Unlike many of the modern luxury resorts on the Strip, Circus Circus holds onto a whimsical, carnival-like atmosphere that immediately transports you into a world of fun. The casino is sprawling, filled with everything from slot machines to live circus performances. Whether you’re a family looking for entertainment or a gambler seeking a less expensive alternative to other casinos, Circus Circus offers a wide variety of attractions to keep you busy.
What Sets Circus Circus Apart?
- Family-Friendly Environment: Circus Circus is one of the few casinos in Las Vegas that actively caters to families. It’s a favorite for travelers with children with an indoor amusement park, daily circus acts, and carnival games.
- Affordable Gambling: Circus Circus offers low minimums on its table games and a wide range of affordable slot machines if you’re on a budget.
- Long-Standing Legacy: Having been around for more than 50 years, Circus Circus holds a special place in Las Vegas’s history, attracting new visitors and those who fondly remember its heyday.
Gaming at Circus Circus
While Circus Circus is known for its family-friendly attractions, the casino itself is a haven for gamblers looking for a casual and affordable gaming experience. Spanning over 120,000 square feet, the casino floor is packed with a variety of games, from classic slots and video poker to low-limit table games. Whether you’re a seasoned gambler or just looking for fun, Circus Circus offers a range of gaming options that cater to every type of player.
Slot Machines: Endless Variety
Circus Circus boasts one of the largest collections of slot machines on the Strip, making it a slot player’s paradise. From the latest digital slots to classic reel machines, the variety ensures that everyone finds a game they enjoy. The slots here are designed to be accessible, with denominations ranging from a single penny to higher stakes for those looking for a bigger win.
- Penny Slots: Circus Circus is known for its extensive selection of penny slots, allowing players to enjoy the excitement of slot gaming without spending much. These machines are perfect for beginners or those who prefer to play at a leisurely pace.
- High-Limit Slots: Circus Circus offers a high-limit slot area featuring higher denomination machines with bigger payouts for players looking to raise the stakes. While still more affordable than those at luxury resorts, these slots offer a chance to win significant jackpots.
- Progressive Jackpots: The casino features a wide array of progressive jackpot slots where the prize pool increases with each spin until one lucky player hits the big win. Look out for popular titles like “Wheel of Fortune” and “Megabucks,” which often have life-changing payouts.
- Video Slots and Themed Games: Circus Circus keeps up with the latest trends in gaming, offering themed video slots based on popular movies, TV shows, and celebrities. Games like “Game of Thrones,” “Buffalo Gold,” and “Lightning Link” provide engaging graphics and bonus features that make each spin more exciting.
Table Games with Low Minimums
One of Circus Circus’s standout features is its range of table games, which cater to both new players and seasoned gamblers. Unlike the high-stakes tables found at luxury resorts, Circus Circus keeps the buy-ins low, making it accessible to everyone.
- $5 Blackjack: One of the few places on the Strip where you can still find $5 blackjack tables, Circus Circus is perfect for those who want to play without risking a lot of money. The dealers are friendly, and the atmosphere is relaxed, making it an excellent spot for beginners.
- Basic Strategy Friendly: Circus Circus offers player-friendly rules like 3:2 payouts on blackjack and the ability to double down on any two cards, giving you a better chance at winning compared to other casinos with less favorable rules.
- Roulette: The classic spinning wheel game is always popular at Circus Circus. With minimum bets starting at just $10, it’s a great game for those who enjoy a mix of luck and strategy. You can place traditional inside bets and outside bets or try your luck with the dozens and columns.
- Single-Zero Roulette: For players seeking better odds, look for single-zero European-style roulette tables, which reduce the house edge compared to the double-zero American version.
- Craps: Craps tables at Circus Circus offer a lively environment with low minimum bets, allowing newcomers to experience the thrill of this fast-paced game without feeling intimidated.
- Low Odds Bet Limits: Take advantage of low minimums on odds bets, which offer no house edge, giving you a fair shot at maximizing your winnings.
- Three Card Poker and Let It Ride: These poker variants are great for players looking for something a little different. Both games are easy to learn, and with low buy-ins, they provide a fun and strategic break from traditional poker games.
Video Poker
Video poker enthusiasts will find a wide range of machines at Circus Circus, offering various games and pay tables to suit different play styles. Unlike many slot machines, video poker combines skill and luck, allowing players to influence the outcome with the right strategy.
