Las Vegas is known worldwide for its iconic Strip, which shines bright with glamorous casinos, five-star hotels, and luxury entertainment options. However, some of the city’s most treasured experiences lie just beyond the Strip, offering a more laid-back and sometimes even luxurious alternative. The Palms Casino Resort is one of the premier off-strip destinations, combining world-class gaming, dining, and entertainment with the added benefit of a slightly quieter atmosphere. Located just west of the Strip, the Palms has undergone significant renovations recently, making it a top-tier resort for tourists and locals alike.
This detailed guide will explore the Palms Casino Resort’s exceptional offerings. From its expansive casino floor to its luxurious accommodations, fine dining, and world-renowned nightlife, we’ll show why the Palms remains one of Las Vegas’s premier off-strip resorts.
The History of Palms Casino Resort
Palms Casino Resort opened in 2001 with a vision to cater to both Las Vegas locals and tourists. It quickly rose to fame, becoming a hotbed for celebrity sightings and attracting big names in entertainment and nightlife. The property became famous for its Playboy Club, high-profile parties, and reality TV shows like The Real World: Las Vegas, which used the resort as a filming location.
At the time, the Maloof family owned the Palms, which developed a reputation as the go-to spot for young, affluent crowds who wanted to experience a more boutique, off-strip vibe.
However, as the competitive nature of Las Vegas resorts continued to evolve, the Palms fell behind compared to the mega-resorts on the Strip. Recognizing this, Station Casinos purchased the property and underwent an extensive $690 million renovation that began in 2016. This renovation included updated hotel rooms, the introduction of new restaurants, an overhauled casino floor, and modern entertainment spaces.
In 2021, the resort was sold to the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians, making it the first Native American-owned casino in Las Vegas. Today, Palms Casino Resort continues to evolve, blending luxury and boutique sensibilities with a casual, approachable vibe.
Gaming at Palms Casino Resort
The casino floor at Palms spans over 95,000 square feet and is a playground for gaming enthusiasts of all types. Whether you’re a seasoned gambler or just trying your luck for the first time, Palms provides a wide variety of gaming options. With over 1,500 slot machines, numerous table games, a poker room, and a sportsbook, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy the thrill of gambling.
The Casino Floor
The main casino floor is designed to deliver both comfort and excitement. It offers plenty of space for those who want to immerse themselves in the experience without feeling crowded. The layout makes navigation easy, whether you’re in search of a particular slot machine or heading to one of the numerous table games. Here’s a deeper look into what’s offered:
Slot Machines
Palms Casino offers a vast selection of slot machines catering to all types of players, from beginners to high rollers. Here’s what you can expect:
- Classic 3-Reel Games: Traditional slot machines that bring back the nostalgia of old Vegas.
- Cutting-Edge Video Slots: Advanced video slots with enhanced graphics and interactive features.
- Popular Titles: Players can enjoy games like Buffalo Gold, Wheel of Fortune, and Dragon Link.
- Progressive Jackpot Slots: Slots with massive progressive jackpots that offer life-changing payouts.
High-Limit Slots
Palms offers a designated high-limit slot area for those who enjoy higher stakes.
- Betting Range: Minimum bets start at $5 and can go as high as $100 per spin.
- Exclusive Machines: A more private and luxurious setting with access to exclusive slot machines.
Table Games
Palms Casino features an extensive range of table games for every skill level. The friendly, professional dealers ensure that even new players feel welcome.
- Blackjack: Multiple tables with betting limits ranging from $10 to $500 per hand on the main floor. The high-limit section features tables with bets exceeding $1,000 per hand.
- Roulette: Choose between American Roulette (single-zero or double-zero) or Rapid Roulette, which uses an automated system for faster gameplay.
- Craps: With infectious energy, Palms’ craps tables offer betting limits ranging from $5 to $10 on the main floor, with much higher stakes available in the high-limit section.
- Baccarat: Enjoy Mini-Baccarat for a quicker-paced game with lower stakes. It’s a favorite among high-end casinos.
