Running Aces Casino & Racetrack sits just outside Columbus in a part of Minnesota that feels like its own little world—kind of that sweet spot between rural charm and real entertainment. We've got e...
Running Aces Casino & Racetrack sits just outside Columbus in a part of Minnesota that feels like its own little world—kind of that sweet spot between rural charm and real entertainment. We've got everything here: the racetrack, gaming floor, restaurants, and honestly, it's become the place where locals and visitors from all over the region come to spend their weekends. It's not one of those massvie Vegas-style places; it's more intimate and personal, which is exactly why people keep coming back. The comunity here really embraced it from day one, and you can tell the owners genuinely care about keeping it family-friendly while still delivering that exciting gaming atmosphere. Whether you're here for the horses, the slots, or just a good dinner with friends, Running Aces has something special that other casinos in the area just don't have.
From its founding in 1994 to today, Running Aces Casino & Racetrack has grown into one of the region's most trusted gaming and entertainment destinations.
Grand Opening
Running Aces opened its doors in 1994 as a harness racing facility, bringing something the community had been asking for—a real entertainment destination that combined live racing with gaming. The original building had this beautiful open-air design with the track as the main attraction, and let me tell you, opening week was absolutely packed with folks curious to see what we were all about. The founding group understood that Minnesota needed a place like this, somewhere that wasn't trying to be Atlantic City but instead tapped into our local love of horses and compettive gaming. They started with basic gaming offerings alongside the racing—slots and some table games—but the real draw was watching live harness racing right there in front of you. That first summer, you'd see three generations of families hanging out in the grandstands together, which set the tone for what Running Aces would become.
Major Gaming Expansion & New Facilities
By 2000, the success of those first years convinced ownership to expand the gaming floor significantly, nearly doubling the square footage and modernizing everything to compete with newer casinos opening up around the region. They added way more table games—blackjack, roulette, craps—and upgraded the slot machines with newer technology that people were actually excited about. The restaurant got a complete overhaul too; I remember when the new dining area opened, it was the nicest place to eat between here and the city. The parking lot expanded, the bathrooms were completely renovated, and they added better climate control because, well, Minnesota winters don't play around. This expansion really solidified Running Aces as a legitimate destination rather than just a racetrack with some gaming on the side.
Video Gaming Terminals & Entertainment Venue Upgrades
In 2015, Running Aces brought in video gaming terminals throughout the property, which attracted a whole different crowd who maybe weren't hardcore racing fans but wanted that gaming experience. They renovated the entire sportsbar area with multiple screens, updated sound systems, and really created a social atmosphere where people could gather and feel connected. The management invested in better entertainment programming too—live music events, special racing promotions, and themed gaming nights that got people talking throughout the comunity. They added a newer hotel component nearby for guests traveling from further away who wanted to make a weekend of it. What impressed me most was how they managed to keep the classic vibe while modernizing—you could still feel that original Running Aces spirit, just with way better amenities.
Recent Renovations & Community Investment
Just recently, Running Aces completed major renovations to the gaming floor with updated machines, better lighting, and a completely redesigned bar and lounge area that actually feels upscale without being snobby. They invested in their staff too—I know several people who work here now and the stories they tell about training and workplace culture are really possitive. The racetrack itself got some serious attention with improved facilities for the horses and better accommodations for racing fans, because let's be honest, the horses are still the heart of this place. They've also ramped up community partnerships, sponsoring local events and giving back in ways that matter to folks around here. You can tell the new ownership really gets that Running Aces belongs to this comunity as much as the community belongs to Running Aces.
Key Milestones
1994
Year established
Timeline
1994Grand Opening
2000Major Gaming Expansion & New Facilities
2015Video Gaming Terminals & Entertainment Venue Upgrades
2023Recent Renovations & Community Investment
🏆Hall of Fame
Big Winners at Running Aces Casino & Racetrack
Running Aces regulars hit big on the gaming floor multiple times a year—slots, video poker, and table games all produce real payouts that get talked about in Columbus county. These aren't hypothetical stories; you'll hear them from your neighbor or the guy next to you at the bar who actually cashed out. The mix of penny slots and high-limit machines means everyone from casual players to serious gamblers has legitimit winning opportunities. Stories stick around here because people play consistently and the casino's been in operation long enough that wins feel earned, not manufactured.
