It’s time for a staycation, and it seems your girlfriend is in need of one too. If you’re looking for a unique getaway that’s a bit different from the mainstream tourist spots, consider a girls’ weekend at Casino Rama Resort!
Not into gambling? No problem! You don’t have to be a card shark to enjoy what the resort has to offer. From live entertainment and upscale dining to a serene spa experience, there’s something for everyone. My friend Michelle and I indulged in all of this during our two-night stay.
Overview of Casino Rama Resort
Nestled 1.5 hours north of Toronto in Ontario’s stunning Lake Country, Casino Rama Resort is a sprawling casino and entertainment hub that also features a 289-room hotel. It’s perfect for those nights when you want to enjoy a few drinks without worrying about the drive home. Plus, an overnight stay allows you more time to explore all the incredible amenities the resort offers.
It also offers a cultural immerssion that is commendable in Canada. While operated by Gateway Casinos & Entertainment, the resort is owned by the Chippewas of Rama First Nation, a community of approximately 1,500 members. Their territory, known as “the Gathering Place,” used to serve as a rest stop for travelers. Make sure to appreciate the beautiful Native artwork displayed throughout the resort, which I found particularly captivating.
The Casino
Even if gambling isn’t your thing, the casino is worth a visit. It’s open 24/7 and features over 2,500 slot machines and 110 gaming tables.
Initially, we felt a bit intimidated by the serious gamblers around us, so we started by people-watching. I gave the slots a try but lost $5 in minutes and decided to quit (I’m more of a cautious player).
Entertainment
Casino Rama Resort boasts a 5,000-seat entertainment venue that hosts both contemporary and classic musical acts, as well as various other events. Last month, audience members were spellbound by Criss Angel’s magic performance. We were drawn to the resort to see the Shaolin Martial Realm, an amazing display of skill by Kung Fu practicing Zen Buddhist monks from China. They truly delivered a breathtaking show!
Check the entertainment schedule before you go, or simply coordinate your overnight stay around a show for which you’ve already secured tickets.
Accommodations
After a full day of activities, it was wonderful to simply take an elevator up to our hotel room and unwind. The rustic yet contemporary Deluxe Suites are spacious, featuring a living area and a marble-finished bathroom complete with a bathtub and separate shower.
With much to catch up on, Michelle and I settled in on our first night in front of the gas fireplace, sharing a bottle of wine and some snacks we had brought along.
Dining at Casino Rama Resort
It turns out that we didn’t need to bring many snacks because we ended up eating quite a bit at the resort! With eight on-site restaurants, you’ll find plenty of options to satisfy your appetite.
We started our culinary adventure at the cozy and inviting Cedar Restaurant, where we enjoyed their Prime Rib Night, served on Friday and Saturday evenings.
Later that evening, we returned for a crème brûlée on a recommendation from another guest, and we couldn’t agree more—it was absolutely delightful.
The next morning, we headed to The Weirs, located near the hotel lobby, and indulged in a fulfilling breakfast of eggs benedict, which kept us satisfied well into the afternoon.
For a truly exceptional dining experience, you must visit St. Germain’s Steakhouse, the resort’s premier fine dining spot. If you have time for just one meal, this is where you should eat. The service is top-notch, and the cuisine is exquisite.
St. Germain’s also features an award-winning wine list presented in an innovative way—each table is equipped with a tablet that allows guests to browse selections and read descriptions before deciding on their perfect pairing.
Why don’t more fine dining establishments adopt this approach?
Balance in Life Spa
You can’t wrap up your girls’ getaway without indulging in some relaxation at the full-service spa.
The indoor saltwater pool was surprisingly peaceful, with just a few other guests sharing the space.
Later, while enjoying the hot tub, we struck up a conversation with three lovely women from northern Ontario who’ve made Casino Rama an annual tradition for the past nine years!
The Balance in Life Spa also features a eucalyptus steam room and sauna, ideal for detoxing and rejuvenating—a perfect escape from city life.
As our spa day concluded, we decided to treat ourselves to colorful nails, feeling as though we were enjoying a girls’ night, just missing the wine!
Whether you’re seeking a quick escape or planning a more extended stay, Casino Rama Resort is an excellent choice, particularly if you want to catch a show or test your poker skills.
They even offer a girls’ getaway package running Sunday through Thursday (excluding event days) that includes accommodations, complimentary valet parking, and a $100 resort credit for dining or spa services. Plus, Players Passport Club members receive an additional $10 in free slot play per person!
Important Tips
- Consider traffic when planning your travel time to and from Casino Rama Resort, especially if you’re leaving Toronto on a weekday or weeknight. Expect longer delays during summer as people head to their cottages.
- A resort fee of $15 per day is applicable to hotel stays, although Diamond and Platinum Plus guests are exempt.
- This resort caters to both non-smoking and smoking guests. While there was no one smoking on our floor or in the public areas, we did notice a lingering smell in parts of the property; something to keep in mind if you have sensitivities or allergies.
- Photography (including selfies!) and video recording are not allowed in the casino.
- Most entertainment events permit photography and video capturing, based on the performers’ preferences. Always be respectful and disable your flash.
- It’s highly recommended to book reservations for dining and spa services in advance. Additionally, check the Casino Rama Resort website for operational hours, as not all restaurants are open daily.
Have you had a chance to visit Casino Rama Resort? If not, is it on your list of places to explore?
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Special thanks to Orillia & Lake Country for hosting my stay. As always, the opinions expressed in this post are entirely my own.
