Grey Eagle Casino Review

Whether you want to know what games Grey Eagle Casino has, whether you can smoke on the premises, or when the restaurants close, our Grey Eagle Casino review covers everything you need to know.

Grey Eagle Casino Ratings

Table of Contents

• Rating and Review Process for Grey Eagle Casino
• Slot Machines – 4/5
• Casino Games – 4/5
• Staff & Service – 4/5
• Loyalty & Rewards – 3/5
• Casino Atmosphere – 4/5
• House Rules (T&Cs) – 5/5
• Player Feedback – 4.4/5
• Operator – 2/5
• Who Are the Top Competitors of Grey Eagle Casino?
• Pros and Cons
• Should You Play at Grey Eagle Casino?

Rating and Review Process for Grey Eagle Casino

The only way for us to truly and honestly review Grey Eagle Casino with a no-holds-barred assessment is by visiting the venue in person. There are things that you can only learn (and experience) through visiting a casino such as Grey Eagle Casino, and that’s precisely what our expert team did.

This was used in conjunction with extensive research and comparisons to other land-based casinos, allowing us to provide you with the most detailed and accurate review of Grey Eagle Casino available. And, of course, we all actually enjoy the casino lifestyle – so we include the kind of small details you’ll want to know about.

How we inspected Grey Eagle Casino

• Date of visit: 24/05/2023
• Time of visit: 8h-10h
• Initial bankroll: $100
• What we played: Blackjack, slots
• Final bankroll: $0
• Next visit: 09/03/2024

What we looked at

First, we analyzed the numbers at Grey Eagle Casino. Reviewing things like the number of slot machines and table games is a great way to initially assess the casino. It’s a quick snapshot which lets you see how it stacks up against other land-based casino in the area. And the types of games are important, too.

Then we look at the intangibles. How were we welcomed? What’s the atmosphere like? Is security really heavy on players who are just having a good time? What about the food – was it tasty?

In other words, the entire experience of being there is considered just as much as the numerical data. This gives you a well-rounded picture of Grey Eagle Casino so you can make an informed decision on whether to check it out for yourself.

What we found

Slot Machines – 4/5

The slot machines here are in the four-digit range, which meant far more variety than we could explore in our ten-hour visit to the Grey Eagle Casino. Stakes range from $0.01 up to $25, and the machines are well spaced out over the 84,000 sq. ft. venue.

How many slot machines does Grey Eagle Casino have?

Take your pick from over 1,000 slot machines available at Grey Eagle Casino on what the casino describes as a “state-of-the-art slots floor”.

Do the slot machines accept coins?

No, you can’t pay with coins at Grey Eagle Casino slot machines. You instead use a ticket system.

Local progressive jackpots

There are multiple progressive jackpots available on Grey Eagle Casino slots. During our review, we spotted live jackpots running on games which specifically included Alberta Gold, Jackpot Junction, American Original and Diamond Millions. And that last one was in the seven-figure range.

Casino Games – 4/5

The quality and quantity of games at Grey Eagle Casino is fantastic. There are rival casinos in Canada which pack a meatier punch (we recently visited Fallsview Casino, a venue with over 4,000 slots), but there’s still plenty here to sink your teeth into. And they cover a wide selection of casino game types as well, including six poker tables.

The most expensive slots are $25 a pop. Again, this is more than sufficient for most players, but there are higher stakes elsewhere. There are a bunch of progressive jackpot slots which we really liked, and you can see how it drums up excitement in other players when you’re there and somebody comes close to hitting the jackpot.

Can anyone bet the highest limits or do you need special VIP access?

There are a couple of special areas in Grey Eagle Casino for high-limit gambling. As soon as you walk into the casino you’ll see a bunch of high-limit tables, where you can enjoy private dining, plus some $1 slots by the Stage Bar.

There’s also the same thing but in a smoking room. The best way to get in is just to rock up and speak to the staff, who will likely hook you up as long as you’re happy to hit those stakes.

Grey Eagle Casino poker tournaments

The emphasis is on cash games over tourneys at the Grey Eagle Casino. Review the upcoming games on the main gaming floor, where there are six tables dedicated to poker.

Frustratingly, the poker tables only ran from 14:00 – 02:00, Thursday to Sunday at the time that we reviewed Grey Eagle Casino. Hopefully they expand this in the future.

