Taken on our last day trhere. This is a view from the front entrance to the casino/hotel.
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Mazatzal Hotel & Casino

4
·3k reviews·Payson, United States

Arizona's friendliest all-suite hotel & casino, offering gaming, dining, and live entertainment in the cool pines of Payson.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Evenings

Casino buzz and live entertainment

CrowdMedium
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Taken on our last day trhere. This is a view from the front entrance to the casino/hotel.

Mazatzal Hotel & Casino

Best Time

Evenings

Casino buzz and live entertainment

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Arizona's friendliest all-suite hotel & casino, offering gaming, dining, and live entertainment in the cool pines of Payson.

4
(3k reviews)

"Everyone was super helpful and nice. The food and pricing were extremely affordable and convenient."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Friendly Staff

Expect a warm welcome from staff throughout the hotel and casino.

💰 Affordable Dining

Enjoy convenient and reasonably priced food options without leaving the hotel.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Casino Floor Excitement

Casino Floor Excitement

Test your luck on a variety of slots, table games, and poker. A lively atmosphere without being overwhelming.

Reddit
Live Entertainment

Live Entertainment

Catch concerts from popular artists like Ludacris and Clay Walker. Check the schedule for upcoming shows.

Instagram+1
Cedar Ridge Restaurant

Cedar Ridge Restaurant

Enjoy hearty meals, including a popular soup and salad bar and prime rib specials.

Reddit+1
All-Suite Accommodations

All-Suite Accommodations

Comfortable and spacious suites offer a relaxing stay after a day of gaming or exploring.

Instagram
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Planning Your Visit

Book Ahead for Events

Concerts and special events at Mazatzal Hotel & Casino, like those featuring Clay Walker or Ludacris, can sell out quickly. Check their schedule and book tickets in advance to avoid disappointment. Instagram+1

Consider the Season

Located at 5000 ft elevation, Payson offers cooler temperatures than Phoenix. Visit during warmer months for a refreshing escape, but be aware that winter can bring colder weather. Instagram

Best Times

When
Evenings
Why
Casino buzz and live entertainment
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekends
Why
Live music and events
Crowd
High
When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Quieter gaming and dining
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Stopped at this casino. #mazatzal #hotel #casino #nighttime
thepia01
1 likes • 32 views

🎯 Friendly Staff

Expect a warm welcome from staff throughout the hotel and casino. Reddit+1

💰 Affordable Dining

Enjoy convenient and reasonably priced food options without leaving the hotel. Reddit

We are on our way to Arizona for a great weekend of shows! Who are we gonna see out there!? #markchesnutt #tour #Arizona 3/27 The Maverick Tucson, AZ 3/28 Sycuan Casino El Cajon, CA 3/29 Mazatzal Hotel Payson, AZ 3/30 Flying E Ranch Wickenburg, AZ
officialmarkchesnutt
959 likes • 13K views
Get ready, Payson! The Mazatzal Hotel & Casino is turning up the volume this October with back-to-back concerts featuring **Clay Walker** and **Ludacris** as part of the Tonto Apache Tribal Anniversary celebration! 🎶 **Clay Walker** will kick things off on **Friday, October 4th** at 7:00 PM. Expect all of his No. 1 hits like “This Woman and This Man” and “Hypnotize the Moon” to light up the night...
real_payson
29 likes • 2.5K views

🎶 Check Event Schedule

Book concert tickets in advance for popular artists like Ludacris. Instagram+1

⛰️ Scenic Drive

The drive from Phoenix to Payson is beautiful, especially via Camp Verde. Instagram

Arizona Trip Day 1 - Drove from Phoenix to Payson via the scenic route up through Camp Verde. Stopped off at Mazatzal Hotel & Casino for a bit before heading to our cabin at Kohl’s Ranch Lodge.
empowered_beauty_with_julie
8 likes • 95 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Friendly Staff

Expect a warm welcome from staff throughout the hotel and casino. Reddit+1

💰 Affordable Dining

Enjoy convenient and reasonably priced food options without leaving the hotel. Reddit

🎶 Check Event Schedule

Book concert tickets in advance for popular artists like Ludacris. Instagram+1

⛰️ Scenic Drive

The drive from Phoenix to Payson is beautiful, especially via Camp Verde. Instagram

📚 Book Festival

Attend the annual Payson Book Festival held at the casino event center. Instagram+1

What Travellers Say

4
(3k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Mazatzal Hotel & Casino receives mixed reviews, with many praising the friendly staff, affordable dining, and comfortable suites. However, some recent guests have reported significant issues with service quality in the restaurant and instances of unprofessional conduct from staff, leading to disappointment. Reddit+2

"Highly impressed with Cedar Ridge staff. Breakfasts and Dinners were awesome. Salad/soup bar was awesome and kept fresh and clean. Prime Rib on Sat night was really good. Slightly overcooked but super tasty and tender
All staff throughout the hotel and casino are really friendly and great you at every opportunity"

Marty Plisch

"This is one of the nicest Hotels I have stayed in and been at, from the staff to the entire encounter of the casino. My wife and I went here for a few days while looking at some land. We had a great time; everyone was super helpful and nice. The food and pricing were extremely affordable and convenient not having to leave the hotel to get something to eat. Definitely be visiting again soon."