- Jacks or Better: One of the most popular video poker games, Jacks or Better offers simple rules and favorable odds. Circus Circus often features full-pay machines with the optimal 9/6 payout, giving skilled players a chance at long-term success.
- Deuces Wild: This variation allows all twos (deuces) to act as wild cards, significantly increasing your chances of landing winning hands. It’s a fun twist on traditional poker and offers some of the highest payouts if you play correctly.
- Bonus Poker: With various bonus payouts for four-of-a-kind hands, Bonus Poker adds an extra layer of excitement to your play. Watch for machines with higher bonus payouts to maximize your chances of winning.
Circus Circus Sportsbook
While the sportsbook at Circus Circus may not be as glamorous as those found at newer resorts, it provides a cozy and accessible environment for sports betting enthusiasts. It’s a great spot to relax, watch the game, and place your bets without the high-stakes pressure found elsewhere on the Strip.
- Comfortable Seating: The sportsbook features comfortable seating with individual TVs and plenty of big screens showing the latest games and races.
- Live Betting Options: Bet on your favorite sports, from NFL and NBA games to horse racing and international soccer matches. Live betting options allow you to place wagers as the action unfolds.
- Parlay Cards: Circus Circus offers parlay cards with the potential for bigger payouts for those looking to combine multiple bets. Combine your picks on a single card and see if you can hit it big.
Arcade-Style Gaming: A Fun Twist
Circus Circus also offers a variety of arcade-style games in its Midway area, blending the line between traditional casino gaming and carnival fun. While these games don’t pay out in cash, they provide entertainment and the chance to win prizes, making them perfect for visitors who prefer a different type of gaming experience.
- Skee-Ball and Basketball Toss: Enjoy classic arcade games like Skee-Ball and basketball toss, where you can compete for tickets and trade them in for fun prizes.
- Prize Claw Machines: Try your luck with various claw machines filled with plush toys, gadgets, and other fun items.
- Token Games: Collect tokens from Midway games to redeem for prizes. These games provide a break from traditional gambling while still keeping the competitive spirit alive.
The Adventuredome: Indoor Fun for the Whole Family
One key attraction that makes Circus Circus unique is the Adventuredome, an enormous indoor amusement park inside the resort. This 5-acre park is one of the largest indoor theme parks in America and offers everything from thrilling roller coasters to kid-friendly rides and attractions.
Thrill Rides for Adventure Seekers
If you’re looking for heart-pounding excitement, the Adventuredome has you covered with its collection of thrill rides. These rides are perfect for adrenaline junkies and older kids.
- El Loco: This indoor roller coaster is one of the Adventuredome’s signature attractions, featuring tight twists and turns and heart-stopping drops.
- Canyon Blaster: Another thrilling roller coaster, Canyon Blaster takes riders through loops and corkscrews, all inside the dome.
- Disk’O: A spinning, tilting ride that offers dizzying fun for those who want a unique amusement park experience.
Kid-Friendly Rides
For families with younger children, the Adventuredome offers a variety of gentler rides and attractions.
- Carousel: A classic carousel ride, perfect for smaller children.
- Frog Hopper: A small drop tower ride designed for younger kids, providing just enough excitement without being too scary.
- Miniature Golf: A family-friendly mini-golf course inside the Adventuredome adds another layer of entertainment to the park.
Carnival Games
True to its name, Circus Circus also features a midway packed with carnival games where you can test your skills and win prizes.
- Ring Toss: A classic carnival game where you aim to toss rings onto pegs for prizes.
- Balloon Pop: Pop balloons with darts to win stuffed animals and other goodies.
- Basketball Shoot: Test your basketball shooting skills for a chance to win big prizes.
Daily Circus Acts: A Unique Entertainment Experience
One of the most iconic features of Circus Circus is its free, daily live circus acts. Located in the heart of the casino, the performances feature trapeze artists, acrobats, jugglers, and other skilled performers who put on a show for casino-goers and families alike.
A Variety of Performers
Every day, professional circus performers take to the stage, putting on awe-inspiring acts that leave audiences in awe.
- Trapeze Artists: Watch as performers fly through the air in daring trapeze acts.
- Acrobats: Skilled acrobats twist, flip, and perform gravity-defying stunts.
- Clowns: Adding a bit of light-hearted humor, clowns interact with the audience and provide fun for the kids.
