How To Play Roulette in Las Vegas (Tips for First Timers)
Roulette is known for its spinning wheel, simple rules, and payouts. It’s one of the most popular and iconic table games in Las Vegas.
Roulette is often called the slot machine equivalent of table games. It’s easy to play and full of excitement. However, we know if you’ve never played roulette before, the thought of approaching a table and knowing what to do can be a little overwhelming. If that’s the case, don’t worry. We’re here to help.
Whether it’s your first time playing or you need a little refresher, our guide will break down how to play, show you the different types of bets, and give you tips to help you get the most out of your experience.
Before we get into the nitty gritty of roulette, what is it?
What is Roulette?
Roulette is a casino game of chance played around a spinning wheel with numbered compartments. Players bet on where a small ball will land on the wheel after it’s spun. The roulette wheel features numbered slots from 1 to 36, alternating in red and black, along with one or two green slots marked with a 0 (and 00 on American wheels, like those found in Las Vegas).
Players place bets on a table layout that mirrors the wheel, wagering on where the ball will land after each spin. The aim of the game is simple. You need to correctly guess the pocket where the ball will come to rest.
While luck plays a big role, knowing the types of bets and payouts can improve your experience at the table.
Here’s what the layout of an American roulette table looks like:
Roulette Bets and Payouts
In roulette, you can place various bets, each with different odds and payouts. These bets are broadly categorized as inside bets and outside bets.
Inside Bets
Inside bets are placed on specific numbers or small groups of numbers within the grid on the betting table.
These bets have higher payouts but lower chances of winning.
- One Number (Straight Bet)
- Pays 35:1. Place your chip on a single number. If the ball lands on that number, you win.
- Two Numbers (Split Bet)
- Pays 17:1. Bet on two adjacent numbers by placing your chip on the line between them.
- Three Numbers (Street Bet)
- Pays 11:1. To bet on a row of three numbers, place your chip on the outer edge of that row.
- Four Numbers (Corner Bet)
- Pays 8:1. Bet on four numbers that meet at a corner by placing your chip at their intersection.
- Five Numbers (Basket Bet)
- Pays 6:1. This bet covers 0, 00, 1, 2, and 3. Place your chip on the line connecting these numbers. Keep in mind that it has the worst odds in the game.
- Six Numbers (Line Bet) –
- Pays 5:1. Bet on two rows of three numbers (totaling six) by placing your chip at the edge where the rows meet.
Outside Bets
Outside bets are placed in the labeled sections surrounding the number grid. These bets cover larger groups of numbers, offering lower payouts but better odds of winning. For all outside bets, 0 and 00 are losing numbers.
- Dozens
- Pays 2:1. Bet on one of three groups of twelve numbers. Place your chip in the boxes labeled “1st 12,” “2nd 12,” or “3rd 12.”
- 1st 12: Numbers 1–12
- 2nd 12: Numbers 13–24
- 3rd 12: Numbers 25–36
- Pays 2:1. Bet on one of three groups of twelve numbers. Place your chip in the boxes labeled “1st 12,” “2nd 12,” or “3rd 12.”
- Columns
- Pays 2:1. Bet on one of the three vertical columns of numbers. Place your chip in the box at the bottom of the column to bet on all numbers in that column.
- Red or Black
- Pays 1:1. Bet on whether the winning number will be red or black. Place your chip on the “Red” or “Black” section. Remember that 0 and 00 are green and don’t count as red or black.
- Odd or Even
- Pays 1:1. Bet on whether the winning number will be odd or even. Place your chip on the “Odd” or “Even” section. 0 and 00 are not considered odd or even.
- 1-18 or 19-36 (High/Low)
- Pays 1:1. Bet on whether the winning number will be in the lower half (1–18) or upper half (19–36). Place your chip in the boxes labeled “1–18” or “19–36.”
In roulette, a general rule applies.
The more numbers you bet on, the higher your chances of winning, but the lower the payout.
Conversely, bets with lower odds of winning offer higher payouts.
How To Play Roulette in Las Vegas
Now that you understand the basics of roulette, it’s time to learn how actually to play the game.
#1 Join a Table and Purchase Chips.
Casino floors are huge, but you will not struggle to find an open table.
Approach an open table and place your cash on the table (not directly to the dealer). The croupier will exchange it for roulette chips, which are unique to each table and can’t be used elsewhere in the casino.
#2 Understand Chip Colors
Each player gets a unique chip color to avoid confusion.
Pay attention to your chip color. It’s how the dealer will track your bets and payouts.
#3 Place Your Bets
Once you have your chips, place them on the desired numbers or betting sections. You can combine inside and outside bets in the same round for more chances to win.
#4 Be Aware of Minimum Bets
Every table has a posted minimum bet. Make sure your bets meet the requirement, as minimums can vary between tables. Most casinos have a $25 minimum. Sometimes, you’ll find minimums for even less, and other times, more. The minimum usually depends on how busy the casino is.
#5 Wait for the Spin
After all bets are placed, the dealer spins the wheel and releases the ball.
#6 Listen for “No More Bets”
Once the ball slows down, the dealer will announce “No More Bets.” At this point, you can’t place or adjust your bets.
#7 Winning Number and Payouts
The ball will land in a numbered pocket, and the dealer will announce the winning number and its color. If you win, the dealer will pay out according to the odds of your bet.
#8 Cash Out Before You Leave
Ready to leave? Cash out your roulette chips with the dealer in exchange for standard casino chips or cash. Remember, roulette chips are only valid at the table where you bought them.
See, it’s not too difficult, right? Even when you understand how to play roulette, it can still be a good idea to keep the following tips in mind.
Roulette Tips for First-Timers
If you’re new to roulette, these tips will help you play smarter and get the most out of your experience:
#1 Manage Your Bankroll
Decide on a budget before you start playing, and stick to it. Roulette is a game of chance, and it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement. Avoid chasing losses and play within your limits. You should know what you can afford to lose, in our opinion this limit is different from what you’re willing to lose. Always stay within your budget.
#2 Understand the Odds
Inside bets offer higher payouts but lower odds, while outside bets give you better chances of winning with smaller payouts. Balance your bets based on your risk tolerance and comfort level.
#3 Avoid the Five-Number Bet
This bet (0, 00, 1, 2, 3) has the worst odds on American roulette wheels. It may seem tempting, but it’s best to skip it.
#4 Be Aware of Table Etiquette
Don’t place phones, wallets, or drinks on the table. Wait for the dealer to finish payouts before placing new bets, and be respectful of other players.
#5 Check for Standard Payouts
Ensure the table offers the standard 35:1 payout for straight bets. Some tables may reduce payouts, which impacts your potential winnings. Stick to tables with fair odds.
#6 Sign Up for a Players Card
Most Las Vegas casinos offer players cards that allow you to earn rewards like free play, discounted rooms, and dining credits. Even if you’re not a high roller, it’s worth signing up to track your play and enjoy perks. Just remember that using a player’s card won’t affect your odds in the game.
It’s all about extra benefits.
#6 Know Your Limit
The most important tip of them all, know when to stop. When the game is no longer fun, you’ve it’s time to find another Vegas activity.
Ready To Play Roulette In Vegas?
Roulette in Las Vegas is a classic casino experience with simple rules and plenty of betting options. Knowing the difference between inside and outside bets, managing your bankroll, and following table etiquette can help you make the most of your time at the tables.
Whether you prefer chasing big payouts or sticking with safer bets, roulette is an easy casino table game that you can enjoy on the Las Vegas Strip.
Here are some additional resources that will help you make the most out of your time in Las Vegas:
