Las Vegas (Part II) [Archive] - Page 2

wine_o_girlie

09-05-2007, 09:54 AM

Hey guys, my hubby and I are headed to Vegas this weekend sans baby and I am sooooooo freaking excited. We've been several times before and had so much fun. We are staying at the Bellagio and I wanted to ask about a restaurant for Sunday night. We have reservations at N9NE for Saturday, so that is taken care of but I looking for something awesome for Sunday.

YBY is tempting me with L'Atelier. Anyone else have recs for something amazing? Prior places we've been and liked are Little Buddha, Fix, and Olives. We've been to Bouchon in Napa so that's out. Any thoughts? TIA! :)

shopaholic

09-05-2007, 07:57 PM

I have a week and 6 days. I am going basically with an open agenda. Aside from having tickets to KA and wanting to eat and Pink Taco (have to have a shirt from there) I am open. Is this a bad thing? It seems everyone knows exactly where they are going to eat and when. I understand for reservation purposes but we don't plan on eating at any swanky/fancy place.

JLRenheos

09-05-2007, 08:16 PM

shopaholic I saw KA' in March. I liked the music to KA', so I bought the CD & program. Enjoy the show!
Get there early, the lines can be long. Have fun!
I'd like to go again, but since we've been (9/06 & 3/07) twice in the last 6 months for 1 week at a time, we're not going anytime soon.

Have fun ladies! I'm jealous!!

thompso2

09-09-2007, 09:01 PM

Cross-posted from my journal, as we just got back...

I don't have our trip recap downloaded yet, but I do have my Vegas Preview (http://www.jeremiahblatz.com/personal/random/Jess-Vegas-2007/index.html) online now. As always, Jer took more pictures and his are almost certainly better, but these are a few highlights.

Trip Highlights
Grand Canyon Helicopter Trip (http://www.looktours.com/allamericanheli.html) - Our trip wasn't very long, but it did include the flight, a champagne picnic inside the canyon, and limo pick-up and drop-off. We were a bit worried because all of the reviews we read were either glowing or horrific, but we had a great experience with Sundance Helicopters.
B&B Ristorante (http://www.mariobatali.com/restaurants_bb.html) at the Venetian - The food was awesome, just as good as Babbo! We would highly recommend getting the Traditional Tasting Menu, but adding an extra course of spaghettini with lobster, garlic and budding chives in a slightly-spicy tomato sauce. Wow! (Plus, you can make reservations online at Open Table (http://www.opentable.com/home.aspx), unlike at Babbo!)
Ka (http://www.cirquedusoleil.com/cirquedusoleil/ka/) - Cirque du Soleil's Ka was amazing to watch - the costumes, the acrobatics and the visual effects made for quite a show. The plot was a bit hard to follow, but really, the storyline is secondary anyway. Ka was spectacular...now we want to go back and see O!
Burger Bar (http://www.mandalaybay.com/dining/burgerbar.aspx) - This is the best burger place we've ever had the pleasure of visiting. I had American kobe with mozzarella, tapenade, lettuce and tomato; Jer had buffalo with swiss, mushrooms and bacon. Both were wonderfully flavorful and delicious, even though they were totally different. Most burger places have one speciality, but Burger Bar seemed to do each one right.

Our room in Bally's (http://www.harrahs.com/casinos/ballys-las-vegas/hotel-casino/property-home.shtml) North Tower was very spacious and a great value (especially with the 25% off due to the Best Rate Guarantee (http://www.harrahs.com/best-rate-guarantee.html)), and the location is fabulous. (The fact that Bill's Gamblin' Hall and Saloon is right across the street was great too, since we liked the breakfasts at the Victorian Room (http://www.billslasvegas.com/victorian.php)) I wish we'd been able to afford the Venetian, though -- that was definitely my favorite hotel!

wine_o_girlie

09-12-2007, 09:00 AM

We just got back from Vegas on Monday night and had a wonderfully fun time. We stayed at the Bellagio (fabulous) and had super yummy dinners at
N9NE Steakhouse (the Palms - we sat this.close to Adrian Grenier, yum! :)) and Fix (Bellagio). This was our second "kid-free" short vacation (2 nights, 3 days) and it was awesome!! We did lots of relaxing, eating, sunning, and gambling.

shopaholic

09-23-2007, 12:45 PM

Just got back this morning and had a great time. Glad to be home though. We were there 5 days, 4 nights which was just pushing it. This was our first time so we had to see all the hotels. Needless to say I have blisters and my feet/back/body are killing me!!!!

Loved the fountain show at Bellagio!!! Unfortunately it rained our last night there so we missed the TI show and Mirage volcano. We did get to go to the top of Eiffel tower the previous night which was really nice.

Saw KA ($50 tickets through ticketmaster deal). Our seats were first section row H so excellent view! The show was AWESOME!! I'm listening to the CD right now! Now I need to go back and see O.

We also saw Jubilee at Bally's which was really good too. I've always dreamed of being a showgirl so it was fun to see them in person.

We really didn't eat at fancy restaurants. We ate at Burger Bar (Mandalay Bay), Pink Taco (Hard Rock) and Victorian Room at Bill's ($14.95 steak, very old school but the food was actually really decent and I would go back). The rest of the time we just ate at the deli or food courts in our hotel (MGM).

The weather was really hot when we first got there then it cooled down and storms came through on Friday. Due to this we really didn't get pool time in but we did sit by the pool before leaving yesterday. We couldn't wait to get home but now that i am home I wish I was back!

I miss casually drinking at 11 am! :) Didn't really win anything except for $40 on the Price is Right slots at NYNY. Other than that we just played $10 here and there on slots. Didn't play at any tables.

vee05

09-24-2007, 12:19 PM

We just booked our 3rd trip together and my fourth trip to Vegas for December! 5 days 4 nights at the Bellagio!!! The agenda this year is the same as the last 2 sleep, eat,gamble and chill ;)

genndan100502

09-26-2007, 01:46 PM

Sorry I can't flip through all the pages of this thread, are there any recs for couple massage in Vegas? We're staying on the strip, so anywhere on the strip is preferred. TIA!

diam124

10-02-2007, 08:23 AM

shopaholic

10-02-2007, 08:42 AM

Hi everyone - I plan on reading through the Vegas threads when I have more time, but I have a couple questions.

