Las Vegas Strip Versus Downtown – Which is Best?  Las Vegas is known for its luxurious hotels, world-class entertainment, iconic casinos, and endless opportunities for fun and excitement. It’s a city that never sleeps and visitors can always find something to do, no matter the time of day. Two of the most popular areas in Las Vegas are the Strip and Downtown (also known as Old or Vintage Vegas).

While the Strip may be the most recognizable, Downtown has undergone a significant transformation in recent years and now offers a vibrant, eclectic, and authentic experience that is quite different from the glitz and glamour of the Strip. Both offer a unique experience and are quite different in terms of atmosphere, entertainment, and overall vibe so choosing which one is Best essentially comes down to personal choice. But, to help you decide here’s some of the pros of both the Strip and Downtown to help determine which is better – Las Vegas Strip Versus Downtown.

Let’s start with some statistics. According to the 2022 Las Vegas Visitor Profile Study conducted and produced by the Las Vegas Visitors and Convention Authority, more visitors are exploring Downtown. About six in ten (58%) visited Downtown during their stay with one-half (50%) of visitors saying the Freemont Street Experience was the main reason for visiting Downtown.

Six in ten visitors who did not visit Downtown said it was because they did not have enough time or interest (30% each). More visitors than last year said it was because Downtown was inconvenient or out of the way (14%) or that they prefer the Strip (11%). In terms of the most popular place to stay, the Strip still rules with 2 out of 3 visitors (69%) staying on the Strip.

Based on these statistics, it appears that visitors think the Strip is Best but let’s explore a little further to determine who wins the Las Vegas Strip Versus Downtown battle.

STRIP PROS – LAS VEGAS STRIP VERSUS DOWNTOWN

Luxurious Accommodations: The hotels on the Strip are some of the most luxurious in the world, offering visitors a truly opulent experience. The Strip also has more newer or recently remodeled casinos (Resorts World being the most recent having opened in 2021) which often means that there are more high-tech amenities in the casino, and the rooms in the resort are newer with more modern furnishings. Having said that, Downtown also has luxurious accommodations – Circa comes to mind with its top-tier dining options, an amphitheater rooftop pool deck and a large sportsbook. This is a tough Las Vegas Strip Versus Downtown battle, but the edge goes to The Strip.

Entertainment Options: In our comparison of the Las Vegas Strip Versus Downtown, The Strip is known for its vast array of entertainment options, including high-end shows, sporting events, nightclubs and shopping. And while Downtown lacks the spectacular shows found on the Strip, such as Cirque du Soleil, you can still enjoy a number of quality entertainment options that are reasonably priced. Both the Strip and Downtown have a lot of free entertainment too. Downtown has the Viva Vision and free mini concerts on the Fremont Street Experience while the Strip has the Bellagio fountains & conservatory.

Dining Options: Las Vegas is a major foodie destination and the Strip now has a number of Michelin-starred restaurants and dozens of eateries overseen by celebrity chefs, such as Hell’s Kitchen by Gordon Ramsey. There is nearly every type of cuisine on the Strip, from high-end Japanese at Nobu to a Bacon Mac “N” Cheeseburger at Guy Fieri’s and everything in between. That’s not to say that Downtown doesn’t have a variety of dining options too. Downtown offers affordable options such as Tony Roma’s, Evel Pie or Pizza Rock and also offers high-end eats, such as great steak and/or seafood, at places like Top of Binion’s Steakhouse and Oscar’s at Plaza.

Kid-Friendly Options: Although you could argue that nowhere in Vegas is truly kid-friendly, the Strip does offer a number of family-friendly attractions and shows. Although Downtown is undergoing a revitalization effort, it may not be suitable for children – there is a visible homeless population, the crowd tends to be a bit seedier, and some of the performers on the Freemont Street Experience wear very explicit costumes or hold obscene signs. The Strip isn’t perfect either but the presence of police and security helps keep the city’s “sin” mostly hidden from sight.

Quiet: The Strip does tend to be quieter than Downtown. Once you get into your hotel room on the Strip, you may hear noises from the hallway and maybe your extra rowdy next door neighbor but you definitely won’t hear the majority of the festivities going on the Strip below. Hotel guests Downtown often complain about the noise from the live entertainment on the Freemont Street Experience that prevents sleep until early in the morning.

Less Restrictive Open Container Laws: Las Vegas Strip Versus Downtown – On the Strip you are able to purchase canned or bottled drinks at a convenience store and crack them open. Downtown has different alcohol and open container laws – you can drink out in the open on Fremont Street but your drink has to be in a plastic cup and be purchased from a casino bar.

