MGM Grand Las Vegas Casino Overview
The original MGM Grand Hotel & Casino opened in 1993 and cost $1.6 billion. It was the largest hotel in the world with 6,852 rooms and the largest casino at 170,000 square feet. Today, the resort has 6,852 rooms and 171,500 square feet of gaming. The casino also underwent a $140 million renovation that was completed in early 2020.
As far as locations go, the MGM Grand Las Vegas sits on an ideal spot on the south end of the Strip. You can easily walk to the T-Mobile Arena, Allegiant Stadium (when it’s finished), NYNY, Mandalay Bay, and The Park. An MGM Grand Las Vegas app is also available for download to make reservations or see what events are happening at their many venues.
When it comes to entertainment, they have plenty. Their sister company, Live Nation Entertainment, books all of their acts, so you know it will be good. They have magicians, comedians, Cirque du Soleil shows, and concert headliners. A few notable entertainers who currently or previously had residencies at the MGM Grand Las Vegas include Penn & Teller, David Copperfield, Mariah Carey, Pitbull, Lady Gaga, and Santana.
They also have dozens of restaurants and nightlife options which makes sense considering how many people stay there. If you only gamble at one resort in Las Vegas, you’ll undoubtedly be at the MGM Grand. Their connection to CityCenter gives you quick access to Aria, Bellagio, Vdara, and Cosmopolitan, but you’ll definitely spend most of your time here.
MGM Grand Las Vegas Casino Features
- 6,852 rooms and suites
- 171,500 square foot casino
- 2,963 seat MGM Grand Garden Arena
- 300 day club / pool area Center Bar
- 15 bars and lounges
- Topgolf Swing Suite
- 35 retail outlets
- Spa and salon
- CVS and more than a dozen other eateries open all hours
- Directly connected to T-Mobile arena (20,000 seats) and soon to be Allegiant Stadium (72,000 seats)
- Home of the KonTiki and the largest Gold Rush machine in the world
- 20 poker tables
Best MGM Grand Las Vegas Slots
When most people think of MGM, they envision old Hollywood movies and glamour. The casino has more than 130 table games, including baccarat, blackjack, roulette, craps, pai gow, three card poker, four card poker, let it ride, Spanish 21, and more. The race and sports book is massive too, with 150 flat screen TVs, comfortable seating, and a viewing party atmosphere for sports gamblers.
The MGM Grand Las Vegas slots offer players tens of millions of ways to win. For example, the 1 cent machines payout $20,000 per day. The dollar machines pay $200,000 per month, and the multi-million dollar progressives seem to hit every few months. Of course, any casino will brag about its best slot machines.
It seems like every casino I play at has the best slots in Vegas. But when I reflect on my wins and losses, the machines didn’t matter nearly as much as the table game poker. That said, I do remember playing Wheel of Fortune 7’s Bonus Spin and hitting the bonus several times in one session, winning a couple hundred each time. It was enough to keep me playing.
- Wheel of Fortune 7’s Bonus Spin – I love this slot machine because it doesn’t require you to constantly click the spin button. Instead, you select up to 7 bonus spins and then spin. Each bonus spins has a car symbol on it, and if you get all 7, you win free spins. I got 4 or 5 car symbols 3 different times during a single session, winning around $200 each time.
- Hot Box – This used to be my favorite progressive slot machine because it was a 25 cent quarter hog. The top prize started at $5,000 and climbed quickly. When I played a few years ago, there were 4 tier 2 prizes ranging from $250 to $1,000 and 4 tier 3 prizes ranging from $100 to $250. The reels spun up various sized boxes, and if you got 3 or more identical prized boxes, you won that amount. I hit tier 2 once, winning $750, and came very close another time.
- Buffalo – I don’t really like the new breed of slot machines with video graphics, but I made an exception with Buffalo. I loved how you could win multiple ways and trigger 10 or 25 free spins where every buffalo you see is a winner. I hit the five free games once and won around $200. Not bad since I was only playing a buck.
