Maybe you've driven past one of Delaware's three casinos and wondered what they're like inside but you might be intimidated because you're not exactly sure how to play the games.

Well, here's a rundown of all the amenities at the casinos, the help available for new players and perhaps a few things you didn't know. For instance, there are restaurants and events you could take the whole family to, even though children aren't allowed in the gambling areas.

Or, did you know all three casinos were originally horse racing tracks, and that's what led to casinos being legalized in the state? The Horse Racing Redevelopment Act, passed in 1994, was designed to help the struggling horse racing industry by allowing slot machines, with a percentage of the slots money designated to help the race tracks. Later, table games were also permitted.

And be sure to pick up a player's card that's almost guaranteed to pay off on return trips.

"Anyone visiting for the first time should definitely sign up for a complimentary player rewards card," said Gina Mancino, vice president of marketing. “We offer a very rich reward to enroll in the loyalty program.” 

Guests can earn points to spend at Delaware Park for food, beverages and at the retail shop and qualify for special offers, events and promotions.

For those who’ve never played games like poker or blackjack at a casino, Mancino said, “We have a very seasoned team of dealers who can guide first timers through playing, and we offer complimentary gaming guides with complete instructions.”

New features include an updated gaming floor with the addition of the latest and most popular themed slot machines, Mancino said. 

“We also opened Money Line Sports Bar & Lounge in time for the NFL and college football season,” she said. “Guests can place sports bets and watch the games while enjoying cocktails, hand-crafted beer and a quick-bites menu.”

While the casino is for ages 21 and up, all ages can attend the horse races.

“Live racing gives us the opportunity to welcome families to our amazing grounds, affording the opportunity for families to picnic outside and enjoy our amenities in close proximity to the horses and jockeys in the paddock,” Mancino said.

The legal age to wager on slots, table games and sports bets is 21 or older. The legal age to wager on horse racing is 18 or older. No one under the age of 21 is permitted on the slots floor.

In the areas for horse racing in The Grove, there are no age restrictions to enter; however, all children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult at all times.

All ages are able to dine in the restaurants when accompanied by an adult 21 or over, but must be escorted by security to the restaurant.

Player rewards club, free to join, offers invitations to exclusive events and promotions, entries for the player rewards sweepstakes, quarterly rewards and exclusive shopping at the members-only Traditions Boutique. 

Live thoroughbred racing May to November, Wednesday to Saturday, 12:30 p.m.

Race book and simulcasts of races from other tracks Sunday to Thursday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.

Monday to Saturday from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., Sunday from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. The new Moneyline Sports Bar & Lounge on the second floor of the casino offers betting kiosks, tellers, comfortable chairs, food, cocktails, beer and 30 TVs.

Free live music Saturdays from 9 p.m. to midnight.

For new players just learning the games, look for tables that aren’t crowded because there will be more time to ask questions, said Nick Polcino, vice president and general manager.

“Our dealers are happy to assist all of our guests,” he said.

For a treat, he suggests booking a spa suite hotel room to “enjoy an evening of gaming, food and fun all night long.”

New game machines are arriving monthly so there’s often something different to try, and Polcino suggested sampling the variety of restaurant options including the Royal Prime steakhouse which opened this year to “rave reviews.”

“Sportsbook is an exciting place to be this fall with the NFL kicking off their season and the return of limited menu items,” he said.

While gambling is for adults, there are family-friendly options at the resort. All ages can watch the horse races.

“Children will also enjoy staying in the hotel, a visit to the Sugar Factory and visiting nearby attractions within a short distance of the casino,” Polcino said.

The legal age to wager on slots, table games and sports bets is 21 or older. The legal age to wager on horse racing is 18 or older. No one under 21 is permitted on the slots and gaming floor.  

All ages are permitted in the Grandstand for horse racing, in hotel rooms, restaurants, and for most concerts unless age restrictions are stated, but children under 18 need to be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

Earn points using the Bally rewards card while playing slot machines, table games and poker. Rewards include discounts on hotel stays, spa visits, show tickets, restaurants, the retail store and valet parking, access to the pool and fitness center, VIP seating, and invitations to promotions and special events. 

Live harness racing Oct. 31 to March 30, Monday-Thursday starting at 4:30 p.m., but no races Nov. 24 or Dec. 20-26. 

Simulcasts of races from other tracks with the schedule varying each day, but in general from about noon-8 p.m. 

Monday to Friday from noon-9 p.m., Saturday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., Sunday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.  

The luxury hotel features 500 rooms, an indoor pool, spa, salon and fitness center. 

Live entertainment in Longo’s Meatballs & Martinis Thursday and Sunday from 6-9 p.m.

Concerts and shows featuring national performers on select dates, like Gladys Knight on Friday, Oct. 7. 

First-time visitors should be sure to sign up for the free players club card, said Matt Sparacino, director of public relations.

“Learn about the various benefits of being a card member and use it each time you visit,” Sparacino said. “If visiting during the warmer months, be sure to take advantage of al fresco dining on the Bōnz patio where one can enjoy a great meal at one of the top restaurants in the area, as well as take in the live entertainment on Friday and Saturday nights.”

He also recommended the prime rib and crab cakes at the casino’s newest restaurant, Onion Jack’s.

Casino guests must be at least 21 and have a valid ID or state driver's license. Harness racing and some shows and concerts are open to all ages, but those under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

The players club is free to join. Use the card while playing casino games to earn rewards, discounts at restaurants and the gift shop, access to the Diamond Lounge, complimentary valet parking, complimentary Delaware State Fair admission and VIP parking, and invitations to exclusive events.  

Live harness racing from April to October, usually Monday-Wednesday starting at 4:30 p.m., with limited days in July because of the Delaware State Fair. 

Simulcasts of races from other tracks starting at 11 a.m.

Murphy’s Race and Sportsbook is open daily from 11 a.m.-11 p.m.

Bōnz Lounge features “Country Fridays” with some of the best country bands in the tri-state area, and “Dance Party Saturdays” from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. 

From May to late August, Bōnz Patio offers “Karaoke with Ice Productions” Wednesdays and “DJ Knappy” Thursdays from 8 p.m. to midnight. 

Reporter Ben Mace primarily covers real estate, housing, business and development news. Reach him at rmace@gannett.com.