- Three Card Poker: A fast-paced alternative to Texas Hold’em, allowing players to bet against the dealer with the chance to hit high-value hands.
High Limit Lounge
The High Limit Lounge at Palms Casino provides an elevated, exclusive gaming experience for serious players who want privacy and top-tier service.
- Private Setting: Discreetly located away from the main casino floor, offering a more intimate gaming environment.
- Games Available: Includes high-limit blackjack, roulette, and baccarat tables.
- Private Slot Machines: Access to exclusive high-limit slot machines within the lounge.
The Poker Room
While smaller than some of the poker rooms on the Strip, Palms’ poker room offers an intimate setting that attracts both casual players and seasoned pros. The room is known for its well-run games and friendly dealers, making it an inviting space for all levels of poker enthusiasts.
- Game Options: Texas Hold’em and Omaha are the mainstays, with games typically starting at $1/$3 blinds for Hold’em and $3/$6 for Omaha. Cash games run daily, and there are occasional no-limit Hold’em tournaments.
- Special Promotions: Regular promotions, including high-hand jackpots, keep the action lively. Players can also participate in daily tournaments, offering buy-ins as low as $60, allowing beginners to ease into the competitive environment.
Sportsbook
The Palms sportsbook, operated by William Hill, is a sports bettor’s paradise. With an ultra-modern design, plush seating, and a massive video wall, the sportsbook offers a comfortable environment to watch and bet on your favorite sporting events.
- Wide Betting Range: Whether you prefer small wagers or want to place a high-stakes bet, Palms offers options for every type of sports bettor. You can place wagers on everything from NFL and NBA games to UFC fights and European soccer matches.
- Live In-Game Betting: William Hill’s advanced technology allows for live in-game betting, where odds are adjusted in real-time as the action unfolds. This adds an extra layer of excitement, allowing bettors to capitalize on changing dynamics during a game.
- Private VIP Viewing Area: For serious sports enthusiasts, Palms offers a VIP viewing area with reserved seating, personalized service, and enhanced viewing angles of the action.
Dining at Palms Casino Resort
When it comes to dining, Palms Casino Resort offers something for every type of food lover. The resort has various culinary experiences, from high-end fine dining establishments to casual eateries that are perfect for grabbing a quick bite.
Fine Dining at Palms Casino
For those seeking an upscale culinary experience, Palms Casino Resort offers a selection of fine dining restaurants that combine world-class cuisine with impeccable service and luxurious settings.
Scotch 80 Prime
Scotch 80 Prime is one of Palms Casino’s most upscale dining destinations. This luxurious steakhouse is famous for its top-quality cuts of beef and its incredible selection of rare scotch whiskies. The ambiance is as impressive as the menu, with elegant, contemporary décor and exceptional service.
- Signature Dishes: Prime rib, Wagyu steak, and lobster mac and cheese are among the restaurant’s standout dishes. The chef combines premium ingredients with innovative preparation techniques to elevate the classic steakhouse experience.
- Scotch Collection: As the name suggests, Scotch 80 Prime boasts one of the most extensive scotch whisky collections in Las Vegas. Guests can choose from over 300 different labels, including rare, vintage bottles that are difficult to find anywhere else.
- Private Dining: For those seeking a more intimate experience, Scotch 80 Prime offers private dining rooms ideal for hosting special events or celebrations.
Vetri Cucina
Chef Marc Vetri’s critically acclaimed Vetri Cucina brings fine Italian dining to Palms Casino Resort. This intimate restaurant, located on the 56th floor of the resort, offers diners stunning views of the Las Vegas skyline along with a menu that showcases fresh, seasonal ingredients and artisanal pastas.
- Signature Dishes: Sweet onion crepe with white truffle, pappardelle with wild boar ragu, and ricotta gnocchi with brown butter are just a few of the Italian-inspired creations.
- Exclusive Tasting Menu: Guests can opt for an exclusive multi-course tasting menu, which allows them to sample a range of dishes crafted by Chef Vetri. The menu changes seasonally to highlight the freshest ingredients.
