When people think about Nevada, the main thing that comes to mind is Las Vegas. It's the Entertainment Capital of the World, with its famous Strip home to many of the state's casinos.
Even though Las Vegas Valley is where you'll find the action, there are great casinos in other parts of Nevada as well. However, it makes no sense to ignore what the most popular gaming destination in the US has to offer. Many of these venues have become landmarks on their own, and even non-gamblers know about places like the Casino at the MGM Grand or the TI.
What makes Las Vegas special is not only the size of the venue but also the overall experience. Apart from testing your luck on one of the casino floors larger than in some countries, you can watch amazing shows, swim in unusual pools, eat food prepared by world-renowned chefs, and much more.
The entertainment capital of the world is the ultimate playground, so if you ever get bored of spinning the slots' reels or playing poker against strangers, something else exciting will happen a few minutes later. It doesn't matter if you are coming alone, with your partner, or the whole family, as there's something for everyone.
The Best Las Vegas Strip Resorts & Casinos
It would be impossible to list all of Sin City's venues, especially when many of them aren't casinos per se. Some resorts have gambling areas smaller than many backwoods taverns, while others are big enough for a small village.
888poker - A GamblingSTOUT Review and Discount CodeInstead of making a complicated classification, we decided to focus on the . Here is our take on the top ten places you need to visit (or revisit) on the Strip:
The Top Resort Casino on the Las Vegas Strip – MGM Grand
When it comes to size, the MGM Grand leads the pack. Their 170,000 square feet of gambling space make this casino the biggest on the Strip and one of the largest in the country.
Being a part of MGM Resorts International, this property has 6,852 rooms and over 150 tables for popular games such as blackjack, roulette, and craps. You can also enjoy baccarat, three-card poker, pai gow, and even fifty-cent machines.
Apart from betting options you’d expect from any , the MGM Grand offers unique opportunities like its "Asian casino" called the TopGolf Swing Suite. It features high-tech golf simulators and lounge areas where you can eat and drink while watching others play.
Before heading to the casino, you might want to stop by one of the star-studded restaurants owned by stars such as Emeril Lagasse, Joël Robuchon, or Tom Colicchio. Even the food court is impressive, featuring names like Eataly and Shake Shack.
The MGM Grand Garden Arena hosts the most prominent music acts, boxing matches, and award shows. The pool complex consists of three acrated pools, a lazy river, and twelve bars and cabanas. When you add two spas, luxurious rooms, and an efficient rewards program on top, it's easy to see why this place is number one.
The Best Casino on the Las Vegas Strip for High Rollers – ARIA Resort and Casino
Located between Bellagio and Cosmopolitan, this Property is Under the Same Roof as the Wynn and Encore
of the World's Largest Casinos Outside Las VegasEveryone knows that high rollers are welcome in every Las Vegas casino, but some places go above and beyond to show it. As soon as you enter the Aria, you'll feel the luxury surrounding you. With 120,000 square feet of gambling space, this venue is the epitome of modern gambling.
Whether you prefer classic table games, video poker, or the latest slot machines, the Aria won’t disappoint. The poker room is particularly interesting, considering it hosts the World Series of Poker every year.
High rollers appreciate the VIP services provided by the casino, including personal concierges and chips made of roses. If you don't mind throwing around hundred-dollar bills, you can ask for silver or gold chips worth $5,000 and $25,000, respectively.
Lucky U-Shape Couch at the VIP Baccarat Area of the Aria Casino
As expected, dining options inside the Aria are first-class. You can relax at Julian Serrano Tapas, enjoy fresh seafood at Michael Mina, or try other dishes prepared by renowned chefs such as Mario Carbone, Brian Malugin, and Michael Symon.
After a long night of gambling, you can choose between Relaxation Retreat and Vitality Spa & Salon to heal your body and soul. The Liquid Bliss Pool Lounge could also help you loosen up, especially if you decide to rent a cabana equipped with a flat-screen TV, refrigerator, and mister system.
Although the Aria might not have the craziest parties on the Strip, it's located in the CityCenter, which is one of the most sophisticated spots in town. You can also relax knowing that the same company owns and — Wynn and Encore.
For Romance – The Venetian Resort
When you want to impress someone special, taking her/him to Italy might be too expensive, time-consuming, and stressful. Instead of dealing with cranky flight attendants, language barriers, and pickpockets, you can bring the Bel Paese to Las Vegas.
Although it won't be the real thing, the Venetian can give you a taste of la dolce vita without breaking the bank. This resort looks like it was built for couples in love, starting with the gondola rides along its indoor canal streets.