My DH has to be there for a week in November for a conference so I plan on joining him for a couple days. I've never been there before.

The conference is at Mandalay Bay, but DH thinks rooms are no longer available for all the nights so we are going to look for a different hotel. What hotels are generally considered the nicest? I'm not concerned about $ because DH's company will be paying.

Also, is there a site that has a comprehensive list of what shows are happening when?

Thanks!
Are you looking for a hotel that is close to Mandalay? If yes, I would HIGHLY suggest MGM. We stayed there a few weeks ago and it was probably one of our fav. hotels.

However, if you don't mind being farther down the strip (and $ is no object) I would suggest staying at Bellagio, Ceasar's or Venetian.

If you go to lasvegas.com they have a tab with all the shows that are currently playing and they also list when the shows are in the dark.

Rosebud

10-02-2007, 11:47 AM

I agree with Shopaholic- check out MGM Grand. It's the "nicest" hotel close to Mandalay. I've stayed there several times and been very happy with it. If you go further down the strip there are some even better hotels, but for convenience's sake, I'd recommend staying as close to Mandalay as possible. Did he ask about TheHotel at Mandalay Bay as well?

If you really want to stay somewhere fancier and don't mind having to get cabs to Mandalay Bay, I'd suggest Bellagio or Venetian.

diam124

10-03-2007, 07:33 AM

Thanks - I think MGM Grand is probably a good option since it will be somewhat close to the conference. A lot of hotels are sold out that week but the MGM still has rooms. Apparently there is an HBO comedy festival in town that week.

Loud_curly

10-03-2007, 09:03 AM

I also recommend the MGM, esp. one of the newer sections (the Signature is fabulous, although it would be a hike to the Mandalay every day). And there's always TheHotel at Mandalay, and the Four Seasons as well (I think).

The Luxor is attached to Mandalay Bay, but IMHO it's seen better days. We were in a comped suite there last time, and I wasn't super impressed.

CindyLouWho

10-03-2007, 10:09 AM

We stayed at the Four Seasons a few years ago and it is the upper floors of Mandalay Bay. Separate lobby, though. Very nice. We have also stayed at Bellagio and Venetian and prefer the service at the Venetian. YOu can't go wrong with any of them, though. Have fun! I'm jealous. We haven't been back since December.

mommy2allyandaveri

10-03-2007, 02:22 PM

If we weren't paying for the room I would stay at the Bellagio, I've never stayed at the MGM so I can't really comment on that. When we went in August we stayed at Planet Hollywood (pics posted a few pages back) it was really nice. Didn't care too much for the casino though.

snowzilla

10-03-2007, 07:07 PM

We stayed at the MGM Signature Suites in January. I have nothing but praise for that hotel. Very nice. The suites are beautiful, and the staff are very helpful.

emmasart

10-16-2007, 11:15 PM

Woohoo, DH and i just booked a trip to Las Vegas nov 18th-22nd at THEhotel. We were there last year in September for our 1st anniversary and we LOVED it! I'm so excited! I want to check out some new shows. Mandalay has a great adult beach.. Should it still be nice enough to hang out at in late November?

shopaholic

10-23-2007, 10:36 AM

you might want to check Mandalay's website because I know most pools close at a certain time of the year.

janu98

10-29-2007, 07:30 AM

Hey ladies!! I dont have time just yet to go through all the posts on this thread but DS and I were thinking about going to Vegas for 2 or 3 nights (our 1st trip since DS was born!!;);)) I went online and found some great deals (i think) I wanted to stay at the Mandalay but the $$ was a little to much for our budget, but i did find a deal through Expedia that includes a 3 night stay (MGM)with a 25.00 credit towards food and a 2 for 1 spa deal, and plane tix from northern VA for 880.00 Now is this a good deal? or can i find something better? We would be going in jan-feb prob sunday-wednesday.

Also what good shows are there to see? i have heard that cirque soiel (sp) is really good, but what other ones are good? and beside gambling what other things are there to do?

TIA!

gayle

10-30-2007, 01:37 PM

janu98, you can definately find better deals. If you want to stay on the Strip, Imperial Palace has really good deals, if you don't mind staying off strip Orleans is always reasonable, and there are shuttles to the strip every 15 minutes. Downtown has great deals too.

wine_o_girlie

10-31-2007, 08:43 AM

Janu,

Check out Southwest Vacations. We recently booked a 2 night package through them and it was a great price. We flew from the East Coast, stayed at the Bellagio for 2 nights, and all taxes were included. I think the price you got is pretty decent but check SW just in case. The Bellagio was really, really awesome and such a great location.

The Cirque du Soleil shows are very good. I am really not a "show" person at all but we loved "Mystere" and I would really like to see "O". We just chilled, hung by the pool, ate and drank, and had a lot of fun being child-less. We had 2 super wonderful dinners at N9NE Steakhouse (Palms) and FIX (Bellagio).

Good luck, have fun! This was our first 2 night trip away from the babe and we had such a great time :)

DelSol

10-31-2007, 11:48 AM

Some Las Vegas offers ~

These offers will sell out quickly:
$34.50 & up -- Tickets to 5 Las Vegas Shows, up to 50% OFF (http://shows.travelzoo.com/las-vegas-shows/336807?sef=done&ptl=)

$149 -- Luxury Suites on the Las Vegas Strip - Venetian (http://hotels.travelzoo.com/las-vegas-hotels/334679?ptl=done)

janu98

10-31-2007, 01:14 PM

wow thats an amazing deal for the Venetian!! After i book my flight and room the total comes out to 960.00..... Not baaad!!;)

Rambina

11-06-2007, 12:39 PM

Has anyone stayed at the Tuscany Suites?

