I’ve checked out Vegas, Atlantic City, and also explored the gambling scene in dozens of other states. But oddly enough, Minnesota has always been high on my list.
Most people know the Land of 10,000 Lakes for its natural beauty and outdoor activities, not its casinos. But I wanted to dig deeper and see what both the Minnesota online gambling scene and in-person casinos had to offer.
Top Minnesota Online Gambling Sites
| Ignition | Best overall |
| Slots of Vegas | Perfect for slot fans |
| Super Slots | Huge casino library |
| Slots.lv | Live casino variety |
| Bovada | Competitive betting odds |
| Cafe Casino | Top referral bonus |
| BetOnline | Best for poker |
| Lucky Red Casino | Six-figure jackpots |
| Black Lotus | Generous crypto bonus |
| Wild Casino | Top VIP rewards |
| All Star Slots | No max cashout welcome bonus |
| Lucky Creek | Best for cashbacks |
| Shazam | Best no deposit bonus |
| BetWhale | Several payment options |
| Voltage Bet | High betting limit |
Where I Went and What I Did in Minnesota
I had to put a bit of thought into where I wanted to go. After all, the state boasts 20 tribal casinos. So, I had to conduct some research, decide on the route I preferred to take, and ensure I could still visit some of the best Minnesota casinos.
An hour or so and two strong black coffees later, I was done and ready to start packing my bags. These are the MN casinos I went to:
- Mystic Lake Casino Hotel: Located in Prior Lake, this casino impressed me with its vast gaming floor offering slots and tables, and its luxurious amenities.
- Treasure Island Resort & Casino: Situated near Red Wing, my best memories are of the friendly staff and the relaxing resort-like atmosphere.
- Running Aces Casino: A smaller casino focusing on table games and poker. Also has an amazing racetrack on site.
- Grand Casino Hinckley: My final tribal casino, this Hinckley-based establishment allowed me to sign off in style (although with a lighter wallet).
Sure, I enjoyed the clinking chips and flashing jackpots at Minnesota’s land-based casinos. But I was just as curious about what online casino gambling and sports betting in Minnesota had to offer.
I played at quite a few during the week I was staying in Minnesota, for research purposes, of course. That said, the two that stood out for me were Ignition and Slots of Vegas.
Ignition offers a solid all-around experience, complete with a lucrative welcome bonus and one-hour crypto withdrawals. As for Slots of Vegas, the name should tell you that its main purpose is to deliver an excellent collection of slots.
Minnesota Real Money Gambling Sites I Tried Online
The first question that crossed my mind here was: “Is online sports betting legal in Minnesota?” While Minnesota doesn’t have state-regulated online casinos, residents often turn to reputable out-of-state sites for their gambling needs. Many of these are US-facing, meaning they’re targeted towards Americans and strive to deliver what other state-regulated sites offer.
I tried out at least a dozen different Minnesota online casinos and sports betting MN sites, with the following five becoming my favorites.
Ignition – Best Overall
While experiencing the retail gambling scene in Minnesota, many kept referring to Ignition when it came to online poker. However, I also discovered that it has an online casino to go alongside its online poker rooms.
It didn’t take me long to see what all the hype was about. The interface was modern and easy to navigate, while I was massively impressed with the deposit bonus, which is worth up to $3,000. That might not sound all that special, but it’s split across the casino and poker site, which is great if you enjoy both forms of online gambling.
The casino offers hundreds of slots and even virtual sports betting, which can help locals fill the gap as they await the next Minnesota sports betting update.
However, I spent most of my time on the live dealer blackjack tables. What struck me was the solid variety of stakes available. The lowest I found was $5, but as I scrolled down, I saw some tables accepting stakes of up to a staggering $50,000.
So it’s a good option for both budget-conscious players and high rollers.