Better Transportation Options: The Strip is well-served by public transportation but visitors to Downtown may find it more challenging to get around. That being said, there is a free shuttle service – the Downtown Loop – that offers transportation to various locations Downtown, including the Arts District, Freemont Street Experience, Mob Museum, and the North Premium Outlets. This free shuttle gives the Las Vegas Strip Versus Downtown win to Downtown.

DOWNTOWN PROS – LAS VEGAS STRIP VERSUS DOWNTOWN

Atmosphere: In our comparison of Las Vegas Strip Versus Downtown, downtown offers a more relaxed and intimate experience. While not as flashy and glamorous as the Strip, it does have its own unique charm with its historical buildings, vintage signs and neon lights. Downtown has a distinct neighborhood vibe and visitors can immerse themselves in the culture of the area while enjoying free-standing bars, restaurants, shops, local businesses, and the beautiful murals and art exhibits found in the Arts District.

Vintage Vegas History & Landmarks: This is where Downtown shines in the Las Vegas Strip Versus Downtown battle. Downtown is home to several iconic landmarks, including the Fremont Street Experience, Mob Museum, and Neon Museum. There’s also a lot of history Downtown – many of the hotels have been around for a long time and have interesting stories. For example, Golden Gate opened in 1906 and had the first working phone in Nevada. Binion’s Hotel Apache originally opened in 1932 and is said to be haunted. El Cortez was owned at one point by mobster Bugsy Siegel. Meanwhile on the Strip many of the historic hotels & casinos have been demolished and replaced with new, shiny and elegant mega-resorts.

Affordability: Downtown is generally more affordable than the Strip. Room rates and resort fees at the hotels are often cheaper than anything you can book on the Strip, and a night out on the town is likely to cost less as well – drink prices are cheaper and Downtown bars have Happy Hours and drink specials to further offset the costs. Although there are certainly deals to be had on the Strip, generally speaking, a stay on the Strip doesn’t come cheap unless your room is comped. For a bargain, Las Vegas Strip Versus Downtown goes to downtown.

Walkability: Downtown is extremely pedestrian-friendly. Fremont Street is closed to vehicle traffic and the casinos are situated close together making it easy to walk from casino to casino. Also, the bar and restaurant district is just a few blocks in either direction so you can easily explore the entire area in a single afternoon. The Strip is walkable too but walking on the Strip can be quite the trek – many of the Strip casinos are huge and walking to the casino next door can often mean walking the equivalent of several city blocks. Walkability goes to Downtown in the Las Vegas Strip Versus Downtown competition.

Lower Table Minimums: Casinos Downtown generally allow you to stretch your dollar a bit further. While you’ll commonly encounter minimum bets of $15 – $25 on Strip table games, Downtown frequently features $10 minimums daily with some as low as $5 during non-peak times. The Downtown Grand also offers $1 Blackjack. If slots are your jam, Downtown slots are usually slightly looser than slots on the Strip. You can even still find coin-operated slot machines at the El Cortez and California Casinos Downtown.

So, Las Vegas Strip Versus Downtown – Which is Best? Both offer unique and exciting experiences for Las Vegas visitors. If this is your first or second time visiting Las Vegas, you might want to consider staying on the Strip because there’s so much to see and do that you’ll want to stay in the heart of the action.

However, if you’ve visited Las Vegas many times and want to experience a different side of the city, Downtown might be the way to go. Ultimately, the choice is yours and comes down to personal preference – you should take the time to explore both areas and decide which one suits your style and budget. So maybe Las Vegas Strip Versus Downtown doesn’t have a winner, they are both great options!

There’s so much to love about Vegas and here’s just a few of the reasons Vegas is our go-to vacation destination each year.

Why We Love Vegas – Vegas has something for everyone

Everyone thinks that gambling is what defines Vegas but that’s not true. Vegas offers more than gambling – entertainment, sports, fine dining, exciting night life, shopping, spas, pools, thrilling attractions, museums and so much more.

Why We Love Vegas – Vegas has a price point for everyone

No matter whether you want to stay at a hotel that offers opulent luxury like the Bellagio or Venetian, or one that is budget friendly like Circus Circus or the Excalibur, there is a hotel for you and your budget. And the same goes for dining. You can eat fairly inexpensively at the various food halls or cafes or you can indulge yourself at one of the many fining dining restaurants on the Strip.

