Nestled just a short distance west of the famous Las Vegas Strip, the Gold Coast Hotel & Casino might not have the glitz and glamor of some of its larger Strip neighbors, but it holds a special place in the hearts of those who’ve called Las Vegas home for years. With over two decades living in this city, I’ve seen the Gold Coast grow from a locals-only spot to a well-loved destination for tourists, too. Offering a unique mix of Old Vegas charm and modern amenities, this place has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for great gaming, affordable dining, or a low-key spot to unwind, the Gold Coast has you covered.
Gaming at Gold Coast Casino
The Gold Coast Casino is a prime destination for those seeking a fun, relaxed gaming experience without the hustle and bustle of the Strip. Here, you’ll find everything from slots and table games to a friendly poker room and an inviting sportsbook, all with the comfortable vibe that draws in both locals and visitors alike. With lower minimum bets, regular promotions, and a reputation for loose slots, Gold Coast is a fantastic spot to try your luck.
Slot Machines
The Gold Coast is renowned for its wide variety of slot machines, from the latest video slots to beloved old classics. Here’s what you need to know if you’re planning to try your luck:
- Variety of Options: Choose from penny slots, dollar slots, and high-limit machines.
- Progressive Jackpots: Check out machines with progressive jackpots for a chance at bigger payouts.
- Frequent Promotions: Look for daily and monthly promotions on slots for added winnings.
- Loose Slots Reputation: Gold Coast has a reputation among locals for having “looser” slots than some casinos on the Strip.
- Slot Club Membership: Sign up for a B Connected card to earn points on every spin.
Table Games
For table game enthusiasts, the Gold Coast offers a more laid-back, friendly atmosphere compared to the busier Strip casinos.
- Classic Games: You’ll find blackjack, craps, roulette, and poker, along with some novelty games like Pai Gow Poker.
- Lower Minimum Bets: Enjoy lower table minimums, especially on weekdays and early in the day.
- Friendly Dealers: Dealers here are generally known for being patient and friendly with new players.
- Table Game Promotions: Keep an eye on promotions for table game players, including weekly drawings and cashback offers.
- Poker Room Vibe: With a mix of regulars and visitors, the poker room has a welcoming atmosphere, and regular tournaments provide extra excitement.
Sportsbook
If you enjoy sports betting, the Gold Coast’s sportsbook offers everything from major league events to international matches.
- Comfortable Seating: Relax in spacious seating with multiple screens.
- Variety of Bets: Bet on sports from football to horse racing, with numerous wagering options like parlays and prop bets.
- Frequent Promotions: Take advantage of promotions such as boosted odds on certain events.
- Convenient Location: Located near the casino floor, the sportsbook is easy to access while enjoying other amenities.
- Friendly to Casual Bettors: Ideal for beginners who are new to sports betting, with staff happy to answer questions.
Dining Options
When it comes to dining, the Gold Coast offers a variety of delicious options that cater to all tastes and budgets. From the classic Prime Rib Loft and the affordable Ports O’ Call Buffet to the casual TGI Fridays, there’s something for everyone here. With quality food, welcoming atmospheres, and excellent service, these eateries provide guests with a range of choices, whether you’re in the mood for a sit-down meal or a quick bite.
The Prime Rib Loft
Known for its classic Vegas feel, the Prime Rib Loft has been a local favorite for years.
- Affordable Prime Rib: Get quality prime rib at a fraction of what you’d pay on the Strip.
- Old-School Ambiance: The decor and atmosphere take you back to classic Vegas dining.
- Great View of the Casino: Enjoy views of the casino floor from the restaurant’s lofted location.
- Attentive Service: The staff here are known for their hospitality and attentiveness.
- Specialty Drinks: Try one of their signature cocktails to enhance your dining experience.
Ports O’ Call Buffet
For those who want a variety of choices without breaking the bank, Ports O’ Call offers a solid buffet option.
- Affordable Prices: One of the more budget-friendly buffets in Vegas, perfect for filling up without overspending.
- Cuisine Variety: You’ll find everything from Asian and Italian dishes to American classics.
- Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Options: Open for all meals, so you can drop in at any time of the day.
- Kid-Friendly: Great place for families, with plenty of choices to satisfy even picky eaters.