I believe it's a mile or so off the strip. I'd appreciate any info or recs on that hotel. Also, is it a casino?

ajb524

11-06-2007, 12:50 PM

DH and I are thinking of going back to Vegas for our 5 year anniversary in May. We went there on our honeymoon, but we didn't see nearly as much as I wanted. We stayed at the Mandalay bay and while I loved the hotel I hated being so far from everything else. It wasn't a big deal then because we were there for a week, but this trip will be a lot shorter. So any other recommendations?

What are the must eat restaurants now? I barely even remember eating at the casino's (although we did get room service from Mandalay Bay).

Rosebud

11-06-2007, 12:59 PM

Has anyone stayed at the Tuscany Suites?

I believe it's a mile or so off the strip. I'd appreciate any info or recs on that hotel. Also, is it a casino?

I haven't heard of it. Have you checked tripadvisor.com?

DH and I are thinking of going back to Vegas for our 5 year anniversary in May. We went there on our honeymoon, but we didn't see nearly as much as I wanted. We stayed at the Mandalay bay and while I loved the hotel I hated being so far from everything else. It wasn't a big deal then because we were there for a week, but this trip will be a lot shorter. So any other recommendations?

What are the must eat restaurants now? I barely even remember eating at the casino's (although we did get room service from Mandalay Bay).

I'd highly recommend staying at The Venetian. It feels a little more central- it's easier to walk to other casinos from there than it is from MB. Also, there are amazing restaurants in the hotel. I loved Bouchon, and we also had an excellent dinner at Tao. There are tons of other restaurant recs in this thread that should be helpful!

Rambina

11-06-2007, 04:11 PM

Rosebud- It's 2 miles off the strip but it's close to a venue where I'll be attending a wedding next year. I did check out the site and some feedback from guests but I wanted to check if anyone here had been before.

thompso2

11-06-2007, 06:29 PM

What are the must eat restaurants now? I barely even remember eating at the casino's (although we did get room service from Mandalay Bay).

My DH and I loved B&B Ristorante (http://mariobatali.com/restaurants_bb.cfm) at the Venetian (plus, you can make reservations online through OpenTable.com (http://opentable.com/start.aspx?m=10), which is convenient). We've eaten at Babbo and B&B Ristorante was every bit as good!

bookworm

11-06-2007, 06:54 PM

I also really enjoyed B&B. We were on a bit of a food network theme, apparently, because we also tried Mesa Grill (at Caesar's). We might have liked the food at Mesa a bit better (maybe. I'm not sure--they were SO different), but I think I preferred B&B overall.

espresso

11-28-2007, 06:21 PM

Hello!

So we are looking to go to Vegas in April....we are looking for places with great suites for at least 4 people (Me, DH, BIL, and BFF) and maybe up to 6-8 (cousins, other family). We are still in initial stages of planning and I know we need to nail down who is going before we book...but to save money we thought about piling in suite.

We know we want to stay on the strip...suggestions?

Rosebud

11-28-2007, 06:47 PM

I'd definitely recommend The Venetian. They have a number of different suites available that would fit that many people and spacious floor plans no matter what you choose.

Here's a link to their list of suite options: LINK (http://www.venetian.com/ACCOMMODATIONS.aspx)
There, you can see all the different room sizes and styles, complete with virtual tours. Hope this helps!

vee05

12-24-2007, 08:05 PM

Wer headed back to Vegas Christmas day :) :) :) Cant wait!!!

bellaprincess

12-25-2007, 09:35 AM

jimmysgirl424

12-31-2007, 09:48 AM

I was in Las Vegas from Dec. 20- Dec. 23 and stayed at Caesar's Palace.

It was a fun time, but it was very cold and in the 30's and 40's. I wish I would have brought a scarf and mittens because I saw many people with them as we walked from casino to casino on the strip at night.

Yep..I lived in Vegas for a few years and was always shocked at how cold it got at night. I guess I thought because it was the desert that it would always be warm and balmy. Not. :o:p My first year there, I went out and bought thermal underwear because we loved to walk the strip at night and I wanted to be warm. {sigh} Those were the days....

Rosebud

12-31-2007, 10:49 AM

Oh yeah, it's COLD in winter. I was there in January and the fountains outside the casinos all froze over at night. I had a hat, gloves and a scarf and it was still so cold that we took cabs way more often than we would have otherwise to get around.

mindy2137

01-09-2008, 08:04 PM

jimmysgirl424

01-10-2008, 09:57 AM

*bump*
We are considering Vegas in March, the 17th thru the 21st. Any hotel recs, on the more less expensive side for the strip? Anything to know for me, I'm a first timer, DH has been before. I love pools, will it be warm enough to lay outside? I would also like to get a massage.

On the less expensive side I can think of:

Stratosphere
Riveria
Sahara
Excalibur
Luxor
Monte Carlo (?)
Flamingo Hilton

March can be sort of wishy-washy there (weather-wise), but you should be able to lay out comfortably.

May I personally recommend that you consider staying downtown? DH was a Vegas first-timer on our honeymoon and I picked Fitzgeralds on Fremont Street. He ended up LOVING downtown and now thats the only place we stay. Its cheaper, slots are looser, and the strip is a very quick shuttle or cab ride away. Just a thought.

Ericka_Jarett

01-10-2008, 10:11 AM

We stayed at The Orleans (we had gotten a rate for $25 a night for December), it's off strip but they have a shuttle to their sister hotels that are on the strip so you can get to the strip still. It was a great room which was huge and the whole place was very clean as well. We also stayed on the strip for 2 nights at Barbary Coast (now Bill's Gamblin' Hall, owned by Harrah's now) next to the Flamingo and across from Caesar's. It was nice, the rate we had then was about $60 a night since it was a weekend in December.

We had a rental car so drove wherever we wanted. (we were going to the Grand Canyon for a few days) We found a pinball hall of fame place a little off the strip so spent some time there playing pinball games

gayle

01-11-2008, 09:02 AM

SoPasMom

01-17-2008, 03:13 PM

Anyone been to Cathouse? Anyone heard anything about it?