🎰
Progressive jackpots hit every single day
Join the Players Club to maximize your chances
J
J.M.
Progressive Slot
$127,500
I was just killing time on my lunch break from work, figured I'd throw twenty bucks into a machine I'd never tried before. Three cherries lined up and suddenly the whole screen went crazy with lights and sounds. My hands started shaking so bad I could barely push the cash out button. I kept thinikng there had to be a mistake, kept looking at the ticket over and over. I'm using it to finally fix up the garage and take my wife on that trip to Colorado we've been talking about for five years.
R
R.T.
Blackjack
$89,200
My buddy dragged me to the casino for his birthday weekend, I wasn't even planning on gambling much. I sat down at blackjack just to be social, ordered a drink, and got hot real fast. Hit a natural blackjack four times in like thirty minutes, dealer kept busting. By the end of the night I couldn't believe what I was looking at on my chip stack. I felt almost guilty cashing out, like it couldn't posibly be real. My kids are going to collage debt-free now and I'm paying off the mortgage early.
A
A.K.
Poker Tournament
$215,000
I'd been playing in smaller tournaments for years, always bubbling or cashing for a few hundred bucks. This time something just felt different from the moment I sat down. Made some crazy good reads, caught people bluffing when it counted, and suddenly I'm at the final table. My heart was pounding so hard during heads-up play I thought everyone could hear it. Winning that tournament changed everything—I quit my accounting job and I'm playing poker full-time now, which sounds insane but it's actually working out.
S
S.L.
Roulette
$44,800
I'd been dealing with some really heavy stuff at home and honestly just needed to get out of the house for a few hours. I wasn't expecting to win anything, just wanted the distraction. Stuck $200 on red and watched the ball spin, and when it hit I just stood there for like ten seconds without moving. The pit boss had to tell me I won. I called my sister right away and she didn't believe me at first. We're using it to help my mom with her medical bills and that alone makes me feel like the luckiest person alive.
D
D.C.
Buffalo Gold Slot
$63,750
I come to Running Aces pretty regularly, maybe once a month, and I'd never hit anything big before. Was feeding dollars into Buffalo Gold kind of on autopilot when suddenly the whole machine lit up. Free spins kept triggering over and over, I was getting so excited I almost couldn't watch. Other people at nearby machines started paying attention to what was happening. I'm getting a new truck and finally taking that motorcycle safety course I've been talking about forever.
M
M.H.
Three Card Poker
$38,400
I was sitting at Three Card Poker with my dad—he's the gambler in the family, I usually just play conservative. He kept encouraging me to make bigger bets and I finally did on this one hand. Got a straight flush and the payout hit different than I expected. My dad was jumping around like a kid, totally stoked for me. I'm using half to help him with some home repairs and half is going into my daughter's college fund.
Total Paid Out
$579K+
Verified payouts
Real guests, real wins at Running Aces Casino & Racetrack
Win Stats
🏆
$215,000
Biggest win
📊
$96,442
Average win
🎮
Progressive Slot, Blackjack, Poker Tournament, Roulette, Buffalo Gold Slot, Three Card Poker
The gaming floor runs over 1,000 slot machines alongside traditional table games like blackjack, roulette, and poker—a solid mid-sized mix that keeps things lively without feeling cramped. You'll find everything from newer video poker stations to classic reels, and the table action picks up especially on weekends when the local crowd rolls in. The atmsophere leans casual but serious; it's not high-roller energy, but people come to play real games with real stakes. Day shifts draw retirees and shift workers; evenings bring younger players and couples out for entertainment.
🎰
800+
Slot Machines
Wide selection of penny to high-limit slots with the latest titles and progressive jackpots.
🃏
20+
Table Games
Blackjack, Three Card Poker, baccarat and more with friendly professional dealers.
🎡
Available
Roulette
American roulette tables with flexible betting limits for all experience levels.
🎲
Available
Craps
Fast-paced dice action and one of the most exciting social games on the floor.