- Special Buffets: Occasionally, they’ll have special buffets like a seafood night or holiday-themed menus.
TGI Fridays
For a familiar spot with good food and a casual vibe, the TGI Fridays inside the Gold Coast delivers on every front.
- Late-Night Hours: Open late for those craving a burger or wings after a night of gaming.
- Family-Friendly: Offers a comfortable setting and menu for family dining.
- Classic American Fare: You’ll find all the crowd-pleasers here, from appetizers to hearty entrees.
- Happy Hour Deals: Enjoy discounted drinks and appetizers during happy hour.
- Casual Atmosphere: Perfect for a laid-back meal without the need to dress up.
Entertainment and Events
The entertainment options at Gold Coast add an extra layer of fun to your visit, with a lineup that includes live shows, a popular bowling center, and a top-rated bingo hall. This casino isn’t just about gambling; it’s also a destination for entertainment, drawing in a crowd that’s ready to have a good time. The relaxed atmosphere, coupled with affordable and engaging options, makes it a great place to unwind and enjoy some local flavor.
Showroom
The Gold Coast has a small but lively showroom, hosting everything from comedy to live music performances.
- Affordable Tickets: Shows here tend to be less expensive than on the Strip, making it a great option for budget-conscious visitors.
- Variety of Acts: There’s usually something for everyone from tribute bands to comedians.
- Intimate Setting: Smaller than many other Vegas venues, the showroom offers a more intimate and personal experience.
- Friendly Staff: The showroom staff are known for accommodating and making guests feel welcome.
- Comfortable Seating: The seating layout ensures that there’s hardly a bad seat in the house.
Bowling Center
Gold Coast’s bowling center is one of the best in Vegas, loved by locals and visitors alike.
- Affordable Games: Enjoy reasonably priced bowling games and shoe rentals.
- Cosmic Bowling Nights: Check out the Cosmic Bowling nights with music, lights, and a fun atmosphere.
- League Options: For frequent bowlers, consider joining one of their bowling leagues.
- Family-Friendly: With a relaxed environment, it’s a great place to bring kids or host a birthday party.
- Full-Service Snack Bar: Grab a quick bite or drink at the snack bar, featuring all the bowling favorites like pizza and nachos.
Bingo Hall
Gold Coast has one of the best bingo halls in Vegas, drawing in locals with its big payouts and friendly atmosphere.
- Frequent Games: Bingo games are held every couple of hours, giving you plenty of chances to join in.
- Progressive Jackpots: Look out for special progressive games with larger prize pools.
- Friendly Crowd: Many regulars come here, creating a welcoming and fun community vibe.
- Bingo Promotions: Keep an eye on special promotions, such as double-payout games or reduced buy-ins.
- Convenient Location: Located close to other amenities, so you can pop in and out as you please.
Amenities and Services
Gold Coast Hotel & Casino provides guests with a variety of amenities to ensure a comfortable stay. With a fitness center, outdoor pool, and a convenient shuttle service, the property has everything you need to relax and make the most of your time in Vegas. Whether you’re here for a day or a weekend, Gold Coast’s amenities and welcoming atmosphere make it easy to feel right at home.
Fitness Center and Pool
While Gold Coast isn’t a luxury resort, it still provides a comfortable fitness center and a relaxing outdoor pool area.
- Well-Equipped Gym: Offers a variety of equipment, from free weights to cardio machines.
- Outdoor Pool: Perfect for cooling off in the summer, with shaded loungers available.
- Hot Tub: Enjoy a soak in the hot tub, especially nice after a day of walking or gaming.
- Towel Service: Towels are provided for convenience at both the gym and pool areas.
- Quiet and Relaxing: The pool area tends to be quieter than some of the busier Strip properties.
Hotel Rooms
The rooms at Gold Coast offer solid comfort and a budget-friendly price, making it a popular choice for both locals and tourists.
- Spacious Rooms: Rooms are larger than you might expect, providing plenty of space to spread out.
- Comfortable Bedding: Good-quality bedding for a restful night’s sleep after a day in Vegas.
- Quiet Location: Being off the main Strip means the rooms are generally quieter at night.
- In-Room Amenities: Mini-fridges, flat-screen TVs, and Wi-Fi are all standard.
- Great Views: Some rooms offer views of the Strip skyline, adding a nice touch to the stay.
