If you’ve ever spent a summer in central Minnesota, you know the drill. You’re likely staying at a cabin, the humidity is thick enough to chew on, and the kids are starting to get that glazed-over "I'm bored of the lake" look. That's usually when someone mentions Casey's Amusement Park in Alexandria, MN.
It isn't Disney World. Honestly, it isn't even Valleyfair. But there is something incredibly specific about the vibe here—a sort of sun-baked, 90s-nostalgia-soaked energy that makes it a mandatory stop for anyone passing through Douglas County. It’s the kind of place where the owner might be the one helping you into a go-kart, and the "thrills" are more about laughing at your cousin getting drenched in a bumper boat than high-tech immersion.
The Real Deal on the Go-Karts
Most people show up for the racing. Casey’s doesn’t just have one generic oval; they have three separate tracks tailored to different skill levels, which is a lifesaver if you're trying to keep a toddler and a teenager happy at the same time.
The Indy Karts are the main draw. These are the fast ones. If you've got a competitive streak, this is where you'll spend most of your tickets. Then you’ve got the Family Karts, which are perfect for parents who need to drive while a smaller kid rides shotgun. But the real MVP move by the owners, Todd and Kathy Elmer, was keeping the Jr. Indy Karts in play. It’s a dedicated track for the littlest drivers who aren't quite tall enough for the big leagues but want to feel that steering wheel in their hands.
Word of advice: if you're racing on a weekday, the lines are basically non-existent. You can usually hop out of one kart and right back into another. On a Saturday in July? Yeah, you're going to wait. But that's just part of the summer ritual.
Mini Golf and Hand-Picked Rocks
One of the weirder, cooler facts about Casey's Amusement Park is the mini-golf course. You’ll notice the landscaping looks a bit more "intentional" than your average roadside putt-putt. That’s because the owner actually handpicked the large boulders and rocks that decorate the courses.
There are 36 holes in total, split across two courses:
- The Original Course: 18 holes of classic waterfalls and greens.
- The Double Rocky Course: Another 18 holes that feel a bit more rugged.
A neat trick I noticed—and something frequent flyers love—is the "double flag" system on the nine-hole section. It essentially lets you play a "second" 18-hole course by aiming for different pins. It’s a clever way to keep the game fresh without needing a massive footprint of land.
Wet and Wild (Mostly Just Wet)
The bumper boats are located right near the entrance. They are essentially floating inner tubes with motors and water sprayers. If you go on these, you will get wet. There is no "staying dry" option here.
In recent years, they've added inflatable games too. They sort of rotate what's available, but it’s usually a mix of bounce houses or skill-based inflatable challenges. For five bucks, kids can get unlimited access to the inflatables, which is honestly one of the best value-for-money trades in the park if you need to burn off some high-fructose corn syrup energy.
The 2026 Price Reality
Let's talk money, because things aren't as cheap as they were in 1998. Caseys uses a ticket system. You buy a bundle, and each attraction "costs" a certain amount.
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- Credit/Debit: A single ticket is roughly $9.50.
- The Cash Special: This is the pro tip. If you bring actual paper money, you get a significant discount. For example, 3 tickets for cash usually run around $26, saving you a few bucks compared to the card price.
- The "Bulk" Buy: If you’re with a big group, go for the 50-ticket pack. It’s a steep upfront cost (around $375-$400 depending on cash vs. card), but it brings the per-ride price down significantly.
The park is free to enter. You only pay for what you actually use. This is huge for grandparents or parents who just want to sit in the shade with a soda while the kids go wild. There's a dedicated picnic area, so you can actually bring your own cooler and make a day of it without being forced to buy "theme park priced" chicken strips.
Why This Place Still Works
In an era of VR headsets and $200 theme park passes, why does a place like Casey's Amusement Park in Alexandria, MN survive?
It’s the lack of friction.
You don't need a reservation. You don't need an app to "queue" for a go-kart. You just show up, buy some tickets, and play. It’s a physical, loud, slightly chaotic environment that feels authentic. Plus, it's impeccably clean. The Elmers have a reputation for keeping the bathrooms and the grounds spotless, which—honestly—is the highest praise you can give a seasonal amusement park.
Essential Tips for Your Visit
- Tuesdays are the secret: They often run specials on Tuesdays where karts and boats are discounted by a couple of dollars.
- Height checks are real: Don't promise your 4-year-old they can drive the big karts. The staff is strict about safety, and they will pull out the measuring stick.
- The "Batting Cage" factor: They have coin-operated cages for both baseball and softball. If you’re a local athlete, it’s a great spot for some extra swings outside of team practice.
- A/C Break: The ticket and concession building is air-conditioned. If the Minnesota humidity hits 90%, head inside for a minute to reset.
Whether you're there for the 18 holes of golf or the chance to smoke your brother on the Indy track, Casey's remains a cornerstone of the Alexandria summer experience.
If you're planning your trip, start by pulling some cash out of the ATM to take advantage of those "Cash Only" ticket bundles. Once you arrive, head straight for the Double Rocky mini-golf course before the afternoon heat peaks, then finish the day with the go-karts when the sun starts to dip and the track lights come on.