Stoney Nakoda Resort & Casino Review

Nestled at the scenic base of the Rockies, the First Nations casino is perfectly situated. But does Stoney Nakoda deliver a top-notch gaming experience?

Stick around to learn about the range of games, exclusive entertainment, ways to join the rewards program, and other exciting details.

Stoney Nakoda Resort & Casino: Rating Insights

Table of Contents

• Delving into the Rating and Review Process for Stoney Nakoda Resort & Casino
• Slot Machines – 5/5
• Casino Games – 4/5
• Staff & Service – 5/5
• Loyalty & Rewards – 4/5
• Casino Atmosphere – 4/5
• House Rules (T&Cs) – 4/5
• Player Feedback – 3.7/5
• Operator – 5/5
• Competitors of Stoney Nakoda Resort & Casino
• Advantages and Drawbacks of Stoney Nakoda Resort & Casino
• Is Splitting Aces a Good Strategy at Stoney Nakoda Resort & Casino?

Delving into the Rating and Review Process for Stoney Nakoda Resort & Casino

Our expert review methodology provides a comprehensive analysis of land-based casinos across Canada, arming you with knowledge for better decisions.

Through evaluating game selection, security measures, operator reputation, service quality, and more, we empower you to make informed choices.

Evaluating Stoney Nakoda Resort & Casino: Our Approach

• Date of visit: 03/29/2024
• Time of visit: 6 PM – 1 AM
• Initial bankroll: C$100
• What we played: Slots , Blackjack
• Final bankroll: C$210
• Next: 03/27/2025

What we looked at

Our rating approach combines both subjective and objective factors, such as the feel and vibe of the casino floor atmosphere.

We also assess quantifiable factors like the presence of progressive jackpots and availability of complimentary drinks.

What we found

Slot Machines – 5/5

Housing hundreds of slot machines, many of which boast progressive jackpots, Stoney Nakoda Casino offers a rich variety from numerous providers.

Our Favorite Slots at Stoney Nakoda Resort & Casino

Beginning our gaming with Alberta Gold felt apt here in Alberta, though the C$10K+ jackpot eluded us. The classics Pompeii and Lucky 88 followed.

Our playful journey continued with a deep dive into Quick Hit slots before heading to the tables, ending with the iconic Double Diamond by IGT.

Counting the Slots at Stoney Nakoda Resort & Casino

Our count revealed over 250 slot machines adorning the casino floor.

Do the slot machines accept coins?

No alternative payment methods here; cash, vouchers, or free play with the Winner’s Edge card are your only options.

Slot machine providers

• IGT
• Aristocrat
• Scientific Games

Local progressive jackpots

Being an Alberta-based casino, you'll encounter several favorites within the Alberta Progressive Games lineup.

Many slots further diversify with four distinct local progressive jackpots.

Casino Games – 4/5

Table games at Stoney Nakoda include four options, with one of Canada’s most accessible blackjack tables in terms of minimum bets.

Friday and Saturday nights bring baccarat, and by our estimates, at least 10 tables are in play on any given evening.

Game types

• Roulette
• Blackjack
• Ultimate Texas Hold’em
• Baccarat

Betting limits

A remarkably affordable C$2 minimum bet on blackjack is available over weekends, yet limits remain fair throughout the week.

Can Anyone Bet High Stakes at Stoney Nakoda Resort & Casino?

Absolutely. With open table limits and no VIP-exclusive games, anyone can join the high-stakes action.

Poker Tournaments at Stoney Nakoda Resort & Casino

No-Limit Texas Hold’em takes center stage on Friday and Saturday nights with cash games.

Monthly tournaments on the first and last Sunday, starting at 7 PM, feature a C$70 buy-in with an additional C$10 admin fee.

Staff & Service – 5/5

Food & Drinks

Dining at Stoney Nakoda Resort & Casino offers two choices. The Ridge serves up pricey yet traditional dining where a burger can cost C$22.

Sidelines Lounge acts as the primary bar, allowing patrons to order from The Ridge’s menu.

The Ridge

• Opening hours: 8 AM – 9 PM

Sidelines Lounge

• Operating hours are 10 AM to 2 AM, with food availability ending at 11 PM, except on Saturdays when it extends to 12 PM.

Tipping at Stoney Nakoda Resort & Casino: What's Standard?

Expect to tip between 15-20% in Kananaskis.

Are Drinks Complimentary at the Stoney Nakoda Resort & Casino?

Unfortunately, free drinks are absent, as players must purchase beverages while at the tables.

Is There a Buffet at Stoney Nakoda Resort & Casino?

Indeed, the casino often features brunches for special occasions such as Mother’s Day or Easter festivities.

Parking

Free, though unsecured, parking surrounds the resort, which might deter criminals due to its location at the Rockies' base.

Accommodation

Stoney Nakoda boasts a modern 3-star hotel with varied room and suite options featuring amenities like Jetted Tubs or electric fireplaces. Standard rooms begin at C$179, with suites around C$240.

Is Tipping Room Service Required at Stoney Nakoda Resort & Casino?

Room service isn’t offered, but tipping front desk personnel or bellhops for excellent service is appreciated.

Are there smoking areas?

All accommodations are non-smoking; smokers need to step outside.

Security

CCTV monitors the casino thoroughly, and during our visit, the security team exhibited high professionalism.

Loyalty & Rewards – 4/5

Overview of the Stoney Nakoda Resort & Casino Rewards Program

Taking advantage of the Alberta-based Winner’s Edge Loyalty Program is easy here, like other Alberta casinos.