Why We Love Vegas – We love the heat

We know the heat is the main reason lots of people avoid Vegas, especially in the summer, but when you come from a country that experiences cold and snow for five to six months per year, the heat is a very welcome change. Besides, Vegas has lots of amazing pools where you can beat the summer heat.

Why We Love Vegas – The neon lights are amazing

When darkness falls in Vegas, the glitz and glamour of the neon lights is mezmerizing! Everywhere you look, the twinkling lights capture your attention. In fact, the neon lights make for some of the best Vegas photos.

Why We Love Vegas – Vegas entertainment is top notch

Vegas pulls out all the stops when it comes to entertainment. From the theatrical performances of the Cirque shows to the relatable comedy of Jerry Seinfeld, there is a show to satisfy every taste and budget. Even the sporting events are a show – an example is the beginning of every Las Vegas Golden Knights home hockey game – it’s a show and concert all rolled into one.

Why We Love Vegas – Vegas never sleeps

Vegas has been labelled “the city that never sleeps”, and that moniker is definitely true. Where else can you have fun literally 24 hours a day? Hungry at 3 a.m. – no problem. Want to gamble at 4 a.m. – no problem. No matter the time of day, Vegas is alive with activity.

Why We Love Vegas – You might see a celebrity

You never know who you might run into in Vegas walking in the casino or the mall. Over the years, we’ve seen Tori Spelling in the mall at the Bellagio and Matthew Gray in the MGM Grand casino (he played Spencer Reid on Criminal Minds). Unfortunately, both of these encounters were before cell phones and we couldn’t get our old school camera ready in time to take a photo.

Why We Love Vegas – Locking slot machines isn’t a thing – at least not yet

At the casino in our city, you can use your players card to lock a slot machine. It’s absolutely frustrating to walk up to an empty machine, sit down and try to play, only to see a tiny message at the bottom of the machine saying that it is disabled. What’s worse is that it’s always the popular machines that are locked. We completely understand the reason for the lock feature but hope this is something that Vegas never considers because it’s super annoying. (We’ve never seen it in Vegas but did find a 2021 article about this feature being offered at Resorts World.)

Why We Love Vegas – Vegas is about the free stuff

When we first started coming to Vegas many years ago, you could walk into any casino and get a free promotional giveway from the Guest Services desk – playing cards, dice, pens, coffee mugs, etc. Vegas doesn’t do this anymore but you can still get a lot of free things – free drinks if you’re gambling and free rooms if you earn enough points with your loyalty card. There’s also a lot of free entertainment and attractions – the Bellagio fountains and conservatory and the Flamingo habitat just to name a few.

Why We Love Vegas – Vegas is always reinventing itself

When we first started vacationing in Vegas many years ago, MGM Grand had a theme park (now the pool complex) and a lion habitat, Luxor had a cool boat ride (now the Buffet) and the Mirage had a tiger habitat (now Diablo’s Cantina). We’ve seen kid-friendly attractions come and go, themed resorts replaced with elegant mega-resorts, and buffets replaced with food halls. There’s always something new in Vegas – a new attraction, hotel or restaurant – which makes every Vegas vacation unique.

Slot machines are a very popular source of gambling entertainment both in person and in online casinos because they don’t require any skill to play. Slots are based purely on luck since the results of every spin are randomly generated. They are also the games that seem to generate a number of myths. Why is that? It might be because people don’t understand how slots work or because people attach superstitions to them based on past experience or something they heard. Either way, we are going to attempt to dispel the myths by letting you know if they are TRUE or FALSE in our article, Slot Myths – True or False.

