So you want to roll out of bed and walk straight to the blackjack table? Finding a place to live within stumbling distance of a casino has its perks, but in Watertown, South Dakota, the logistics look a little different than they do in Vegas. Foxy's Casino isn't a massive resort hotel—it's a local gaming hotspot, which means you aren't going to find a high-rise condo complex attached to it. If you're looking for apartments near Foxy's Casino Watertown SD, you need to think like a local, not a tourist.

Understanding the Watertown Casino Layout

First off, let’s clear up what Foxy’s actually is. Located on 9th Avenue SE, Foxy's Casino is a staple of the Watertown gaming scene. It sits right next to the 'Foxy's Casino & Lounge' signage, offering video lottery terminals (VLTs) and a bar atmosphere. This isn't the Strip. There are no water fountains choreographed to music out front. It’s a straightforward spot for adults to grab a drink, play some digital poker, or try their luck on the slot-style machines legal in South Dakota.

Because it's a standalone venue surrounded by other businesses and residential areas, your search for housing is actually a search for general Watertown apartments in the southern part of the city. You aren't paying a premium for a 'casino view' because, frankly, that view is a parking lot and a lounge sign. The advantage here is location—being close to the action without the noise of a massive resort.

Best Neighborhoods for Easy Casino Access

Watertown isn't a massive metropolis, which works in your favor. A five-minute drive gets you almost anywhere. However, if you prefer walking or a two-minute Uber ride, you want to focus your apartment hunt on the southeast side of town, specifically near 9th Avenue and Highway 81.

Apartments in the immediate vicinity of the 1400 block of 9th Avenue SE put you within walking distance. This area is a mix of commercial zones and residential pockets. You’ll find smaller apartment complexes and duplex-style rentals here. If you venture slightly north towards theintersection with Kemp Drive, you hit more residential streets. This is often where you find quieter units that are still only a few blocks away from the gaming floor.

Another option is looking near the Watertown Mall area. While technically a bit further west, the drive down 9th Avenue is a straight shot. If you value being close to shopping and dining as much as the casino, the neighborhoods surrounding the mall offer solid mid-range apartment options with easier access to grocery stores like Sunshine Foods or Hy-Vee.

Rent Prices and What to Expect

Here’s the good news: South Dakota living costs are reasonable compared to national averages. You aren't going to pay New Jersey or Las Vegas prices for a one-bedroom here. In Watertown, a decent one-bedroom apartment typically runs between $650 and $900 per month, depending on amenities and age of the building. A two-bedroom unit usually hovers between $800 and $1,100.

What do you get for that money? Don't expect doormen or rooftop pools. Most apartments in this price range are functional, clean, and spacious. You’re paying for square footage rather than flashy amenities. Many complexes include basic features like off-street parking (essential during South Dakota winters) and in-unit laundry hookups. If you need a gym or a pool, you might need to look at the newer, higher-end developments on the outskirts of town, but that means sacrificing the 'walk to the casino' convenience.

Apartment AreaAvg. 1BR RentDistance to Foxy'sCommute Type
9th Avenue SE (Immediate)$700 - $8500.2 - 0.5 milesWalking
Kemp Drive Area$650 - $8001 - 2 milesShort Drive
Near Watertown Mall$750 - $9002 - 3 milesShort Drive
Downtown Watertown$600 - $7503 - 4 milesDrive

Transportation and Parking Considerations

If you are moving to Watertown specifically for the gaming lifestyle, bring a car. While the area around Foxy's is technically walkable during the summer, South Dakota winters are brutal. Walking three blocks in -20 degree wind chill after a night of playing video lottery is a miserable experience. You want a reliable vehicle with a block heater.

Parking at Foxy's is generally free and ample, unlike the expensive structures you find in Atlantic City or downtown Chicago. This is a major perk of playing in a smaller city. If you rent an apartment nearby, ensure it comes with dedicated parking or a garage. Street parking in Watertown is manageable, but during snow removal season, you will need to move your vehicle promptly to avoid tickets or getting plowed in.

Other Gaming Options Nearby

Living near Foxy's is convenient, but it's not your only option. Watertown has a healthy video lottery scene. If you live near the east side, you are also close to other gaming venues like the Stadium Sports Bar or Pete's Lounge. Diversifying your options is smart because video lottery machines (VLTs) can run hot and cold just like any other slot machine.

If you crave a full casino experience with table games like blackjack, craps, and roulette, you will need to travel slightly further. The closest full-service casinos are actually across the border in Minnesota, or you can head west to Deadwood for a weekend trip. Watertown is strictly a video lottery town, meaning the games are electronic terminals connected to a central server. It’s fast-paced fun, but different from the live dealer experience you might be used to if you’ve played online at sites like BetMGM or DraftKings Casino in other states.

Verifying Safety and Noise Levels

One concern players often have when living near a bar or casino is noise. Since Foxy's is primarily a lounge and VLT venue, it isn't a thumping nightclub. It attracts a crowd of locals looking to relax, play some games, and socialize. The immediate area is generally safe and well-lit. Watertown has a low crime rate compared to larger cities.

That said, always drive by your potential apartment on a Friday or Saturday night. Check if the parking lot lights shine directly into the bedroom window or if the street traffic gets loud. Since Foxy's closes at 2:00 AM (in line with South Dakota liquor laws), you might hear the final exodus of cars if you live right next door. Opting for an apartment that is set back from the main road—even by a block—can make a huge difference in sleep quality.

FAQ

Is Foxy's Casino a real casino with table games?

No, Foxy's is a video lottery establishment. It features video lottery terminals (VLTs) that play like slot machines and video poker. For live dealer table games like blackjack, you would need to travel to Deadwood, SD, or cross the border into Minnesota where tribal casinos operate.

Are there apartments you can walk to from Foxy's?

Yes, there are several small apartment complexes and duplexes along 9th Avenue SE and the surrounding side streets. They are typically older units but offer the convenience of walking to the lounge without needing a designated driver.

How much is rent usually in Watertown SD?

Expect to pay between $650 and $900 for a one-bedroom apartment. Prices have risen slightly due to inflation, but Watertown remains significantly more affordable than national averages. Utilities can be higher in winter due to heating costs.

Is online gambling legal in Watertown South Dakota?

Currently, online casino gambling is not legal in South Dakota. You cannot legally play real-money slots or table games on sites like FanDuel or BetMGM within state lines. The only legal gambling options are video lottery (VLTs) at licensed establishments, live betting in Deadwood, and the state lottery.

Is Watertown a good place to live for gamblers?

It's decent if you enjoy the social aspect of video lottery. There are numerous bars and lounges with VLTs scattered throughout the city. However, if you prefer sports betting or live poker tournaments, you will find the options limited compared to states with regulated online gaming or larger casino hubs.