What you get

• Free play
• 10% dining discount
• Member-only contests

How to register in the program

1. Head to the Guest Services desk or use the Winner’s Edge kiosk upon entering the casino.
2. Complete the registration form
3. Provide your photo ID
4. Get your hands on your very own Winner’s Edge Rewards Card.

Casino Atmosphere – 4/5

Inside Stoney Nakoda Resort & Casino

Exploring the casino, we admired the interior design and sampled alternative entertainments to gauge the floor’s energy.

Design experience

The artistic flair in Stoney Nakoda’s design left quite an impression on us.

Photography is allowed, but not in proximity to the gaming tables for security reasons.

Apart from its prime location by the Rockies, there's little in the vicinity of the casino.

Location and surroundings

You're perfectly poised to explore crystal-clear lakes, majestic wild rivers, and breathtaking landscapes.

Is a Passport Mandatory for a Visit to Stoney Nakoda Resort & Casino?

A government-issued photo ID suffices. Still, having a passport on hand when traveling internationally is wise as it may simplify identity verification.

Besides gaming, the resort offers activities like a water slide and golf simulator, complemented by regular live entertainment, from concerts to trade shows.

Events

Stoney Nakoda Resort & Casino's Operating Hours

House Rules (T&Cs) – 4/5

The casino floor welcomes guests daily at 10 AM. Slot machines run until 3 AM, while gaming tables are open from 2 PM to 2 AM.

Is There an Entry Fee to Access Stoney Nakoda Resort & Casino?

Are Reservations Necessary at Stoney Nakoda Resort & Casino?

No, entry is free.

No reservations are needed, as games operate on a first-come, first-served basis. However, reserving for certain poker tournaments may be required.

Membership at Stoney Nakoda Resort & Casino: Is it Mandatory?

While not obligatory, joining the Winner’s Edge program offers benefits such as dining discounts and opportunities for free play.

Exploring Stoney Nakoda Resort & Casino - Is It Worth Your Time?

Dress code

A comprehensive look at Stoney Nakoda Resort & Casino: Discover insights on progressive jackpots, various games, entertainment choices, and the available rewards.

Nestled at the base of the majestic Rockies, it's hard to find a more picturesque location for a First Nations casino. But does Stoney Nakoda truly live up to its stunning backdrop?

Continue reading to uncover more about the gaming selection, unique entertainment offerings, how to obtain a rewards card, and plenty more.

Player Feedback – 3.7/5

Evaluating Stoney Nakoda Resort & Casino

Understanding the Rating and Review Methodology for Stoney Nakoda Resort & Casino

Google – 4/5

Exploring Other Casinos Competing with Stoney Nakoda Resort & Casino

Tripadvisor – 3.5/5

Assessing the Strengths and Weaknesses of Stoney Nakoda Resort & Casino

Most common issues

• Expensive, underwhelming dining

Operator – 5/5

Should You Go for That Pair of Aces at Stoney Nakoda Resort & Casino?

We utilize our expert review framework to thoroughly analyze physical casinos across Canada, aiming to equip you with the knowledge needed for a wise choice. Stoney Nakoda Resort & Casino .

Contact info

Competitors of Stoney Nakoda Resort & Casino

Casino of the Rockies To achieve this, we evaluate games, assess security measures, explore the operator's history, gauge the quality of service, and more. the best online casinos in Canada Our thorough inspection of Stoney Nakoda Resort & Casino

Our rating criteria embraces both objective and subjective elements. For instance, we look into subjective experiences such as the ambiance on the casino floor.

Grey Eagle Resort & Casino We also consider objective features like the availability of progressive jackpots or complimentary drinks.

With hundreds of slot machines, Stoney Nakoda Casino boasts an impressive range of progressive jackpots, and its variety is unparalleled thanks to multiple game providers.

Slot Machines We Enjoyed at Stoney Nakoda Resort & Casino

While in Alberta, it was only fitting to begin with Alberta Gold - though the C$10K+ progressive jackpot eluded us. We then switched to beloved classics such as Pompeii and Lucky 88.

Our time spent playing Quick Hit seemed to fly by, and soon we were off to the tables. After an extended blackjack session, we concluded with another classic - IGT’s Double Diamond.

What’s the Count of Slot Machines at Stoney Nakoda Resort & Casino?

Elbow River Casino Our tally exceeded 250 slot machines scattered across the casino floor.

Unfortunately, only cash notes, vouchers, and free play through your Winner’s Edge card are accepted.

Being an Alberta-based casino, you will encounter several local Alberta Progressive Games.

Advantages and Drawbacks of Stoney Nakoda Resort & Casino

Pros

• These are connected via networks fueled by bets made at participating Alberta casinos.
• Additionally, numerous slots feature four local progressive jackpots as well.
• Four table games are on offer at Stoney Nakoda Resort & Casino. You can try your hand at one of the lowest minimum bet blackjack tables in the country.
• Baccarat enthusiasts will find tables available only on Friday and Saturday nights. Our count shows at least 10 available tables any given evening.

Cons

• Rather expensive dining

Is Splitting Aces a Good Strategy at Stoney Nakoda Resort & Casino?

On weekend nights, you can find a remarkably low C$2 minimum bet blackjack table. Throughout the week, you’ll notice the betting limits remain quite reasonable.

Is VIP Access Required for High Stakes Bets at Stoney Nakoda Resort & Casino?

Not at all. High stakes betting is open to everyone since VIP games aren't offered.