You want to gamble, but the thought of coming home smelling like an ashtray and battling a headache from secondhand smoke makes you hesitate. If you're planning a trip to West Memphis, you're probably wondering: is Southland Casino smoke free, or will you need to bring a gas mask along with your bankroll? The short answer is no, Southland is not a completely non-smoking facility, but they have made significant changes that might surprise you. Let's cut through the haze and get the real picture of what to expect when you walk through those doors.
The Current Smoking Policy at Southland Casino
Southland Casino operates under a mixed policy. The vast majority of the gaming floor is designated for smoking. If you step onto the main casino floor, you will encounter cigarette and cigar smoke. The ventilation system is modern and does a decent job of moving air, but on a busy night, the smell is unmistakable. However, recognizing the growing demand for cleaner air, Southland has carved out a dedicated non-smoking gaming area. This section is physically separated and has its own air handling system to prevent smoke drift. It's not just a few slot machines in a corner; it's a substantial space with a variety of popular slots and electronic table games. For table game players, the situation is trickier, as the live dealer pits are typically located in the smoking-permitted areas.
What You'll Find in the Non-Smoking Section
The smoke-free zone isn't an afterthought. It features hundreds of the latest and most popular slot machine titles, from classic reels to high-definition video slots with complex bonus rounds. You'll also find electronic versions of table games like blackjack, roulette, and craps. The area is clearly marked, and the air quality is noticeably better. It's the go-to spot for players with asthma, allergies, or anyone who simply prefers not to gamble in a cloud of smoke. The one major compromise is the lack of live table games; if you want to face a real dealer, you'll likely need to venture into the main smoking area.
How Southland Compares to Other Regional Casinos
Southland's policy is fairly standard for casinos in Arkansas and the broader Mid-South region. Unlike some states where indoor smoking is banned entirely in public places, Arkansas law allows for smoking in designated areas of casinos. Compared to a venue like Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort in Hot Springs, which also has a mixed policy, Southland's non-smoking section is considered quite robust. Casinos in neighboring Tennessee, like those in Memphis, are often entirely smoke-free indoors due to stricter local ordinances, but they are also primarily historical horse racing venues, not full-scale casinos. If a completely smoke-free casino experience is your top priority, you may need to look at properties in states with comprehensive indoor smoking bans, but for the region, Southland offers a competitive, albeit partitioned, alternative.
Tips for Non-Smokers Visiting Southland
If you're sensitive to smoke but want to visit Southland, planning is key. First, head directly to the non-smoking gaming area when you arrive and plan to spend most of your time there. Wear clothing that you don't mind potentially absorbing ambient odor, as it can cling to fabrics even from a short walk through the main floor. Many players keep a jacket in the car to change into after their visit. Take breaks outside or in the smoke-free bars and restaurants to reset. Southland's dining options, like the Riverboat Grill, are smoke-free environments where you can enjoy a meal without the haze. Also, consider visiting during off-peak hours like weekday mornings or afternoons; fewer people smoking generally means better air quality throughout the building.
The Future of Smoking in Casinos
The trend across the United States is moving slowly but steadily toward more smoke-free spaces. Public health pressure and changing customer preferences are driving the shift. While dedicated casino floors have been one of the last holdouts, even that is changing. Several major commercial casinos in Maryland and portions of Nevada have moved to completely smoke-free models, and the sky has not fallen. Their revenue reports show that a significant portion of the market actively seeks out non-smoking environments. For a casino like Southland, which caters heavily to a local and regional drive-in market, the calculation involves balancing the habits of long-time smoking patrons with the demands of a new generation of players. The expansion of their non-smoking section is a direct response to this market pressure, and it would not be surprising to see it grow further in the coming years.
Maximizing Your Experience Despite the Smoke
Your trip doesn't have to be ruined by a little smoke. Focus on what Southland does well. Their player's club, the Winner's Circle, offers strong rewards, and points earned in the non-smoking area count just the same. Look for promotions that offer free play or matchplay, which can be used on any machine, including those in the smoke-free zone. The casino frequently runs tournaments and special events; check their website or ask a VIP host if any are scheduled for the non-smoking area. Remember, the staff is there to help. If you're having trouble finding the non-smoking section or a specific machine within it, just ask any attendant. They deal with these questions daily and can point you in the right direction quickly.
FAQ
Can I smoke anywhere inside Southland Casino?
No, you cannot smoke anywhere. Smoking is prohibited in the designated non-smoking gaming area, all restaurants, bars where food is served, and most other indoor amenities like the hotel lobby. Smoking is permitted on the majority of the main casino gaming floor.
Does Southland Casino have a non-smoking hotel?
Yes, the Southland Casino Hotel offers non-smoking rooms. You must specifically request a non-smoking room when making your reservation. These rooms are thoroughly cleaned and maintained to ensure no residual smoke odor from previous guests.
Are the slot machines in the non-smoking area older or worse?
Not at all. The non-smoking section is stocked with a wide array of current and popular slot machine titles. The casino regularly rotates and updates the games in this area to keep it attractive to players. You'll find the same new game releases and high-limit options as in other parts of the casino.
If I play table games, do I have to be in the smoking section?
Currently, yes. The live table games like blackjack, craps, and roulette are located on the main casino floor, which is a smoking-permitted area. The non-smoking section only features electronic table game terminals. If you want to play at a live table, you should be prepared for the presence of smoke.
What's the best time to go to Southland to avoid smoke?
Weekday mornings and afternoons are generally the least smoky times. The crowd is lighter, and fewer active smokers mean better overall air circulation. Friday and Saturday nights are typically the busiest and, consequently, the smokiest times on the main floor.