SLOT MYTHS – TRUE OR FALSE

1. SLOTS HAVE HOT & COLD STREAKS    Slots are not programmed to have “hot streaks” or “cold streaks”. Slots can appear to go on a hot streak and pay out consistently for a period of time and they can also go on a cold streak where they barely pay out at all. However, this is not the result of programming. Each spin of a slot machine is completely random and “streaks” are simply the result of a short-term deviation. In the long run the results will always equate to the expected payout rate.
2. A SLOT WON’T PAY OUT AGAIN IF IT JUST PAID OUT    Since each spin is random, the chances of winning a jackpot on each individual spin are not connected to previous spins. As a result, there is no reason why a slot machine couldn’t pay out another big win within minutes of paying a jackpot.
3. IF A SLOT HASN’T PAID OUT FOR A WHILE, IT WILL PAY OUT SOON  The chances of winning on each individual spin is always the same. A slot machine will eventually pay out but you can’t know when that will happen because of the randomness of each spin.
4. YOU CAN’T IMPROVE YOUR CHANCES OF WINNING ON A SLOT That being said, you can technically improve your chances of winning by carefully choosing which slots to play. Not all slot machines pay out at the same rate. Some have a payout rate as low as 85% while others have a payout rate as high at 98%. You always have a chance of winning regardless of the payout rate (because of the randomness of each spin) but the higher the payout rate, the higher your overall return is likely to be in the long run. And here’s a few additional tips to improve your chances of winning: a) Slots with a fixed jackpot almost always offer a better chance of winning than a slot with a progressive jackpot. b) Slots with higher denominations almost always offer better odds. c) Slots with lots of bonuses and extras usually pay out less than more straightforward slots. This is because bonuses take more time than a simple spin of the reels which means that players spend less money per hour so the casino compensates for this by setting the payout percentage lower.
5. USING YOUR PLAYER’S CARD OR LOYALTY CARD REDUCES YOUR CHANCES OF WINNING  Player’s cards are designed to reward loyal players, not punish them. Using a player’s card has absolutely no effect on your chances of winning. Besides, when you don’t use your player’s card, you don’t earn credits which means you miss out on some amazing benefits.
6. USING FREEPLAY REDUCES YOUR CHANCES OF WINNING  Loyal gamblers are often rewarded with free slot play, and despite what some people think, the slot machine isn’t aware that you are using freeplay. Since each individual spin is random you have the same chance to win when using freeplay as you do when using money you’ve inserted into the machine. Freeplay simply gives you extra money to play with; money that gives you additional chances to win.
7. PULLING THE HANDLE IMPROVES YOUR CHANCES OF WINNING  Since each spin is completely random, the odds of winning are exactly the same regardless of how you spin the reels (i.e. using the Play/Spin Button or pulling the handle).
8. SLOTS WITH HIGHER PAYOUT RATES ARE HIDDEN  Casinos don’t deliberately hide their highest paying machines. In fact, the opposite is more likely true. Casinos put the slots with higher payout rates in busy or high traffic areas so that if players see others winning, they might want to play more themselves.
9. SLOTS PAY MORE AT DIFFERENT TIMES OF THE DAY OR WEEK  The payout rate of slot machines does not change based on the time of day or day of the week. Your chances of winning on any given slot are exactly the same regardless of the time or day.
10. YOU MUST MAX BET TO WIN A JACKPOT  &  There are slot machines, such as most Quick Hits, where you have to be max betting in order to win a jackpot. However, there are others, such as Dragon Link, where you can bet the minimum and still win the Major or Grand jackpot. Before you start playing a slot, make sure you read the game instructions to know what bet is required to win a jackpot. Betting more generally means you can win more but it also means you can lose more too.
11. THE SLOT VOLUME MUST BE LOUD TO WIN  The chances of winning on each individual spin is completely random and has nothing to do with the machine’s volume.
12. SLAPPING THE BUTTONS OR SCREEN DURING A BONUS IMPROVES YOUR CHANCES OF WINNING  Have you ever seen someone furiously slapping the Play Button or the screen during a bonus with the hopes that this will increase the size of their bonus? (We’ve seen this, especially when people are playing Dragon Link, and it looks absolutely ridiculous.) Each individual spin, even spins during a bonus, are completely random so slapping the Play Button or the screen will not improve your chances of winning more money.
13. CASINO EMPLOYEES KNOW THE LOOSE SLOTS  Casino employees don’t have any better idea than you do about where the slots with the best odds of winning are located. So, play the slots you enjoy or try one that you’ve never played before.
14. YOUR BETTING PATTERN INFLUENCES A SLOT’S PAYOUT  Your betting pattern has no effect on a slot’s payout, and no method of betting can change how a slot pays. As a result, you should choose the betting strategy that you prefer.
15. OLDER SLOTS PAY MORE OFTEN  Older slots had better payout percentages than the new slots so they might pay out more often, but remember playing an older slot still doesn’t guarantee a win.
16. DOWNTOWN CASINOS PAY OUT BETTER THAN STRIP CASINOS  Downtown casinos tend to payout 1% better or so on average than casinos on the Strip.
17. FREE SPIN OR WHEEL BONUSES ARE PRE-DETERMINED  Most slot machine free spin bonuses are random so when you get to choose the number of spins, such as on Dancing Drums, you are not going to win more money regardless of what you pick. As for wheel bonuses, such as on Wheel of Fortune, where it lands is determined when you press the Start/Play Button. Generally speaking if a bonus shows you the spots you didn’t pick afterward, then it was not pre-determined. If it doesn’t show you, it was pre-determined. Remember that it’s all about timing so stopping the reels during a bonus affects the outcome of the bonus.
18. AISLE OR END OF TOW SLOTS PAY MORE OFTEN Slot machines located on an aisle or at the end of a row of slots do pay more often but that is only because they are played more often. Having said that, no matter where slots are located in the casino, they have the same payout percentages.
19. STOPPING THE REELS MID-SPIN IMPROVES YOUR CHANCE FOR A BONUS OR LINE HIT  Each spin on a slot machine is completely random and the moment you press the Play/Spin Button the outcome has already been decided. Stopping the reels only speeds up the inevitable.
20. MORE LINES ON A SLOT IMPROVES YOUR CHANCES OF WINNING  You will win more often playing a slot with more lines, but you will also win less money. For example, on Dragon Link if you bet $5 on a $1 denomination and match three 9’s, you will win $5. On the same slot if you bet $5 on a 1 cent denomination and match three 9’s, you will only win $0.50. A higher the denomination and less lines actually means your payout percentage is higher.

