▲ Nevada
Jackpot
Reno & northern Nevada · from $70/night

Jackpot

Unincorporated Nevada border town on US-93 that exists purely because Idaho residents can’t gamble at home. Jackpot is an unincorporated community of 1,200 on US-93, one mile south of the Idaho state line and 125 miles north of Elko. It was founded in 1954 for one purpose — to sell gambling and drinks to residents of Twin Falls, Idaho (46 miles north). Two casinos — Cactus Petes and Horseshu, both owned by the same company — sit across the highway from each other. Rooms $70-$140, $5 blackjack, cheap steakhouses, and a small municipal golf course. At 9pm the casino floors are the town's only real activity.This is a niche stop. It suits I-93 travelers moving between Boise and Vegas, Idaho weekenders, and gambler-completionists checking Nevada's most remote casino outpost. It does not suit tourism as a primary reason. Cactus Petes has a summer outdoor concert series that draws surprisingly good acts (Charlie Daniels Band, Chris Isaak, Loverboy-era headliners); tickets $30-$80. Otherwise Jackpot is a stopover with a giant illuminated cactus sign visible from 5 miles away.

Towns & villages

Where to base yourself

Elko Winnemucca Ely
Good to know

Questions, answered

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Is Jackpot worth going out of the way for?

No. If you’re driving US-93 between Boise/Twin Falls and Vegas, absolutely stop — Cactus Petes is a genuine slice of pre-corporate casino Nevada. As a destination in itself, no.

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Can I fly into Jackpot?

Not directly. Nearest is Twin Falls (46 miles) with limited SkyWest service from SLC. Most visitors drive from Boise, Twin Falls or Elko.

Where to stay

Where to stay — Jackpot

Live prices for every hotel and inn in the area — free cancellation, updated daily.

Jackpot

Jackpot

Live prices for every hotel and inn in the area — free cancellation, updated daily.

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