It all started back in 1854 when the Woodford Hotel and Saloon, at the corner of Pacheco Blvd. and Center Ave., opened its doors and offered alcohol, women and gambling.

Located half way between Sacramento and San Francisco, Pacheco was built along the Pacheco Creek, which served as a major shipping and receiving dock between the Diablo Valley and San Francisco Bay (which came right to the edge of town). It was the largest and most enterprising town in Contra Costa County. Ranchers, farmers and miners would bring their goods and products to Pacheco to be shipped.

In 1863, while the town still was experiencing a boom, the Woodford was sold. Under the new ownership, the name was eventually changed to the Eagle Hotel. With the addition of a stable, the hotel became a stagecoach and Wells Fargo Pony Express Stop, drawing even more people to the action.

As the call of the Gold Rush Days began to fade, the hotel was sold again and renamed the Pacheco Inn. Finally, in 1979, Lamar "Wil" Wilkinson purchased the property, began improving the structure, changed the name to the California Grand Casino... and the games of chance have continued.

Although the California Grand Casino is a landmark of America's West, it doesn't mean that it's caught in the past. Our new facility, which opened in July, 2009 and is located right across the street from the original building, has many upscale amenities such as a large comfortable gaming area with 19 tables and additional seating, a full bar, and a sit down restaurant called The Grand Cafe. It also has ample parking. (See the "Facility" page for more information.)

The casino features some of the hottest poker action in California – like the busy Texas Hold'em games that go on 24 hours a day. Our popular Super Bad Beat Jackpots start at $70,000* and have resulted in a combined payout of in excess of $6,000,000.

Also, Hot Action Blackjack® (a game invented by Wil Wilkinson) draws a large crowd of regulars who enjoy traditional card games. Played with multiple decks and jokers, Hot Action Blackjack® is similar to "Nevada-style Blackjack". And each player gets to be the player/dealer. It's great fun to play!

Plus, you'll find Three Card Poker, Omaha 8 or Better and Pai Gow Poker.

In addition to the games, which are dealt by friendly, well trained personnel, the California Grand Casino offers players the Bay Area's best bonus programs (see the "Bonus Programs" page for details).