So you’re planning a trip to Rivers Casino Portsmouth and the one thing nagging at you is the outfit. Will they turn you away at the door for wearing jeans? Do you need to iron that polo shirt? It’s a common source of anxiety, especially if you’re used to the stricter policies of high-end casinos in Europe or Atlantic City. Here’s the straightforward reality: Rivers Casino Portsmouth maintains a relaxed, resort-casual atmosphere, but that doesn’t mean “anything goes.” You won’t need a tuxedo, but you definitely can’t show up looking like you just rolled out of bed or finished a shift at a construction site.
What the Dress Code Actually Prohibits
Let’s cut to the chase. The security team at the entrance isn’t there to judge your fashion sense, but they are enforcing specific rules regarding attire. The goal is to maintain a comfortable environment for all guests. If you show up wearing clothing with offensive language, images, or gang-related symbols, you will be denied entry. That’s standard procedure across almost every casino venue in Virginia.
Beyond explicit content, the main restrictions focus on hygiene and safety. Visible underwear is a hard no—sagging pants that expose boxers will get you stopped. Similarly, dirty or excessively worn clothing, like pants with holes in inappropriate places, can be grounds for refusal. While the venue is casual, looking unkempt signals a lack of respect for the environment. If your clothes smell strongly of marijuana or have visible stains, expect a conversation with security. The policy is less about style and more about ensuring guests don’t feel uncomfortable around others who appear unhygienic.
Footwear Rules: Leave the Flip-Flops at Home
One area where casinos often draw a hard line is footwear, and Rivers Casino Portsmouth is no exception. You cannot wear flip-flops, slides, or beach-style sandals inside the gaming area. This isn’t just a style choice; it’s a safety issue. With heavy carts moving around, crowded floors, and the general hustle of a casino floor, open-toed shoes offer zero protection. If someone steps on your foot or drops a glass, you want something sturdier than a thin piece of foam protecting you.
Sneakers are perfectly acceptable, provided they are clean and in decent condition. This is great news for players planning to spend hours on their feet walking the slot floor or standing at a craps table. Loafers, boots, and casual dress shoes are safe bets. For women, heels and wedges are common, but you’ll see plenty of fashionable flats and designer sneakers too. The key is that the shoe must be enclosed or a “dress sandal”—think strappy heels rather than poolside slides.
The Shorts and Hat Policy
Virginia summers get hot and humid. You’ll be relieved to know that dress shorts are generally acceptable, especially during the day. However, athletic shorts—like basketball jerseys, running shorts, or gym gear—are strictly prohibited. If you’re wearing cut-offs or anything resembling board shorts for the beach, save them for the oceanfront. A good rule of thumb is to stick to khaki shorts, denim shorts in good repair, or Bermuda styles. If you look like you’re ready to play a pickup game of basketball, you’re underdressed.
What about hats? This is a point of confusion for many. While baseball caps are often allowed on the general gaming floor, you may be asked to remove them in the poker room. Casinos have strict security protocols regarding facial recognition and cheating prevention. Hats that obscure the face or have brims that hide eyes from overhead cameras can be an issue. If you’re hitting the tables, especially poker, it’s best to leave the cap in the car or be prepared to take it off when asked. Hoodies worn up over the head are almost universally disallowed for the same reason—cameras need to see who is playing.
Navigating the Poker Room vs. General Gaming Floor
The poker room at Rivers Casino Portsmouth often feels like a different ecosystem within the venue. While the slots area and dining spots are strictly casual, the poker room tends to have a slightly more self-regulated code. You’ll see regulars in hoodies (down), sunglasses, and comfortable attire meant for long sessions. However, the same entry rules apply. Don’t assume that because you’re sitting at a felt table, the dress code is looser. In fact, poker security is often more vigilant about hats and hoodies because of the potential for collusion or hiding tells. If you are planning to play in a tournament, wear something comfortable that allows you to sit for hours, but keep it tidy. A collared shirt or a clean graphic tee with dark jeans or chinos is the standard uniform for a serious recreational player.
Dining at Top of the World: A Step Up in Style
While you can grab a burger at the food court in a t-shirt and jeans, dining at Top of the World restaurant requires a slight upgrade. This venue overlooks the Elizabeth River and offers a more upscale experience. While you don’t need a suit, “resort casual” is the expectation here. Think of it as date-night attire. Gentlemen usually opt for a collared shirt or a high-quality polo with slacks or nice jeans. Ladies typically wear dresses, skirts, or nice trousers with a blouse.
If you arrive at the restaurant straight from the slots in a tank top and sweaty athletic wear, you might be turned away or asked to change. It’s worth checking your look in the mirror before heading up to the restaurant. If you’re unsure, keep a spare button-down or a nicer layer in the car. It bridges the gap between the high-energy gaming floor and the relaxed, ambient dining experience.