Free Entertainment
One of the best things about the circus acts at Circus Circus is that they are completely free. Shows run multiple times daily, making catching a performance during your visit easy.
- Daily Shows: Circus acts run daily, with daily performances scheduled.
- Family-Friendly: These shows are a great way to entertain the whole family without spending extra money.
Dining at Circus Circus
With so many activities to enjoy, you’re bound to work up an appetite. Fortunately, Circus Circus offers a wide range of dining options that cater to every taste and budget. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a sit-down meal, you’ll find something to suit your cravings.
The Steakhouse: A Las Vegas Institution
One of the highlights of dining at Circus Circus is The Steakhouse, a Las Vegas institution serving mouth-watering steaks for decades. Despite its location in a budget-friendly casino, The Steakhouse offers a high-end dining experience that rivals some of the Strip’s finest restaurants.
- USDA Prime Steaks: The Steakhouse is known for its perfectly cooked USDA Prime steaks, from tender filet mignon to flavorful ribeye.
- Classic Ambiance: With its dark wood paneling and old-school charm, The Steakhouse offers a dining experience that feels like stepping back in time to the golden age of Vegas.
- Award-Winning: Consistently rated as one of the best steakhouses in Las Vegas, it’s a must-visit for any steak lover.
Quick and Casual Dining
If you’re looking for something quick and casual, Circus Circus offers several other dining options that are both affordable and convenient.
- Pizzeria: Grab a slice or a whole pie at the Circus Circus pizzeria, perfect for a quick and filling meal.
- Blue Iguana Mexican Express: Offering quick-service Mexican food, Blue Iguana is a great spot for tacos, burritos, and nachos.
- Circus Buffet: One of the more affordable buffets on the Strip, the Circus Buffet offers a wide selection of dishes for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Drinking at Circus Circus
Whether you’re looking to unwind with a cocktail after a day at the Adventuredome or enjoy a drink while playing the slots, Circus Circus offers a variety of options for drinking.
Slots A Fun Bar
Located adjacent to the casino floor, the Slots A Fun Bar offers a lively atmosphere and a variety of drink specials.
- Beer and Cocktails: At Slots A Fun, you’ll find an array of drink options ranging from ice-cold beers to craft cocktails. The bar’s laid-back atmosphere makes it a great place to grab a drink while playing the nearby slot machines or watching a game on the big screens.
- Affordable Drink Specials: One of the big draws here is the affordability. You’ll often find deals like $1 beers or discounted cocktails during happy hours, making it a popular spot for both locals and tourists looking for a budget-friendly drink on the Strip.
The Circus Bar
Another popular drinking spot inside Circus Circus is The Circus Bar, located right on the casino floor. Here, you can enjoy your favorite beverage while soaking in the carnival atmosphere.
- Full-Service Bar: The Circus Bar offers a full range of beverages, from classic cocktails to premium liquors and draft beer.
- Free Drinks While Gambling: Like many casinos in Vegas, Circus Circus offers free drinks to those who are actively gambling. Just be sure to tip your server!
West Bar
West Bar provides a quieter environment for those looking to sit back and relax, perfect for enjoying a drink while watching the bustling casino action from afar.
- Quiet Spot: West Bar is slightly removed from the loud gaming floor, making it a great place to take a break, catch up with friends, or simply people-watch.
- Drink Variety: West Bar has a wide selection of beers, wines, and specialty cocktails, so there’s something for every taste.
Accommodations at Circus Circus
When it comes to staying on the Strip, Circus Circus offers one of the more affordable accommodation options, especially for families. While it may not have the luxury of some of the newer resorts, the rooms are clean, comfortable, and, most importantly, budget-friendly.
Casino Tower Rooms
The Casino Tower is the main hotel building at Circus Circus, located conveniently close to the casino floor and attractions. The rooms here are simple but offer all the basic amenities you need for a comfortable stay.
- Affordable Rates: Rooms at Circus Circus are some of the most affordable on the Strip, making it a great option for those on a budget.
- Convenient Location: Staying in the Casino Tower means you’re just steps away from the gaming floor, restaurants, and entertainment.
- Family-Friendly Rooms: Many rooms come with two queen beds, ideal for families traveling with children.