Steve Martinez

"Tara, the bar “manager” tried her best to ruin our night. Me and my grandmother just arrived to the casino for the trace adkins concert. My grandma just had surgery so I had her sit down at the bar. After 10mins we were served, we understood, it was busy. She was not friendly and after we ordered our drink we wanted a shot of whiskey before we headed out to the stage, when she noticed there was no tip before we ordered the shot, she threw the change down and was VERY RUDE. Tara proceeded to ignore us for the remainder of the time, ignoring our request for the shot where we were going to leave a tip. We kept trying to get her attention, she avoided all eye contact. I finally got her attention by “excuse me miss” and she said “YEAH” with an attitude and proceeded to walk away avoiding eye contact. At this point we were confused and thought maybe she couldn’t hear us so my grandma continued to get her attention. At this point, she called security without even addressing us any further, or acknowledging that she even heard us. She could’ve aknowleged us and state she would get to us in a minute but instead she attempted to have us “removed” from the casino. I have been a restaurant manager for 7 years and never have been treated like this. I am EXTREMELY disappointed in this level of service and competence. I will be sure to let everyone I know how unprofessional and irrational the people whom work at this casino treat HIGH paying people."

Cheyanne Fyda

What People Like

Friendly and helpful staff
Affordable dining options
All-suite hotel rooms

What People Dislike

Inconsistent service quality
Declining food standards
Instances of rude staff

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Mazatzal Hotel & Casino is located in Payson, Arizona, about a 90-minute drive from Phoenix. Many visitors take the scenic route through Camp Verde. Instagram+1

Information regarding a specific shuttle service is not readily available, but it's recommended to check directly with the hotel for any transportation options they might offer or recommend. Reddit

The hotel and casino are situated at an elevation of 5000 feet above sea level in the cool mountain town of Payson. Instagram

While Mazatzal offers its own hotel accommodations, other lodging options may be available in the surrounding Payson area if you prefer to explore alternatives. Reddit

The drive is often described as scenic, particularly when taking routes through areas like Camp Verde, offering a pleasant journey to the mountain town. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Tickets for events, such as concerts by artists like Clay Walker or Ludacris, can often be purchased directly through the casino's website or designated ticketing partners. It's advisable to check the Mazatzal Hotel & Casino events page for the most up-to-date information. Instagram+1

Typically, casinos require patrons to be 21 years of age or older to enter and gamble. It's best to confirm the specific age requirements with the casino directly. Reddit

Membership in the Players Club is usually not required to attend general events or concerts, but it may offer benefits for gaming and other casino activities. Reddit

Casino hours can vary, but they are generally open late into the night, especially on weekends. It's recommended to check the official Mazatzal Hotel & Casino website for their current operating hours. Reddit

While some events might offer tickets at the door, it's highly recommended to purchase tickets in advance, as popular shows can sell out quickly. Instagram+1

🎫 🎰 Onsite Experience

Mazatzal Casino offers a good mix of slot machines, table games, and poker, catering to various player preferences. Reddit

Yes, the casino frequently hosts live entertainment, including concerts by well-known artists, and often features live DJs at its bar. Instagram+1

Dining options include the Cedar Ridge Restaurant, known for its soup and salad bar and hearty meals, as well as a sports bar and other quick-bite choices. Reddit+2

Yes, Mazatzal Hotel & Casino is an all-suite hotel, offering spacious accommodations for guests. Instagram

Yes, Mazatzal Casino has a Players Club, which likely offers rewards and benefits for frequent gamers. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The Cedar Ridge Restaurant is praised for its awesome breakfasts and dinners, with a well-maintained soup and salad bar. Prime rib on Saturday nights is also a highlight. Reddit+1

Many visitors find the food and pricing at Mazatzal to be extremely affordable and convenient, especially for not having to leave the hotel to eat. Reddit

The sports bar offers a lively atmosphere with drinks flowing easily, suitable for watching games and enjoying a casual bite. Reddit

The soup and salad bar, previously around $10, was considered a good value by some, though quality and service have been noted to decline by some recent reviews. Reddit