Las Vegas – A Shopaholic’s Dream. Shopping on the Las Vegas Strip is an experience like no other. Stretching for 4.2 miles, the Strip is lined with luxury shopping malls and boutiques offering the latest in fashion, jewelry, souvenirs and more. No matter where you shop on the Strip, you’re sure to find something that suits your style and budget. Whether it’s a designer handbag, souvenir t-shirt, or the latest tech gadget, the Las Vegas Strip has it all. In addition to the shopping experiences you will find at many of the hotel properties, including the Esplanade at the Wynn, Le Boulevard at Paris, The Shoppes at Mandalay Place and The District at Resorts World, the Strip has a number of retail chains, including Marshalls, Target and Ross Dress For Less, and a number of unique stores, including the M&M’s Store, Coca-Cola Store and the Hershey’s Store. And of course, the Strip is home to several shopping malls.

MIRACLE MILE SHOPS AT PLANET HOLLYWOOD
Spanning 1.2 miles and located right in the heart of the Strip, Miracle Mile Shops is a true shopper’s paradise featuring over 150 stores, including an incredibly wide array of memorable and unique vendors offering apparel, art, fashion accessories, beauty products, souvenirs and gifts. Visitors of all tastes and preferences will find something to enjoy among the Miracle Mile Shops. In addition to being one of the leading shopping malls in Las Vegas, the Miracle Mile Shops offer a range of popular and renowned dining options, as well as some of the most unforgettable entertainment, including Zombie Burlesque, the Las Vegas Live Comedy Club, and Comedy Pet Theater. Additionally, the renowned Bakkt theater features residency acts from some of the biggest global superstars.

GRAND CANAL SHOPPES AT VENETIAN

Travel to the enchanting world of Venice while shopping at the Grand Canal Shoppes. The Venetian-inspired décor features marble floors, arched bridges and canals. Window shop by gondola via the indoor quarter mile-long Grand Canal, where you’ll enjoy a tempting array of over 60 Las Vegas restaurants and dining options, in addition to over 160 signature stores and premier luxury brands. The Grand Canal Shoppes also offer some unique entertainment and attractions, including Streetmosphere – live street performers in St. Mark’s Square, living statues, and The Wishing Tree – an inspired olive tree accented by a canopy of striking gold leaves and vibrant glass birds. The Grand Canal Shoppes are open seven days a week making it convenient for shoppers to enjoy their visit.

THE FORUM SHOPS AT CAESARS PALACE

The Forum Shops at Caesars offers the premiere combination of luxury retail, excellent location, entertainment and ambient surroundings. Featuring unique shopping along a street in ancient Rome, The Forum Shops, located in the heart of the Strip, is home to more than 160 specialty shops, boutiques, restaurants and an exclusive three-level spiral escalator. In addition to shopping and dining, The Forum Shops has the widely-popular animatronic attraction The Atlantis Show – an entertaining take on the legendary story of the ill-fated city of Atlantis – which plays Thursday – Monday on the hour beginning at noon through 8 p.m. After watching The Atlantis Show, be sure to check out The Atlantis Aquarium, a 50,000 gallon salt water aquarium located near The Cheesecake Factory, featuring a vast variety of unique species of tropical fish. The Forum Shops are open daily.