Skyrise Tower and Manor Motor Lodge
In addition to the Casino Tower, Circus Circus offers accommodations in the Skyrise Tower and the adjacent Manor Motor Lodge. These rooms are slightly more affordable and are located a bit farther from the main casino, but still provide easy access to all the property’s amenities.
- Skyrise Tower: Located closer to the Adventuredome, the Skyrise Tower is a popular choice for families. The rooms here are simple but spacious, and the tower has its own pool for guests to enjoy.
- Manor Motor Lodge: For those looking to save even more, the Manor Motor Lodge offers the most budget-friendly rooms. These motel-style rooms are located across the street from the main casino but are still within walking distance of all the attractions.
The Local’s Tips for Visiting Circus Circus
As someone who has lived in Las Vegas for over 20 years, I’ve learned a few tips and tricks to make the most out of a visit to Circus Circus. Whether you’re gambling, catching a show, or just looking for a good meal, here are some insider tips to enhance your experience.
Enjoy Free Circus Acts Multiple Times a Day
One of the most unique aspects of Circus Circus is its free daily circus performances. Take advantage of these, as they’re entertaining and a great way to give your kids something fun to watch while you take a break from the casino floor.
- Tip: Arrive early for a good spot, especially for the more popular acrobatic performances. Seating can fill up quickly during peak times.
Play the Low-Minimum Table Games
If you’re new to table games or just looking to stretch your gambling budget, Circus Circus is one of the few places on the Strip where you can still find low-minimum bets.
- Tip: Head to the $5 blackjack tables early in the day, as they tend to fill up quickly later in the evening.
Take Advantage of Drink Specials
Circus Circus offers some of the best drink deals on the Strip, with many bars offering $1 beers and other discounted drinks.
- Tip: If you’re gambling, don’t forget that drinks are complimentary while you play. Just be sure to tip your server!
Visit the Adventuredome During Off-Peak Hours
If you’re planning to visit the Adventuredome, try to go during the weekdays or early in the day to avoid the long lines. The park can get crowded, especially on weekends and holidays.
- Tip: Check Adventuredome’s website for any special deals or promotions that could save you money on tickets.
Exploring Nearby Attractions
Circus Circus may be located on the northern end of the Strip, but it’s still close to a variety of attractions worth exploring. Whether you want to check out some of the newer resorts or venture off the Strip for a different experience, there’s plenty to see and do in the surrounding area.
Resorts World Las Vegas
One of the newest additions to the Las Vegas Strip, Resorts World is located just a short walk from Circus Circus. This mega-resort features high-end dining, entertainment, and gaming options, making it a great place to visit if you’re looking for something more modern.
- Dining: Resorts World has various dining options, from casual food courts to fine dining experiences featuring celebrity chefs.
- Gaming: The casino floor at Resorts World offers a more upscale experience, with high-limit rooms and a variety of modern slot machines.
The STRAT
The iconic STRAT Hotel, Casino & SkyPod (formerly known as the Stratosphere) is just north of Circus Circus. The STRAT offers some of the best views in Las Vegas, as well as adrenaline-pumping thrill rides for adventure seekers.
- SkyPod Observation Deck: Take in panoramic views of the Las Vegas Strip from the SkyPod, the tallest observation deck in the city.
- Thrill Rides: If you’re feeling brave, try out one of the STRAT’s thrill rides, like the Big Shot or X-Scream, both of which are located high above the city.
Off-Strip Shopping and Dining
If you want to escape the chaos of the Strip, head to the nearby Las Vegas Premium Outlets for some great shopping deals. Located just a few minutes from Circus Circus, the outlet mall features a wide variety of brand-name stores offering discounted prices.
- Shopping: From designer fashion to electronics, the Las Vegas Premium Outlets offer a little bit of everything for bargain hunters.
- Dining: The outlet mall also has several casual dining options, making it a great place to grab a bite to eat after a day of shopping.
Why Circus Circus is a Must-Visit for Families
For decades, Circus Circus has been a go-to destination for families looking to experience the fun and excitement of Las Vegas without breaking the bank. Its combination of affordable accommodations, family-friendly attractions like the Adventuredome, and budget-conscious gaming options make it a unique spot on the Strip.
Whether you’re visiting with kids, looking for an affordable place to gamble, or just want to soak in the nostalgic charm of a classic Las Vegas casino, Circus Circus offers something for everyone. It’s a reminder that Las Vegas isn’t just about luxury and excess—sometimes, it’s about good old-fashioned fun.
