Bally’s Las Vegas stands as a testament to the vibrant and ever-changing landscape of the Las Vegas Strip. Having lived in this city for over two decades, I’ve seen Bally’s transform and adapt, continually offering visitors an exceptional experience. This guide delves deep into the various aspects that make Bally’s a unique and cherished destination.
A Short History of Bally’s Las Vegas
Bally’s Las Vegas, originally opened as the MGM Grand Hotel and Casino in 1973, was a vision of luxury and opulence, designed to be one of the largest hotels in the world. Located at the prime intersection of Flamingo Road and the Las Vegas Strip, the hotel quickly became an iconic symbol of the glitz and glamour of Las Vegas.
In November 1980, the MGM Grand was the site of one of the most tragic events in Las Vegas history—a devastating fire that claimed 85 lives and injured hundreds more. This tragedy led to significant changes in fire safety regulations for hotels and casinos across the United States. The MGM Grand reopened with renewed vigor after extensive renovations and a commitment to enhanced safety measures.
In 1986, the property was sold to Bally Manufacturing, a company well-known for its pinball and slot machines, and was subsequently renamed Bally’s. Under the new ownership, Bally’s continued to thrive, maintaining its reputation for luxury while updating its offerings to keep pace with the evolving Las Vegas scene.
The 1990s and early 2000s saw numerous renovations and updates to Bally’s, including new dining establishments, entertainment venues, and gaming options. These changes ensured that Bally’s remained a competitive and attractive destination for both tourists and locals.
One of the significant developments was the connection to Paris Las Vegas via an indoor walkway, effectively merging two iconic properties and offering guests easy access to a wider range of amenities and experiences.
Today, Bally’s Las Vegas stands as a testament to resilience and adaptation. It continues to be a beloved fixture on the Strip, known for its distinctive neon signage, spacious casino floor, and a blend of classic Vegas charm with modern amenities. As Las Vegas continues to evolve, Bally’s remains a cornerstone of the city’s vibrant and ever-changing landscape.
Dining at Bally’s Las Vegas
Bally’s Las Vegas offers a diverse array of dining experiences to satisfy every palate. From the elegant BLT Steak, renowned for its premium cuts and sophisticated ambiance, to the legendary Sterling Brunch, known for its lavish spread of gourmet dishes and champagne, guests can indulge in fine dining at its best. For a more casual experience, Tequila Taqueria serves authentic Mexican cuisine, while Burger Brasserie offers a unique twist on classic American burgers. Quick bites and snacks are available at places like Nosh and Lavazza, ensuring that there is something delicious for every taste and occasion at Bally’s.
Fine Dining Experiences
- BLT Steak: Renowned for its premium steaks and elegant ambiance.
- Sterling Brunch: A legendary brunch experience with champagne and gourmet dishes.
- Nosh: Offers a variety of quick bites and gourmet sandwiches.
- Tequila Taqueria: Serves authentic Mexican cuisine and a vast selection of tequilas.
- Burger Brasserie: A sports bar with a French twist on classic American burgers.
Tip: Always make reservations in advance for fine dining restaurants, especially on weekends and holidays.
Casual Dining Options
- LaVazza: Ideal for a quick coffee or pastry.
- Nathan’s Famous Hot Dogs: Offers the classic New York hot dog experience.
- Sbarro: Quick and delicious pizza options.
- Pan Asian Express: Fast and flavorful Asian cuisine.
- Subway: A convenient option for fresh sandwiches.
Tip: Check for daily specials or meal deals to save on casual dining.
Buffet and Brunch Highlights
- Sterling Brunch: Famous for its lavish spread, including lobster, caviar, and champagne.
- Sidewalk Café: Offers a variety of breakfast and lunch options.
- The Buffet: A traditional buffet with a wide range of international dishes.
- Weekend Brunch: Many restaurants offer special brunch menus with unique dishes.
- Holiday Buffets: Enhanced selections during holidays and special events.
Tip: Arrive early for brunch to avoid long lines and get the best selection of dishes.
Quick Bites and Snacks
- Nosh: Perfect for a quick, high-quality snack or meal.