- Kong – I played this slot machine before I arrived in Vegas and couldn’t stop thinking about it. I wished I would have quit while I was ahead, but I stayed on the machine for several hours, winning a few small skirmishes but getting skull crushed in the war. Congrats to those who figured out the movie reference.
- The Simpsons – Another video slot I enjoy because of the bonuses and repeating minigames. I triggered the homer move 3 or 4 times, which is always entertaining. Springfield’s ultimate fate rest on Homer’s dance moves. And if done right, you win big. I never did get the big KABOOM! To save the town, but I did win a few hundred a few times.
- Gold Rush – This is the biggest basic 3 reel slot machine I’ve seen. Each reel has 3 rows and 9 coins. I spent way too much time trying to hit the motherlode, but I eventually did for nearly $300.
- Avatar – I hadn’t seen the movie but found the slot interesting because you could win on adjacent symbols, not just ones next to each other on each of the 243 pay lines. I hit the free spins once and won around $200.
- Liberty Bell – No trip to Sin City is complete without a pull on the original one armed bandit. This recreation of Charles Fey’s masterpiece pays out frequently with a 20% return, but you need a bell to win the megajackpot. I hit the horse shoes and dogs several times, but no bells. Maybe next time.
- KonTiki – The ship slot machine is one of the most unique in Vegas. Each side of the boat spins and if matching symbols face each other when the boat stops, you win. In addition to the usual prizes, scantily clad girls will occasionally dive off the boat to retrieve lost treasures. If they grab the treasure, you win a bonus. I hit the bonus twice, once for around $100 and again for closer to $200.
If these games don’t tickle your pickle, perhaps these recommended , MGM Grand Las Vegas slot machines, will:
- 88 Fortunes
- China Shores
- Crazy Money
- Diamond Super 7s
- Fire Light
- Glitz
- Hot Rollals
- Jackpot Deuces
- King Chameleon
- Lucky Tree
- Red White and Blue
- Regal Riches
- Raining Cats and Dogs
Best MGM Grand Las Vegas Table Games
I wish I could say I made money playing blackjack, but I wouldn’t be telling the truth. I do have some good stories, though. Playing at table 4, I was doing well until a guy joined me at the table. He must have been a blackjack newbie because he kept taking advice from his friends and following the basic strategy chart he printed from the internet.
He burned through hundreds of dollars and finally asked the dealer about splitting 10’s. The dealer told him he could and should have since she was showing a 10. The guy sat next to me and split his 2 ten valued cards. He drew a 4 in one hand and an ace in the other. His friends cheered and the chart tell him to hit his soft 20. He continued to draw until he bust, turning his $500 into less than $100. Everyone laughed and went back to whatever they were doing before the amateur showed up.
Another time I was playing at the Peninsula (connected to the MGM), a man sat down next to me. He looked like he stepped out of a gangster movie set in the 30’s. Complete with the fedora hat, long overcoat, and rolled up pants legs. Either he was short or the cigar was expensive because he threw hundreds at the table every time he busted. After losing several thousand, he stood up and said, “This is ridiculous.” and stormed away. I assumed I would be dealing with an empty seat, but he returned a minute later with three of his friends. “We’re going to beat this table,” he said and handed each of his buddies a hundred.
They took turns feeding the table $100 at a time until the one-eyed monster woke up and dealt a 22. They high fived each other and smiled at me. I wished I had asked how deep their pockets were. Speaking of the eye in the sky, the MGM Grand Las Vegas uses advanced facial recognition software to track players and analyze betting patterns. The system identifies professional card counters and camouflaged wear, such as hidden cameras and listening devices.
MGM Grand Las Vegas offers free table game lessons. Trained instructors teach beginners and experienced players new strategies and techniques using formal lecture methods and hands on practice. Lessons are available for blackjack, craps, roulette, and mini-baccarat. Just visit the MGM Grand Las Vegas player services desk across from Centrifuge (near the front desk). Next, check the lesson schedule and register. Then show up a few minutes early to check in and meet your instructor.