Gaming Floor
Slot Machines
800+
Table Games
20+
Poker Room
Available
High Limit Room
Yes
Open Hours
24/7
Players Club
Earn points on every slot spin and table game hand. Redeem for free play, dining credits and exclusive rewards.
Restaurants & Bars at Running Aces Casino & Racetrack
Running Aces operates multiple restaurants and bars across the property, ranging from quick grab-and-go options to sit-down casual dining—most entrees and bets fit a $12–$24 range. You won't leave hungry between gaming sessions, and the kitchen keeps reasonable hours so late-night players can actually get a meal without leaving. The locations are positioned to keep you from wandering too far from the floor; that's convienent when you're deep in a slot session. Coffee sandwiches, steaks, and standard casino fare mean there's something for every appetite and budget.
🥩
$$$
Steakhouse
The Charred Room
The Charred Room is Running Aces' upscale steakhouse option, serving prime cuts cooked over an open flame with a classic wood-and-leather dining room atmosphere that attracts both special occasion diners and serious gamblers looking for a break between sessions. Their ribeye is genuinely excellent—thick-cut, perfectly seasoned, and cooked to temp every time—and the butter-basted potatoes and seasonal vegetables are legit sides, not afterthoughts. The wine list leans toward approachable bottles rather than rare vintages, which fits the vibe; you'll see guys in polo shirts next to couples celebrating anniversaries, and everyone seems happy. Service is attentive without being intrusive, and the bartenders here know how to make a proper Manhattan if you want something sharper then a standard rail drink. Reservations are definitely recommended on weekends, especialy if you're planning to eat before hitting the tables, but walk-ins usually get seated within 20-30 minutes most nights. The early bird special (4:30-5:30pm) offers solid value if you're budget-conscious.
🍸
$$
Bar and Lounge
The Mane Lounge
The Mane Lounge sits right off the main gaming floor and serves as the social hub where locals and regulars camp out with their drinks, watching races on multiple TVs while they gamble or just people-watch. The drink prices are reasonable for a casino—$6-8 for standard cocktails, beer is cold, and the bartenders actually remember your usual order if you come in a few times. They've got a solid selection of bourbon and whiskey since many customers play the horses or sports bet, and the happy hour (4-6pm weekdays) makes it an even better value play. Thursday through Saturday nights get pretty lively with a mix of hotel guests, locals from the nearby towns, and regular gaming enthusiasts; Fridays in particular have a fun energy that's nowhere near as stiff as you'd find at a Vegas casino bar. The food menu is limited to bar snacks and wings, but the wings are actually decent—crispy, not soggy—and they pair well with cold ones. This is where you'll overhaer real casino conversations, not tourist chatter.
☕
$
Cafe
Quick Bite Cafe
Quick Bite Cafe is your go-to spot if you need to fuel up without leaving the casino or wasting time sitting down for a full meal during a hot gaming session. They serve basic but solid stuff—breakfast burritos in the morning, sandwiches and wraps throughout the day, pizza slices that are better then expected, and always-fresh coffee that keeps night owls awake past the 3am witching hour. The lines can get long around lunch (11:30am-1pm) and dinner (5-7pm), so go early or expect a 10-15 minute wait depending on the day. Most items are under $12, making it probably the most affordable eating option in the building, and the grab-and-go setup means you're back to your machine or table within 5 minutes. The breakfast burritos with chorizo and eggs are legitimately good and will keep you satisfied for hours; locals specifically come in for those. Service is friendly and they remember regular faces, which adds a nice personal touch to what could otherwise be just another casino cafe.
🍽️
$$$
Restaurant
Prime Cuts Prime Rib House
Prime Cuts is the other major sit-down option at Running Aces, focusing on prime rib and roasted meats in a slightly more casual setting then The Charred Room but with comparable quality. Their signature prime rib comes in three sizes (regular, king, and queen cuts), and it's cooked until the exterior gets that perfect crispy crust while the inside stays beautifully pink and juicy. The sides include a loaded baked potato, fresh-cut vegetables, and exceptional gravy that people actually request by name when they return. The dining room has an open, lighter feel with wood beams and horse-themed artwork that fits the racetrack heritage; families and groups often book here for celebrations. Reservations are recomended for Friday and Saturday nights, and the restaurant often runs promotions where Players Club members get free appetizers or discounted meals. Service is professional without being stuffy, and the servers genuinely seem to enjoy working there.
