If you're visiting Grand Marais, Minnesota, and have a hankering for some slots or table games, you're not out of luck. While this picturesque North Shore town doesn't have a casino within its limits, there are a couple of solid gambling destinations within a reasonable drive. For US players, especially those from Minnesota or Wisconsin, knowing where to go can add some extra fun to your Northwoods adventure.
Grand Portage Lodge & Casino: The Nearest Gaming Destination
Located about 35 minutes northeast of Grand Marais via Highway 61, Grand Portage Lodge & Casino is your closest option. Operated by the Grand Portage Band of Lake Superior Chippewa, this casino features over 400 slot machines, including popular video slots and progressives. You'll also find classic table games like blackjack, roulette, and craps. The lodge offers stunning Lake Superior views, a hotel, and dining, making it a great spot for a day trip or overnight stay.
What's the Game Selection Like at Grand Portage?
The slot floor at Grand Portage is updated regularly with new titles, ranging from traditional reels to games based on popular culture. Table game minimums are player-friendly, with blackjack often starting at $5 a hand. They don't have a dedicated poker room, but they occasionally host poker tournaments—check their event calendar before you go.
Other Regional Casinos Within a Few Hours' Drive
If you're up for a longer drive, Fortune Bay Resort Casino in Tower, MN, is roughly 2.5 hours west. It boasts over 1,000 slots, 20 table games, and a poker room. Black Bear Casino Resort in Carlton, MN, is about 2 hours southwest and offers a similar array of games plus amenities like a golf course. Both are tribal casinos and provide a full resort experience.
Player's Clubs and On-Site Promotions
Physical casinos near Grand Marais reward loyalty through players clubs. Signing up for the Grand Portage Club Pass is free and can score you free play offers, meal discounts, and entry into prize drawings. These clubs don't have wagering requirements like online bonuses; you just earn points as you play.
Online and Sweepstakes Casinos Accessible in Minnesota
Minnesota hasn't legalized real-money online casinos yet, but many players turn to legal sweepstakes casinos. Platforms like Chumba Casino and LuckyLand Slots are available statewide and use a sweepstakes model where you can play slots-style games and redeem Sweeps Coins for cash prizes. You can't deposit directly with Visa or Mastercard for gameplay, but you can use them to purchase gold coins for fun.
How Sweepstakes Casino Bonuses Work
For example, Chumba Casino offers new players 2 Sweeps Coins just for signing up—no deposit needed. There's no wagering requirement on winnings from these coins; you can request a cash withdrawal once you meet a minimum threshold. It's a legal way to enjoy casino-style games from your Grand Marais cabin.
FAQ
What is the closest casino to Grand Marais, Minnesota?
Grand Portage Lodge & Casino is the closest, located about 35 minutes away by car on Highway 61. It's the only casino in the immediate Grand Marais area.
Can I play online casinos legally in Minnesota?
Real-money online casinos aren't legal in Minnesota yet. However, sweepstakes casinos like Chumba Casino and LuckyLand Slots are fully legal and accessible to Minnesota residents, offering a similar experience without traditional betting.
What's the legal gambling age at casinos near Grand Marais?
In Minnesota, you must be 18 years or older to gamble at tribal casinos like Grand Portage. This is lower than many states where the age is 21, so it's a perk for younger players.
Do these casinos accept credit cards or digital payments?
For cash advances at the cage, most casinos accept Visa and Mastercard, but fees often apply. On the floor, you'll need cash or to purchase chips with cash. Sweepstakes casinos online allow purchases with credit cards for gold coins, but not for direct sweeps coin buys.
Are there hotel packages or stay-and-play deals?
Grand Portage Lodge & Casino frequently offers hotel packages that include dining credits or free play, especially during off-peak seasons. It's best to check their website or call ahead for current promotions, as these deals vary.