Slots of Vegas – Perfect for Slot Fans
I gave Slots of Vegas a spin (pun very much intended) after hearing a couple of locals mention it while I was at Grand Casino Hinckley. It’s a pretty relaxed site. Nothing special design-wise, just a big lineup of slot games and regular promos to keep you interested.
There are a few hundred slots here, including progressive jackpots that tick upward like you’re watching the gas meter fill on a road trip.
I got hooked on a few of the exclusive titles you won’t find anywhere else. The site also has a few table games and live dealers if you want to break things up, but it’s the slot games that are the real draw here.
Overall, it felt like the online version of pulling up a chair at one of Grand Casino Hinckley’s quieter slot sections.
Super Slots – Huge Casino Library
Super Slots is all about variety and volume — features that have helped it become a top pick for New York online casino players, and it’s making waves here in Minnesota as well.
When I first logged in, I was hit with a massive wall of online casino games. Thinking about it, I should have expected something like that, considering the site’s name. I think I read somewhere on the site that it has 1,500+ games, which is a very high count from experience.
The two things I liked most were that the casino seemed to add to that collection all the time with new slots, while the promotions page was packed with offers. The welcome bonus alone will keep you busy, as it gives you free spins across ten days. Also, there are over twenty payment options ranging from debit cards to several cryptocurrencies.
Beyond the slots, they’ve got live casino games that work surprisingly well on mobile. Think blackjack, roulette, and even baccarat with fully trained live dealers. It’s not as flashy as a Vegas-style casino, but if you want nonstop slots and a truckload of bonuses, this site delivers.
It’s perfect for anyone who left Mystic Lake thinking, ‘I wish I had spent more time on the slot machines.’
Slots.lv – Live Casino Variety
Slots.lv has a minimalistic but trendy interface that instantly made me think of walking into one of those VIP rooms at Running Aces. I liked the tone right away, as it gave off a no-nonsense and serious vibe.
For me, Slots.lv is a prime gambling site for Minnesota casino players who like live dealer games, especially online blackjack. The dealers are professional, and the streams are usually silky smooth. There are also plenty of stake levels available, so you can comfortably play online casino games that fit into your budget.
They’re also offering a hefty welcome bonus and a few other frequent promos, though it’s not quite as promo-filled as some of the others that I checked out.
Still, compared to other sites I tried, Slots.lv felt the most ‘grown up’, if you like. Fewer gimmicks, just serious online gambling. In fact, it’s one I’ve still been checking out even though I am back from Minnesota.
Bovada – Competitive Betting Odds
Since legal online sports betting in Minnesota is still a few years away, if you only want to sign up at one site and cover all your bases — whether that’s slots, live games, video poker, or Minnesota sports gambling — Bovada’s your best bet.
It’s like an all-in-one stop for online gambling; there’s something for everyone. There’s a reason why it’s hailed as one of the leading betting sites in states like Florida.
That’s why I used it mostly for mobile sports betting while I was in Minnesota. Odds were solid, and the live betting options were better than I found elsewhere. You can wager on anything from NFL games to Aussie Rules if that’s your thing.
After getting my fill of MN sports betting on the site, I explored the casino side. There are more than enough slots, though not as many as a couple of the other sites I tried. I was impressed that Bovada authorizes crypto payouts within an hour, although that didn’t help me with Bitcoin, which is the only exception, as those transactions are processed within 12 hours.
Although it seems like a running theme with the Minnesota online gambling sites I’ve talked about so far, the welcome bonus here is great too. Actually, you can choose from two, but the crypto offer worth up to $3,750 is easily the best.
In-Person Gambling in Minnesota: Casinos That I Visited
Even before I visited, I had a sense of uncertainty about what to expect from the gambling scene in Minnesota. Would I be left underwhelmed? Would it compete with the gambling scene in states like South Carolina? Or would I wish I had booked a two-week stay instead of one?
I guess you’re about to find out as I take you through my one-week stay in the North Star State.