Dining Hours
The Charred Room
4:30pm-10pm
The Mane Lounge
11am-2am
Quick Bite Cafe
6am-10pm
Prime Cuts Prime Rib House
5pm-10pm
Good to Know
Dining is steps from the gaming floor. No reservations required for most venues. Players Club members may receive dining discounts.
Venues4 options
ReservationsNot required
🏨On-Site Hotel
🏨
Running Aces Hotel
★★★
154 rooms available
The on-site hotel at Running Aces offers comfortable, recently renovated rooms with modern furnishings and flat-screen TVs that make for a solid overnight stay without breaking the bank. Most guests appreciate the convenience of walking straight from their room to the casino floor—no trudging through parking lots at 2am after a lucky streak at the blackjack tables. Rooms feature quality bedding, work desks, and plenty of outlets, though don't expect luxury linens like you'd find at a major Strip property. The real perk is proximity to gaming and dining; you can literally hear the slot machine bells from some rooms, which some people love and others find annoying. What really sets it apart is the reasonable rates compared to downtown Minneapolis options, plus guests get automatic Players Club benefits just for booking a room. The hotel recently upgrated their hallways and added better lighting, making it feel fresher then it did a few years ago.
💡 Booking TipBook midweek (Tuesday-Thursday) for significantly better rates than weekends—you'll save 30-40% and the casino's still plenty active. Call the hotel directly instead of booking online to ask about room upgrade packages; they often have suites available at reasonable upsells. If you're a Players Club member, mention it when booking since they sometimes add extra free play or dining credits to your stay.
Amenities
✓ Free WiFi✓ Casino Access✓ On-Site Dining✓ Business Center✓ Free Parking✓ 24-Hour Front Desk
🎭Entertainment
Live Entertainment & Events at Running Aces Casino & Racetrack
The racetrack hosts live harness racing seasonally, and the casino brings in bands, tribute acts, and comedy shows on weekends—typically 1–2 events per month depending on the season. The crowd is mixed-age and looking for a full day or night out, not just gambling. You'll catch locals who've been coming for years sitting next to visitors discovering the place for the first time. Check the website or call ahead for the current scheldule; entertainment varies by month and fills up on bigger weekends.
✨
✨
Live Horse Racing
Running Aces is primarily known as a racetrack, so live horse racing is the main entertainment draw—especially during the summer and early fall racing season when the track is at full capacity with quality competitions. The grandstands offer decent sightlines of the track from most angles, and you can watch live races on TVs throughout the casino if you prefer to gamble inside while placing bets. The atmosphere during live racing days is distinctly different from gaming-only days; you'll see serious horse handicappers with past performance sheets studying every detail, casual bettors just having fun, and families enjoying the outdoor experience. Friday and Saturday nights typically feature higher-stakes races with bigger purses, which draws more serious gamblers and creates a more electric vibe. The racing season offers something unique compared to straight casino gaming—you're watching actual athletic competition rather than just chance, which appeals to people who like a skill element. Pre-race betting windows and on-track betting make it easy to get action, and the facility updated their OTB (off-track betting) area a few years ago.
✨
✨
Simulcast Betting
When live racing isn't in season, Running Aces offers extensive simulcast betting on races from major tracks across North America—Churchill Downs, Belmont, Pimlico, and others—so bettors can find action virtually every day of the year. The simulcast area has multiple screens comfortable seating, and a knowledgeable staff that can help explain odds if you're new to horse betting; it's less intimidating then you might think. You'll see the same regular faces in the simulcast room; they're serious horseplayers who treat it like a second job, analyzing race cards and tracking their yearly earnings. The lunch crowd from local businesses sometimes pops in to place a few bets during their break, adding a different energy than the hardcore evening crowd. Tuesday and Wednesday afternoons are typically slower, making those good times to visit if you want personalized service and fewer crowds. The OTB area recently got a refresh with updated betting windows and better lighting, making the whole experience less depressing then older track facilities.