- Lobby Bar: Offers light snacks along with drinks.
- In-room Dining: Convenient for a quick bite without leaving your room.
- Poolside Snacks: Enjoy casual dining by the pool.
- Vending Machines: Located throughout the hotel for late-night cravings.
Tip: Use the Bally’s app to order food and avoid waiting in lines.
Signature Dishes and Drinks
- BLT Steak’s Popovers: A must-try at BLT Steak.
- Sterling Brunch’s Lobster: A highlight of the famous brunch.
- Tequila Taqueria’s Tacos: Authentic and flavorful.
- Burger Brasserie’s Custom Burgers: Unique combinations and flavors.
- Signature Cocktails: Each bar and restaurant offers unique drink options.
Tip: Ask the staff for their recommendations on signature dishes and drinks.
Entertainment and Nightlife
Bally’s Las Vegas boasts a vibrant array of entertainment and nightlife options to captivate guests. The casino floor is lively with a variety of table games and slot machines, ensuring an exciting gaming experience. The Extravaganza show offers a spectacular blend of acrobatics, dance, and music, making it a must-see performance. For those seeking a more relaxed evening, the Indigo Lounge provides a stylish setting with live music and cocktails. The Twilight Zone Mini Golf offers quirky, family-friendly fun, while nearby Drai’s Nightclub delivers a high-energy nightlife experience. Whether you’re in the mood for a thrilling show, a night of gaming, or a casual drink, Bally’s has something to suit every preference.
Casino and Gaming Options
- Table Games: Wide variety including blackjack, poker, and roulette.
- Slot Machines: Hundreds of machines with different themes and stakes.
- Sportsbook: Place bets on various sports events in a comfortable setting.
- High Limit Area: Exclusive gaming area for high rollers.
- Player Rewards: Join the Bally Rewards program for benefits and perks.
Tip: Set a budget before gambling and stick to it to ensure a fun and responsible experience.
Shows and Performances
- Extravaganza: A spectacular show with acrobatics, dance, and music.
- Paranormal: A unique mentalist show by Frederic Da Silva.
- Comedy Club: Features stand-up performances from top comedians.
- Guest Performances: Regularly hosts concerts and special events.
- Free Entertainment: Look for free shows and performances around the casino.
Tip: Book show tickets in advance, as popular performances often sell out quickly.
Nightclubs and Bars
- Indigo Lounge: A stylish bar with live music and a relaxed atmosphere.
- Lobby Bar: Perfect for a pre-dinner drink or nightcap.
- Tequila Bar: Offers a wide range of tequilas and Mexican-inspired cocktails.
- Drai’s Nightclub: Located nearby, offering a vibrant nightlife experience.
- Poolside Bars: Enjoy drinks by the pool with a view of the Strip.
Tip: Take advantage of happy hour deals to enjoy drinks at a lower cost.
Unique Attractions and Experiences
- Twilight Zone Mini Golf: A fun and quirky indoor mini-golf course.
- Real Bodies Exhibit: An educational and fascinating exhibit of human anatomy.
- Shopping: Various shops offering souvenirs, clothing, and more.
- Pool Area: Relax and unwind at the outdoor pool.
- Spa and Salon: Treat yourself to a luxurious spa day.
Tip: Check Bally’s website for any special events or temporary exhibits.
Daytime Activities
- Poolside Relaxation: Enjoy the sun and take a dip in the pool.
- Shopping: Explore the various shops within Bally’s and nearby.
- Spa Treatments: Indulge in a massage or beauty treatment.
- Fitness Center: Keep up with your workout routine.
- Nearby Attractions: Visit the Bellagio Fountains or the High Roller observation wheel.
Tip: Start your day early to make the most of the activities and avoid crowds.