You and your loved one can sit down, wear silly hats, and listen to an Italian serenade while floating under bridges and painted ceiling models inspired by Venice. Each ride last about fifteen minutes, costs $30 during the day and $35 after 4:00 p.m., and is worth every penny.
Other romantic things to do at the Venetian include walking across the bridges, observing street performers, and taking countless pictures. If your significant half loves shopping, you can always lose yourself among the stores selling everything from clothes and jewelry to art and chocolates.
When it comes to dining, the selection includes everything from sandwiches and pizza to steaks and sushi. Many restaurants try to recreate the Italian atmosphere, but you can also find American and international cuisine.
William Hill Promo Code - Get a £50 Welcome BonusOne of the best ways to conclude a perfect day is relaxing at the Canyon Ranch SpaClub. Its 134,000 square feet host 134 treatment rooms, a gym, indoor and outdoor pools, and even a workout area for aquatic exercise.
Although the venue is massive, its 3,024 standard rooms and suites usually aren't fully booked. You can use the quiet corners to contemplate life, read a book, or simply observe your better half.
If you are ready to gamble, the Venetian's 120,000-square-foot casino should meet your expectations. Popular table games never sleep, and you can bet anywhere from a nickel to millions of dollars on house-made chips.
Slot machines vary in denomination, theme, and jackpot amount, so there's something for everybody. The highest-limit machines can be found near the Italian glass blowers working just a few feet away from the players.
Best Casino on the Las Vegas Strip for Slot Players – mgi at Mandalay Bay
Formerly Known as The Orleans, The Gold Coast Was Rebranded and Renovated to Become Mgi
Many gambling destinations around the globe are known for specific games. In Monaco, everyone plays Le Journer, Brazilian poker is famous in South America, and Las Vegas is the unofficial slot machine capital of the world.
Although all casinos on the Strip have slot machines, some offer more and better games than others. Modern Gaming mandalay bay (mgi) is the new name for the renovated Gold Coast, and it has 2,974 machines and games spread across 65,000 square feet.
The venue focuses on older customers who remember the Gold Coast days. That's why they kept the players club and loyalty tier structure intact while offering better slots, food, and promotions.
mgm Grand Las Vegas Features Penn & Teller as Well as Other Unique Shows
In addition to classics such as video poker and stepper machines, mgi also provides denoms ranging from a penny to a dollar. If you are lucky, you might stumble upon a hot spot and receive free drinks, dinner vouchers, and other goodies.
The casino also has kiosks where you can buy $100 Power Draws tickets with chances to win up to $300,000. The Bingo Base Ball game allows you to earn bingo cards and patterns by pulling tab-style cards, and Denom Jackpot Daily Promotion could boost your winnings up to $2,000.
Apart from testing your luck, you can enjoy live music, comedy shows, and other entertainment events organized at Mandalay Bay. Its 11-acre beach pool complex is another attraction sharing space with sharks, rays, and other exotic species at the mandatory Shark Reef Aquarium.
Mandalay Bay is part of MGM Resorts International, which means you can use the rewards earned in any of its properties. Whether you're into slotted arm machines, video poker, or the newest electronic games, mgi is the place to be.
Best Casino on the Las Vegas Strip for Table Games – Bellagio
Bellagio is perhaps the most iconic hotel in Las Vegas and one of the city's symbols alongside the Eiffel Tower and Stratosphere Tower. Its fountains performing coordinated dances with songs from various artists are watched by millions of people each year.
However, not everyone comes to Sin City to enjoy the sights and sounds; many visitors hope to beat the house at different table games. If you are one of those individuals, the Bellagio is the right spot.
Spread across 100,000 square feet, this casino's eight poker tables, 80 blackjack ones, and dozens of others cater to all kinds of players. Regardless of whether you are into craps, roulette, baccarat, or high-stakes gambling sessions, the Bellagio won’t disappoint.
Baccarat Position Betting Range Goes From $25 to $25,000, While Craps and Blackjack Allow Wagers from $50 Up to $5,000 Chips
Ways to Destroy Your Online Casino Bonus ClaimEven though the Bellagio is one of the best places to play baccarat, you can also use your strategy on other table games with limits going from $50 to $5,000. The elegant setting combines with knowledgeable dealers to provide a first-class gaming experience.
The Bellagio poker room has 14 tables, rotating games, promotions, and tournaments, including No-Limit Hold'em and Pot-Limit Omaha. Limitless Rewards loyalty program connects with MGM Resorts International's similar scheme, providing excellent benefits to regular players.