Jill1228

01-17-2008, 10:04 PM

I am heading to Vegas on Feb 7-10 (James Blunt's concert is there on the 8th)
Can't wait

Reenie

01-19-2008, 08:10 PM

Dh and I have never been to Vegas, but he has always wanted to go (was actually supposed to go last July, but that is a different story), so I am looking for a few days in mid-March. I am looking at some southwest vacations packages, but I am just clueless as to where to stay (obviously, I want to be safe, around things to do, etc.). Tell me, what do "strip," "downtown," and "off strip" mean? Is one more desirable than the others (it seems that off-strip would be less desirable, but I could be wrong)...

ETA: Okay, as I'm looking (and we're going less expensive here, we are not terribly picky), here are some deals I am getting: Circus Circus, Four Queens, Riviera, Golden Nugget South Tower (?), Excalibur, Imperial Palace, Flamingo, and Luxor. Any recs or knowledge is appreciated (I'm also scouring the other Vegas threads. :) )

Jill1228

01-19-2008, 09:54 PM

If you want to stay on the strip Reenie, these are the hotels I would look at in order

Flamingo (in the center of the strip) close to everything
Luxor (I have a soft spot for this one)
Imperial Palace (in the center of everything--has slow elevators)
Excalibur (rooms are kinda dark in decor)

Circus Circus is kinda run down and has too many damn kids running round--and it is too far down the strip
Rivera is too far down the strip

as far as downtown hotels
the nicest in order are
Golden Nugget
Four Queens

table limits are lower downtown

Yvangeline

01-20-2008, 04:16 PM

I once saw the biggest roach I've ever seen in my life running OUT of the Imperial Palace. Take that as you will...

Rosebud

01-20-2008, 05:33 PM

Of the hotels you listed, I would suggest trying to make either the Flamingo or the Luxor work for you. Both are totally fine and nice budget options. I've stayed at Imperial Palace-- yuck. And Circus Circus is just kind of old. It's also way down at the very end of the Strip, not in the most ideal location. Have you checked reviews at tripadvisor.com? Definitely do so before you choose a hotel, just so you know what you're getting.

I do think that for a first time visit you will want to stay on the Strip, as it will be much more convenient for sightseeing. Off Strip is just that-- not on the Strip (which means you'll shell out for a lot of cabs and not be walking distance to much). Downtown is a whole separate area of the city- fun in its own right, but not convenient to the Strip.

Reenie

01-20-2008, 09:51 PM

Thank you, Jill, Yvangeline, and Rosebud, for the info and the recs. I'll definitely read up on Flamingo, Luxor, and Golden Nugget. :)

Ericka_Jarett

01-21-2008, 08:59 AM

Yeah, definitely avoid Circus Circus for staying. We went there to check out the amusement park, DH rode the coaster and then we played some mini golf and left. Lots of kids running around there.

Reenie

01-23-2008, 07:35 PM

wine_o_girlie

01-24-2008, 09:05 AM

I would stay at the Flamingo because of its' very central Strip location. It's very, very easy to walk to a lot of other hotels from its' location and the rooms are pretty big. It also has a very nice pool area if you are into that.

blondetwin22001

01-24-2008, 09:15 AM

Okay, one last piece of info please (because all of these places have the same star rating, the same trip advisor satisfactory, and are closely ranked on Trip Advisor [#28, 30, and 31, respectively, in terms of popularity for 245 Las Vegas hotels]): Treasure Island, New York New York, or MGM Grand? Ack. It is horrible making these kinds of decisions. FWIW, DH and I are just ordinary people, not into fancy-schmancy foods, etc.

DH and I just got back from Vegas last week. It was our 2nd time to stay at the Monte Carlo and we have loved it both times! It is right next door to New York, New York and across the street from MGM. Some good friends of ours where there last weekend and they stayed at the MGM. We talked last night and she said the MGM was just okay and that she wouldn't stay there again. My mom and her husband have stayed at Treasure Island and really liked it. It is right in the middle of the strip, so it's convenient to most everything. DH and I used the Duece for our transportation when we weren't walking. I think for a 24 hour pass it is $5 and it stops at all of the hotels along the strip and goes to the downtown area.

Have a wonderful trip! If you have any other questions, let me know. I've been to Vegas several times in the past few years.

jimmysgirl424

01-24-2008, 09:37 AM

Reenie, I've never stayed in any of the hotels mentioned in your last post, but I used to live in Vegas, so I'll rate them anyway. In order:

New York, New York - fun hotel with lots to see and decent strip location. The slots are okay, not as loose as downtown, but not as tight as some of the other strip hotels. Plus they have a very cool decor, inside and out. :) The roller coaster, Manhattan Express is very neat to look at, but has seen better days ride-wise. DH and I rode it last time we were there and both of us had headaches the rest of the day; it rode very rough! Oh, and a great Mexican restaurant there; I'll have to go look up the name of it if you want. (I wrote a review about it over on Trip Advisor. Actually, I have three or four reviews up over there on different Vegas places.)

Treasure Island- good location, central strip. Slots are good, they have a bank of penny ones that my friends literally spent 8 hours straight playing! Some good places to eat and have drinks at too.

MGM Grand- based on what you said about you and your husband being ordinary people, I'm putting this one as the last choice. It can be a bit on the snooty side as far as some of the people gambling there. Its also most likely to be the highest price of the three and their slots are tight. On the plus side, lots of different places to choose from to eat, but all are rather high-budget. But they also have the most awesome show that I've ever seen; Cirque De Soliel's "KA". An absolute must-see!

I know I've said it before, but I have a very strong preference for downtown. Its just more fun, more laid-back, looser slots, more down-to-earth people, cheaper food, cheaper drinks, pretty much cheaper everything. And if you want to sightsee, the strip is a very short cab ride or bus ride away!