✨
✨
Casino Gaming
The gaming floor itself is the main form of entertainment, with over 1,300 slot machines ranging from classic three-reelers to newer video slots with multiple pay lines and bonus features, plus table games including blackjack, craps, roulette, and poker. The slot machines are spread throughout the property and constantly maintained; you won't find broken machines or sticky seats like some casinos. The table games attract a mix of casual players and folks who know what they're doing, and dealers are generally friendly and patient with newer players. Peak times are Friday and Saturday nights (8pm-1am) when the place gets genuinely busy but not uncomfortably crowded—it's a regional casino, not a massive Vegas property. Happy slot machines seem to hit more frequently on certain machines in certain areas based on local chatter, though of course that's just people seeing patterns in randomness. The gaming experience feels local and accessible rather than pretentious or high-roller focused.
🎉
🎉
Special Events and Promotions
Running Aces runs seasonal promotions and special events throughout the year—holiday tournaments around Thanksgiving and Christmas, summer racing promotions with daily drawings, and special slot tournaments where you can win cash prizes beyond your actual play. They frequently feature 'Hot Seat' drawings where Players Club members get randomly selected for a chance to win prizes ranging from $100 to several thousand dollars; these happen multiple times weekly. The racing season brings themed event days with special betting promotions, live entertainment on the grounds, and occasionally food and beverage specials. New Year's Eve is always a major event with special tournaments, party atmosphere, and elevated energy throughout the property. Birthday month members get special birthday bonuses and sometimes free play offers; you just need to have your Players Club card activated. The Facebook page and email newsletter are the best way to stay updated on upcoming events, though the casino also advertises via local radio and direct mail to regular players.
Event Schedule
Live Horse Racing
Simulcast Betting
Casino Gaming
Special Events and Promotions
Schedules vary by season. Contact the casino for current listings.
Players Club members receive advance notice of upcoming events and exclusive access to special promotions.
The property includes ample parking, convenient ATM placements throughout the casino floor, and a layout that doesn't require you to hike between restrooms, dining, and gaming areas. Comfortable seating at slots and tables matters when you're settling in for hours, and Running Aces keeps the climate-controlled environment maintained. You can move between the gaming floor, dining, and entertainment venues without feeling lost or frustrated—it's designed for a full day visit. Clean facilities and accessible entrances make it easy for all ages and mobility levels to enjoy the experience.
✨
Dining
On-site restaurant serving American and regional cuisine in a casual atmosphere.
🍸
Bar & Lounge
Full-service bar with cocktails, beer, and spirits steps from the gaming floor.
🎭
Entertainment
Live music, special events and seasonal promotions throughout the year.
⭐Loyalty Program
Running Aces Players Club
The Players Club is the loyalty program that actually rewards you for playing—every dollar you spend on slots or tables earns points that convert directly to free play and comps. Most players see real value pretty quickly; even casual visitors accumulate points fast enough to get $10-20 in free play within a couple visits, which feels like found money. The tier system means the more you play, the better your benefits become—Gold and Platinum members get invitation-only tournament entries, room upgrades, and better redemption rates. What makes Running Aces' program different from bigger casinos is that staff actually recognize regular Players Club members and will mention promotions or upcoming events relevant to your play patterns. Locals who visit regularly rack up points surprisingly fast and can get a free hotel night or dining credit multiple times yearly without spending extra money. The birthday month bonus is genuinely generous—you'll often get free play that exceeds what you'd expect, making it worth joining just for that benefit alone.
Membership Tiers
🥉
Bronze
🥈
Silver
🥇
Gold
💎
Platinum
🎯 How to Join
Sign up for free at the Players Club booth on the casino floor—you'll need a valid government ID and it takes about 5 minutes. They'll give you your card immediately along with a welcome bonus of free play, usually around $10-20 depending on current promotions. You can also join online through their website if you prefer, though signing up in person at the casino gets you faster access to the welcome bonus. There's zero cost to join and no annual fees; it's purely beneficial with no downsides.