This casino has hosted numerous championships, such as the World Series of Poker, and remains one of the best locations for this card game.
Irrespective of what you think of the in the movie Rounders, few would argue against Mirage creator Steve Wynn's assertion that Bobby's patron Huckleberry ("Huck" Seed) changed the way Americans watched and appreciated the game.
Although the Bellagio isn't the biggest player in town, you shouldn't overlook it if you test your skills against other guests.
For Families – Treasure Island
Treasure Island used to be a quiet place until Cirque du Soleil's ''Jeune Homme et la Mort" (Young Man and Death) showed up in 1990. The sensual and violent show mixed pirates, naked people, explosions, and other attractions that made headlines worldwide.
Family-Friendly Attractions at Treasure Island Las Vegas
Although the show ended in 1998, the new ''Mystere'' by the world-famous Canadian company wasn't enough to save the sinking ship. The 3,100 workers went on strike in 1984, demanding better salaries and working conditions.
Despite the hard times, Treasure Island remains open, providing a fun atmosphere suitable for families with kids of all ages. Even though parents can spend some time gambling in one of the 100,000 square feet casino floor, everyone should check out the pirate battle show held multiple times a night in front of the hotel.
Closer Encounters can test their shooting skills at the range, while the whole tribe can have fun at Cirque Du Soleil's Mystère or at the island's many shops and attractions.
Families looking for a more relaxed vacation can use the hotel's pools, private cabanas, and nearby beaches. Although Treasure Island won’t rank as the top adult casino on the strip, it could be the perfect family resort in Sin City.
Most Iconic – The Mirage
When Steve Wynn announced he was building a resort that would mimic the natural environment of a South Pacific Island, people didn't know what to expect. His idea paid off, and The Mirage became the first mega-resort in Las Vegas.
Its most notable feature is the 85-ft (26 m) tall volcano fountain spewing water and fire every evening. Many consider this place the birthplace of the modern Strip resort, despite certain imperfections such as the lack of a central elevators and reliance on themed statues to move people around.
White Tigers Perform Daily at the Mirage
Although The Mirage was the most luxurious venue in the world when it opened in 1989, other casinos caught up with the years. Even so, this property still stands strong with its 3,002 rooms, 100,000 square feet casino, five pools, two golf courses, and multiple entertainment options.
Sinatra, Celine Dion, Brooks & Dunn, Siegfried & Roy, Carrot Top... The list of famous artists and animal trainers who performed under the same roof with your potential self is truly impressive. The current shows include Terry Fator's ventriloquism act and the Battle Magic illusions by Mac King.
The 1.2 million gallon volcern fountain in front of The Mirage
If that's not enough, you can admire white tigers and lions or watch the eruption of the 50-foot (15 m) tall “volcano” shooting water and fire every night. The Atlantis-themed tank at the aquarium has 11 million liters of water home to thousands of animals such as tropical fish, stingrays, and sea turtles.
The 100,000 square feet casino has everything from slot machines and classic table games to a race and sports book. You can even play baccarat on the mezzanine level overlooking Strip, which is perfect for high rollers and cheapskates alike.
no deposit new casinosAlthough The Mirage might not be the trendiest venue on the Strip, it remains an iconic symbol of Las Vegas.
Best View – Stratosphere Tower
We cannot talk about the best casinos on the Las Vegas Strip without mentioning the Stratosphere Tower. Unlike the other entries on this list, this property is not a complete resort per se. Instead, the Stratosphere Tower is an observation and telecommunication tower standing 1,149 ft (350 m) tall.
It is the tallest freestanding tower in America and the fifth-tallest structure in the United States. The Stratosphere's top offers stunning views of the city and thrilling rides such as the Big Shot, Insanity, X Scream, and SkyJump.
Unlike other landmarks on the Strip, the Stratosphere Tower is not attached to a resort but shares space with a 2,427-room hotel. Casinos are situated on the third and fourth levels, covering 100,000 square feet offering slots, video poker, and popular table games.
Craps tables at stratosphere
Although the Stratosphere Casino, Hotel & Tower struggled in recent years, new owners plan to revitalize the property and attract more tourists and players. Everyone will know what’s up by the end of 2023.
If you’re curious about this place, you can check it out and see how the Las Vegas Strip looks from such a height. Just don’t look down while jumping from the SkyJump platform!
Best Budget Option – Excalibur
MGM Resorts International’s Excalibur might not be as glamorous as its surrounding buildings, but it remains one of the best budget-friendly hotels on the Strip. Its medieval knight exterior and affordable prices attract families with children, backpackers, and anyone looking for a good time without spending too much.
