Poker, ponies, bingo and Pink's hot dogs: what more could a die-hard gambler want?

Massive and multidimensional, the HPC is one of the few casinos in the country that offers card play and live thoroughbred racing. That's because the pseudo-Art Deco venue sits adjacent to the Hollywood Park racetrack. The expansive and rather ordinary gambling rooms are split into two: California games (no-bust blackjack, Caribbean stud) and poker (Texas Hold 'Em, Omaha). Pony picks are placed at the Finish Line sports lounge or with a roving bet runner; more than 200 monitors blast races simulcast from around the globe, as well as other sports action. The Bingo Hall, one of the largest in the country, offers a terrace view of the racetrack. The dining options—Pink's and the Derby Deli—aren't fine, but they're fast. The main appeal is the wealth of entertainment options: There's also a disco called Club Hall of Fame for those that need to do a victory dance after a big win. The crusty, fast-talking crowd is sprinkled with some young bucks in throwback jerseys, but it's mainly comprised of old-school cats in Kangol hats with nicknames like Peanut and Slim. —Patrick Green