Reenie

01-24-2008, 07:27 PM

Thanks, winogirlie, blondetwin, and jimmysgirl for the recs. We ended up booking Treasure Island because my brother stayed there and had a wonderful experience and because he discouraged us from New York, New York (which I *almost* booked) because he said that the rooms on the roller coaster side could be noisy (my DH is the lightest sleeper in the entire world, it seems). Very excited! Thanks again!

julesp313

01-25-2008, 12:45 PM

I sure hope nobody is staying at the Monte Carlo today seeing as it's on fire. I'm working about five minutes off the Strip and the black smoke is absolutely billowing out of the roof of the hotel. So far, it sounds like it's confined to the roof but they're evacuating the entire hotel, obviously. So hopefully no CC'ers are there!

Rosebud

01-25-2008, 01:35 PM

Just read about that Monte Carlo fire. Wow-- I wonder what happened? Thank goodness it sounds like they've been able to evacuate everyone and prevent any injuries.

DelSol

02-13-2008, 05:20 PM

FYI:

$179 -- Las Vegas 5-Diamond Resort on The Strip - Wynn (http://hotels.travelzoo.com/las-vegas-hotels/369162)

Shapsgrl

02-27-2008, 02:43 PM

I am going to Vegas next month with my H to celebrate our anniversary. It wouldn't be our first choice, but since I have to be out there for a work convention that weekend we're making it work. We have been to Vegas dozens of times, and eaten a several of the nicer restaurants but I would love any suggestions for a great dining experience, or show. I've looked through this thread, and plan to check into Robuchon - is there anywhere else that is similar as far as fine dining goes?

I also have to recommend Lotus of Siam: Hailed as the best Thai food in the US by Gourmet mag. It's on Sahara. It's a total hole in the wall, but the food is amazing.

jimmysgirl424

02-28-2008, 12:05 PM

Shapsgrl Haven't done much in the way of fine dining during our Vegas jaunts, so not much help there. (although I've heard great things about some of the restaurants at the Bellagio). But hands-down, the best show I've seen in Vegas is KA at the MGM. In a word; spectacular.

Shapsgrl

02-28-2008, 05:22 PM

Thanks for the rec, Jimmysgirl. I will look into tickets.

I talked to my H last night and he already had plans in mind unbeknownst to me. For Saturday he got us tickets to Le Reve and he wants to dine at Okada afterward.

Sunday he has looked into doing a Haunted Vegas tour. It actually sounds pretty cool. :)

Suggestions are still appreciated.

Ericka_Jarett

02-29-2008, 10:26 AM

Anyone looking for good rates, check out The Orleans, sign up for their mailing list and you get some good offers.

Right now they have $30 a nights on select dates from Sunday - Thursday. And $70 a night on select dates on Fridays and Saturdays. Thru May 1st.

jimmysgirl424

02-29-2008, 12:13 PM

Jill1228

02-29-2008, 12:43 PM

Ericka_Jarett

02-29-2008, 01:33 PM

AP - it is a nice hotel too. We stayed there near Christmas back in 2006 and got $25 a night rate and the room was super huge.

Shapsgrl

03-05-2008, 01:22 PM

Shapsgrl Don't know if this is your kind of thing or not, but DH and I did a sunset horseback ride and campfire dinner at Red Rock Canyon that was just phenomenal and worth every penny. Just thought I'd mention it.

That sounds super romantic. My H actually proposed at the Valley of Fire out there but we haven't been to Red Rock. I will check it out - thanks!

mindy2137

03-18-2008, 02:34 PM

gayle

03-19-2008, 07:17 AM

I personally really like staying Downtown. There is less hustle and bustle, the crowds aren't as bad (except during the Freemont St Experience), and you get a whole lot more bang for your buck!

Golden Nugget is every bit as nice as Mirage, at almost half the price in general. I have had exceptional rates at both LV Club ($29 a nite) and The Fitz ($34 a night), and both ar relatively clean and nice.

There is some really fine dining downtown (Binions, Hugo's Cellar, Great Moments Room), again, at sizeable discount from anything on the strip.

There are busses that run from Downtown to the strip all day and almost all night. Pretty much every 15 minutes.

blondetwin22001

03-19-2008, 10:00 AM

We are planning for a vegas trip in June, I had always thought we would stay on the strip, but for some reason Fremont St is looking good to me!?! The Goldden Nugget? Any thoughts on the overall experience of staying on Fremont as opposed to the strip? Also, is there a shuttle or something that goes from the strip to Fremont? TIA!

I have never actually stayed downtown, but we like to go down to see all of the lights and to eat at Grotto's at the Golden Nugget. It is an Italian restaurant that has really good food. I have also heard that the buffet at the Golden Nugget is really good.

DelSol

04-09-2008, 10:11 AM

Seems like a good deal for MGM Grand:

$89 -- Las Vegas 4-Diamond Hotel, incl. $35 Credit* (http://hotels.travelzoo.com/las-vegas-hotels/392826?ptl=done&sef=&rating=)

Las Vegas, NV

Top 20 deal - sells out quickly!

Travel dates: April 9 - Sept. 18

Rates at the AAA 4-Diamond MGM Grand Las Vegas have recently been $149 and higher -- even for weekdays. That's one of the reasons why we had to tell you about this sale with rates starting at $89. Not only are you saving 40%, but you will also get (per stay):

*A $35 activity credit -- for use at select restaurants, or at the shows "KÀ" by Cirque du Soleil or "Crazy Horse"
*Pool package including inner tubes and poolside cocktails
*2-for-1 Grand Buffet
*20% OFF all spa services

You can also upgrade to the 700-square-foot Celebrity Spa Suite with whirlpool spa for $50 more. Book by April 23.

This offer is for stays between April 9 and Sept. 18. Twenty-one dates are available at $89. If your travel plans aren't that flexible, you can stay for $99 on 29 other dates or $109 and up on almost every other date.

Click here (https://reservations.mgmmirage.com/bookingengine.aspx?pid=001&host=promo&code=MKT115)for full details and to book this offer directly through MGM Grand. To see its full rate calendar, click the calendar icon next to "View Available Dates."

Note: The MGM Grand has a check-in counter at the airport near baggage claim where you can receive your room keys, inquire about the shuttle to the hotel and arrange luggage transfer to the hotel (extra charge).