Mystic Lake Casino Hotel – A Premier Gambling Destination
Located just outside Minneapolis, Mystic Lake is one of those casinos that doesn’t mess around. As soon as I stepped in, I was hit by the scent of sizzling burgers from the grill, mixed with that unmistakable hum of spinning reels and chiming wins.
It’s huge. Seriously, you could get your daily steps in just by walking from the slot floor to the bingo hall. There were thousands of machines, plus table games and a decent sportsbook lounge where the screens are as big as your average garage door.
The crowd was lively yet relaxed, mainly consisting of locals out for a good time. I even caught a live band in one of the bars. Overall, I thought this was an ideal start to my journey exploring Minnesota’s best casinos.
Treasure Island Resort & Casino – A Riverfront Escape with a Party Vibe
Next up was Treasure Island, down along the Mississippi River. I wasn’t sure what to expect, but this place is a bit of a party palace. The second you walk in, there’s this tropical-meets-Midwest energy. There were flashing lights everywhere, upbeat music, and a crowd that was clearly there to party while gambling.
The casino floor is massive, featuring over 1,800 slots and a diverse selection of table games. I spent a good hour bouncing between blackjack and craps. Then I grabbed some food, a few drinks, and planned my assault on the roulette tables.
What sets Treasure Island apart, though, is everything around the casino. There’s everything from a bowling alley, water park, and even a concert hall for big events. It’s the kind of place where you can win (or lose) a few bucks, then belt out karaoke or hit the lazy river.
Running Aces – Card Sharks, Live Racing & Small-Town Charm
Just a short drive north of the Twin Cities, Running Aces feels like a hidden gem tucked away in Columbus.
Unlike the big tribal casinos, this one leans heavily into poker and table games. It’s even got its own legit racetrack right outside, which adds a unique charm that not many other Minnesota casinos can match.
As with a few of the other casinos I visited, there’s a more intimate, locals-first vibe. That’s to be expected — this is not tourist-heavy Vegas.
As for gaming options, you won’t find rows of slot machines here. This place is all about poker, table games, and the ponies. I was told that during race season, the place is electric. You can grab a cold beer, place a couple of bets, and sit back and watch the action.
Grand Casino Hinckley – No-Frills Fun and a Surprisingly Great Buffet
I wrapped up my Minnesota casino tour at Grand Casino Hinckley, and honestly? It was a great way to finish. This place has a more laid-back, old-school vibe compared to Mystic or Treasure Island, but that’s not a bad thing.
The crowd was mostly regulars, and there was a friendly energy that made you feel welcome right away. The slots lean more classic, but there’s still a decent range of new titles and a few progressive jackpots. I found the table game section a bit on the small side, but the staff were extremely friendly and ensured I had a great time.
Is it bad of me to say that the best part about Hinckley was the buffet? I wasn’t expecting prime rib and bread pudding to steal the show, but there we are. That’s not a negative on the gaming side of things, by the way, just that the buffet stole the show.
The on-site hotel is surprisingly modern, and the restaurant serves up solid burgers. I also recommend the breakfast-for-dinner plates, which really hit the spot after a few rounds of cards.
What I Learned About In-Person & Online Gambling in Minnesota
I didn’t just stroll through Minnesota’s casinos to see what games they had. The goal was to explore the state’s gambling landscape, both online and offline. I wanted to see what the general gambling culture was like, how friendly the people were, and how the scene compares to other states.
Diverse Casino Offerings
Whether you’re a seasoned card shark or a casual slots spinner, there’s something here for everyone. Some spots, like Mystic Lake and Treasure Island, cater to big spenders and offer massive gaming floors with hundreds of machines and dozens of tables.
Others, like Running Aces, lean more toward poker and table games and have a more local vibe. One casino even has a racetrack. There’s a definite sense that each casino has its own personality, which is something I love.
Resort-Style Amenities
I was pleasantly surprised by just how much non-gaming entertainment is on offer. These places are more than just casinos. There are spas, fine dining, shopping, and plenty of other forms of entertainment.
