Grand Casino Mille Lacs

Grand Casino Mille Lacs — Gaming Floor

Grand Casino Mille Lacs stands as a premier gaming destination in central Minnesota, owned and operated by the Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe since opening in 1991. This expansive 68,000-square-foot gaming floor houses over 1,800 slot machines featuring denominations ranging from one cent to five dollars, accommodating players of every budget level. Furthermore, the casino maintains 18 blackjack tables offering two-deck, four-deck, and six-deck variations to satisfy different playing preferences. The property also features regular bingo sessions with cash prizes and pull-tab gaming options throughout the facility.

The Grand Rewards Players Club has earned recognition as the Best Players Club by Midwest Gaming & Travel for an impressive 14 consecutive years, delivering exceptional value through free play credits, dining rewards, hotel discounts, and entertainment benefits. Members enjoy reciprocal benefits at the sister property Grand Casino Hinckley, maximizing their earning potential across both locations. Additionally, the casino operates a Caesars Sportsbook, allowing guests to place wagers on professional and college sports in a comfortable environment. The gaming floor maintains 24/7 operations with both non-smoking areas and designated smoking sections to accommodate all preferences.

Hotel & Accommodations

The Grand Casino Mille Lacs hotel represents one of Minnesota’s largest casino resort properties, featuring 494 guest rooms and suites within walking distance of the pristine shores of Lake Mille Lacs. However, the most significant development involves the ongoing multi-million-dollar renovation project that began in fall 2023, which is comprehensively updating all guest rooms across both Grand Casino properties. This extensive renovation ensures modern amenities and contemporary comfort for all visitors. The three-star accommodations provide excellent value for families and gaming enthusiasts seeking extended stays in central Minnesota.

Room configurations range from standard guest rooms to spacious suites, many offering scenic views of the surrounding lake and forest landscape. Notably, the hotel’s location provides direct access to some of Minnesota’s finest outdoor recreation opportunities. Guests can easily explore the adjacent Mille Lacs Kathio State Park for hiking and nature observation, or visit the culturally significant Mille Lacs Indian Museum and Trading Post to learn about local Ojibwe heritage and traditions.

Amenities & Entertainment

Grand Casino Mille Lacs offers an impressive array of recreational facilities designed to complement the gaming experience with relaxation and entertainment options. The centerpiece amenity features an oversized indoor swimming pool paired with a 20-person Jacuzzi, creating an ideal environment for unwinding after time on the gaming floor. In addition, the property maintains a fully equipped fitness center with premium exercise equipment for health-conscious guests. The retail shopping area includes distinctive outlets such as a Coach boutique, providing luxury shopping opportunities without leaving the resort.

The resort’s entertainment programming centers around the Grand Makwa Cinema and events center, which hosts live performances, concerts, and special events throughout the year. Meanwhile, the property’s lakeside location on Lake Mille Lacs provides unparalleled access to world-class fishing opportunities, particularly for walleye and muskie species that attract anglers from across the Midwest. The nationally recognized convention center accommodates corporate events, weddings, and large gatherings with professional event planning services.

Dining & Nightlife

Four distinct dining establishments at Grand Casino Mille Lacs cater to diverse culinary preferences, from upscale dining experiences to casual quick-service options. The flagship restaurant, 1991 Kitchen, derives its name from the casino’s founding year and serves as the premier full-service dining destination. This establishment features an extensive menu including premium steaks, fresh seafood preparations, gourmet burgers, and decadent cheesecake desserts. Furthermore, 1991 Kitchen offers comprehensive breakfast service with traditional favorites like biscuits and gravy alongside creative egg preparations.

Brand Burger Bar creates a vibrant sports-focused atmosphere with multiple large-screen televisions broadcasting games while serving exceptional burgers, sandwiches, and game-day favorites. Plums snack bar provides convenient light bites and quick-service options for guests seeking efficient dining without missing gaming action. As a result, Grand Cup & Cone rounds out the dining portfolio with specialty coffee drinks, hand-scooped ice cream, and sweet treats that appeal to guests of all ages throughout the day and evening hours.

Plan Your Visit

Grand Casino Mille Lacs enjoys a strategic location in Onamia, Minnesota, positioned directly off Highway 169 approximately 90 minutes north of the Minneapolis-St. Paul metropolitan area. This convenient location makes the resort easily accessible for both day trips and extended stays from Minnesota’s largest population center. The casino welcomes guests 21 years and older with 24/7 gaming operations, ensuring flexibility for visitors regardless of their preferred gaming schedule. Free self-parking eliminates additional costs and provides convenient access to the gaming floor and hotel facilities.

Among Minnesota casinos, Grand Casino Mille Lacs distinguishes itself through its comprehensive resort amenities and lakeside setting. Visitors planning trips to casinos in Onamia will find this property offers the most extensive gaming and hospitality options in the region. The Minnesota Gambling Control Board regulates all gaming operations, ensuring fair play and responsible gaming practices. Guests should consider seasonal factors when planning visits, as the lake setting provides different recreational opportunities throughout Minnesota’s distinct seasons, from summer fishing and water activities to winter ice fishing adventures.

Frequently Asked Questions