I’m not a huge gambling woman, but the thing about casinos these days is that they’re about so much more than slot machines. We have several noteworthy casinos in Minnesota, and one of the best in the Midwest, Mystic Lake, is located just 25 minutes from the Twin Cities. With a 600-room hotel, it’s a nice escape from the everyday grind.
When I was in college, I used to go to Mystic to play bingo. Twenty bucks got us about three hours of entertainment—fairly intense entertainment at that, daubing multiple bingo cards at one time. My best showing? $400! I’d say that’s a pretty good return on investment.
Besides a 600-seat bingo hall, Mystic also boasts 400 blackjack tables and 4,000 slot machines. The property hosts high-class entertainment, too, in its 2,100-seat showroom with names like Jay Leno, Howie Mandel, Lynard Skynyrd, Kenny Rogers and more making appearances here.
I’ve had the most awesome experience at the spa, too. Think pre-massage foot soak, a massage table that conforms to your body, and a post-treatment rinse in the nine-head shower. Seriously, it’s heaven. Tip: You don’t have to be staying in the hotel to enjoy the spa, so make an appointment today!
Mystic Lake is also known across the Midwest for its buffet (and it’s amazing wild rice soup); the property has seven restaurants for every taste, including Mystic Steakhouse. Another recent bonus is that Mystic now has a liquor license, so you can sample some of the best in certain areas of the casino, like the Promenade Bar for craft beer or Drinx Bar, located near the blackjack pit.
During the warmer months, The Meadows golf course and its 18 holes is one of the prettiest around.
So, whether you’re looking to test your luck with the cards, see a great show, get pampered, or just have a nice, relaxing meal, Mystic Lake could be your first (and only) stop.
