As the holiday season and winter temperatures set in, we can all use a quick getaway to ease our minds. We are excited to unveil some of our favorite places to escape the hustle and bustle of shopping and stress and remind you of great places to stay and play. Casinos put a lot of effort into creating winter wonderlands for their guests to really feel the warmth and cheer of the season, and they also host great parties, promotions, shows and specials so make sure to cash in on the fun.
Beau Rivage Resort & Casino (Biloxi, MS) – 1-888-750-7111
Featuring one of the most elaborate holiday decorations of any casino in the country, Beau Rivage fills their property with cheer as soon as you walk in the center atrium. This fantastic resort on the Mississippi Gulf Coast features one of the top hotels in the region, a first class casino with over 1,800 slots and dozens of traditional table games, a relaxing spa, eight restaurants, and golf at Fallen Oak, designed by the famous course architect Tom Fazio. You can even catch a Biloxi Shuckers baseball game at MGM Park across the street when in season.
What’s more, Beau Rivage is steeped in the holiday spirit every winter. Don’t miss the Christmas Wonderland in the Beau Rivage Theatre from December 21-29 where you’ll experience on of the most delightful Christmas shows ever. The dazzling cast and high kicking chorus girls is ideal for the whole family. Tickets start at just $10.95 with room packages for $99 for two tickets and a room (Use code Holiday16) and discounted family four packs for just $40. The best part is that kids under 12 eat free at the Beau Rivage Buffet on the same day of the show! The property will also host free pictures with Satna at the buffet December 11-15 and 18-22 where kids will eat free at the buffet (with adult purchase) and other great holiday fun.
The fun continues in the Beau Rivage theatre with Donnie & Marie’s Holiday show on December 2, Martina McBride on December 10 and the Molly Ringwalds ringing in the new year. Lastly, don’t M Life Reward Members can earn $5 in Mistletoe Money for every 1,000 slot points earned from December 1-24 and the Winning Wonderland Giveaway offers guests a share of $500,000 in FREEPLAY and prizes including a new Lexus!
Scarlet Pearl Casino Resort (D’Iberville, MS) – 1-228-392-1889
The Scarlet Pearl is the latest addition to the Gulf Coast casino family and with it brings gaming fun with an exotic flair to the area. The hotel contains 800 modern, well-appointed rooms, and the casino features over 1,350 slot machines and 45 gaming tables, including Roulette and Craps. For big spenders, there’s plenty of action in Pearl Cove, the high-limit room. For family fun, or some outside the casino action on the links, there are two challenging mini-golf courses at Lava Links Golf Club–not to mention a real erupting volcano! For empty stomachs, there’s a variety of world cuisines at the Waterfront Buffet, along with gorgeous coastal views.
On sunny days, a dip in the Garden Oasis pool is a great way to relax, and during football season, there’s nothing like catching a game on the 144-square-foot screen at PRL Bar. What more could you want?
IP Casino Resort Spa (Biloxi, MS) – 1-888-946-2847
The IP Casino Resort & Spa brings Vegas excitement to the Gulf Coast. Their award-winning, 32-story hotel overlooking the Back Bay boasts over 1,000 rooms. Their 70,000-square-foot casino boasts over 1,700 slots and over 60 table games, including Blackjack, Craps, Four-Card Poker and Pai Gow. The IP partners with the Shell Landing Golf Club, where golfers will find more than 7,000 yards of scenic coastal geography. And the luxurious thirty-two steak and seafood restaurant features the finest wine selection in Southern Mississippi.
The IP’s upcoming entertainment lineup is nothing short of stellar. Classic rock greats Lonestar rock out on December 9. And on December 16, “A Wynonna & The Big Noise Christmas” hits the stage, including a mix of holiday favorites as well as Wynonna Judd’s biggest country smashes. And in January, don’t miss Neil Sedeka on the 20th and Clay Walker on the 27th. What a way to ring in the holiday season!
Gold Strike Resort & Casino (Tunica, MS) – 1-888-245-7829
The Gold Strike is the perfect place to flirt with Lady Luck. The 50,000-square-foot casino floor boasts over 1,400 slots and over 40 table games, including Caribbean Stud and Mississippi Stud–and the Gold Strike features the only smoke-free gaming area in Tunica. Wednesdays in November, don’t miss Fall into FREEPLAY, the $135,000 slot series.
After a long night of gaming, guests can relax in the stylish hotel, complete with such luxurious amenities as the Reflections Spa and a heated indoor pool. Gold Strike offers several delicious dining options, including Pickle & Jam, known for its 16 televisions and its wide craft beer selection.
Hollywood Casino (Tunica, MS) – 1-800-871-0711
Step into the spotlight at Hollywood Casino offers a combination of Southern hospitality and Hollywood glamour. In the casino, guests can try their luck at over 1,100 slot machines and 26 table games–or step into the Poker Room for some serious action. In the Hollywood Hotel, guests can stay in either a five-story tower overlooking the casino floor, or an eight-story tower overlooking the River Bend Golf Links and plains of Mississippi.