MGM Grand Las Vegas
3799 Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas

* Terms/Conditions:
This offer is non-refundable and may not be canceled or date changed. Rates may not be lowered once confirmed. Not available for existing reservations. Rates are subject to change and restricted dates apply. Specific room types and locations are not guaranteed as rooms are assigned upon check-in. An extra person charge per day for more than two people will apply. This promotion is non-transferable, subject to availability, may not be combined with any other MGM Grand promotion and is not available to groups or persons attending meetings or conventions or over certain blacked-out dates. The $35 activity credit is a one time credit that may be applied to dining, Crazy Horse tickets, or spa/salon services during stay. Dining credit is not valid at In-room dining, Joel Robuchon, L'Atelier de Joel Robuchon, Emeril's, Rainforest Cafe, and Starbucks. Guest must charge to room folio and will be credited upon check-out. Inclusions are per package, per stay and have no cash value. All prices are subject to tax and/or handling fee and based on double occupancy on a per-stay basis.

Wish I could go but we just had a baby!

thechick79

04-13-2008, 03:59 PM

We're going to be in Vegas for a wedding the first weekend of May. I have never been and DH has been once with his siblings. I have been checking out restaurant reviews and I'm overwhelmed at all the different choices. Just looking for some suggestions from those of you who have been before. We're staying at the Palazzo if that helps. It's our first trip sans baby so I think it would be fun to get dressed up and go somewhere nice. We both like all types of food - not picky at all. Tao looked kind of cool. TIA!

Rosebud

04-14-2008, 10:17 AM

I ate at Tao the last time I was in Vegas and it was pretty fun. Definitely scene-y. The food was pretty good. There is definitely better food to be had in Vegas, but Tao has some tasty dishes. I think Tao is a good bet if you'd like to go somewhere that is colorful, loud and hip and don't mind it being expensive. If you want more of a romantic fine dining experience, you might check out some other spots.

thechick79

04-14-2008, 12:04 PM

I'm not sure if I will like the "loud" part. It does seem pretty cool from what I've seen online. I'll do some searching for something more low-key. Thanks for your input Rosebud :-)

Rosebud

04-14-2008, 04:20 PM

It's not super loud, like you wouldn't be able to have a conversation or anything. It's just not a quiet, intimate, romantic atmosphere. I would eat there again, but I'd probably pick Tao for a dinner with girlfriends as opposed to a date night with DH, KWIM?

I think it's yby1 who ate at some great restaurants in Vegas lately. I know she did a bunch of research on it-- the info should all be in this thread or you could PM her for her advice.

:)

DelSol

05-14-2008, 10:26 AM

Another deal for Vegas.

$39 -- Las Vegas Resort on The Strip incl. $20 Credit* - Tropicana (http://hotels.travelzoo.com/las-vegas-hotels/406783)

$39 -- Las Vegas Resort on The Strip incl. $20 Credit*
Las Vegas, NV

Travel dates: Sunday-Thursday through Aug. 28; +$50 weekends

By Courtney Pierce
Travelzoo Staff

Now you can stay in the middle of all the action because Tropicana Las Vegas is offering an unbelievably low $39 special for Sunday-Thursday night stays through Aug. 28. What we like most about this deal is that you can stay Friday & Saturday nights for only $89 per night.

Located on The Strip next to MGM Grand, you can save up to 45% OFF regular rates as well as receive the following extras (per stay):

$20 dining credit
$30 in FREE slot play in the Tropicana's "Lucky $20" promotion
$10 match play on table games
20% OFF golf or 10% OFF golf, plus free club rental
15% OFF spa services
10% OFF show tickets to "Folies Bergere" and/or "Xtreme Magic with Dirk Arthur"
Blackout Dates: May 16-19, 23-25

Click here (https://res.tropicanalv.com/cgi-bin/lansaweb?procfun+rn+resnet+r15+funcparms+UP(A2560) :;wtrz508;?) for more information and to book online. Or call 1-888-340-8767 and mention promotion code WTRZ508. Book by May 23.

Tropicana Las Vegas
3801 Las Vegas Blvd. South, Las Vegas, NV 89109

* Terms/Conditions:
Based on availability. There is a $7.99 resort fee per room, per day. Other restrictions may apply. See Web site for more details.

DisneyGirl

05-22-2008, 05:29 PM

do I need to rent a car while in vegas? Like how will I get to my hotel from the airport?

Sazoo

05-22-2008, 05:35 PM

I wouldn't, unless you're planning to go outside of town for sightseeing or whatever. There are many shuttle services that will take you from the airport to your hotel. You can reserve them in advance but you don't have to - there are a ton of shuttle services at the airport. You can walk up to any one of them and buy a ticket, either one-way or roundtrip. Not too expensive, either. :)

P.S. Also, I think the hotels probably charge quite a bit to park in their garages. You can pretty much walk or ride the bus or monorail trains, or take taxis to anywhere you want to go on the Strip or downtown Vegas.

DelSol

05-22-2008, 06:04 PM

P.S. Also, I think the hotels probably charge quite a bit to park in their garages. You can pretty much walk or ride the bus or monorail trains, or take taxis to anywhere you want to go on the Strip or downtown Vegas.

As far as I remember, the hotels don't charge for parking, it's all free even valet parking.

Sazoo

05-23-2008, 09:57 AM

As far as I remember, the hotels don't charge for parking, it's all free even valet parking.Good to know! :) I've never actually rented a car in Vegas...for some reason I just assumed they charged for parking.

DelSol

05-23-2008, 12:02 PM

Sazoo ~ we get a car all the time while there because we like to explore and never paid for parking. We always thought they charged for valet but they don't. They want you to come in and gamble away your money not spend it on parking. :D :p

jimmysgirl424

05-23-2008, 12:11 PM

Yep, very few of the hotel garages charge for their parking. They definitely want you gambling, not worrying about paying a $20 parking fee! :)

DisneyGirl

05-24-2008, 07:05 AM

Thanks everyone!
another question If I decide not to get a rent a car for the whole time I am there since we do plan on sightseeing ect..then where can i get a rent a car? do i have to go back to the sirport to get it?

