About Colorado Gambler
Colorado's original casino authority — founded in 1991 by Patrick Sweeney to cover the birth of legal gaming in Black Hawk, Central City, and Cripple Creek.
Patrick Sweeney
Founder & Publisher · Colorado Gambler · Est. 1991
Our Story
Colorado's Original Casino Authority
The Colorado Gambler was born the same year Colorado gaming was. When Amendment 4 passed in November 1991, legalizing limited gaming in three historic mountain towns, Patrick Sweeney recognized that Colorado needed a dedicated voice for this new industry — one that understood both the history of these places and the excitement of what was coming.
From the first issue in 1991, the Colorado Gambler set out to be more than a casino listings guide. It became a chronicle of Colorado's gaming history — covering every casino opening, every legislative battle, every expansion, and every story of the people who built this industry from the ground up.
Over 35 years and more than 1,000 issues, the Colorado Gambler has remained the most trusted name in Colorado casino journalism. Today, the publication covers all three casino towns, 13 legal sportsbooks, and the full landscape of Colorado gaming — with the same editorial independence and local authority that Patrick Sweeney established in 1991.
Colorado Gaming Timeline
Gregory Gulch Gold Discovery
John Gregory discovers gold in what will become Black Hawk and Central City, triggering Colorado's first gold rush.
Cripple Creek Gold Strike
Bob Womack discovers gold on the slopes of Pikes Peak, launching Colorado's last great gold rush.
Amendment 4 Passes
Colorado voters approve limited gaming in Black Hawk, Central City, and Cripple Creek. The Colorado Gambler launches to cover the new industry.
First Casino Openings
The first wave of casinos opens in all three towns. Colorado Gambler becomes the definitive guide for players and operators.
Bet Limits Raised
Colorado raises the maximum bet from $5 to $100, transforming the casino landscape and attracting major resort operators.
Ameristar Opens
Ameristar Casino Resort opens in Black Hawk — the largest casino in Colorado history at the time.
Sports Betting Legalized
Amendment 77 passes, legalizing sports betting in Colorado. Colorado Gambler expands coverage to include all 13 licensed sportsbooks.
35 Years of Publishing
Over 1,000 issues, thousands of articles, and the most comprehensive archive of Colorado gaming history in existence.
Black Hawk
9 casinos including Ameristar, Isle, and Monarch. Colorado's largest gaming destination.
Central City
5 casinos in a UNESCO-recognized historic district. Home to the Central City Opera House.
Cripple Creek
8 casinos high in the Rockies above Pikes Peak. Colorado's most scenic gaming destination.