The Spa Around the Corner provides rest and relaxation, and the River Bend Links Golf Course offers priority tee times to Hollywood guests. Dine right on the casino floor at the Celebrity Grill, or go all-you-can-eat in the authentic film studio backlot atmosphere of the Epic Buffet.
Paragon Casino Resort (Marksville, LA) – 1-800-946-1946
Laissez les bons temps rouler at the Paragon, which truly does have something for everyone. Guests can rest their weary heads in one of 500 upscale hotel rooms–or for those on the road, the Paragon provides a 200-space RV Park, complete with its own clubhouse and pool. Families can check out the daily live alligator shows, learn about the Tunica-Biloxi tribe from real native legend keepers, dive into the three indoor and outdoor pools, take a hike on the nature trail, or catch a flick at the Paragon Cinema. Once the kids are tuckered out, adults can step into the casino to enjoy over 1,000 slots and a variety of table games, including Mississippi Stud Poker and 3-Card Blackjack.
Guests can dine at several different restaurants, such as Roxy’s Diner, a 1950’s-style joint open 24/7. They can hit the greens at the Tamahka Trails Golf Club, part of the lauded Audubon Golf Trail.
Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort (Cherokee, NC) – 1-828-497-7777
Harrah’s Cherokee provides a dazzling gaming experience in North Carolina. Hope you’re not afraid of heights–their 21-story hotel features over 1,000 rooms, as well as an indoor and outdoor pool. Hope you like wide-open spaces–their casino floor spans an epic 150,000 feet, and contains plenty of slots along with over 100 table games, including Blackjack, Craps, and Roulette. The Mandara Spa offers guests a relaxing experience in the Balinese tradition, and Ruth’s Chris Steak House serves rich cuts of meat broiled in their signature style–cooked at 1,800° and served on a 500° plate.
Harrah’s Cherokee kicks off the holiday season on December 9 with the popular Irish show Celtic Woman: Home for Christmas.
Rising Star Casino (Rising Sun, IN) 1-812-438-1234
The Rising Star shines as much as its name. The hotel and lodge on the banks of the Ohio River contain nearly 300 rooms and an indoor pool, sauna, and hot tub. The casino features more than 1,000 slot games including video poker and keno, along with a variety of table games such as Craps and Spanish 21. Catch stunning river views while you grab a bite to eat at the aptly-named River View Buffet, as well as on the Tim Liddy-designed, Scottish links-style golf course.
Beginning this month, Santa wiggles his nose, and the Rising Star magically transforms into the Christmas Casino! Don’t miss holiday-themed slots and table games, a twenty-foot Christmas tree, animated winter scenes, and live reindeer at Santa’s stables. Come meet Dasher, Dancer, Prancer, Vixen, Comet, Cupid, Donner, Blitzen, and of course, that most famous reindeer of all, Rudolph.
French Lick Resort (French Lick, IN) – 1-888-936-9360
French Lick Resort is one of Indiana’s most spectacular gaming destinations. Stay in one of two historic hotels–French Lick Springs, built in 1845, or the West Baden Springs Hotel, built in 1902–that contain nearly 700 elegant rooms between them. Gamble beneath the lofty ceilings of the 51,000-square-foot casino, where guests can enjoy 1,000 slots and 37 table games. If that weren’t enough, guests can also golf on multiple renowned courses, go horseback riding at the stables, or have some family fun at the bowling alley and arcade.
French Lick elevates holiday spirit to a whole new level. The tree lighting on November 18 features fireworks and a visit from Santa. Santa returns on select Fridays and Saturdays for the Polar Express Train Ride, November 4 through December 17. Guests on the Polar Express will also find hot chocolate, gifts, and Christmas carols–pajamas are encouraged! The Gaither Vocal Band performs their Christmas Homecoming show on November 19, and guests can spend New Year’s Eve at two extravagant theme parties: “Fire and Ice” or “Festival of the Gods.”
Black Bear Casino Resort (Carlton, MN) – 1-888-771-0777
The Black Bear shines bright in the North Star State, providing a fantastic gaming experience. The casino features more than 1,800 video slots, weekly poker tournaments, and nightly bingo games. The hotel tower features 250 upscale rooms, as well as a 10,000-square-foot indoor pool complex that includes two hot tubs and a sauna making for a great indoor oasis.
Hard Rock Hotel & Casino (Sioux City, IA) – 1-712-226-7600
Sioux City’s Hard Rock Hotel & Casino proves that there’s far more to Iowa than cornfields. Stay in one of 54 rock’n’roll-inspired rooms in the historic Battery Building. Play 26 table games and 839 slot and video poker machines–including one of the first 3D machines in Iowa. Sample global cuisine at the World Tour Buffet, and nosh on pub grub at the British-style Main + Abbey.
If you don’t have New Year’s plans yet, join the fun of dueling pianos on December 31 as you ring in the new year singing your favorite classics!