THE SHOPS AT CRYSTALS

The Shops at Crystals is an amazing collection of 50 of the finest luxury brands in the world, all under one roof. The gorgeous architecture, convenient location on Las Vegas Boulevard, and exclusive luxury retailer lineup, make The Shops at Crystals a must-see for any visitor. In addition to its high-end shopping, The Shops at Crystals, features various art installations, multiple unique water features, a Grand Staircase inspired by Rome’s Spanish Steps, and The Treehouse – a one-of-a-kind feature standing three stories high offering an elegant portal of wood-lined lowered ceilings and meandering walls. The Shops at Crystals offers a free tram service between Aria and Bellagio.

LINQ PROMENADE
The LINQ Promenade is an open-air shopping center featuring a variety of stores, restaurants, bars and entertainment options. From trendy hats with a throwback twist at Goorin Brothers, to a tasty candy martini bar at I LOVE SUGAR, The LINQ Promenade is located between the LINQ Hotel & Casino and the Flamingo, and is the perfect place for a day of shopping and sightseeing. The LINQ Promenade is also home to the world’s tallest observation wheel – the High Roller.

FASHION SHOW MALL

Fashion Show Mall, located across from Treasure Island, features an eclectic mix of more than 250 retailers and over 30 restaurants spread across 2 million square feet, and is the largest shopping, dining and entertainment destination on the Las Vegas Strip. The mall offers famed anchor stores such as Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom and Saks Fifth Avenue, a food court & casual eateries, as well as a delectable fine-dining portfolio featuring strip-side dining options. It is also home to Casino Quest which offers classes to anyone from beginners to experts in casino table games, including Craps, Blackjack, Baccarat and Roulette. Fashion Show Mall is the ultimate shopping destination.

PROJECT 63
Project 63 is a new four-story retail space currently under construction at the intersection of Las Vegas Boulevard and Harmon Avenue. It will include flagship retail and restaurant opportunities. The first phase of the retail space to expected to be complete by fall 2023.

OUTLET SHOPPING
If you would prefer to shop off the Strip, the outlet shopping malls are a great way to get designer goods at discounted prices. The Las Vegas North Premium Outlets is an airy, outdoor village-styled center featuring over 175 designer and name-brand retailers offering savings up to 65% every day, as well as a number of dining options. The Las Vegas South Premium Outlets is a climate controlled indoor mall located 2.5 miles south of the Strip that offers more than 140 outlet stores. Both outlet malls can easily be reached by taxi, ride share or the public bus.

Vegas cafés ranked from economical to expensive – for quick and casual dining for breakfast or lunch, there are several cafés on the Las Vegas Strip that are perfect for grabbing a quick bite before a busy day exploring the city. These cafés offer a relaxed and comfortable dining experience with plenty of seating options and a range of menu items to choose from. We’ve created a list of a few (six to be exact) of the cafés on the Strip, ranked in order from economical to expensive.

PYRAMID CAFE AT THE LUXOR
The Pyramid Café is a casual dining restaurant located inside the casino at the Luxor. It offers a range of breakfast and lunch options in a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere, designed in the style of ancient Egyptian pyramids, complete with hieroglyphics and other architectural elements inspired by the period. The menu features classic breakfast items such as steak & eggs, omelets, pancakes, waffles, french toast, oatmeal and yogurt parfaits. For lunch you can choose from salads, burgers, sandwiches and wraps.

The Pyramid Café is fairly economical with their Pyramid Classic breakfast (three slices of bacon or two sausages, two eggs, hash browns & choice of toast) priced at $17.99. An Original Burger (lettuce, tomato, onions & pickles with choice of fries or sweet potato fries) is priced at $16.49.

The Pyramid Café is open daily from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. The café can be busy, especially on weekends so reservations are recommended.

SEABREEZE CAFE AT MANDALAY BAY
The casual environment of Seabreeze Café at Mandalay Bay is great for families starting their day, friends celebrating, as well as a great choice for convention and meeting guests to fuel up before their big day or for a business lunch. Enjoy the all-day breakfast and lunch options at Seabreeze Café while taking in the sweeping views of the natural greenery enveloping the exterior. The menu features classic breakfast items such as steak & eggs, omelets, pancakes, waffles, french toast, oatmeal, and yogurt parfaits. For lunch you can choose from salads, burgers, sandwiches, grilled salmon, ribeye, pizza and pasta.

