52 weekend getaways: Gambling destinations

It has been eight years since the casino opened, and six years since the debut of the hotel, hence the redo. The former Terrace Buffet, now called Choices, has been expanded, and two new restaurants have opened. Changes to the lobby, including new furniture, flooring and art.

Despite the tired look of my room, the 507-room resort was a real bargain. The grand suites are more than 1,000 square feet, with showers the size of small rooms, as well as powder rooms, wet bars and large living rooms. (Rates start at $290.)

-- Beverly Beyette

Read more: Pala Casino renovations pay off

Planning your trip:

Pala Casino Spa Resort
11154 California Highway 76, Pala, Calif., 92059;
(877) 946-7252, www.palacasino.com
Rates: Doubles begin at $119

The circular white casino building, opened in 1929, is Avalon’s most recognizable sight. It towers over the yachts riding at anchor on Avalon Bay, dwarfs the village’s other structures and has become the scenic focal point for hundreds of thousands of snapshots.

At one time, the casino was the heart and soul of Santa Catalina Island. The nation’s most famous performers appeared here: Benny Goodman, Stan Kenton, Woody Herman, Gene Autry (who brought his horse).

-- Rosemary McClure

Read more: Backstage at Catalina Island’s Avalon Casino

Planning your trip:

The Behind the Scenes tour is at 12:30 p.m. daily; adults, $27.50; seniors, $24.50, and children, $20.50. Another tour of the building, the Casino Walking Tour, has been available for several years, but it visits only parts of the casino that are open to the public. It is at 2 p.m. daily and costs $17.50 for adults, $13.25 for seniors and $15.75 for children.

For information on any of these tours, call (310) 510-8687 or see www.visitcatalinaisland.com.