Accommodations at Bally’s Las Vegas
Bally’s Las Vegas offers a variety of accommodation options designed to meet the needs of every traveler. Guests can choose from the modern and stylish Jubilee Rooms, the spacious Resort Rooms, or the luxurious suites that provide separate living areas and premium amenities. Pet-friendly rooms are available for those traveling with furry companions, and accessible rooms are thoughtfully designed for guests with mobility needs. Each room is equipped with contemporary comforts to ensure a relaxing and enjoyable stay, with many offering stunning views of the Las Vegas Strip. Whether you’re visiting for business or pleasure, Bally’s provides a comfortable and convenient home base for your Las Vegas adventures.
Room Types and Features
- Jubilee Rooms: Modern and stylish rooms with updated amenities.
- Resort Rooms: Spacious rooms with a contemporary design.
- Suites: Luxurious suites with separate living areas and premium features.
- Pet-Friendly Rooms: Available for guests traveling with pets.
- Accessible Rooms: Designed for guests with mobility needs.
Tip: Request a room with a view of the Strip for a memorable stay.
Booking Tips and Deals
- Advance Booking: Book early to get the best rates.
- Package Deals: Look for packages that include meals, show tickets or other perks.
- Rewards Program: Use Bally Rewards points for discounts and upgrades.
- Last-Minute Deals: Check for last-minute offers on the Bally’s website.
- Seasonal Promotions: Take advantage of special offers during holidays and off-peak times.
Tip: Sign up for Bally’s newsletter to receive exclusive deals and promotions.
Amenities and Services
- Fitness Center: Equipped with modern exercise equipment.
- Business Center: Provides services for business travelers.
- Concierge: Assists with reservations, tickets, and other requests.
- Valet Parking: Convenient parking service for guests.
- Wi-Fi: Available throughout the hotel.
Tip: Utilize the concierge service to enhance your stay and access exclusive experiences.
Family-Friendly Features
- Kid-Friendly Dining: Restaurants with menus suitable for children.
- Pool Area: Family-friendly pool with designated kids’ areas.
- Arcade: Entertainment options for younger guests.
- Babysitting Services: Available upon request.
- Family Suites: Larger rooms to accommodate families.
Tip: Plan activities in advance to keep children entertained throughout your stay.
Business and Event Facilities
- Meeting Rooms: Various rooms available for business meetings and conferences.
- Event Spaces: Venues for weddings, parties, and other events.
- Audiovisual Equipment: Available for presentations and events.
- Catering Services: Customized menus for events and meetings.
- Business Center: Offers printing, faxing, and other office services.
Tip: Work with the event planning team to ensure a seamless and successful event.
Nearby Attractions and Activities
Located in the heart of the Strip, Bally’s Las Vegas is surrounded by a multitude of attractions and activities. Guests can explore the adjacent Paris Las Vegas, with its Eiffel Tower replica offering breathtaking views of the city. The Bellagio Fountains, renowned for their choreographed water shows, are a short walk away. For shopping enthusiasts, the Grand Bazaar Shops at Bally’s and the nearby Forum Shops at Caesars provide a diverse retail experience. The High Roller observation wheel at The LINQ offers panoramic views of the Strip, while the Mob Museum and Neon Museum offer fascinating glimpses into Las Vegas’ rich history. Whether you’re interested in shopping, sightseeing, or cultural experiences, there’s something for everyone near Bally’s Las Vegas.
Other Casinos and Hotels
- Paris Las Vegas: Directly connected to Bally’s with additional dining and entertainment options.
- Bellagio: Famous for its fountains and luxurious casino.
- Caesars Palace: Iconic casino and entertainment complex.
- Flamingo: Historic casino with a tropical theme.
- The LINQ: Home to the High Roller observation wheel.
Tip: Use pedestrian bridges to easily navigate nearby casinos and hotels.
Shopping and Dining
- Grand Bazaar Shops: Located in front of Bally’s with a variety of shops and eateries.
- Forum Shops at Caesars: High-end shopping mall with luxury brands.
- Miracle Mile Shops: Offers a wide range of stores and restaurants.
- Fashion Show Mall: Large shopping mall with popular retailers.
- Eiffel Tower Restaurant: Dine with a view of the Strip at Paris Las Vegas.
Tip: Take advantage of shopping discounts and dining deals available to hotel guests.
Entertainment and Nightlife
- High Roller: Enjoy stunning views of the Strip from this observation wheel.