Shuttle Service
For those looking to venture out to the Strip or other Boyd Gaming properties, the Gold Coast offers a convenient shuttle service.
- Free for Hotel Guests: Take advantage of this complimentary service as a hotel guest.
- Frequent Runs: Shuttles run multiple times a day to and from the Strip.
- Easy Pickup and Drop-off: Stops are well-located, making it convenient to hop on and off.
- No Parking Hassles: Skip the Strip parking fees and stress by using the shuttle.
- Friendly Drivers: Drivers are often locals themselves and can share helpful tips and stories.
Nearby Dining
While the Gold Coast offers fantastic on-site dining, its prime location just off the Strip opens up a world of nearby dining options. Within a short distance, you’ll find everything from upscale eateries to local gems, making it easy to sample a wide variety of flavors.
Palms Casino Resort Dining
Just across the street from the Gold Coast, the Palms Casino Resort has an impressive selection of restaurants:
- Scotch 80 Prime: This high-end steakhouse is known for its perfectly aged steaks, luxurious sides, and one of the best whiskey selections in town.
- Tim Ho Wan: For authentic dim sum, this Michelin-recognized spot offers a casual vibe with flavorful, expertly made dumplings and buns.
- Vetri Cucina: Located on the 56th floor, this Italian restaurant not only serves incredible handmade pasta but also offers breathtaking views of the Las Vegas skyline.
- Mabel’s BBQ: This Michael Symon spot brings bold, smoky barbecue flavors to Vegas with Southern-inspired sides and hearty portions.
- Send Noodles: A casual, pan-Asian eatery with a diverse menu offering everything from ramen to Thai curries.
Chinatown District
A few blocks away, Las Vegas’s Chinatown offers a rich culinary adventure with hundreds of authentic Asian dining spots.
- Raku: A Japanese izakaya known for its charcoal-grilled skewers, authentic appetizers, and renowned tofu dishes.
- Kabuto: This small, reservation-only sushi bar specializes in traditional Edomae-style sushi and fresh, imported fish.
- Chubby Cattle: Known for its Mongolian hot pot and conveyor-belt service, this spot is perfect for adventurous diners.
- Shokku Ramen: A casual ramen shop offering rich broths and unique toppings, perfect for a quick, flavorful meal.
- China Mama: Famous for its soup dumplings, this beloved restaurant offers a wide variety of authentic Chinese dishes.
The Rio Hotel & Casino
The nearby Rio also has several noteworthy dining options that are just a short walk or shuttle ride away.
- Voodoo Steak: This upscale steakhouse combines elegant dining with rooftop views, making it an ideal spot for a special night out.
- Guy Fieri’s El Burro Borracho: Dive into bold Mexican flavors with dishes like street tacos, enchiladas, and unique margaritas.
- Hash House A Go Go: Known for its large portions and “twisted farm food,” it’s a popular spot for breakfast, brunch, or a hearty dinner.
Nearby Entertainment
Las Vegas has no shortage of entertainment, and staying at Gold Coast puts you close to a variety of exciting venues and activities.
The Orleans Arena
Located just minutes away, The Orleans Arena hosts a wide array of events, from concerts and sporting events to family-friendly shows.
- Sports Events: Catch everything from hockey games to basketball tournaments.
- Concerts: Enjoy performances by top musicians and bands in a comfortable, accessible setting.
- Family Shows: Look for kid-friendly events like Disney on Ice and other traveling productions.
- Comedy Shows: Occasionally, the arena hosts comedy events featuring popular stand-up comedians.
- Affordable Tickets: Tickets here tend to be more reasonably priced than on the Strip, making it a great option for budget-conscious visitors.
The Palms Casino Resort
For an elevated entertainment experience, the Palms offers everything from live music to one-of-a-kind nightlife experiences.
- Pearl Concert Theater: An intimate concert venue where you can see big-name acts and comedians.
- Kaos Nightclub: Although currently on hiatus, Kaos has previously hosted top DJs and performers for unforgettable nightlife experiences.
- Apex Social Club: A rooftop lounge with incredible views of the Strip, perfect for drinks and mingling.
- Movie Theater: The Palms has a full-feature movie theater, ideal for catching the latest releases in a comfortable setting.