The Seabreeze Café is fairly economical with their Classic American Breakfast (two eggs, breakfast potatoes, toast & choice of sausage or bacon) priced at $20. For lunch you can have the Impossible Burger (cheddar, pickles, lettuce tomato & fries) for $25.

The Seabreeze Café is open daily from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. The café is located inside the casino at Mandalay Bay.

SALT & IVY AT ARIA
Salt & Ivy Café and Patio Bar at Aria provides a casual dining experience with indoor and outdoor seating. Guests can enjoy breakfast classics, light healthy fare and elevated American favorites in a relaxed setting. The patio overlooks the lush pool deck, serving as the ideal backdrop for breakfast or lunch. The menu features classic breakfast items such as steak & eggs, omelets, Dutch baby pancakes, waffles, avocado toast, oatmeal, and fruit plates. For lunch you can choose from salads, burgers, sandwiches, and fish & chips.

Salt & Ivy Café is a little more expensive with their Three Egg Breakfast (three eggs, choice of meat & breakfast potatoes) priced at $23. For lunch you can have the Salt & Ivy Burger (cheese, spinach, tomato, mushrooms & crispy onions) for $23.

Salt & Ivy Café is open daily from 6 a.m. to 2 p.m. Breakfast is served from 6 a.m. to 11 a.m. Lunch is served from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. The café is located on the second level next to the Proper Eats Food Hall.

PRIMROSE AT PARK MGM
Whether you’re settling in with your crew for an all-day affair or just grabbing your morning coffee or a pressed juice to go, Primrose at Park MGM has what you need. The menu features classic breakfast items such as steak & eggs, omelets, pancakes, waffles, french toast, fish, oatmeal, avocado toast and grapefruit cocktails. For lunch you can choose from salads, burgers, sandwiches, and chicken strips.

Primrose is a little more expensive with their Classic Breakfast (two eggs, choice of bacon, ham or sausage, breakfast potatoes & toast) priced at $25. For lunch you can have the Park Burger (cheddar, herb aioli, & pickles) for $21.

Primrose is open daily from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. and is located on the far side of the lobby.

SADELLE’S CAFE AT BELLAGIO
Enjoy amazing views of Bellagio’s Conservatory & Botanical Gardens as you savor signature breakfast, lunch & dinner dishes at Sadelle’s Café at Bellagio. The menu features classic breakfast items such as steak & eggs, omelets, deep-dish pancakes, french toast, avocado toast, oatmeal, and yogurt parfaits. For lunch you can choose from salads, burgers and sandwiches. Sadelle’s also offers a number of dinner options, including Garlic Chicken, Rigatoni Bolognese, Shrimp Fusilli, Roasted Salmon, Fried Chicken and Ribeye.

Sadelle’s is the most expensive with their Signature Breakfast (Salmon, danish, fresh fruit & coffee) priced at $34. For lunch you can have a Cheeseburger and fries for $26. Dinner options are priced between $28 and $44.

Sadelle’s is open daily from 6 a.m. to 3 p.m. On Friday and Saturday, they are open from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m.

Entertainment in Las Vegas is constantly evolving and over the years this has provided us with the opportunity to see some super spectacular shows. Everything we’ve seen has been the best entertainment ever, but of course you’d expect nothing less from the Entertainment Capital of the World!

There was the theatrical performances of Avenue Q, Showstoppers and La Reve, and the musical masterpiece of Frank The Man The Music. (Sadly, these shows are no longer running in Las Vegas but if they ever return, we definitely recommend you see them.)

We’ve had the opportunity to see some very funny stand-up comedians (Jerry Seinfeld, Howie Mandel, David Spade, Ray Romano), some awesome magicians (Penn & Teller, Mat Franco), and a number of amazing singers/performers (Celine Dion, Elton John, Gwen Stefani, Reba McEntire, Brooks & Dunn, Diana Ross, James Taylor, Silk Sonic).

We’ve also seen all the incredible shows listed below. These are our favorites (listed in no particular order) and we highly recommend you see them the next time you visit Las Vegas.

O BY CIRQUE DU SOLEIL

O by Cirque du Soleil at the Bellagio is a breathtaking aquatic show that combines powerful acrobatics, striking visuals, and majestic music. Set in a custom-built theater featuring a 1.5 million gallon pool, this show is a mesmerizing journey filled with mystery and awe. Aerialists, divers, and swimmers perform daring feats of strength and agility, while synchronized swimmers create captivating formations in the water. The show also features a cast of clowns who bring a sense of humor and levity to the proceedings. An unforgettable experience, O by Cirque du Soleil is a must-see show that will leave you in awe. It’s so good that we’ve seen it twice!

