Poker has a long and fascinating history, but few stories are as mind-blowing as the longest poker games ever played. From the Wild West to modern-day casinos, marathon poker sessions have tested the endurance, skill, and willpower of players willing to push their limits.
The Bird Cage Theatre: A 24/7 Poker Game That Lasted Over 8 Years
One of the most legendary poker games took place at the Bird Cage Theatre in Tombstone, Arizona—a town infamous for high-stakes gambling and Wild West showdowns. According to local records, this continuous poker game ran for an astonishing 8 years, 5 months, and 3 days from 1881 onward.
How Did This Poker Game Last So Long?
- The game was played non-stop, 24/7, attracting miners, cowboys, and wealthy gamblers.
- Players could buy in for a whopping $1,000, a fortune at the time.
- As players came and went, the game never stopped—making it one of the longest-running poker sessions in history.
Even today, the Bird Cage Theatre remains a popular tourist attraction, where poker fans can experience the site of this historic game.
The Dun Glen Hotel’s 14-Year Poker Marathon
Another contender for the longest poker game ever took place at the Dun Glen Hotel in Thurmond, West Virginia. Unlike the Bird Cage Theatre, this game reportedly lasted an incredible 14 years—yes, over a decade of continuous poker action!
Why Was This Game So Special?
- Thurmond was known as the Las Vegas of the early 1900s, attracting high-stakes gamblers.
- The poker game at Dun Glen was house-run, allowing players to cash in and out anytime.
- With a steady rotation of players, the game never stopped for 14 years, making it a truly legendary poker session.
While Thurmond is now a ghost town, its legacy as a historic gambling hotspot lives on.
Modern Record: Phil Laak’s 115-Hour Poker Session
While historical poker games had players rotating in and out, modern players have attempted single-player endurance records. One of the most famous feats belongs to Phil Laak, who set a Guinness World Record in 2010 by playing for 115 hours straight at the Bellagio in Las Vegas.
How Laak Survived 115 Hours of Poker
- He followed strict sleep deprivation strategies and took only brief breaks.
- Despite exhaustion, he ended his session in profit and donated half of his winnings to charity.
- His record remains one of the longest continuous solo poker sessions ever recorded.
Why Long Poker Games Fascinate Players
Poker marathons are more than just endurance tests—they highlight the game’s deep strategy, psychological battles, and the unwavering passion of players. Whether it’s an Old West saloon, a luxurious casino, or an online poker room, these stories prove that poker is a game of skill, patience, and resilience.
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