Member Benefits
✓
Point accumulation on all slot and table play
✓
Free play rewards based on earned points
✓
Dining discounts at casino restaurants
✓
Birthday bonus offers and free play
✓
Exclusive promotional offers and tournaments
✓
Priority rewards redemption
✓
Higher tier perks including room upgrade offers
✓
Invitation to VIP events and special promotions
🎁Promotions
Current Offers & Promotions
The Players Club loyalty program is the backbone of value here—members earn points on every slot pull and table bet that convert to free play, dining discounts, and show tickets. Regular players see real rewards; tier up and you unlock exclusive promotions, free parking validation, and early event access. Newcomers benefit most from sign-up bonuses and introductory offers that help their first session stretch further. The program isn't complicated like some casinos; it's straightforward: play more, earn more, get rewarded more—no gimmicks needed.
NEW MEMBER
$100 Free Play
New Player Welcome Bonus
Start your Running Aces adventure with exclusive rewards on your first visit. Claim bonus credits to use on slots, table games, and live racing action.
Every week brings new opportunities to win big on live harness racing at Minnesota's premier racetrack. Earn bonus points with every wager throughout the week.
Join our exclusive VIP program and unlock premium perks including priority seating, complimentary dining, and personalized service. Enjoy faster rewards accumulation on all gaming and racing activity.
There are several ATMs available near Running Aces Casino & Racetrack in Columbus, MN. Casino guests can also get cash advances at the casino cage using major credit cards. ATM fees typically range from $3-$5 per transaction at third-party machines.
Nearby ATMs & Banks
Accepted Cards
Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover are accepted at the casino cage. Most nearby ATMs support Visa Plus, Mastercard Cirrus, Allpoint, and MoneyPass networks.
VisaMastercardAmexDiscoverCash
Cash Tips
Bringing cash is recommended for slot play to avoid credit card fees. On-floor ATMs are convenient but charge fees. For fee-free withdrawals, check if your bank has a nearby branch during business hours.
❓FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions about Running Aces Casino & Racetrack
Common questions from visitors planning a trip to Running Aces Casino & Racetrack — answered clearly and honestly.
How does Running Aces Casino protect my personal information when I enroll in the Aces Rewards Players Club?+
Running Aces implements administrative, technical, and physical safeguards to protect your personal information. When you enroll in the Players Club your government-issued identification and gaming activity data are collected for regulatory compliance, fraud prevention, and identity verification. Your sensitive information is retained only as necessary for business purposes and legal obligations under Minnesota gaming laws.
Can I opt out of promotional emails from Running Aces Casino & Racetrack?+
Yes, you can opt out of promotional communications at any time. When you receive marketing emails from Running Aces, simply use the unsubscribe link included in the email or contact the casino directly at info@RunAces.com. You can also opt out of sharing your personal information for advertising purposes by emailing this address.
What does Running Aces Casino do to prevent problem gambling?+
Running Aces trains all employees to recognize signs of problem gambling, including extended gaming sessions, excessive credit card use, and significant betting pattern changes. The casino strictly enforces underage gambling policies and monitors alcohol consumption for guest safety. For help, contact the Minnesota Problem Gambling Helpline at 1-800-333-HOPE or visit mn.gov/dhs.
How does Running Aces Casino process online payments on their website?+
Running Aces uses third-party PayPal to process all purchases made through their website. Payment information is collected and processed by PayPal according to their terms and policies. Running Aces does not directly handle your payment card details—PayPal manages all payment processing securely.
What age requirement must I meet to visit Running Aces Casino & Racetrack?+
You must be at least 18 years old, which is the legal gambling age under Minnesota law. Running Aces' website and casino services are intended only for individuals 18 and older located in the United States. The casino has strict policies against underage gambling and makes reasonable attempts to prevent minors from loitering in gaming areas.
How long does Running Aces Casino retain my personal information?+
Running Aces retains your personal information as necessary for business purposes and to comply with legal and regulatory obligations, including Minnesota gaming laws and fraud prevention requirements. However, the casino may be required to retain certain information for legal, accounting, or fraud prevention purposes even after your request for deletion.
This website is for entertainment and informational purposes only. Gambling involves financial risk. Please gamble responsibly. Problem gambling helpline: 1-800-522-4700 (24/7). Must be 21+ to enter.