Mystic Lake’s event center books big-name acts, and Treasure Island’s marina and RV park turn a gambling trip into a mini-vacation.
Friendly Staff
Across the board, I met some really nice floor and table staff. Even the other players I talked with were generally courteous. When I wasn’t gambling, the customer support staff were happy to offer directions or give me advice on the best food to try.
It made the whole experience feel more welcoming.
The players, too, tended to be courteous and laid-back. Sure, I ran into a couple of grumps along the way (you always do), but the overall vibe was relaxed and respectful.
Many Minnesota Online Gambling Alternatives
As we wait for the state to legalize sports betting and online casinos run from within Minnesota, residents have no shortage of safe online casinos and sportsbooks that operate from outside the state. I found a bunch of quality Minnesota betting apps offering everything from live dealer blackjack to same-game parlays on the NFL.
Sites like Slots.lv and Bovada stood out for their reliability and casino bonus offers, but honestly, I could’ve spent days just digging through different casinos and Minnesota online sports betting platforms. If I hadn’t spent so long glued to the blackjack table at Treasure Island or wandering the Mystic Lake complex, I might’ve found even more.
The Minnesota Gambling Scene Has Something for Everyone!
Wrapping up my experience, I’ve got to say that my experience gambling in Minnesota was all the better thanks to the locals. It was great to experience their way of doing things while we shared tables and shuffled chips together.
Put simply, casinos in Minnesota offer a touch of glitz that residents don’t see anywhere else, making them a place to dress up or celebrate a special occasion.
I just wish I had stayed longer, and not just because there are many tribal casinos to work through. Minnesota really is a beautiful state, and I’d have loved to see more of the beauty it offers.
Would I recommend the North Star State and its gambling scene to fellow casino lovers? Absolutely! It’s a refreshingly local experience, with a down-to-earth vibe that’s not built around tourists, and that’s exactly what makes it worth the trip.
Guide to In-Person and Online Gambling in Minnesota – FAQs
Find clear answers to the most common questions about Minnesota sportsbooks and other online gambling options available in the state.
What Is the Best Time to Visit Minnesota Casinos?
The best time to visit Minnesota casinos depends on the kind of vibe you enjoy. For a more relaxing experience, consider visiting during the week. Alternatively, for a louder atmosphere, the weekends, especially closer to midnight, are your best bet.
Do Minnesota Casinos Require a Dress Code?
The Minnesota casinos I visited required smart casual attire, but I recommend checking the dress code before visiting any establishments I did not mention in my guide.
What Should I Bring for In-Person Gambling in Minnesota?
Aside from a betting budget, you’ll need to bring identification and some comfortable attire that’s smart casual when visiting an in-person gambling casino in Minnesota.
Can I Gamble Online in Minnesota?
Although Minnesota has yet to legalize online gambling for real money, lawmakers continue to debate the latest version of the Minnesota sports betting bill. That said, residents can still access reputable offshore gambling sites, such as Ignition and BetOnline. Additionally, many Minnesotans turn to social casinos, which offer a legal way to play popular slots and table games using virtual currency.
Are Minnesota Online Gambling Sites Safe?
Yes, Minnesota online gambling sites are safe, as long as you choose well-established and reputable platforms. If you stick to those MN sportsbook sites I’ve mentioned in the guide, you’ll be fine.
Is Sports Betting Legal in Minnesota?
No, sports gambling in Minnesota is not legal. That doesn’t look likely to change within the next couple of years, and another reason why bettors are opting to use reputable out-of-state Minnesota sportsbook sites instead.
When Will Minnesota Legalize Online Sports Betting?
As things stand, it looks like it will take a few years for Minnesota to legalize online sports betting, but the momentum is definitely building.
Gambling is risky. 21+ only. Please call 1-800-GAMBLER or seek help at gamblersanonymous.org if you have a gambling problem.