- Art Collection: Check out the impressive art collection spread throughout the casino, featuring works by Andy Warhol, Damien Hirst, and more.
Chinatown District
For something different, venture over to Chinatown, where you’ll find unique entertainment options mixed in with the vibrant dining scene.
- Karaoke Bars: Chinatown has a few popular karaoke bars where you can book a private room and sing your heart out.
- Anime Shops and Arcades: Dive into the world of Japanese pop culture with shops and arcades that offer collectibles, manga, and vintage video games.
- Tea Houses: Relax with a traditional tea experience in one of Chinatown’s popular tea houses, like Matcha Cafe Maiko or Tea Station.
- Japanese-Style Karaoke: Enjoy Japanese-style karaoke with private rooms and a large selection of international songs.
- Martial Arts Studios: Some studios offer introductory classes or drop-in sessions, a unique experience for those looking to try something new.
Nearby Attractions
Being just off the Strip, the Gold Coast provides easy access to many iconic Vegas attractions and lesser-known spots alike.
The LINQ Promenade & High Roller
Just a short drive or shuttle ride away, The LINQ Promenade offers a lively outdoor space with shopping, dining, and attractions.
- High Roller Observation Wheel: Enjoy a 30-minute ride on the world’s tallest observation wheel, offering panoramic views of the Las Vegas Strip and surrounding mountains.
- Brooklyn Bowl: A unique venue with bowling, live music, and delicious food all in one place.
- VR Adventures: An immersive virtual reality experience perfect for families or groups.
- Street Performers: Enjoy live entertainment from street performers throughout the promenade.
- Shopping and Dining: Explore a mix of shops, bars, and restaurants along the vibrant walkway.
Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Gardens
Located on the Strip, the Bellagio Conservatory offers a free, visually stunning experience that changes seasonally.
- Seasonal Displays: Each season brings a new, beautifully themed floral display, complete with elaborate sculptures and thousands of flowers.
- Free Admission: It’s free to enter, making it a popular stop for visitors and locals alike.
- Photo Opportunities: The Conservatory is a favorite for photo ops, with a different theme each time you visit.
- Accessible Location: Located within the Bellagio Hotel, it’s easy to visit and enjoy along with other Bellagio attractions.
- Holiday Themes: Special displays for holidays like Chinese New Year, Christmas, and Halloween.
Springs Preserve
For a taste of local history and nature, head to Springs Preserve, a short drive from the Gold Coast.
- Botanical Gardens: Explore native desert plants and beautiful gardens that showcase Nevada’s flora.
- Museums and Exhibits: Learn about the history, ecology, and future of the Las Vegas area with interactive exhibits.
- Hiking Trails: Take a walk along scenic trails that provide a peaceful escape from the city.
- Butterfly Habitat: Depending on the season, visit the butterfly habitat for a close-up experience with native butterflies.
- Family-Friendly Activities: The Preserve hosts regular family events, workshops, and seasonal activities.
Downtown Las Vegas
Just a quick ride away, Downtown Las Vegas offers a whole new vibe, combining historic Vegas with modern attractions.
- Fremont Street Experience: A massive LED canopy provides light shows, and the pedestrian area is lined with unique bars and live entertainment.
- Container Park: An outdoor shopping and dining complex built from repurposed shipping containers, featuring live music and art installations.
- Mob Museum: Learn about the history of organized crime and law enforcement in Las Vegas at this popular museum.
- Neon Museum: A collection of vintage Vegas signs that showcase the city’s history and iconic neon art.
- Art District: Known for its galleries, shops, and monthly First Friday art events, this area showcases the creative side of Vegas.
Whether you’re looking to explore the Las Vegas Strip, Chinatown’s hidden treasures, or the unique experiences of downtown, the Gold Coast Hotel & Casino offers a convenient base for enjoying a range of nearby attractions.
Wrapping Up Your Gold Coast Experience: A Unique Vegas Adventure
The Gold Coast Hotel & Casino may not have the flash of the Strip, but that’s part of its charm. It’s a place where locals feel at home and visitors can enjoy a side of Vegas that feels more authentic and accessible. From affordable dining options and laid-back gaming to comfortable rooms and convenient amenities, the Gold Coast offers an all-around great experience. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, this off-Strip gem is worth a visit.