A typical room costs less than $100 per night, but you should book in advance to get the best deals. Other advantages include four swimming pools, a spa tub, fitness center, arcade, and the Tournament Tower with express elevators and fantastic views of the city.
Excalibur's Thrill Of The Hunt Lounge Used To Be A Favorite Of Professional Card Counters In The 90's
Best Casino Bars in America You Need a Drink At - GamblingSites.com BlogAlthough it isn't a five-star resort, Excalibur has ten restaurants, lounges, and eateries serving fast food, ice cream, deli sandwiches, buffets, steaks, and other dishes. You can even pick up snacks and drinks from the convenience store and enjoy them in your room.
The casino takes around 100,000 square feet and has plenty of penny slots, classic tables, and multi-game machines. Whether you wish to spin the reels of a stepper machine or play low-limit baccarat, Excalibur won’t disappoint.
Located next to New York-New York and MGM Grand, Excalibur is the closest Strip casino to the Convention Center. It is also part of the Mlife Loyalty Program, allowing you to use your points in other casinos such as Bellagio, Mandalay Bay, Aria, Vdara, and Monte Carlo.
Most Unique Experience – The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas
No two people are the same, which explains why some visitors prefer Excalibur’s fairytale ambient and others want nothing to do with it. Considering the diversities of our species, it’s no wonder we have casinos meant to satisfy various tastes.
The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas is one of those properties trying to mix style, quality, and originality into a unique experience. Despite being close to Bellagio and Citycenter, this hotel looks like nothing else on the Strip.
Rooms and Suites at the cosmopolitan of las vegas
Although The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas is not the biggest place on the Strip (2,778 rooms and 100,000 square feet casino), it’s large enough to make you feel special. The SLS Beverly Hills owner transformed the previous Rackhouse Hotel in 2010 and focused on independent thinkers seeking “a galvanizing experience.”
You can observe various artwork pieces created by famous artists around the premises and check the regularly changing exhibits. The three swimming pools also have unique designs, and the 100,000 square feet casino has a race and sportsbook, table games, keno, video poker, and one of the best poker rooms on the Strip.
Dining options include blue ribbon brasserie,ESTADIO | MÁS MÉXICO, VIVA MEXICANA, RECHELLES, Rise Rooftop Lounge and much more.
Best Real Money Casinos in Connecticut for 2023Whether you seek a wild party or a peaceful trip, The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas promises an adventure like no other.
Best Shopping – Wynn Esquire
Wynn and Encore may be new properties, but they are among the best resorts on the Strip. Open since 2005, these twin towers share casino, lobby, and other public spaces, although they have separate registers.
Encore Building Opened in 2008 and Connected via Pedestrian Bridge to Wynn
Wynn Esquire might not be the best casino or resort on this list, but it comes pretty close. If shopping is your thing, you will be happy to learn that this property has 20 high-end boutiques spreading across 110,00 square feet inside and outside the resort.
Brands include Chanel, Dior, Louis Vuitton, Giorgio Armani, Bottega Veneta, Brioni, and Harry Winston, among others. Whether you seek fashion accessories, jewelry, handbags, or watches, you can find them here.
After buying all that stuff, you might want to chill by the pool, sunbathe, or play a game or two. Luckily, the Wynn and Encore towers have six sparkling pools with lagoons, waterfalls, and cabanas surrounded by lush gardens.
If that is not sufficient, you can visit the spa and salon hosting 50 treatment rooms, hydrotherapy lounge, relaxation rooms, sauna, steam room, whirlpools, ice room, and VIP suite. Men can groom themselves at the Barbershop and the Gentlemen’s Spa, while women can use the Unique Salon Services.
The 160,000 square feet casino focuses on quality instead of quantity, providing more high-limit gambling rooms than any other venue on the Strip. Apart from the usual slots, table games, poker, and race/sports books, Wynn Esquire has knowledgeable dealers, innovative gaming devices, and stunning decorations.
Honorable Mentions
Our list stops here, but many other outstanding casinos deserve your attention. If you cannot decide which resort to pick for your next Vegas trip, allow us to present four additional options.
Tokyo Hotel and Casino
Also known as the Yamashiroya International Las Vegas, Tokyo Hotel and Casino is an all-suite Japanese-themed property opened in 1990. It has only 602 rooms compared to other resorts on the Strip, but they are enormous, starting from 550 sq ft (53 m2).
Apart from the traditional casino, Tokyo Hotel and Casino has a health club, rooftop pool, massage services, beauty parlor, gift shop, sauna, and Jacuzzi. You can also indulge yourself in Japanese traditions such as tea ceremonies, calligraphy, flower arrangement, martial arts, and origami.
