and Meetings

In addition to its gaming and hospitality features, Great Blue Heron Casino offers versatile event spaces perfect for hosting meetings, conferences, and private events. The meeting rooms are equipped with modern technology to support virtual and in-person gatherings, such as video conferencing tools and high-speed internet. These spaces can be tailored to accommodate various setups, from corporate presentations to intimate celebrations.

For inquiries or bookings, contact the casino’s event management team directly through their official website or phone.

Responsible Gaming Initiatives

Great Blue Heron Casino is committed to promoting responsible gambling through various programs and resources. The casino adheres to Ontario’s strict gaming regulations and offers tools to help players manage their gaming activity. Resources include self-exclusion programs, access to financial advice, and support through organizations like the Ontario Problem Gambling Helpline.

Guests are encouraged to approach staff for assistance if they require guidance or information about these programs. Additionally, educational materials on responsible gambling are available throughout the casino premises.

Environmental Sustainability Efforts

Aligned with the initiatives of Great Canadian Entertainment, the parent company, Great Blue Heron Casino actively pursues sustainability. Efforts include energy-efficient lighting, waste reduction practices, and partnerships with local organizations to support environmental conservation. The venue also integrates sustainable practices into its hotel operations, such as water conservation measures and eco-friendly amenities.

These steps reflect the casino’s dedication to preserving the natural beauty of Scugog Island, ensuring it remains a vibrant destination for future generations.

Accessibility Features

Great Blue Heron Casino is designed to provide an inclusive experience for all guests, including those with disabilities. Accessibility features include:

• Wheelchair-accessible entrances and pathways throughout the property.
• Designated parking spaces near the main entrance.
• Accessible rooms in the hotel, equipped with features such as roll-in showers and grab bars.

Guests requiring additional assistance are encouraged to notify staff in advance to ensure their needs are met during their visit.

Community Engagement and Contributions

The casino plays an active role in supporting the local community through charitable initiatives and partnerships. As part of the Great Canadian Entertainment group, the venue contributes to the PROUD program, which focuses on People, Community, and Planet. Donations and sponsorships are directed toward causes such as healthcare, education, and cultural development in Ontario.

In recent years, Great Blue Heron Casino has supported several local organizations and events, enhancing its reputation as a community-focused establishment.

Table: Key Features of Great Blue Heron Casino

Feature	Details
Gaming Options	545 slot machines, 60 table games, poker tables, sports betting
Dining	Water’s Edge Restaurant, Quick Bites
Hotel Accommodations	Modern rooms, fitness center, business facilities
Rewards Program	Great Canadian Rewards: Points, comp dollars, discounts
Event Spaces	Meeting rooms with modern equipment
Accessibility	Wheelchair access, accessible rooms, priority parking
Sustainability	Energy-efficient practices, waste reduction, eco-friendly amenities

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These additions enhance the overall experience at Great Blue Heron Casino, making it more than just a gaming destination but a hub for entertainment, relaxation, and community engagement. Let me know if you’d like more details or further updates!

Safety Measures at Great Blue Heron Casino

Great Blue Heron Casino prioritizes guest safety with 24/7 security personnel, surveillance systems throughout the property, and strict access controls to restricted areas. Guests must present valid photo ID to enter, ensuring compliance with age and regulatory requirements. The casino also offers responsible gaming resources and trained staff to assist visitors in maintaining safe gambling practices.

Customer Reviews and Ratings

Great Blue Heron Casino & Hotel has garnered a range of feedback from its patrons. On TripAdvisor, the establishment holds a rating of 3 out of 5, based on 199 reviews.

Positive Feedback:

• Comfortable Accommodations: Guests have praised the hotel rooms for their spaciousness and comfort. One visitor noted, “The room was exceptional. Spacious, comfortable, quiet with attentive/friendly staff.”
• Friendly Staff: Many reviews highlight the courteous and helpful nature of the casino and hotel staff, contributing to a pleasant experience.

Areas for Improvement:

• Gaming Experience: Some patrons have expressed concerns regarding the slot machine payouts and the variety of games available. A reviewer mentioned, “Very small casino with extremely tight machines.”
• Dining Options: There have been comments about the limited dining choices and the absence of a buffet. One guest stated, “No buffet, poor excuse for a restaurant, won’t be back.”

Overall, while the casino and hotel receive commendations for their accommodations and staff, there are noted areas for enhancement, particularly in gaming and dining services.

Overall Assessment of Great Blue Heron Casino

Great Blue Heron Casino offers a balanced mix of gaming, dining, and hospitality, making it a strong choice for those seeking entertainment in Ontario. Its strengths lie in its friendly staff, modern accommodations, and accessibility, complemented by a variety of gaming options, including slots, table games, and poker. However, certain areas like dining variety and gaming payouts could use improvement based on user feedback.

Below is an evaluation of the casino across key criteria:

Criteria	Rating (0-10)	Commentary
Trust & Fairness	8	Operated by a reputable company (One Toronto Gaming) and adheres to Ontario’s strict regulations.
Games & Software	8	A decent selection of games, but some feedback suggests limited variety and tight slot payouts.
Bonuses & Promotions	7	Great Canadian Rewards provides good perks, but the program could be more comprehensive.
Customer Support	9	Staff are often praised for their friendliness and professionalism, ensuring a positive experience.

Overall Rating: 8 /10

Great Blue Heron Casino is a reliable and enjoyable destination, especially for those prioritizing hospitality and a relaxed atmosphere. However, addressing the areas for improvement could elevate the experience to match top-tier casinos.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Great Blue Heron Casino

1. What are the operating hours of Great Blue Heron Casino?
   The casino operates 24/7, providing entertainment round-the-clock.
2. What types of games are available at the casino?
   The casino offers a variety of games, including 545 slot machines, table games like Blackjack, Roulette, and Baccarat, and poker options such as Texas Hold’em and Omaha. Sports betting is also available.
3. Is there a rewards program at the casino?
   Yes, the Great Canadian Rewards program allows players to earn points and comp dollars redeemable for free play and discounts.
4. Are there dining options at the casino?
   Two dining options are available: Water’s Edge Restaurant for full meals and Quick Bites for grab-and-go snacks.
5. Is there a hotel on-site?
   Yes, the Great Blue Heron Hotel offers modern accommodations, including Standard King, Accessible King, and Suite options.
6. What are the age restrictions for entry?
   Guests must be at least 19 years old to enter the casino.
7. Does the casino have any responsible gaming measures?
   Yes, the casino offers responsible gaming resources, including self-exclusion programs and information to help manage gambling activities.
8. Are there any attractions near the casino?
   Yes, nearby attractions include Scugog Shores Museum Village, Ocala Winery, Lake Scugog, and Downtown Port Perry.
9. What payment methods are accepted at the casino?
   The casino accepts cash and provides ATMs on-site. Credit and debit cards can be used for cash advances at the cashier.
10. Is the casino accessible for individuals with disabilities?
    Yes, the casino and hotel are fully accessible, with wheelchair-friendly entrances, pathways, and designated parking.
11. Are there nightlife options at the casino?
    There are no on-site nightclubs, but nearby Port Perry offers various entertainment options.
12. Does the casino offer event or meeting spaces?
    Yes, the casino has modern meeting rooms suitable for conferences, interviews, and private events.
13. What COVID-19 safety measures are in place?
    Enhanced cleaning protocols, flexible cancellations, and other measures are implemented in both the casino and hotel to ensure guest safety.
14. How do I contact the casino for more information?
    You can reach the casino at 905-985-4888 or visit their official website.

This FAQ addresses the most common queries about Great Blue Heron Casino, ensuring visitors have the information they need for a seamless experience.