- Bellagio Fountains: Must-see water show synchronized to music.
- The Colosseum at Caesars Palace: Hosts concerts and performances by top artists.
- Omnia Nightclub: Popular nightlife spot with world-renowned DJs.
- Brooklyn Bowl: Combines live music, bowling, and dining.
Tip: Check show schedules and book tickets in advance for popular attractions.
Outdoor and Adventure Activities
- Helicopter Tours: Experience breathtaking aerial views of the Strip and nearby natural wonders.
- Red Rock Canyon: Explore hiking trails and scenic drives just outside the city.
- The Hoover Dam: Visit this engineering marvel about 30 miles from Las Vegas.
- Lake Mead: Enjoy water activities like boating, fishing, and swimming.
- Golf: Play a round at one of the nearby golf courses.
Tip: Plan outdoor activities early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the heat.
Cultural and Historical Sites
- Neon Museum: Explore the history of Las Vegas through iconic neon signs.
- Mob Museum: Learn about the history of organized crime and law enforcement.
- The Venetian’s Grand Canal Shoppes: Experience the charm of Venice with gondola rides and Italian architecture.
- Fremont Street Experience: Visit the historic heart of Las Vegas with its vibrant light show.
- Hoover Dam Museum: Discover the history and construction of this monumental structure.
Tip: Allocate time to visit cultural and historical sites for a well-rounded Vegas experience.
Tips for First-Time Visitors
First-time visitors to Bally’s Las Vegas are in for a memorable experience. The hotel’s prime location on the Strip provides easy access to iconic attractions and vibrant nightlife. Joining the Bally Rewards program can enhance your stay with benefits and discounts. For dining, make reservations in advance, especially for popular spots like BLT Steak and Sterling Brunch. The casino offers a wide variety of games, but it’s wise to set a budget beforehand. Utilize the pedestrian bridges for convenient access to nearby hotels and attractions. Most importantly, embrace the excitement and diversity that Bally’s and the Las Vegas Strip have to offer.
Planning Your Trip
- Research: Familiarize yourself with Bally’s and nearby attractions before your trip.
- Budget: Set a budget for accommodations, dining, entertainment, and gambling.
- Itinerary: Plan your days to maximize your time and experiences.
- Reservations: Make reservations for dining and shows in advance.
- Packing: Pack comfortable clothing and shoes for walking around the Strip.
Tip: Keep an open mind and be ready to explore and enjoy spontaneous opportunities.
Getting Around
- Walking: The Strip is pedestrian-friendly with many attractions within walking distance.
- Monorail: Convenient and quick way to travel between major hotels and casinos.
- Ride-sharing: Use services like Uber and Lyft for convenient transportation.
- Taxis: Readily available but can be more expensive than ride-sharing.
- Rental Cars: Consider if planning to explore areas outside of the Strip.
Tip: Use the free trams connecting various hotels and casinos to save time and energy.
Staying Safe
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water, especially in the summer heat.
- Know Your Limits: Gamble responsibly and know when to stop.
- Stay Aware: Be mindful of your surroundings, especially late at night.
- Secure Belongings: Keep valuables secure and be cautious of pickpockets.
- Emergency Contacts: Have important contacts and hotel information readily available.
Tip: Always use well-lit and crowded routes when walking at night.
Maximizing Your Experience
- Bally Rewards: Join the loyalty program for benefits and discounts.
- Local Insights: Ask locals or hotel staff for recommendations on hidden gems.
- Show Deals: Look for last-minute ticket deals for shows and performances.
- Dining Deals: Check for happy hours and dining specials.
- Souvenirs: Buy unique souvenirs to remember your trip.
Tip: Pace yourself to fully enjoy the diverse experiences Las Vegas offers.
Bally’s Las Vegas offers a quintessential Las Vegas experience with its rich history, diverse dining options, vibrant entertainment, and prime location on the Strip. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned Vegas veteran, Bally’s has something for everyone. By following these tips and insights from a long-time resident, you’re sure to have an unforgettable stay at Bally’s Las Vegas.