Spectacular Casino Resorts You Can Visit in CanadaCircus Circus
Built in 1968, Circus Circus is the oldest resort on the Strip and home to the world’s largest permanent circus. Its 3,768 rooms and 110,000 square feet casino attract budget players looking for cheap eats, classic slots, traditional table games, race and sports books, high-limit gaming rooms, and exciting entertainment options.
Venetian Resort Las Vegas
The grand opening of the Venetian took place in 1999, and this 3,026-room hotel immediately became one of the world's largest. Its 120,000 square feet casino is not the largest on the Strip, but it has popular table games, high-limit betting rooms, a race and sports book, and the hottest slot machines.
Venetian Resort also boasts the Canyon Ranch SpaClub, several swimming pools, shops, fine dining restaurants, and staggering interior design copies of Venice art, architecture, and culture.
MGM Grand Hotel & Casino
Another MGM Resorts International entry, this 6,852-room resort opened in 1993, cost $1 billion to build, and measures 170.56 acres (0.69 km2). MGM Grand Hotel & Casino is larger than the island of Monaco and the smallest MGM property.
Regarding gambling, this venue has everything from penny slots and classic table games to high-limit areas and a race and sports book. MGM Grand Hotel & Casino also shares properties with the luxurious Mandarin Oriental Las Vegas hotel and the CONTVCT nightclub.
Casinos That Accept Pro Gamblers in the US (and 6 That Don't)How to Choose the Right Casino for Your Needs
With so many excellent casinos on the Las Vegas Strip, choosing the proper one for your needs might seem challenging. Different players seek various things such as slot machines, table games, keno, poker, high limits, or themed settings.
Some folks wish to party until dawn, while others want a quiet vacation with their loved ones. Others travel to Las Vegas to watch extraordinary shows, eat at fancy restaurants, swim in extravagant pools, and enjoy first-class accommodation.
Depending on your goals, preferences, and budget, you can select one or more casinos from our list and honorable mentions. If you want more information on these venues or need other recommendations, keep reading.
Gambling Options
Slots, table games, poker, sportsbooks… What kind of gambling activities do you enjoy?
The mgi and treasure island are the best choices for slot machine lovers, while the bellagio, aria, and vuhdara focus on table games such as baccarat, blackjack, roulette, and craps. Old timers will feel at home at the mirage or excitcalibur, while high rollers should visit the mGM grand, wynn esquire, or the cosmospolitan.
If you are a poker aficionado, you should check the aroma de lavanda, bailley’s pub & grill, café presley’s, and new york-new york piano bar for the best games and bonuses.
Activities Outside the Casino Floor
Shows, swimming pools, spas, and shopping centers are some of the main reasons people come to Vegas. If you aim to relax, unwind, and forget about work, money, and problems, then you should stay at Caesars Palace, vdara, ensembleSteadleyWhenson, or one of the honorable mentions.
On the contrary, partying hard is the order of the day at the inverted infinity pool at the strat, the dayclub at mandalay bay, ligurta pool, and venus european pool lounge. Either way, you should check the casinos’ websites for more details because the entertainments vary throughout the year.
lake charles casino concertsPrice Range
Lastly, you must consider your budget before booking a room and purchasing plane tickets to Las Vegas. The Stratosphere Tower and Excalibur are the cheapest options, but you can also find affordable rooms at Circus Circus and the Stratosphere hotel and tower.
If you seek middle ground properties, check the Caesars Palace, Planet Hollywood Resortion, Tropicana Las Vegas, MGM Grand Hotel and Casino, and Bally’s Las Vegas. Alternatively, you can splurge at Four Seasons Hotel Las Vegas, Mandarin Oriental, or the Venetian Resort.
Final Thoughts
Visiting Las Vegas is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for most people. That is why you should carefully choose your casino(s) depending on your situation and desires.
Whether you dream of opulent accommodations, mouth-watering meals, fascinating shows, extravagant swimming pools, or first-class gambling experiences, the Las Vegas Strip has something to offer.
Of course, you can always opt for lesser-known gambling destinations like . Whatever path you take, may the Lady Luck be by your side!
Footnotes:
- provided insight on how Steve Wynn built the Mirage.
- info on Bobby Darin performing at the Deauville hotel
- Circle K racetrack and ski resort at the Las Vegas Hilton from
Jerry Summer is a former casino worker and a gambling author with nearly a decade of experience in the gambling industry. He's also an avid casino playerwith a major passion for slots.
