MGM National Harbor Opens New Outdoor Gaming Area

When you visit a land-based casino, you expect a similar experience no matter where you go. The gaming floor will be filled with slot machines and table games, with flashing lights and sounds all around you. During the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, casinos have gotten creative in how they offer gaming to keep players as well as employees safe. Even though restrictions are relaxing across the US and casinos are offering higher capacity levels, it does not mean that we shouldn’t still be cautious. For gamers who want to remain socially distant, MGM National Harbor in Maryland is offering something different.

The casino has opened an outdoor gaming area, with plenty of fresh air and games to explore. Players who want to be outside and feel comfortable gambling around others will find the outdoor area a nice alternative to traditional indoor gaming.

New Outdoor Gaming Terrace

MGM National Harbor just recently opened the outdoor terrace featuring games that players can enjoy while remaining socially distanced. The operator offers 41 popular slot games in this area and provides plenty of room to feel comfortable while playing.

Alex Alverado is the Vice President of Casino Operators for MGM National Harbor who stated that the outdoor gaming concept was developed before the onset of the pandemic. Moving casino games outside was a consideration that the casino had made previously before the virus became a reality. However, once the virus was a major issue, the casino operator decided now was a good time to move forward with outdoor plans.

Each game is sectioned off enough so that players can feel comfortable while playing around other individuals. Games such as 88 Fortunes and Dancing Drums can be found in the area. All the best titles were added to give players a selection they would be familiar with. The space is also a smoking area, which is a good option for players who are smokers.

The indoor casino does not allow smoking, so this space can be used to play slots as well as light up when a player chooses to do so.

Staying Outdoors

For the cautious traveler, the outdoor gaming terrace is in a perfect position where contact with others is minimal. The terrace is situated near the parking garage. Players can simply park and then visit the M Life Rewards desk to take advantage of any promotions and then start playing on the terrace.

The rewards desk is located next to the terrace, so you don’t have to go far to get free play or promotions and then start reel spinning. The casino expects the outdoor area to be quite popular among visitors and will make changes as needed to create an enjoyable experience.

Player feedback will help the property to make changes to the outdoor area to better utilize the area. The view from the terrace is quite nice and is just one reason why players will find it enjoyable. Visitors comment often on the view and enjoy being outside in the fresh air while still enjoying popular slot games.

Rebecca Kont
Rebecca Kont

Rebecca lives in Las Vegas and after completing her degree at Reynolds Journalism school joined the USGS team to pursue her journalism dreams.