Staff & Service – 4/5

Again, Grey Eagle Casino ticked a lot of boxes when it comes to top-level staff and services. From complimentary sodas to the super-friendly reception staff when we first stepped in, there’s a lot here that will impress you.

Food & Drinks

Drinks are free and available round the clock. We enjoyed tea and coffee in the morning, then a cool fruit-infused beverage they dish out in the afternoon. But there are no comps on alcoholic beverages – at least outside of the high-limit areas. That said, if you do fancy a beer, the alcohol at Grey Eagle Casino is reasonably priced compared to many other casinos in Canada.

There are three restaurants on the premises and a fourth in the Stage Bar, which seats 150 and lets you enjoy food and drink while watching live sports.

Blaze Bar & Grill is open from 10:30 until 03:00 and has senior special pricing for older visitors, while the Little Chief restaurants offers a more immersive experience with beautiful interiors.

How much do you tip at Grey Eagle Casino

The buffet at Grey Eagle Casino Buffet & Restaurant has a mandatory gratuity of 18% for groups of six or above, and this sets the tone for expected tips across the casino.

Does Grey Eagle Casino offer free drinks?

Yes, you can enjoy free hot and cold soft drinks at Grey Eagle Casino. Alcohol costs extra.

Is there a buffet at Grey Eagle Casino?

There is an excellent buffet in the Grey Eagle Casino Buffet & Restaurant. It varies based on the time of day and day of the week, with prices starting from $8.99. Here are more details:

• Breakfast Special: Monday – Sunday, 09:00 – 10:30
• Daily Lunch: Monday – Sunday, 11:00 – 14:30
• Chef’s Choice: Monday – Tuesday, 17:00 – 22:00
• Pan-Asian Night: Wednesdays, 17:00 – 22:00
• Seafood Night: Thursdays, 17:00 – 22:00
• Prime Rib Night: Friday – Sunday, 17:00 – 22:00

Parking

There is a lot of space for free parking at Grey Eagle Casino, which is a welcome change from some Canadian casinos that demand a certain level of membership for parking perks.

Accommodation

From king rooms to presidential suites, there’s a room for everyone at the on-site Grey Eagle Resort & Casino hotel. A swimming pool, gym and hot tub are among the neat features and you can even book a special package for your loved one or family – which could include tickets to a concert.

Are there smoking areas?

Yes, you can actually smoke inside the Grey Eagle Casino. The venue was built in 2007 outside of city limits, meaning it can circumnavigate the anti-smoking legislation which impacts lots of Canadian casinos.

Security

Security is a serious business at Grey Eagle Casino. We didn’t find them intrusive, but we did notice them regularly checking the premises for any suspect activity. That included very regulated rounds of the car park, which we appreciated.

Loyalty & Rewards – 3/5

There’s not a lot of information about it on the website, but we can confirm that Grey Eagle Casino does have a loyalty scheme.

How does the Grey Eagle Casino rewards program work?

Sign up to the Grey Eagle Casino Winner’s Edge loyalty scheme and receive points when you play games at the casino. If you’ve played in Canadian casinos before, the name might ring a bell. That’s because it’s actually a widespread loyalty scheme which you can find in areas like Alberta.

What you get

• Exclusive promotions
• On-site discounts
• Invites to events

How to claim rewards/ How to register in the program

1. Visit Grey Eagle Casino and sign up to the Winner’s Edge loyalty program
2. You’ll receive a card which you can insert into slot machines
3. Play casino games to earn points. You’ll get one point for every $1 spent
4. Redeem your points for freebies and discounts

Casino Atmosphere – 4/5

As mentioned previously in this Grey Eagle Casino review, the security isn’t too aggressive and there’s a generally relaxing vibe at the casino – except for when you’re crowded round a jackpot slot that’s close to hitting!

View from the inside

Inside the Grey Eagle Casino there are all the classic elements of a traditional, carpeted casino – but with a modern feeling. Everything is well maintained and the modern restaurant interiors and light fittings on the main games floor ensure the venue stays hip and modern. Which, to be fair, is much easier considering it was only built in 2007.

Design experience

The exterior is very modern with a design which really catches the eye, almost resembling a set of cards stood on their side.

Are you allowed to take photos in Grey Eagle Casino?

You’re not allowed to carry professional photography equipment around, but the staff here are generally more relaxed about phones than many casinos in Canada.

