The casinos of Laughlin, Nevada, just across the Colorado River from Bullhead City, Arizona, are known for having liberal slots -- that is, the slot machines pay off frequently. Consequently, Laughlin is a very popular weekend destination for Phoenicians and other Arizonans. In addition to the slot machines, there's keno, blackjack, poker, craps, off-track betting, and sports betting. All of the hotels in Laughlin offer live entertainment of some sort, including an occasional headliner, but gambling is still the main event after dark.
If you'd like to learn more about the history of this area, visit the Colorado River Museum, 355 Hwy. 95, Bullhead City (tel. 928/754-3399), a half-mile north of the Laughlin Bridge. It's open Tuesday through Sunday from 10am to 4pm (closed July-Aug). Admission is $2 for adults and $1 for seniors.