Is Mystic Lake Casino Smoke Free

You’re planning a night out at Mystic Lake Casino Hotel in Prior Lake, Minnesota, but you’re dreading the idea of coming home smelling like an ashtray. Maybe you have allergies, or you just want to breathe clean air while you play. So, what's the real deal with the smoke situation there? Let's clear the air, literally, and give you the straight facts so you know exactly what to expect before you walk through the doors.

Mystic Lake’s Current Smoking Policy

Mystic Lake Casino is not a completely smoke-free facility. Smoking is permitted in designated areas within the casino. However, they have made significant efforts to balance the preferences of smoking and non-smoking guests. The main gaming floor is where you’ll find the primary smoking sections. If you’re sensitive to smoke, you’ll notice it, especially around slot banks and table games in these zones. The casino uses a high-volume air filtration and ventilation system designed to constantly exchange the air, but on busy nights, the smell of cigarette smoke can be pervasive in the gaming areas. It’s not a ‘light up anywhere’ policy, but the designated areas are substantial parts of the active casino floor.

Non-Smoking Gaming and Hotel Areas

There is good news for those seeking a smoke-free experience. Mystic Lake has dedicated non-smoking gaming areas. You can find a selection of slot machines and sometimes electronic table games in these segregated sections. The hotel tower, including all guest rooms and suites, is 100% non-smoking. The convention center, many of the restaurants (like the buffet and signature dining spots), the entertainment showroom, and the indoor pool area are also smoke-free environments. If your main goal is to stay in a clean-air space, you can plan your visit around these areas and still enjoy much of what the resort offers.

Comparing to Other Minnesota Casinos

To understand Mystic Lake’s stance, it helps to look at its competitors. Many tribal casinos in Minnesota, including Treasure Island and Grand Casino Hinckley, have similar policies with designated smoking areas on the gaming floor. However, some venues have gone completely smoke-free. Canterbury Park’s card casino in Shakopee, for instance, is a non-smoking facility. Running Aces Casino in Columbus also offers a smoke-free environment. So, while Mystic Lake isn’t the only casino with smoking, players who prioritize a 100% smoke-free experience do have other options within a reasonable drive of the Twin Cities metro.

What Players Say About the Atmosphere

Player reviews consistently mention the smoke. Many non-smokers note that even with the ventilation, the casino air can feel heavy and smell of stale cigarettes, particularly on weekend evenings. Smokers, on the other hand, appreciate having ample space to smoke without leaving the gaming action. The consensus is that if you are highly sensitive, you should stick to the clearly marked non-smoking gaming sections, visit during off-peak hours like a weekday afternoon when it’s less crowded, or focus on the hotel amenities. It’s a classic compromise, and your enjoyment will heavily depend on your personal tolerance.

Future of Smoking Policies at Tribal Casinos

Smoking policies at tribal casinos are sovereign decisions made by each nation. There’s a growing trend nationwide, including at some tribal properties, toward creating smoke-free buildings. This is often driven by employee health concerns, broader public health trends, and customer demand. While there has been no official announcement from the Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community regarding a future full smoking ban at Mystic Lake, it remains a possibility as attitudes and regulations evolve. For now, the status quo of designated areas is firmly in place.

Tips for a Smoke-Free Visit

If you want to minimize exposure, here’s your game plan. First, head straight for the non-smoking gaming area—ask any slot attendant for directions. Second, plan to dine in one of the full-service, non-smoking restaurants. Third, consider staying overnight in the non-smoking hotel; you can often find package deals. Finally, if you’re going for a concert or event, the Mystic Showroom is a great smoke-free venue. Your jacket might still pick up a scent if you walk through the main casino floor, but these strategies will keep the bulk of your visit fresh.

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