Trying to find a reliable casino near st paul mn without driving all over the Twin Cities? You are definitely not alone. Locals and visitors alike often want to skip the guesswork and head straight to the best spots for blackjack, slots, and poker. Fortunately, the east metro and its surrounding areas pack a solid punch when it comes to gaming action. Whether you are looking for a quick after-work session or a full weekend getaway, knowing exactly where to go makes all the difference. Having a casino near st paul mn means you can easily transition from a day downtown to a night of entertainment without crossing the entire state.
Top Rated Casino Near St Paul MN Options
When you map out the closest gaming floors, a few major names immediately stand out. Treasure Island Resort & Casino in Welch is roughly a 45-minute southeast drive, offering an expansive resort feel right along the Mississippi River. Little Six Casino in Prior Lake provides a more compact, quick-trip alternative just 30 minutes away. For those willing to cross the river into Minneapolis, Mystic Lake Casino Hotel sits as the largest gaming facility in the state, about 40 minutes from downtown St. Paul. Each of these venues operates under the jurisdiction of tribal gaming compacts, ensuring regulated, fair play. Choosing the right casino near st paul mn depends heavily on whether you prioritize sheer volume of games or simply getting there and back quickly.
Popular Table Games and Slot Machines
The gaming libraries across these locations are surprisingly vast. Mystic Lake boasts over 4,000 slot machines alongside a strong lineup of blackjack, roulette, and baccarat tables. Treasure Island keeps the energy high with frequent craps action and a dedicated poker room that draws a competitive regional crowd. If you prefer lower stakes, Little Six focuses heavily on slot denominations ranging from pennies to high-limit rooms. You will also find electronic table games at nearly every casino near st paul mn, providing a slower-paced environment to learn the rules without feeling pressured by a live dealer. Video poker variants like Jacks or Better and Deuces Wild remain staples across these floors.
Exclusive Promotions at Casino Near St Paul MN
One of the biggest draws of visiting these spots is taking advantage of player club perks. Mystic Lake and Little Six share the Club M program, which rewards play with points redeemable for hotel stays, dining, and free slot play. New sign-ups often receive a match bonus - frequently 100% up to $100 in free play on their first day. Treasure Island runs the Island Player Club, hosting frequent points-multiplier days and senior discounts on specific weekdays. Players looking for a casino near st paul mn should always check the promotional calendar before heading out. You might catch a special giveaway, like truck keys for a new vehicle or entries into a massive cash drawing. High rollers can easily access tiered benefits, including complimentary meals at the on-site steakhouses and exclusive lounge access with VIP check-in.
Dining and Entertainment Experiences
Gambling is just one piece of the puzzle; the food and live shows matter just as much to the overall experience. Treasure Island features the iconic Tado Steakhouse, serving up prime cuts and fresh seafood that rival downtown Minneapolis eateries. Mystic Lake offers a massive buffet alongside quick-service spots for a fast bite between hands. Beyond the dining room, these venues book national touring acts, from country music stars to stand-up comedians. A night out at a casino near st paul mn easily transforms into a full-scale entertainment event, complete with craft cocktails and live music, rather than just a quick gambling session.
Resort Amenities and Stays
If you plan to make a weekend out of it, the hotel offerings are impressive. Treasure Island provides a full resort experience, complete with an indoor water park and a 137-slip marina for boaters arriving via the river. Mystic Lake's towering hotel features luxury suites, a soaring atrium, and a championship golf course right next door. Staying on-site means you never have to worry about a late-night drive back to the city.
Reliable Payments at Casino Near St Paul MN
Handling your money smoothly is critical when you are deep into a gaming session. At the physical cages, cash remains king, but you have plenty of other secure options. Visa and Mastercard are universally accepted at the cashier windows for cash advances, though your bank may treat these as cash-equivalent transactions. ACH bank transfers and e-checks are heavily utilized for settling large marker balances for established players. While PayPal, Venmo, and Play+ are standard for online platforms, cashing out big in-person jackpots at a casino near st paul mn still relies on physical cash, standard casino checks, or direct wire transfers for massive six-figure scores.
Getting There and Parking
Driving is the most practical way to reach these destinations. Treasure Island operates free, self-park lots and complimentary valet service, which is a massive perk compared to downtown venues that charge hefty fees. Mystic Lake also provides expansive free parking structures with shuttle services running directly to the entrance, perfect for harsh Minnesota winters.
FAQ
Is there a casino near st paul mn with a poker room?
Yes, Treasure Island Resort & Casino in Welch operates a dedicated poker room featuring Texas Hold'em and Omaha cash games, along with regular tournaments. It is about a 45-minute drive from downtown.
Are Minnesota casinos legally allowed to serve alcohol on the floor?
Tribal casinos in Minnesota can serve alcohol, though compacts historically restricted alcohol on the actual gaming floor. Many locations now serve drinks directly at the machines and tables after regulatory updates, but you should expect bartenders to cut off service at designated hours depending on the specific venue's license.
What is the absolute closest casino near st paul mn?
Little Six Casino in Prior Lake is generally the quickest drive, taking around 30 minutes via US-169 South. It shares a property line with Mystic Lake but offers a smaller, more focused gaming floor for a faster visit.
Do I have to pay taxes on my winnings from a casino near st paul mn?
Yes. The IRS requires you to report all gambling winnings as taxable income. If you hit a jackpot of $1,200 or more on a slot machine or $5,000 or more in a poker tournament, the casino will issue a W-2G form before you leave the property. Minnesota does not have a separate state withholding on gambling winnings, but the federal rules still fully apply.
Finding the right gaming destination comes down to what you value most - convenience, game variety, or resort-style amenities. The Twin Cities metro ensures you do not have to compromise, offering everything from intimate slot floors to massive entertainment complexes just a short drive away. Whether you are chasing a progressive jackpot or just enjoying a weekend buffet, having a top-tier casino near st paul mn keeps the action right at your fingertips.