The Prime 5 Finest Inns in Prior Lake, Minnesota

Prior Lake, Minnesota, has a lot of things to do for a relatively small city. From Mystic Lake Casino to nearby Valleyfair theme park and even enjoying the waters of the nearby lakes, there is enough to keep all sorts occupied. But to maximize your time and comfort, make sure to pick a hotel that fits your needs.

We’ve put together a list of the top five best hotels in Prior Lake and the surrounding area that provide a clean room and easy access to wholesome outdoor activities, fun events, and the nearby Twin Cities. And yes, each of these hotels is relatively close to MSP airport, giving you the ultimate trifecta of convenience, city livin’, and rural splendor.

Here is a look at the five best hotels in and around Prior Lake, Minnesota.

TL;DR

Best Hotels in Prior Lake, Minnesota

1. Mystic Lake Casino Hotel

Address: 2400 Mystic Lake Blvd NW, Prior Lake, MN 55372

The Mystic Lake Casino Hotel is the most popular hotel in the area. Unlike most hotels in Minnesota, it can help you forget where you are, even in the middle of winter.

The hotel connects directly to the Little Six Casino. It is the perfect option if you are seeing a show at the casino or want to spend most of your time (and money) trying to win at the tables and slots.

I’m no stranger to a casino (my luck stinks, but I’m a sucker for one), and lemme tell you, Mystic Lake, in green, suburban Minnesota, delivers in spades. I go here just for fun – I have nothing but good things to say about this place.

Even if you have no desire to try your luck at the tables, you and your family can still dance to the live music, Mystic Showroom, spa, salon, live comedy, and theater offerings. You’re also only 30 minutes from the Twin Cities, the Mall of America, and all the fun things that come with them.

The hotel favors group travel, featuring 766 modern rooms and suites with free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, mini-fridges, and coffee makers. Some rooms also have lake views, whirlpool tubs, fireplaces, and balconies.

Unlike other Prior Lake hotels, this one has multiple in-house dining options, including a steakhouse, a buffet, a pizza place, and a coffee shop. You can also access the indoor pool, fitness center, golf course, and free shuttle service.

Because there are so many events here, prices vary depending on when you stay. With a little bit of planning, though, you can find a good rate.

Pros:

• Easily the most luxurious hotel in Prior Lake
• One of the only proper Prior Lake Hotels
• The Little Six Casino is legitimately great

Cons:

• Loud
• Not the best if you don’t like gambling

Editor’s Note: Being essentially a casino with a hotel attached, it’s very easy to lose track of time or even the weather here, as you can’t even see the sun from inside. Morning, night, Friday of the previous month, Tuesday three years from now – after 48 hours in here, all of these are just meaningless ideas.

See Related: The Ultimate Guide to Minneapolis Nightlife

2. Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Shakopee

Address: 4550 12th Avenue East, Shakopee, MN 55379

Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Shakopee is a budget-friendly hotel with easy access to many attractions in Prior Lake and nearby areas. For those who want to spend time at the Mystic Lake Casino but want to save on accommodations, the Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites is an excellent solution.

This hotel is about four miles from the casino and only a few miles from several beaches. It’s right between anywhere you might want to visit on a day trip.

The hotel is also a prime location if you plan to visit Valleyfair Amusement Park, Canterbury Park Racetrack, or Mall of America. In fact, the Mall of America is just 15 minutes away. And it is closer to the airport and Minneapolis than staying directly in Prior Lake proper.

Pros:

• Near Mystic Lake
• Perfect for lake access
• Great access to MSP and the MOA

Cons:

• Not in Prior Lake proper
• No real restaurant

See Related: Best Hotels Near Mall of America

3. Baymont by Wyndham Shakopee

Address: 1244 Canterbury Road, Shakopee, MN 55379

Baymont by Wyndham Shakopee is another excellent choice for Prior Lake area hotels. The hotel is known for its friendly and helpful staff and clean rooms. This hotel offers easy access to attractions like Valleyfair Amusement Park, Canterbury Park Racetrack, and the Minnesota Renaissance Festival.

The comfortable rooms and budget-friendly rates make it a favorite among many visitors. This hotel is situated about five miles from Mystic Lake and seven miles from the shores of Lower Prior Lake.

The hotel has 62 rooms with free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, microwaves, mini-fridges, and coffee makers. Some rooms also have sofa beds and whirlpool tubs! Another highlight of this hotel is the free breakfast buffet at their restaurant (the food here is actually top-notch), indoor pool, hot tub, and fitness center.

Pros:

• All the amenities you could want for a great price
• Onsite restaurant
• Great location

Cons:

See Related: Best Things to Do in Shakopee, Minnesota

4. Fairfield Inn and Suites by Marriott Minneapolis Shakopee

Address: 4600 12th Ave East, Shakopee, MN 55379

This Fairfield Inn and Suites by Marriott offers a blend of affordability and quality for a comfortable night. The well-designed rooms and complimentary breakfast ensure a pleasant stay.

With its proximity to fun things and attractions like the Mall of America, Valleyfair, and the Renaissance Festival, it’s a great choice for families with kids. This hotel is located about six miles from Mystic Lake and eight miles from Prior Lake Beach.

The Fairfield has 129 rooms and suites with free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, microwaves, mini-fridges, coffee makers, and all the great amenities you would expect. This is a top option for short stays with the kids for a great price.

Pros:

• Top amenities
• Great location

Cons:

See Related: Best Resorts in Minnesota

5. My Place Hotel-Shakopee

Address: 3912 12th Avenue East, Shakopee, MN 55379

My Place Hotel in Shakopee provides comfortable extended-stay accommodations. Each room features a kitchenette, making it a convenient choice for guests who prefer self-catering.

It’s a short drive from Prior Lake and offers value for guests planning an extended stay in the area. This hotel is situated about seven miles from Mystic Lake and about ten miles from the area’s best beaches.

This place has 63 rooms with free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, kitchenettes with stovetops, microwaves, mini-fridges, and coffee makers. The hotel provides a free coffee service, a convenience store, a laundry facility, a business center, and free parking. For those looking to stay a while and maintain some comforts of home, this hotel offers you the most freedom to do so.

Pros:

• Self-catering with great equipment and onsite facilities
• Good for longer stays
• Good location

Cons:

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