Casual Dining Options
If you’re looking for a more relaxed atmosphere, Palms Casino Resort has plenty of casual dining options that offer delicious, quick, and diverse meals without compromising on quality.
Send Noodles
Send Noodles is Palms Casino Resort’s homage to Pan-Asian comfort food. This casual restaurant combines flavors from China, Japan, Korea, and Vietnam, delivering a menu full of noodle dishes, dim sum, and other Asian street food.
- Popular Dishes: Miso ramen, pork belly bao buns, and Thai green curry. The diverse menu allows guests to explore different Asian culinary traditions in a fun, relaxed setting.
- To-Go Options: For those in a rush, Send Noodles offers take-out, making it easy to grab a quick, flavorful meal before heading back to the casino floor.
A.Y.C.E. Buffet
A.Y.C.E. Buffet at Palms Casino Resort is an upscale twist on the traditional Las Vegas buffet. Offering a wide array of dishes from various cuisines, this buffet is known for its fresh, high-quality food and diverse options.
- Stations: The buffet is divided into several stations, including a carving station with prime rib, a seafood station with fresh shrimp and crab legs, a sushi bar, and an Italian station with freshly made pasta.
- Weekend Brunch: The buffet’s weekend brunch is particularly popular, featuring custom omelets, eggs Benedict, and a wide selection of pastries and breakfast items.
- Health-Conscious Options: Besides indulgent dishes, A.Y.C.E. also offers healthier options, including a salad bar with a wide range of toppings, grilled vegetables, and lean proteins.
Nightlife at Palms Casino Resort
When the sun sets, Palms Casino Resort transforms into one of Las Vegas’ hottest nightlife destinations. Whether you want to sip craft cocktails while admiring the Las Vegas skyline or dance the night away to top DJs, Palms has you covered.
Ghostbar
Ghostbar is a legendary rooftop lounge that offers one of the most stunning views in all of Las Vegas. Located on the 55th floor of the Ivory Tower, this chic lounge gives guests a front-row seat to panoramic views of the Strip and the surrounding desert landscape.
- Ambiance: The sleek, modern design of Ghostbar creates a sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere. The lounge has both indoor and outdoor seating, with cozy lounge furniture and fire pits to keep guests warm on cooler nights.
- Signature Cocktails: Ghostbar’s cocktail menu is as impressive as its view. Popular drinks include the Palms Punch, a tropical rum concoction, and the Ghostbar Mule, a refreshing take on the classic Moscow Mule.
- Bottle Service: For guests seeking a more VIP experience, Ghostbar offers bottle service with exclusive seating on the outdoor patio. The intimate setting and personalized service make this a favorite spot for celebrating special occasions.
Kaos Nightclub and Dayclub
Kaos is one of the newest and most talked-about nightlife venues in Las Vegas. Combining both a nightclub and a dayclub, Kaos is a massive 73,000-square-foot venue that features top-tier DJs, lavish pool parties, and an unforgettable nightlife experience.
- Nightclub Features: Kaos Nightclub is known for its high-energy atmosphere, featuring a state-of-the-art sound system, LED displays, and performances by world-renowned DJs such as Marshmello, Skrillex, and Cardi B.
- Dayclub Experience: During the day, Kaos transforms into an outdoor pool party, complete with private cabanas, daybeds, and a massive stage for live performances. Guests can sip cocktails poolside while enjoying live DJ sets or relax in one of the venue’s luxurious VIP areas.
- Exclusive Events: Kaos frequently hosts themed parties, celebrity appearances, and other special events, making it one of the most sought-after venues in Las Vegas.
Entertainment and Attractions at Palms Casino Resort
While the casino floor and nightlife scene are the cornerstones of Palms Casino Resort, its entertainment offerings truly set it apart from other off-strip venues. The resort provides guests with various engaging experiences, from world-class concerts and live shows to rejuvenating pool parties and exclusive private events. Whether you’re looking to catch a top-tier performance, unwind in a cabana, or immerse yourself in a unique art installation, Palms Casino Resort has something for every visitor.