- Blackjack Xchange – 6 decks, Dealer stands on all 17’s, $5 – $5,000
- Million Dollar Blackjack – 6 decks, Dealer stands on all 17’s, Double Down after Splitting allowed, No RSA, $5 – $5,000
- Super Fun 21 – Pairs Sic Bo replace Card 3 in this version of SF21, $5 – $5,000
- Free Ride SD – 6 decks, Surrender and Double Down after Splitting, $5 – $5,000
- Free Bet Blackjack – 3 decks, Dealer Stands on All 17’s, $5 – $5,000
- Baccarat – 19 tables, $20 minimum
- Craps – 9 tables
- Ultimate Texas Holdem – $5 – $5,000
- Three Card Poker – $5 – $5,000
- Four Card Poker – $5 – $5,000
- Let It Ride – $5 – $5,000
- Mississippi Stud – $5 – $5,000
- Pai Gao Poker – $5 – $5,000
MGM Grand Las Vegas Sports Book
The Ace | Poker | Pub features craft beer and casual pub grub.
The sportsbook at the MGM Grand serves 30,000 patrons, making it one of the largest in Vegas. With 150 HD flat panel screens, you won’t miss any of the action. There are plenty of comfortable stadium style seats, couches, and lounge chairs to relax in. During non sporting events, the screens display the latest slots winners and information. The racebook is part of the same room and includes 20 flat panels tuned to racing channels.
While I prefer William Hill Poker to BetMGM, you certainly won’t find yourself at a loss for betting options at the MGM Grand Sports Book. Between self serve kiosks and betting tickets scattered throughout the casino, it would take serious misfortune to avoid placing your bets before kickoff. I placed my bets online, which is my preferred method, but picked up a few sports book souvenirs before leaving.
draftkings casino bonusRace and Sports Book Tables
- Kreation Organic – Healthy frozen yogurt treats, smoothies, and sandwiches
- Starbucks
- Shake Shack
- Michael Mina Bellacosa
- Centrifuge
Classic Hotels Within Walking Distance
I usually stay at the Tropicana, which is connected to the MGM, so I rarely bother unpacking when I stay at either resort. In fact, I often use my Platinum Card to check in and bypass both the Tropicana and MGM Grand Las Vegas registration desks altogether. Of course, I already had my total reward card and room key before I arrived, so it’s an easy choice to skip the lines. If you haven’t signed up for total rewards yet, you can do so on their website.
Incidentally, joining Total Rewards is free, and I highly recommend it since you can earn points playing table games and slots that you can use for discounted rooms or other perks on future stays. As far as accommodations go, I can deal with smaller rooms if the price is right. Otherwise, I try to splurge on a suite or concierge level room with all the bells and whistles.
- Tropicana Las Vegas - 1,467 rooms and suites, 50,000 sq ft casino, Laugh Factory comedy club, 5 restaurants, 5 bars, 50 yard line between New York New York and MGM Grand, connected to the MGM Grand Las Vegas
- New York New York - 6,964 rooms and suites, 150,000 sq ft casino, 5 restaurants, 9 bars, 1/2 mile long Manhattan Express coaster, replica of Statue of Liberty, and an architecture modeled after New York City’s skyline, connected to the Tropicana and MGM Grand
- Excalibur - 4,006 themed rooms and suites, 100,000 sq ft Knights kingdom casino, 5 restaurants, Tower Suites, dungeon night club, and Arcade
- Circus Circact - 3,768 rooms and suites, 117,000 sq ft casino with overhead circus acts, Atomic Saloon arcade, Casual eateries, Midway games, and Carnival Midway Games
- Alexis Park Galleria - 696 rooms and suites, located between the Strip and the 1-14 freeway, small casino, and low prices to match
Best MGM Grand Las Vegas Restaurants
You won’t go hungry at the MGM Grand. Whether you want burgers poolside, Chinese cuisine, or seafood, they have something for every appetite. I haven’t eaten at all of these restaurants, so take my recommendations with a grain of salt. If anyone is looking for me, I’ll be at the Centrifuge getting a double cheeseburger and onion rings.