This will be my first time there so I really have no clue what to expect. My friend who has been there before who is also going with me says cabs are a rib off to get from the airport to the hotel.

mindy2137

05-26-2008, 08:57 AM

what about walking shoes? I'm pregnant, I'll be 21 weeks when we are in vegas? I know that there is no way I can wear heels and not just a flip-flop, what shoes do you recommend? I don't have a nice pair of running/walking shoes, and I think I look like a dork wearing them, and they don't go with nice clothes, any input?

Leia

05-26-2008, 12:02 PM

DisneyGirl - you can pick up and return rental cars from various hotels. For example, I rented a car in December at the Vegas airport and returned it to the Venetian - it was either Budget or Avis. There are lots of rental car locations downtown though.

DisneyGirl

05-26-2008, 06:35 PM

Jill1228

05-26-2008, 11:54 PM

The downtown ones charge for parking but they do validate and the parking cost is minimal

mindy2137

05-27-2008, 01:22 PM

how much for a taxi ride from one end of the strip to the other, like from the Luxor to the Stratosphere? Is it a flat fee? because it's only $17 a day for a car, that would be cheaper than paying $12 (for example, if that's what it costs!) everytime you ride the strip...any thoughts? TIA!

Reenie

10-25-2008, 07:41 PM

Of these three, Excalibur, Riviera, and Stratosphere, which do you recommend for a baby moon? We obviously won't be partying late, and I certainly won't be in the kind of attire I've worn the last two trips ;) Do you think it even matters which one? Riviera is under renovation right now, too...

Anyone been to the poker rooms at any of those places? My DH is a poker player, and I'm trying to surprise him with the baby moon for our anniversary.

Rosebud

10-25-2008, 07:51 PM

I would say Excalibur. Personally, I hate the Stratosphere. It's way, way down at the north end of the Strip and not very nice, IMO. The Riviera is similarly not convenient to the rest of the Strip. I haven't been in there in years, but I remember it being sort of worn. Excalibur is a very family-oriented hotel. Lots of kids. But it's nice enough and right next to Mandalay Bay, Luxor and MGM Grand, more convenient to the rest of the Strip than your other options.

Have fun!

DisneyGirl

10-26-2008, 07:16 PM

The Excalibur hands down out of the three you listed. I stayed at the Excalibur and while its a super cheap place I was very pleased with the hotel and its location(honestly because it was so cheap I was expecting a complete dive). The rooms were super clean the staff was nice and has some great food options if you don;t want to leave the hotel for some reason and the pools were nice an clean.

Reenie

10-26-2008, 07:39 PM

Thank you both, Rosebud and DisneyGirl. Unfortunately, DH is being a worry-wart about my flying while pg, so we won't be going. :( Excalibur does look, BTW, like the best choice if we were to take this trip. I went there (but didn't stay there) during my last trip in July, and I had fun there. :)

hope0805

11-12-2008, 08:56 AM

I'm going to Vegas tomorrow through Saturday, staying at Mandalay Bay. Any tips for decent but inexpensive dining options?

Rosebud

11-12-2008, 09:35 AM

Border Grill in Mandalay Bay is good and won't totally bankrupt you.

yby1

11-12-2008, 10:27 AM

There is the Burger Bar at Mandalay Bay. I've never tried it, but I hear amazing things about that place.

DisneyGirl

11-12-2008, 03:48 PM

There is also a burger place in Paris as well.

The Buffet in the Wynn was great

shopaholic

11-12-2008, 05:56 PM

There is the Burger Bar at Mandalay Bay. I've never tried it, but I hear amazing things about that place.

I ate at Burger Bar and it was decent. I think I went in with too high expectations because I always hear people raving about it. Don't get me wrong...it wasn't bad but it didn't completely blow me away either. Was decent as far as price and overall nice time.

DisneyGirl

11-12-2008, 07:39 PM

I ate at Burger Bar and it was decent. I think I went in with too high expectations because I always hear people raving about it. Don't get me wrong...it wasn't bad but it didn't completely blow me away either. Was decent as far as price and overall nice time.

I was going to write the same thing..but didn't
I guess I too was expecting to be blown away.

emmasart

11-13-2008, 06:34 AM

I second the Border Grill @ Mandalay Bay. It's still a sit down place, but is reasonably priced compared to the other restaurants in Mandalay Bay. & they have great margaritas & guacamole. :)

May27JnJ

11-13-2008, 11:45 AM

shopaholic

11-13-2008, 12:22 PM

I would suggest going to MGM Grand's website and signing up for their emails. You will get email offers from MGM, NYNY, Monte Carlo and one other one that I can't recall. The emails always have great deals/codes to use and special promos that are coming up.

Rosebud

11-14-2008, 09:04 AM

My parents 25th anniversary is coming up in June. They're talking seriously about going to Vegas. Suggestions for a couple in their late 50's? Is there a better time of year to go? They don't know anything about Vegas and neither do I. I just want to make sure they have a nice hotel and an even better time! And recs on a hotel that won't break the bank but is still nice for an anniversary?

Avoid the summer, if possible. It's just scorching. May and October are my favorite months for Vegas, since they're often more temperate.

If they've never been to Vegas, they'll definitely want to be on the Strip. They can check around online for deals, since even the more expensive hotels sometimes have specials that make them affordable. If they can go mid-week as opposed to a weekend, they'll really save money on a hotel. Personally, my favorite place to stay is The Venetian. It's not always the cheapest, but it's great and the rooms are very spacious. MGM Grand is often reasonably priced for such a nice hotel. The Mirage often has good deals, as well.

taffers

11-18-2008, 03:44 PM

We're staying at the Venetian in December, and I have sooo many restaurants I want to try. I'm sure they are all really good, but we're only going to be there 2 nights so I can't go to all of them! Of the following restaurants, does anyone LOVE any one over another?