Location and surroundings

When you factor in that Canada has casinos that are literally overhanging waterfalls, there’s some stiff competition for Grey Eagle Casino. But with the nearby Rocky Mountains and remarkable views of the Tsuut’ina Nation, it gives them a pretty good run for their money.

Do you need a passport to visit Grey Eagle Casino?

You will need an official form of identification, such as a passport, to enter the Grey Eagle Casino.

Events

From an evening with Sarah Palin to Boys II Men, the events center at Grey Eagle Casino is packed with cool and interesting stuff to see. Prices vary based on the artist, but tickets typically start somewhere in the $50-$90 mark.

House Rules (T&Cs) – 5/5

We really couldn’t see much room for improvement here. Security are diligent yet not imposing. You can smoke directly within the casino, but non-smoking areas are also available to cater for both demographics.

When is Grey Eagle Casino open?

Grey Eagle Casino is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Does Grey Eagle Casino charge entry?

No, you can enter Grey Eagle Casino without paying an entry fee. Parking is also available for free.

Do you always need a reservation to play at Grey Eagle Casino?

There’s no need to make a reservation at Grey Eagle Casino; just roll up and play. The high-limit area may have private tables available upon request.

Grey Eagle Casino membership details

When you first visit the Grey Eagle Casino, you’ll be asked to sign up and become a member. This is a free process.

Dress code

The dress code isn’t overly strict at Grey Eagle Casino, but guests generally go for a business casual look.

Standout rules at Grey Eagle Casino

• None

Player Feedback – 4.4/5

Grey Eagle Casino has extremely high online ratings from the majority of players who’ve visited the casino in Canada.

Grey Eagle Casino player reviews

Google – 4.2/5

Rave reviews for the buffet (especially the Prime Rib Special from Fridays until Sundays), spotless hotel rooms, and the casino experience itself, especially from couples.

Tripadvisor – 4.5/5

Free parking, a cheap and tasty breakfast buffet, and top-drawer mountain reviews all get the thumbs up from the 2,700+ reviews on Tripadvisor.

Most common issues

• Non-smokers dislike the indoor smoking policy

Operator – 2/5

The casino does not come from a major operator in the casino business, but Tsuut’ina 145 of the Tsuut’ina nation in Alberta, which at last count had a population of just 1,777 (as of 2011).

Who owns Grey Eagle Casino?

Grey Eagle Casino is owned by the Tsuut’ina, an Indian reserve whose small population is situated in Calgary.

Other casinos by the same operator

• None

Contact info

Who Are the Top Competitors of Grey Eagle Casino?

Grey Eagle Casino may be the best casino in Calgary, depending on who you ask. But there are a few other competitors who are also worth a look, including Cowboys Casino, Elbow River Casino, and ACE Casino Blackfoot.

Grey Eagle Casino vs Cowboys Casino

Labeling itself “Calgary’s premier entertainment destination”, Cowboys Casino is much smaller than Grey Eagle Casino with just 370 slots but packs in plenty of personality.

Cowboys Casino is best for poker

Unlike Grey Eagle Casino, the poker room at Cowboys Casino runs 24/7. There are also three separate bad beat jackpots running every day.

Grey Eagle Casino vs Elbow River Casino

Despite being smaller than Grey Eagle Casino, Elbow River Casino has some big boasts – such as being voted the best casino in Calgary – and also has tile Pai Gow available.

Elbow River Casino is the best for dim sum

Locals love the dim sum and Asian cuisine at Elbow River Casino, which is served – perhaps surprisingly – in an on-site venue called Sammy’s Sports Bar. But trust us, it’s great.

What sets Grey Eagle Casino apart from its competitors?

One of the key things that stood out to us is the balance Grey Eagle Casino strikes between being secure and relaxed.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Excellent buffet
• Complimentary soft drinks
• Hotel and events venue on-site
• Loyalty program
• Top security
• Players can smoke inside
• Close to Rocky Mountains

Cons

• Smoking policy a negative for some non-smokers
• Poker room opening hours/days are limited

Should You Play at Grey Eagle Casino?

Well, why wouldn’t you play at Grey Eagle Casino? Located close to the Rocky Mountains and packing in all types of games, the casino has a really upbeat atmosphere alongside some top-class food. If you’re in or around Calgary, Grey Eagle Casino should certainly be on your radar.