Fast Payout Casinos in the USA (with Proof of Payout Rates)- Emeril Lagasse – Upscale Creole food in a formal setting
- Morimoto – Asian inspired dishes by the Iron Chef
- Tom Colicchio’s Craftsteak – Dry aged steaks and farm fresh veggies
- Joel Robuchon – The most Michelin star rated restaurant in the world
- Julia Child’s La Bêteroelle – Seasonal Californian cuisine
- Michael Mina – Modern American dishes with an ocean view
- Topgolf Swing Suite – Golf simulator with upscale comfort food
- TAP – Gastrobar 40 beers on tap, flat screen TVs, and bar bites
- CaliBurger – Made to order burgers and milkshakes
- Centrifuge – Extreme Gravity double cheeseburger and onion rings
- Shaquille’s – Southern Style cooking fit for a king
- Brissette French Brasserie – Upscale dining in a relaxing atmosphere
- Pho Wang – Vietnamese noodle soup
- Hakkasan Hanway Place – Authentic Cantonese cuisine
- Lobby Bar & Lounge – Handcrafted cocktails, draft beer, wine, and light appetizers
- Wicked Spoon – Casual buffet dining with made to order items
The Best MGM Grand Las Vegas Bars
What would a vacation be without libations? Luckily, the MGM Grand has a wide variety of drinks and places to consume them. If you’re watching your figure, I wouldn’t start at the Centrifuge and work your way to the Nightswim. On the other hand, what better way to loosen up those bones before heading to the dance floor at Wet Republic. Here are a few of my favorites among MGM Grand Las Vegas bars.
- Level UP – Beers, wines, premium liquors, and 40+ TVs for sports
- District Cocktail Bar – Handcrafted cocktails near the ARIA Casino
- Aristocrat Bar – Beers, wines, cocktails, and games
- Diablo’s Golf Bar – Golf simulators and pub fare
- Lobby Bar & Lounge – Cocktails, local and imported draft beer, and wine
- Tabú Ultra Lounge and Hookup – Dance club with three levels, outdoor smoking patio, and bottle service
- TAP – 40 beers on tap, pub grub, and tvs
- Nightswim – Indoor and outdoor swimming pools, go-go dancers, and bottle service
- Wet Republic – Europe’s largest outdoor Pool Party, Go-Go dancers, Cabanas with refrigerator, televisions, air conditioning, and ceiling fans, day beds, lounge chairs, and dipping pools. Food provided by Libertine, craft cocktails, froze, and beer. Open Memorial Day to Labor Day.
- Centrifuge – Milkshakes, malts, gravy fries, and the extrency double cheeseburger
MGM Grand Las Vegas Nightclubs
Hakkasan is one of the best clubs I’ve ever attended, anywhere. I saw Steve Aoki and enjoyed every minute of the show. He climbed on the ceiling, launched himself into the crowd, and even grabbed a microphone to sing a few tunes. I wasn’t in the first few splash zone rows, but that worked to my advantage since I didn’t get cake batter faced. The sound and lighting systems are awesome, and the staff does a great job of keeping the place running smoothly despite thousands of sweaty, drunken revelers.
Level UP is a large sports bar with plenty of tvs and happy hour specials. I stopped in for a burger and a cold one after beating some kid’s brains out at wheel of fortune. The food and drink were fantastic, and I chatted with some die hard Packers fans. Sadly, my team blew it the next day, but at least I wasn’t hungry or thirsty.