Treasure Island Resort & Casino (Welch, MN) – 1-800-222-7077
Treasure Island makes the most of its location on Sturgeon Lake, gateway to the mighty Mississippi River. Along with their hotel and RV Park, the resort has a marina where guests can dock their ships. No boat of your own? Take a cruise on the luxurious Spirit of the Water liner. And don’t let winter stop you from slipping into your swimsuit. The Lagoon Water Park features two water slides, a lazy river, and a swim-up bar–for adults only. The casino has more than 2,200 slot, video poker, and video keno machines, several hundred of which are smoke-free, as well as traditional table games, and Minnesota’s favorite game: Pull Tabs.
Holiday Happenings: Donny & Marie perform holiday classics on December 9 and ring in the New Year with rock legends The Guess Who performing on December 31, singing hits such as “American Woman” and “These Eyes.”
Ho-Chunk Gaming (Baraboo, WI) – 1-800-746-2486
Ho-Chunk Gaming has made a name for themselves in Wisconsin boasting six locations sprawling throughout the state. Ranging from Wittenberg and Nekoosa down to Wisconsin Dells and Madison, there is never a shortage of fun and entertainment. At the Wisconsin Dells location, you’ll find a hotel with 300 comfortable rooms, a spa and luxurious indoor pool for ultimate power relaxing. New Year’s Eve rates starting at $299 per night so don’t delay in making your reservation! The casino has a wide variety of table games–including Poker, Blackjack, Craps, and Baccarat–as well as both mechanical and video slots and dine at any of the resort’s five restaurants and you won’t be disappointed. Make it a priority to make reservations at Copper Oak Steakhouse or the best in steak and seafood options. All of the locations either have their own hotel or partnerships with conveniently located partner hotels that will make you feel right at home, with most offering great Stay & Play offers starting at under $100 and some including casino free play and dining discounts.
Holiday Happenings: New Year’s Eve Bingo packets are on sale now for $75 for a paper buy-in and $100 for electronic. Have your daubers ready to ring in 2017.
Menominee Casino Resort (Keshena, WI) – 1-800-343-7778
If you’re looking for a comprehensive gaming destination, look no further than Menominee Casino Resort–they’ve literally thought of everything when it comes to having a good time. Their 33,000-square-foot casino has all the slots and table games you could ever want, including Blackjack, Craps, and Mississippi Stud. Their 300-room hotel boasts a giant indoor swimming complex, including a 121,000-gallon pool, an 800-gallon spa, a steam room, and a fitness room. Be sure to check out the new Autumn Leaf Café, serving up quick, tasty bites 24 hours a day. And if you need some action on your way in or out of town, you can stop at The Thunderbird, the gas station and convenience store with 30 slot machines of its own and a full bar.
Rhythm City Casino Resort (Davenport, IA) – 1-844-852-4386
Rhythm City is a premier gaming resort, featuring a modern hotel and a casino packed with fun. There are plenty of slots, both new and old, nearly 30 table games and an 8-table poker room with a spread of everything from Texas Hold ‘em to Omaha. The resort will pamper from the moment you arrive with a full service spa offering the most popular treatments and relaxation areas to kick back. Your culinary desires will be met with Ruthie’s Steak and Seafood while enjoying great river views, or dine in a more casual setting at Robert’s Buffet offering food themes changing every day, but always satisfying.
Holiday Happenings: In December, mark your calendars for two spectacular holiday shows: Christmas with the Nelsons (sons of Ricky) on December 11, and the always rockin’ Melissa Etheridge on December 17, who will be performing songs from her holiday album as well as a few classics.
Riverside Casino & Golf Resort (Riverside, IA) – 1-877-677-3456
Riverside brings bright Vegas action to the fertile plains of Iowa. The casino features 1,000 slot machines, 24 Blackjack tables, and weekly Poker tournaments. The hotel’s rooms were remodeled in 2014, and they offer stunning views of the 18-hole golf course designed by Rees Jones. Take some time to unwind at the Aveda spa, and grab a bite to eat at one of three restaurants.
Be sure to stop by Riverside on December 10, the legendary crooner Michael Bolton will sing his greatest hits as well as holiday favorites.
MGM Grand Detroit (Detroit, MI) 1-877-888-2121
The MGM Grand brings luxury and excitement to the heart of Detroit. Stay in one of the many upscale hotel rooms–or perhaps splurge on the 1,000-square-foot sumptuous corner suite. Play in the casino, which is nothing short of giant–it boasts nearly 3,500 slots and video poker machines, as well as 121 of your favorite table games. Be sure to visit the premier Poker Room on the third floor, where tournaments are held every Saturday and Sunday.
Relax at the IMMERSE Spa, or take a dip in the indoor infinity-edge pool. Dine at one of two restaurants by celebrity chef Wolfgang Puck. And on December 3, don’t miss the comedy of Joel McHale, star of NBC’s Community and the brand new CBS sitcom The Great Indoors.
