You're planning a night out at Running Aces in Minnesota, maybe for the poker or the live harness racing, but you're wondering: can I just sit down at a slot machine and zone out for a while? It's a fair question. You don't want to drive all the way there only to find your favorite pastime isn't on the menu. Let's cut straight to the chase and map out exactly what you'll find on the gaming floor, so you can plan your trip (and your bankroll) with confidence.
The Short Answer: Yes, And Hundreds of Them
Absolutely, Running Aces Casino & Racetrack has slot machines. In fact, it's the central pillar of their electronic gaming floor. We're talking about a collection of well over 1,000 slot machines, ranging from classic three-reel games to the latest video slots with elaborate bonus features and progressive jackpots that can climb into the tens of thousands. The casino floor is designed around these machines, with dedicated high-limit areas for bigger players and plenty of popular titles scattered throughout for casual visitors.
What Kinds of Slot Games Will You Find?
You won't find the exact same library as a Las Vegas mega-resort, but the selection is robust and tailored to what Minnesotan players enjoy. Expect to see a strong mix of popular titles from major manufacturers like Aristocrat, IGT, and AGS. This means you'll recognize games based on themes like Buffalo, Wheel of Fortune, and Lightning Link. Look for multi-denomination machines that let you choose your bet level, from a penny up to $5 or more per spin. The high-limit room features machines with minimum bets starting at $1 and going much higher, often linked to the most lucrative progressives.
Beyond the Slots: The Full Gaming Menu
While the slots are the main draw for many, Running Aces offers a complete casino experience under one roof. It's not just a slots parlor.
Table Games and Poker
The casino floor features a lively table games section. You can find multiple blackjack tables with varying limits, along with classic carnival games like Three Card Poker and Ultimate Texas Hold'em. For poker purists, Running Aces hosts a dedicated poker room that is a staple of the Twin Cities scene. They run daily tournaments and consistent cash games, primarily in Texas Hold'em variants. The poker room action is a major reason many people visit, offering a legitimate alternative to the slot reels.
The Unique Draw: Live Harness Racing
This is what truly sets Running Aces apart. From late spring through early fall, the live harness racing season is in full swing. You can watch the races from the grandstand, the clubhouse, or even from the casino floor. Betting on the races adds a completely different, strategic layer to your visit. The casino also features a simulcast area where you can bet on horse and greyhound races from tracks across the country year-round.
What You Need to Know Before You Go
Running Aces is a physical, land-based casino in Columbus, Minnesota, about a 30-minute drive north of Minneapolis. This is crucial to understand because it operates under different rules than an online casino.
Age Limit and Identification
You must be 18 years or older to enter the casino gaming floor and to play the slot machines or table games. Valid photo identification is required. For the poker room and pari-mutuel wagering on the races, you must be 21. Always have your ID ready.
Payment and Payouts On-Site
This isn't an online casino where you use PayPal or a credit card. To play the slots, you'll use cash. Machines accept bills and usually have ticket-in, ticket-out (TITO) technology. This means when you cash out, you get a printed voucher ticket that you can either reinsert into another machine or take to the cashier's cage to redeem for cash. ATMs are available on the property. For table games, you buy chips with cash at the table.
How It Compares to Other Minnesota Casinos
Minnesota's casino landscape is dominated by tribal gaming. Running Aces, as a commercial track and casino, occupies a specific niche. Its slot count is substantial but generally smaller than the massive tribal casinos like Mystic Lake or Treasure Island. Its strength is the combination: a solid slots floor, a well-respected poker room, and the live racing experience. If your goal is purely maximum slot variety in a huge, resort-style setting, a larger tribal casino might have an edge. If you want the possibility of slots, poker, and betting on a live race all in one evening, Running Aces is uniquely positioned.
Planning Your Visit for Maximum Fun
Check the Running Aces website before you go. Look for their promotions calendar. They often run slot tournaments, offer match play coupons for table games, and have special drawings. These can add significant value to your bankroll. Also, review the live racing schedule if that interests you. Summer weekend nights combine all the elements—racing, casino action, and often outdoor entertainment—for a full, energetic experience. Dress is casual, and parking is free and plentiful.
FAQ
What is the minimum age to play slots at Running Aces?
You must be at least 18 years old with a valid photo ID to enter the casino floor and play the slot machines at Running Aces.
Does Running Aces have penny slots?
Yes, they have a wide variety of penny slot machines. Many are multi-denomination, allowing you to choose to bet 1 cent, 2 cents, 5 cents, or more per line.
Can you smoke at Running Aces Casino?
Running Aces Casino is a non-smoking facility. However, they do have designated outdoor smoking areas conveniently located near the casino floor entrances.
What are the poker room hours at Running Aces?
The poker room at Running Aces typically opens daily in the afternoon and runs until the early morning hours, often around 3 AM or later, depending on game traffic. It's best to call ahead or check their website for the exact daily schedule.
Do you have to pay to get into Running Aces?
No, there is no cover charge or admission fee to enter Running Aces Casino, the racetrack grandstand, or the simulcast area.