Yes, there are quick-bite options available if you prefer to keep your gaming momentum going without a full sit-down meal. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The casino floor offers vibrant lighting and activity, while the surrounding mountain scenery provides a scenic backdrop. The hotel's location in the cool pines can also offer picturesque views. Instagram+1

Photography policies for live events can vary. It's best to check with event organizers or venue staff regarding restrictions on recording or photographing performances. Instagram+1

Mornings and late afternoons often provide softer lighting for outdoor photography in the Payson area, especially with the mountain landscape. Instagram

While Mazatzal itself is the main attraction, the drive to Payson offers opportunities to photograph the natural beauty of the Tonto National Forest. Instagram

Yes, guests are generally permitted to take photos within their hotel rooms. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While primarily a casino, Mazatzal Hotel & Casino can accommodate families, especially during events like the Payson Book Festival, which is explicitly family-friendly with story hours and activities for children. Instagram+1 The hotel's all-suite accommodations offer more space for families to relax. Instagram

Consider visiting during the day or for specific family-oriented events. The drive to Payson itself is scenic and can be an enjoyable part of the trip. While the casino floor is restricted to adults, the hotel amenities and surrounding natural beauty offer alternatives for family entertainment. Instagram

💰 Budget Travelers

Mazatzal Hotel & Casino can be a good option for budget-conscious travelers, particularly due to its affordable dining options and the potential for value in its hotel rates. Reddit The soup and salad bar at Cedar Ridge, when at its best, offered a cost-effective meal. Reddit

Look for promotions and deals that might be available, especially if you plan to game. While some reviews mention older slot machines, the overall cost of a stay and dining can be more accessible compared to larger resorts. Visiting during off-peak times might also yield better rates. Reddit

couples

Mazatzal Hotel & Casino offers a blend of gaming excitement and comfortable lodging, making it a potential spot for couples looking for a getaway. The all-suite hotel provides a more private and spacious setting. Instagram Enjoy a meal together at the Cedar Ridge Restaurant or try your luck at the casino tables. Reddit

Consider planning your visit around one of the live entertainment events for a fun night out. The scenic drive to Payson also adds to the romantic appeal of a mountain escape. Instagram+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Gaming Experience at Mazatzal

Mazatzal Hotel & Casino offers a diverse gaming floor designed to appeal to a wide range of players. You'll find a good selection of slot machines, from classic reels to modern video slots, alongside various table games like blackjack and roulette. For poker enthusiasts, there are dedicated poker rooms. The atmosphere is often described as lively but not overwhelmingly large, making it accessible for both seasoned gamblers and newcomers. Reddit

Many visitors appreciate the Players Club, which offers rewards and incentives for regular play. While some reviews mention that older slot machines might not pay out as frequently, the overall gaming experience is considered engaging by many. The casino aims to provide excitement without the impersonal feel of larger resorts. Reddit+1

It's worth noting that while the casino floor is a major draw, some older reviews suggest that a portion of the slot machines may be quite dated. However, the variety of games and the friendly environment contribute to its appeal as a local gaming destination. Reddit

Dining Delights at Cedar Ridge

The Cedar Ridge Restaurant at Mazatzal Hotel & Casino is a highlight for many guests, particularly for its breakfast and dinner offerings. The soup and salad bar is frequently praised for being fresh, clean, and well-maintained, offering a satisfying option for a lighter meal or a starter. Reddit+1

Saturday nights are often noted for their prime rib, which, despite occasional comments about being slightly overcooked, is generally described as very tasty and tender. The affordability of the food, combined with the convenience of dining within the hotel, makes it a popular choice for visitors looking for value. Reddit

However, some more recent reviews have indicated a decline in the quality of food and service at Cedar Ridge. While the concept of the soup and salad bar remains appealing, consistency in preparation and attentive service has been a point of concern for some patrons. Reddit

Entertainment and Events

Mazatzal Hotel & Casino is a notable venue for live entertainment, regularly hosting concerts by popular artists. Past performers have included country star Clay Walker and hip-hop legend Ludacris, drawing significant crowds for these special events. Instagram+1

Beyond major concerts, the casino also features a sports bar with screens lining the walls, creating a lively atmosphere for watching games. Live DJs often spin tunes at the bar, adding to the energetic ambiance. Reddit The venue also hosts community events, such as the Payson Book Festival, which brings together authors and book lovers in a family-friendly setting. Instagram+1

Due to the popularity of these events, it's highly recommended to book tickets in advance to secure your spot. Checking the Mazatzal Hotel & Casino's official schedule is the best way to stay informed about upcoming performances and events. Instagram+1

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