Aquaknox
B&B Ristorante
Delmonico
Tao
Carnevino
Cut
Table 10
Mesa Grill

If there is any other restaurant that anyone absolutely loved, please let me know as well!

FYI, we do not like French or Indian food so anything besides that.

thompso2

11-18-2008, 08:16 PM

We loved B&B Ristorante -- we ordered the tasting menu plus the spaghetti with lobster, and it was all fabulous. I haven't been to any of the others in Vegas, but I've been to a few of their sister restaurants here in NYC; I like Mesa Grill and was not wowed by Tao, though other people love it.

emmasart

11-19-2008, 06:59 AM

I really, really loved Tao. The food was awesome and I also loved the atmosphere. We also had great servers. That said, it's on the pricey side, especially if you're not used to paying out the nose for excellent quality sashimi. So just be warned on that aspect. It kinda had a zen/budda-bar/night club feel. Their dumplings are excellent & they have sushi chefs that you can watch do their thing as they make each roll to order. Also they had sake "flights" (samples of 3 types) that I really enjoyed... Perhaps too much. :)

I will definitely go back there, because I really love it, but I guess recommending it depends on what you want. If you want a quiet, private dinner & don't like to try new types of food, I might recommend trying somewhere else. But if you are into a hip kinda nightclub vibe & love japanese/thai/chinese food, I'd definitely recommend Tao.

Haven't tried any of the other places...

taffers

11-19-2008, 02:42 PM

Thanks girls! Funny you mention Tao, Mesa Grill and B&B because those were my top 3 contenders! I guess we can always do 2 of the nicer restaurants for lunch as well so we can get in 4 of them. :)

Kristy

11-24-2008, 06:23 PM

We had lunch at Table 10 back in October and it was so fantastic. I'd go back there in a heartbeat. The tomato basil soup with white cheddar croutons was to.die.for. I was about ready to lick the bowl. Fairly reasonable, too.

Didn't go to Mesa Grill, but I did plaster myself against the windows trying to look inside to see if Bobby Flay happened to be there. A very nice hostess told me he wasn't in that weekend, so we didn't go. I have a friend who highly recommends it, though. And it's just a neat looking place.

Delmonico's, another place we didn't go, but it came highly recommended by another friend. We were choosing between Delmonico's and Table 10, and weren't really in the mood for steak, so we chose the latter. Go to Table 10, you'll love it.

bookworm

11-24-2008, 07:32 PM

I also liked B&B (get the love letters pasta) and Mesa (we shared a few things--some queso thing that would have been great as a bar snack, some app with duck, and a pork & a chicken entree...both were very good). I wouldn't bother with Aquanox for dinner, but it's not a bad spot for a drink.

taffers

11-25-2008, 03:55 PM

wine_o_girlie

12-04-2008, 08:35 AM

We just got back from Vegas late on Monday night. It was my first 3 night trip to Vegas - it was a fantastic trip! :) Travel both ways was pretty painless except for United being total @ssholes and charging $15 for the FIRST bag you check. Ridiculous. We stayed at Paris and the room was very nice and location great. We spend a lot of time at the Bellagio, especially the Sports Book all day on Sunday for the NFL games. The casinos were less crowded than in years past - not empty but definitely not as crowded as in the past. It was also very easy to get reservations everywhere except Tao (Venetian) without much advance notice.

We saw "O" and it was great. I wasn't quite as wowed by it as I thought I would be but I think that you just get so wowed by the first Cirque show you see (Mystere in my case) that it's hard for the second show to wow you as much. We went with some friends and her father got us 5th row, center tickets for free, so that definitely was awesome and added to the enjoyment. :)

Our breakfasts and lunches were nothing special (highly recommend the pastries at Palio at the Bellagio over the ones at Paris) but we did have a great dinner at Fix at the Bellagio after the show. We love Fix and go almost every year, it didn't disappoint. Our second night we went downtown to gamble which I (unexpectedly) loved. The vibe downtown was much more laid back and a $5 craps and blackjack table on a Saturday night rocks. ;) That night we had dinner at Hugo's Cellar at the 4 Queens and I HATED IT. Our friends wanted to go based on a recommendation from her father and I knew it probably wasn't our cup of tea but *no one* ended up liking it. Yuck, it's very, very "old school" in menu and decor, it was so dark and depressing, the steaks were extremely overcooked, my salmon was overcooked and gross, and it was expensive. There is so much better food to be had in Vegas, it was extremely disappointing and I would never go back nor recommend it to anyone under the age of 55. Our third night was dinner at Tao and I loved it. Very cool and fun atmosphere and it was nice to have that type of food after all of the indulgences of the weekend. Very hip and good. It was a great place to go on our last night.

My only other tip was a free craps lesson at Bill's Casino (formerly Barbary Coast, right next to Bally's) at 10:30. I mostly know how to play but it was still a nice refresher and after the class, all the "students" jumped on an empty table and we had a great time and made some money. :) One guy rolled for I swear a half an hour, it was awesome. Also, there was hardly anyone smoking at that time which was nice (I'm pregnant). Try the lesson if you are interested in playing craps.

Rosebud

12-04-2008, 09:13 AM

Sounds like a great trip, wine_o_girlie! I'm glad you had so much fun. I went to both Fix and Tao on my last Vegas trip and completely agree that they are great. Nice score on the "O" tickets! Thanks for the tip about the craps lessons, as well. I need a refresher course the next time I go out there!

Kristy

12-04-2008, 07:45 PM

My only other tip was a free craps lesson at Bill's Casino (formerly Barbary Coast, right next to Bally's) at 10:30. I mostly know how to play but it was still a nice refresher and after the class, all the "students" jumped on an empty table and we had a great time and made some money. :) One guy rolled for I swear a half an hour, it was awesome. Also, there was hardly anyone smoking at that time which was nice (I'm pregnant). Try the lesson if you are interested in playing craps.

Bill's also has $1 margaritas at the bar in the very back of the casino. For a buck they weren't bad at all. We stayed at Flamingo, which was right next door, and we visted quite often for the margaritas.