Best Local Casinos in Collingwood,The Tote Hotel
Author: Noel Cannon
Fact-Checked by: Michael Davis
Righto legends — it’s Noel here, and today we’re hitting the gritty backstreets of Collingwood, VIC. The spiritual home of the Magpies, working-class pubs, and some of the loudest fans in the AFL. But how’s it rate for a punt and a pint?
Let’s pull back the black-and-white curtain and see where you can find a proper local venue for spinning reels and stacking wins.
🎰 Venue Spotlight: The Tote Hotel
Address: 67-71 Johnston St, Collingwood VIC 3066
Vibe: Legendary live music venue with a hidden gaming surprise.
Most punters know The Tote for its loud bands and grungey rock shows. But tucked out the back is a compact gaming room with 10 pokies, a no-frills TAB screen, and the same authentic Collingwood vibe you’d expect.
Gaming Room Features:
-
10 pokie machines (Lightning Link, Jackpot Carnival)
-
TAB & Keno access
-
Open until 1am Thurs–Sat
-
Hard floors, loud locals, no pretence
This isn’t a glitzy lounge — it’s rough, ready, and real. Just how the Magpies like it.
🚋 Getting There – Public Transport Access
-
Victoria Park Station – 5 min walk
-
Trams 86 & 11 along Smith and Brunswick Streets
-
Plenty of bike lanes if you’re riding in from Fitzroy or Abbotsford
Bonus points: cheap Uber from the city after the footy.
🏉 AFL Face-Off: Carlton vs Collingwood
It’s the rivalry that defines Melbourne. Here’s how Carlton’s tactical style compares to Collingwood’s all-in energy — both on the field and at the slots:
| Feature | Carlton Blues | Collingwood Magpies |
|---|---|---|
| Premierships | 16 (last in 1995) | 16 (last in 2023) |
| Most Hated By | Essendon fans | Literally everyone else |
| Club Song | “We are the Navy Blues” | “Good Old Collingwood Forever” |
| Vibe | Old money, stubborn pride | Working-class grit and loud mouths |
| Casino Playstyle Match | Tactical pokie selection, slow burn | Fast-spinning, all-in or nothing |
🧾 Venue Comparison Table – Carlton vs Collingwood
| Suburb | Venue Name | No. of Pokies | TAB/Keno | Late Hours | Public Transport Access |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Carlton | The Clyde Hotel | 15 | ✅ Yes | ✅ Until 1am | ✅ Trams & trains |
| Collingwood | Tote Hotel | 10 | ✅ Yes | ✅ Until late | ✅ Trains & trams |
🎁 FreeSpinz Promo – GOLD20
Can’t make it to the Tote? Don’t worry, cobber — FreeSpinz has your back with stacks of online slots, blackjack, and juicy bonuses.
Use promo code GOLD20 when you sign up and start spinning from wherever you are.
👉 Click here to join FreeSpinz and use GOLD20
No parking, no pokies hogs — just pure online fun. Happy days!
❓ FAQs – Collingwood Casino Venues
Q: Is The Tote really a casino venue?
A: It’s no Crown, but there’s a legit gaming room out the back. Not bad after a gig!
Q: Any bigger casino options nearby?
A: Crown is only 15 mins by tram if you’re feeling high-roller. But for Collingwood charm, The Tote delivers.
Q: Can I use a rewards card or earn points?
A: Most local pubs don’t do points, but the drinks are well priced and the vibe’s worth it.
🔗 Related Posts
✅ Collingwood – Final Word by Noel Cannon
Collingwood might divide footy fans, but when it comes to local pubs with pokies and personality, it’s all class (well, working class). The Tote’s not fancy, but it’s got soul — a place where you can spin a few reels after a gig or before the Pies run out.
It’s gritty, it’s real, and it’s got just enough sparkle in the gaming room to keep things interesting. So if you’re up for a no-nonsense local experience, head down Johnston Street and take your chances.
Just don’t sing the Blues in here — I won’t be held responsible.
Cheers,
– Noel Cannon