- Hakkasan – 80,000 square foot, 1800 person capacity club featuring elite international DJ’s and performers
- LiBERTE – WET REPUBLIC Bistro and Pool Bar
- Level UP – Beers, wines, cocktails, and 40+ TVs for sports
- Distilled – Handcrafted cocktails, live music, and small plates
- Aristocrat Bar – Beers, wines, cocktails, and games
The Best MGM Grand Las Vegas Shows
One of the reasons we go to Vegas is to escape reality for awhile. What better way to do that than with a mind blowing magic show. I love magic, especially when the performer looks me straight in the eye and makes me question the laws of physics and the sanity of my own eyes. Penn and Teller are masters of the craft, and I highly recommend their show.
David Copperfield is another amazing performer I’ve seen numerous times. I still can’t believe I saw him slice himself in half and reappear intact on the other side. Don’t forget to arrive early to ensure you get a seat. My wife and I showed up a few minutes late to see Absinthe and every chair with an armrest was taken. We had to stand the entire performance.
- Brad Garrett’s Comedy Club – Daily Shows at 7:30pm and 9:00pm
- David Copperfield – Saturday at 7:30 PM; Sunday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday at 7:00 PM; Saturday at 11:00 PM; Sunday, Thursday at 9:00 PM
- Jabbawockee – Thursday – Monday at 7:00 PM; Matinees Saturday and Sunday at 4:00 PM
- Magic Mike Live – Shows at 7:00 pm and 9:30 pm
- Penn & Teller – Wednesday – Monday at 7:00 pm; Matinees Saturday and Sunday at 4:00 pm
- Lady Gaga Enigma – April 28th - September 20th, 2018, September 29th, 2018 - February 2019 Dates to be announced soon
- Brad Garrett's Comedy Club – Featuring up and coming comedians
Top MGM Grand Las Vegas Pool – Wet Republic
The Wet Republic ultra pool is one of the largest in America, holding as many as 4,000 guests. If that isn’t enough to quench your thirst for sun soaked debauchery, you can stroll over to WET REPUBLIC BISTRO for made to order cocktails, frose, beer, and food from Libertine. Or you could just buy a cabana and call it a day. Unfortunately, the Wet Republic is only open during the summer. If you’re visiting between labor day and memorial day, check out the MGM Grand pool.
- Eight hot tubs for guests over 21 years of age
- 20,000 sq ft pool with waterfalls and grottos
- Four isolated leisure pools
- Three whirlpool spas
- Two heated pools
- One seasonal pool
The Best Thing I Saw at the MGM Grand – Unleashed
Unleashed is the resident circus production featuring thrilling acts performed by international artists. You’ll see death defying feats on motorcycles, acrobatic aerialists, contortionist, daring balancing acts, and more. Unleashed performs nightly at 7:00PM. Check the MGM Grand site for showtimes during your visit because performances may change without notice.
Play These MGM Grand Las Vegas Free Slots At a Casino Near You
If you enjoy these free MGM Grand Las Vegas slots, then please feel free to try one of the following games at your favorite casino. While nothing beats the real thrill of spinning the reels for real money, these fun slots give you a chance to get a taste of what you enjoyed in Vegas. So the next time you’re in the area and can’t make it to the Strip, give one of our recommended games a try!
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So there you have it, everything you wanted to know about the MGM Grand Las Vegas but were afraid to ask. Okay, maybe I imagined that part. Anyway, I tried to cover every aspect of this grand dame of the strip, so you’ll know what to expect on your next trip.
If you can’t make it to Vegas anytime soon, consider staying at the Tropicana and MGM Grand virtual casinos. Both games capture the essence of Vegas while allowing you to play in the comfort of your own home.
I prefer playing online because I can play in my bathrobe if I want. The best part is I don’t have to wait for a slot machine or fight the crowds at the table games. Another benefit is that no one will catch me eating ice cream while spinning the reels. Why not try both experiences, though? You can hop on a plane and hit the MGM Grand Las Vegas slot machines, or take a break and spin the reels online.
Retired. Previously published October 26, 2011.
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