Trying to find a minneapolis casino near mall of america can feel confusing when you just want to skip the retail fatigue and find some real gaming action. The Twin Cities area has specific gambling laws that dictate where you can play, and navigating those rules while you're visiting the massive Bloomington shopping complex requires a bit of local insight. While you won't find a gaming floor right next to the Nickelodeon theme park, you are surprisingly close to some of the best tribal gaming facilities in the region.
Why a minneapolis casino near mall of america is Worth the Short Drive
The Mall of America draws millions of visitors annually, but after hours of walking miles of retail corridors, many adults crave a different kind of entertainment. Seeking out a minneapolis casino near mall of america offers a shift from shopping to high-stakes fun. The closest options sit just a short ride away in Prior Lake and Shakopee, both offering expansive gaming floors that rival anything you'd find in Las Vegas. Because they operate on tribal land under federal law, these venues can offer a full suite of table games, slots, and sports betting that Minnesota state law otherwise restricts.
Relying on rideshares or a rental car makes the trip smooth. You can easily spend the afternoon hitting the shops, then transition into an evening of blackjack and live music without needing to navigate downtown Minneapolis traffic.
Top Regional Gaming Destinations
When you map out the local gaming scene, two major venues dominate the area. Both are operated by the Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community and sit just west of the mall in Scott County.
| Name | Offer | Payment Methods | Min Deposit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mystic Lake | 100% match up to $100 on first visit | Visa, Mastercard, PayPal, Play+, Cash | $10 |
| Little Six | $20 free slot play on signup | Visa, Mastercard, PayPal, Cash | $5 |
| Treasure Island (Welch) | 100% up to $200, 10x playthrough | Visa, Mastercard, ACH, Play+, Cash | $20 |
Mystic Lake is the largest casino in the state, with over 4,000 slot machines and 100 blackjack tables. Little Six is its sister property, offering a more intimate, relaxed atmosphere with around 800 slots. If you're willing to drive about 40 minutes southeast, Treasure Island provides a fantastic riverboat-style experience right on the Mississippi River.
Getting to a minneapolis casino near mall of america
Transportation is usually the first hurdle for visitors staying near the MOA. Fortunately, getting to a minneapolis casino near mall of america is straightforward. Mystic Lake runs complimentary shuttles from various hotels in the Bloomington area, including stops right at the mall. You just need to check their website or call the hotel concierge for the current shuttle schedule, which typically runs multiple times a day.
If you prefer to drive, it's a mere 15-minute trip via MN-13 West. Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are also plentiful in the Bloomington area, with a one-way trip usually costing between $15 and $25 depending on the time of day. Avoid trying to walk or bike, as the highways between the mall and the casinos are not pedestrian-friendly.
Games and Entertainment Options
Once you arrive, the variety of gaming options easily rivals major national destinations. Slot denominations range from penny machines to high-limit $100 spins, covering everything from classic three-reel games to modern video slots with progressive jackpots. Table game enthusiasts will find standard blackjack, craps, roulette, and various poker variants. Minnesota law requires that all table games use cards, which is why you'll see electronic roulette and craps using card-based RNG systems rather than traditional dice or wheels.
The sportsbook at Mystic Lake is a major draw, especially during NFL season. With massive TV walls and betting kiosks everywhere, catching a Vikings game here is an experience in itself. Beyond gambling, these venues host national touring comedians and musicians, offering a complete night out without needing to head back downtown.
What to Expect at a minneapolis casino near mall of america
First-time visitors to a minneapolis casino near mall of america are often surprised by the scale and quality of the resorts. Expect massive, luxurious hotel towers attached to the gaming floors. Dining options range from massive buffets and quick food courts to high-end steakhouses. You don't need to dress up; the vibe is strictly come-as-you-are, especially since many people are taking a break from shopping in their casual wear.
Signing up for the player's club is a must. Even if you only plan to visit once, the signup often triggers an instant free-play bonus or a dining credit. You'll need a valid government-issued ID to register. The casinos are strictly 18+ for gaming, and security is tight at the doors, so leave the fake IDs at home.
FAQ
Is there a minneapolis casino near mall of america within walking distance?
No, there is no minneapolis casino near mall of america within walking distance. Minnesota state law restricts commercial casinos in city limits, so the closest options like Mystic Lake and Little Six are located about 15 minutes away by car in Prior Lake and Shakopee. They are not accessible on foot from the mall.
Do the nearby casinos offer shuttle service from the Mall of America?
Yes, Mystic Lake Casino frequently provides complimentary shuttle services from several Bloomington hotels and the Mall of America. You should verify the current schedule online or ask your hotel concierge, as shuttle times vary by season and demand.
How old do you have to be to gamble at a minneapolis casino near mall of america?
You must be at least 18 years old to gamble at the tribal casinos near the mall. This includes playing slots, table games, and betting at the sportsbook. Security guards check IDs at the entrance, so always bring a valid driver's license or passport.
Can I play real money table games at these Minnesota casinos?
Yes, you can play real money table games. Because these are tribal casinos operating under federal law, they are permitted to offer blackjack, poker, and card-based versions of roulette and craps. You won't find traditional dice or spinning wheels, but the card-based equivalents play exactly the same way.
Whether you want to test your luck at the blackjack tables or simply enjoy a great dinner after a long day of shopping, finding a minneapolis casino near mall of america is an easy addition to your itinerary.