So you’ve got a night out planned at Hollywood Casino, and the one question holding up your outfit selection is obvious: what am I actually allowed to wear? It’s a common headache. You don’t want to show up looking like you just rolled out of bed, but you also don’t want to be the guy sweating through a three-piece suit while everyone else is in jeans. The truth is, the dress code at Hollywood Casino properties isn't as rigid as you might think, but there are definite lines you shouldn't cross.
Most Hollywood Casino locations, whether you are heading to Columbus, Toledo, or the flagship venue in Aurora, lean towards a “smart casual” vibe. They want you to be comfortable, but they also want to maintain a certain atmosphere. You won’t need a tuxedo, but you definitely can’t wear your gym clothes.
Standard Attire for the Gaming Floor
Walking onto the main gaming floor, the rules are generally relaxed. You’ll see people rocking everything from designer jeans and button-downs to sports jerseys and clean sneakers. The keyword here is “clean.” Management cares less about whether you are dressed formally and more about whether you look presentable.
For men, a solid go-to is a pair of well-fitted jeans or khakis paired with a polo shirt or a casual button-down. You can absolutely wear t-shirts, but avoid anything with offensive language, rips, or stains. A clean, plain tee is fine; a cut-up sleeveless shirt is not.
For women, the options are broader. Jeans, skirts, dresses, or nice tops are all standard fare. The only hard “no” usually revolves around swimwear—leave the bikini tops and board shorts for the pool party.
What Is Strictly Prohibited?
While the vibe is lenient, security will turn you away if you push the boundaries too far. The biggest red flags are almost universally banned across all US casinos:
- Offensive Clothing: Shirts with vulgar language, hate speech, or explicit imagery will get you stopped at the door.
- Workwear: Steel-toed boots, overalls, and heavily soiled construction gear are a no-go. This is a place for entertainment, not a job site.
- Face Coverings: Masks or hoods that obscure your identity are prohibited for security reasons (unless required for medical purposes).
- Weaponry Apparel: Clothing items that are modified to carry weapons or look like weapons are obviously banned.
VIP Rooms and High Limit Areas
If you are planning to hit the High Limit slots or the VIP tables, the atmosphere changes slightly. While there isn't usually a strictly enforced “black tie” policy in these sections, the crowd tends to dress up a bit more. You will feel out of place in a hoodie and sweatpants when the person next to you is betting $500 a hand in a blazer.
If you have access to a VIP lounge or are attending a special event in a private gaming area, it’s best to err on the side of caution. Swap the sneakers for loafers or dress shoes, and trade the t-shirt for a collared shirt. It elevates the experience and ensures you fit right in with the high rollers.
Dining Venues and Bars
The dress code often shifts when you step away from the slots and into a restaurant. Hollywood Casino properties usually house a mix of casual grab-and-go spots and sit-down dining. For casual food courts or sports bars, the same “smart casual” rules from the gaming floor apply.
However, if you have a reservation at an upscale steakhouse or a fine dining establishment within the casino complex, check the specific restaurant requirements. Many higher-end restaurants inside casinos require “business casual” attire. This typically means no hats, no tank tops for men, and no flip-flops. It is always worth checking the specific restaurant's page on the Hollywood Casino website before you arrive.
Seasonal Considerations and Special Events
Dress codes can flex depending on what’s happening on the property. During major sporting events, like the Super Bowl or March Madness, you will see an influx of sports jerseys and team colors. This is widely accepted. On the other hand, if you are visiting during a New Year’s Eve party or a themed gala, the casino might enforce a specific dress code for entry to those events.
Summer months see a more relaxed interpretation of the rules, with shorts being perfectly acceptable on the floor. Just make sure they are tailored shorts rather than gym shorts. Winter brings out the jackets and layers, but remember that bulky coats might need to be checked at the coat check depending on the specific venue policies.
Comparing Hollywood Casino to Other US Venues
How does Hollywood stack up against other major US casino brands? It sits comfortably in the middle of the spectrum. It is far less strict than the high-end venues you might find in Las Vegas or Atlantic City, but it maintains higher standards than some smaller, local gaming halls.