Minnesota Casinos: A Comprehensive Guide to Gambling in the Twin Cities

Introduction

Minneapolis, the vibrant heart of Minnesota, is a bustling metropolis known for its scenic beauty, rich arts scene, and vibrant nightlife. In recent years, the city has also gained prominence as a hub for gaming and entertainment, boasting several world-class casinos that offer a captivating escape into the realm of chance and excitement. This comprehensive guide will delve into the captivating world of Minneapolis casinos, providing invaluable insights into their amenities, promotions, rewards programs, and the thrills that await you within their doors.

Types of Minneapolis Casinos

Minneapolis is home to two prominent types of casinos:

1. Tribal Casinos: Owned and operated by Native American tribes, these casinos are located on tribal lands and offer a wide range of gaming options, including slot machines, table games, and electronic gaming terminals.

2. Commercial Casinos: Privately owned and operated, commercial casinos offer similar gambling experiences to tribal casinos and often boast additional amenities such as live entertainment, dining options, and luxury accommodations.

   

Popular Minneapolis Casinos

Among the most popular casinos in Minneapolis are:

• Mystic Lake Casino Hotel: Located in Prior Lake, Mystic Lake Casino Hotel is the largest casino in the state, boasting over 4,000 slot machines and 150 table games. It also features an extensive live entertainment lineup, multiple dining options, and a 500-room hotel.

  

• Canterbury Park: Known primarily as a horse racing facility, Canterbury Park also operates a casino with over 2,000 slot machines and 100 table games. It provides a unique blend of gaming and thoroughbred racing.

• Running Aces Casino, Hotel & Racetrack: Located in Columbus, Running Aces Casino, Hotel & Racetrack combines the excitement of horse racing with a casino offering over 1,300 slot machines and 25 table games.

Amenities and Promotions

Minneapolis casinos offer a diverse array of amenities and promotions to enhance the player experience:

Amenities:

• Slot Machines: Choose from thousands of slot machines featuring a vast selection of themes, denominations, and bonus features.

• Table Games: Engage in the thrill of classic table games such as blackjack, roulette, craps, and baccarat.

• Electronic Gaming Terminals (EGTs): Enjoy the latest in gaming technology with EGTs that offer a wide range of digital gaming experiences.

• Dining: Indulge in a culinary journey at the on-site restaurants, ranging from casual dining to fine dining options.

• Entertainment: Catch live shows, concerts, and comedy performances in dedicated entertainment venues within the casinos.

Promotions:

• Loyalty Programs: Join loyalty programs to earn points, rewards, and exclusive perks based on your gameplay.

• Slot Tournaments: Participate in exciting slot tournaments to compete for jackpots and prizes.

• Table Game Promotions: Take advantage of special promotions and bonuses on table games such as blackjack and roulette.

• Seasonal Promotions: Discover limited-time offers and promotions tailored to specific seasons and holidays.

Responsible Gambling

While gambling can be an enjoyable pastime, it is crucial to practice responsible gambling to safeguard your finances and well-being. Here are some important tips:

• Set a budget: Determine how much you can afford to gamble before visiting the casino.

• Take breaks: Step away from the gaming floor regularly to clear your head and avoid overspending.

• Avoid chasing losses: Never chase your losses by betting more money. If you lose, accept it as part of the experience.

• Seek help: If you feel you are losing control over your gambling, don't hesitate to seek professional help. Resources are available through the Minnesota Gambling Helpline at 1-800-333-HOPE.

How to Visit a Minneapolis Casino

To visit a Minneapolis casino, follow these steps:

1. Choose a casino: Research the different casinos in Minneapolis and select one that meets your preferences for gaming options, amenities, and location.

2. Get directions: Use a navigation app or the casino's website to find directions to the casino.

3. Park your car: Most casinos offer ample parking on-site. Check the casino's website for parking information.

4. Bring your ID: You will be required to present a valid government-issued ID at the entrance of the casino.

5. Enter the casino: Step into the casino and browse the gaming floor to find the games you want to play.

6. Exchange money: Use the casino's currency exchange booth to convert cash into casino chips.

7. Play your favorite games: Enjoy the excitement of slot machines, table games, or EGTs.

8. Cash out your winnings: When you're ready to leave, cash out your chips at the casino's cage.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common mistakes to maximize your casino experience:

• Ignoring your budget: Exceeding your budget can lead to financial problems.

• Drinking too much alcohol: Alcohol can impair your judgment and increase the likelihood of impulsive betting.

• Chasing losses: Attempting to recover lost money often results in further losses.

• Gambling when tired: Fatigue can affect your decision-making abilities.

• Playing games you don't understand: Research and learn the rules of the games you want to play before investing money.

FAQs

1. Is gambling legal in Minneapolis?

Yes, gambling is legal in Minneapolis at licensed casinos and horse racing facilities.

2. What is the minimum age to gamble in Minneapolis?

The minimum age to gamble in Minneapolis casinos is 21 years old.

3. Are there any dress code requirements for Minneapolis casinos?

Dress codes vary depending on the casino. Most casinos have a casual dress code, but some upscale casinos may have a more formal dress code for certain areas.

4. Can I smoke in Minneapolis casinos?

Smoking is not permitted inside Minneapolis casinos.

5. Are there any casinos in downtown Minneapolis?

There are no casinos located directly in downtown Minneapolis. However, Canterbury Park Casino & Racetrack is situated just outside the city center in Shakopee.

6. How can I get to Mystic Lake Casino Hotel from Minneapolis?

Mystic Lake Casino Hotel is located in Prior Lake, approximately 20 miles south of Minneapolis. You can reach the casino by car via Highway 169 or by taking the Metro Blue Line to the Mall of America station and then transferring to the Route 445 bus.

7. What are the table game limits at Minneapolis casinos?

Table game limits vary depending on the casino and the specific table game. Contact the individual casino for more information on table game limits.

8. Can I bring my child to a Minneapolis casino?

Minors under the age of 21 are not permitted in gaming areas of Minneapolis casinos. However, some casinos have designated non-gaming areas where minors are allowed.