Located in the serene and lush setting of Evergreen Park, The Pines Restaurant & Casino offers a unique blend of dining, gaming, and entertainment experiences. This comprehensive guide will provide you with all the information you need to know about this exceptional venue, from its history and gaming options to its amenities and special events.
A Brief History of Evergreen Park
Evergreen Park has been a popular destination for residents and visitors in the Peace Country since 1982. The park encompasses a sprawling 1,200 acres and hosts over 500,000 visitors annually. Its primary attraction is the J.D.A. Raceway, which offers thrilling horse racing action and a top-of-the-line casino experience.
The Evergreen Park Casino opened its doors in 2008, following a $20 million investment by the Grande Prairie Regional Agricultural & Exhibition Society. Since then, the casino has grown to become a key component of the park's entertainment offerings, featuring 99 slot machines and 12 Video Lottery Terminals (VLTs).
Gaming Options at The Pines Restaurant & Casino
Slot Machines
The Pines Restaurant & Casino boasts an impressive collection of 99 slot machines from industry giants such as IGT, Aristocrat Gaming, and Bally. Players can choose from a variety of 3-reel and 5-reel machines with various betting ranges, including penny slots and more high-stakes options.
Popular titles include the Quick Hit series, Pure Gold, Pure Magic, and progressive jackpots such as Diamond Millions and Super Red Hot Jackpots. The casino frequently hosts free slot tournaments, allowing players to compete for cash prizes and restaurant discounts.
Video Lottery Terminals (VLTs)
In addition to its extensive slot machine offerings, The Pines Restaurant & Casino features 12 VLTs. These machines provide players with a selection of keno and bingo-style games, further enhancing the gaming experience at the casino.
Off-Track Betting
While The Pines Restaurant & Casino does not have a dedicated sportsbook, it does offer off-track betting for horse racing enthusiasts. Located within the Gordon Badger Stadium, the casino's off-track betting area features two kiosks and eight large screens that display races from around the world. Visitors can place bets on a variety of traditional horse racing markets, as well as more intricate options like Quinella, Trifecta, and Superfecta.
Table Games and Poker Room
Unfortunately, The Pines Restaurant & Casino does not currently offer classic table games or a dedicated poker room. However, the casino's selection of slot machines and VLTs ensures a diverse and engaging gaming experience for all visitors.
Dining at The Pines Family Restaurant
Adjacent to the casino, The Pines Family Restaurant offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere for guests to enjoy a delicious meal. The restaurant's menu features a range of dishes, including all-day breakfast options, hearty salads, appetizers, and a selection of special favorites that cater to a wide range of tastes.
In addition to its diverse menu, The Pines Family Restaurant hosts several special events and promotions, such as the Horseman's Breakfast and Wing Nights on Mondays and Thursdays. The restaurant also offers a variety of beverages and desserts for the whole family to enjoy.
Accommodations Near Evergreen Park
Visitors to The Pines Restaurant & Casino can find comfortable accommodations at the nearby Four Points by Sheraton Grande Prairie Hotel. This 3-star hotel offers 128 air-conditioned rooms and suites, complete with amenities such as free Wi-Fi, big-screen TVs, mini-fridges, and microwaves.
Guests can also enjoy the hotel's 24-hour fitness center, indoor swimming pool, and on-site Social Bar and Grill. Furthermore, visitors staying at any of Evergreen Park's preferred hotels can receive special room rates and a 25% discount on regular menu items at The Pines Family Restaurant and the Wild Horse Casino & Lounge.
Entertainment and Events at Evergreen Park
Evergreen Park offers a wealth of entertainment options beyond its casino and restaurant offerings. The TARA Centre, which opened in 2008, features a 46,200-square-foot main hall that hosts concerts, trade shows, graduations, and other large events.
Additionally, the park's 9,600-square-foot Clarkson Hall provides an elegant setting for weddings and other gatherings of up to 500 guests. For younger visitors, Evergreen Park's Kids Zone indoor playground offers a range of fun activities, including arcades, bouncy castles, and more.
Special Events and Promotions at The Pines Restaurant & Casino
Throughout the year, The Pines Restaurant & Casino hosts a variety of special events and promotions to enhance visitors' experiences. One such event is the RCMP Musical Ride, which takes place at the J.D.A. Raceway and features a 50/50 raffle with proceeds benefiting Evergreen Park and its improvements.
Visitors can also take advantage of discounts and special offers at the park's preferred hotels, as well as the Stay and Save promotion for guests attending the Musical Ride.
COVID-19 Safety Protocols at Evergreen Park
In light of the ongoing pandemic, Evergreen Park remains committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of its visitors and staff. The park has implemented a range of COVID-19 safety protocols, including enhanced cleaning measures, social distancing guidelines, and the use of personal protective equipment.
Conclusion
The Pines Restaurant & Casino at Evergreen Park offers an exceptional blend of dining, gaming, and entertainment options for visitors to the Peace Country. With its diverse gaming offerings, delicious cuisine, and a range of exciting events and promotions, this unique venue is sure to provide an unforgettable experience for all who visit.