MYSTERE BY CIRQUE DU SOLEIL

Mystère by Cirque du Soleil at Treasure Island is a spectacular show featuring a unique blend of awe-inspiring acrobatics, beautiful choreography, and captivating music that transports you to an otherworldly realm. The show features an array of talented acrobats, contortionists, aerialists, and musicians that perform in front of a colorful backdrop. The daring and death-defying acts will leave you speechless, and the music and costumes will keep you mesmerized throughout the entire performance. As the longest running Cirque show on the Strip, Mystère is a must-see for any Cirque du Soleil fan and is sure to leave you with a lasting impression of pure joy and wonder. A heads up that if you’re seated in the front row, you just might become part of the show. We ended up playing ball with one of the clowns and were taken on stage to be part of the act. It was a lot of fun!

COMEDIAN CARROT TOP

Carrot Top at the Luxor is a high-energy, side-splitting one-man comedy show, featuring an array of outrageous props, outrageous jokes, larger than life performances, as well as interactive audience participation. With his signature red hair, Carrot Top is an energetic performer and a crowd favorite. Carrot Top is a must-see in Las Vegas. You can expect nonstop laughter and a night to remember. He’s the perfect addition to any Las Vegas trip and a great way to kick off a night out on the town. He’s so incredibly funny that we’ve seen him twice!

MAGICIAN DAVID COPPERFIELD

David Copperfield is one of the world’s most renowned illusionists, and his show at the MGM Grand is nothing short of spectacular. The show features some of Copperfield’s greatest illusions, masterful sleight of hand, incredible feats of levitation and disappearances. Copperfield’s performance is enhanced by a dynamic stage presence and dazzling special effects. This show is perfect for all ages and provides a one-of-a-kind experience that will leave you breathless. Copperfield’s show in Las Vegas is an absolute must-see! Note that seating in the David Copperfield Theater is booths and tables. Seating at the tables can feel a bit tight.

KA BY CIRQUE DU SOLEIL

Kà Cirque du Soleil at the MGM Grand is a mix of aerial acrobatics, martial arts, puppetry and theatrical effects all performed on a giant rotating stage that is absolutely incredible. The show is accompanied by a live musical score and theatrical elements creating an immersive experience for the audience. All ages will be captivated by the brilliant costumes, mesmerizing music, and breathtaking stunts. Kà is the perfect way to experience the magic of Las Vegas. We had the opportunity to tour the KA Theater – it’s incredibly cool! We highly recommend taking the tour if you get the chance.

MJ ONE BY CIRQUE DU SOLEIL

MJ One by Cirque du Soleil at Mandalay Bay pays tribute to the life and artistry of the late Michael Jackson. This high-energy and visually stunning production is an immersive experience that combines acrobatics, dance, gravity-defying stunts, and multimedia elements to create a unique theatrical journey, all set to Jackson’s greatest hits. Audiences are taken on a mesmerizing journey through the King of Pop’s creative genius and musical legacy, from his iconic moonwalk to his complex choreography and dazzling costumes. With vibrant music, stunning visuals, and heart-pounding choreography, this show is an unforgettable experience for fans of all ages. If you’re a fan of Michael Jackson’s music, this show is a definite must-see. And, MJ One features some very unique stunts that you won’t see at any of the other cirque shows on the Las Vegas Strip.

MAD APPLE

Mad Apple at New York-New York is one of the newer Cirque du Soleil shows on the Strip. It is a modern-day variety show with its high-flying acrobatics, daring aerial stunts, exciting contortion acts, singers, dancers and comedians that bring laughter and joy to the audience. The show’s stunning costumes and vibrant sets add to the spectacle of the performance and take you on a journey of awe-inspiring acts that will make you gasp in wonder. Mad Apple is a high-energy show unlike anything you’ve ever seen before. And, if you arrive at the theater early, you have the opportunity to visit one of the bars located right on the stage.

JABBAWOCKEEZ

Jabbawockeez at MGM Grand is a fast-paced, high-energy performance filled with powerful music, dance and captivating special effects. The show features an all-star cast of multitalented dancers and actors, who bring the show’s signature hip-hop, breakdancing, and freestyle moves to life through vibrant and energetic performances. The unique and mesmerizing choreography of Jabbawockeez is sure to leave you entertained, inspired and moved. We recommend that you get tickets in the middle of the theatre as it is hard to see all the action from the sides.