Pearl Concert Theater: A World-Class Venue
The renowned Pearl Concert Theater is at the heart of Palms Casino Resort’s entertainment offerings. Known for its intimate ambiance and exceptional acoustics, this 2,500-seat venue has become one of Las Vegas’s premier locations for live performances. Thanks to its design, which ensures excellent sightlines from every seat, the Pearl delivers an unrivaled experience where attendees feel like they are part of the show.
Why Pearl Concert Theater Stands Out
- Acoustic Masterpiece: Designed with top-tier acoustics in mind, the Pearl Theater makes every note resonate perfectly, allowing audiences to hear every nuance of a performance. Whether you’re watching a rock band or an acoustic set, the sound quality here is among the best in the city.
- Exclusive Performances: The theater has been host to major international stars such as Maroon 5, Gwen Stefani, Bruno Mars, and The Killers, among many others. It’s also a top choice for intimate performances by legendary artists like Billy Idol and Carlos Santana.
- Comedy and Special Events: The Pearl isn’t just about music. The venue regularly hosts stand-up comedy shows featuring big names like Kevin Hart, Chris Rock, and Jerry Seinfeld. Special events, including boxing matches and award ceremonies, also take place here, adding variety to the entertainment lineup.
VIP Experience at Pearl
For guests seeking an even more exclusive experience, the Pearl offers luxury VIP seating, with private tables and bottle service options available during select shows. The VIP experience elevates your evening with personalized service, ensuring you can enjoy performances in style.
Upcoming Shows and Events
The Pearl Theater hosts a diverse calendar of events, with something for every taste. Whether you’re a fan of rock, pop, jazz, comedy, or even boxing, there’s always something happening at the Pearl. Be sure to check the Palms’ event schedule to see who’s performing during your visit. Big-name artists and comedians often sell out, so securing your tickets early is recommended.
Palms Pool and Dayclub: An Oasis of Fun
The pool area at Palms Casino Resort is one of its most vibrant and sought-after attractions. Offering a mix of relaxation and high-energy fun, the Palms Pool & Dayclub is a tropical paradise with a Vegas twist. The area features multiple pools, a full-service bar, and private cabanas, creating the perfect setting for both a laid-back afternoon and a lively day party.
Dayclub Party Atmosphere
The Palms Dayclub offers a quintessential Vegas dayclub experience with an outdoor stage, live DJ performances, and weekly pool parties. The vibe here is fun and carefree, with top international DJs spinning live sets as guests dance, swim, and enjoy cocktails under the sun.
- Themed Pool Parties: Regular themed events keep the party atmosphere fresh and exciting. From ‘Throwback 90s’ parties to ‘Tropical Tiki Nights,’ there’s always something fun happening at the dayclub.
- VIP Cabanas: For those looking for a more private and luxurious poolside experience, the Palms Pool offers VIP cabanas equipped with flat-screen TVs, lounge furniture, and dedicated food and beverage service. These cabanas are perfect for groups looking to celebrate in style, providing an exclusive space while keeping you close to the action.
Relaxation by the Pool
If you’re looking for a more tranquil experience, there are several quieter areas where you can relax in the sun. The Palms Pool features spacious lounge chairs, daybeds, and shaded areas to help you cool down during the hot Las Vegas afternoons.
- Poolside Dining: The Palms Pool & Dayclub also features poolside dining, where you can indulge in light bites and refreshing cocktails without leaving your lounger. Enjoy poolside favorites like shrimp tacos, Caesar salads, and tropical cocktails like margaritas and mojitos.
Art and Culture at Palms Casino Resort
Art lovers will find plenty to enjoy at Palms Casino Resort, which is home to an impressive collection of modern art installations scattered throughout the property. Palms offers an unconventional approach to casino décor, incorporating cutting-edge artwork by famous contemporary artists into its design.
Art Installations and Exhibits
The resort’s most famous piece is by renowned British artist Damien Hirst. His work is prominently displayed in various parts of the casino and includes large-scale installations that push the boundaries of conventional art.
- The Unknown (Explored, Explained, Exploded): This iconic Damien Hirst piece is a centerpiece in the Unknown Bar near the casino floor. The sculpture is a massive, 13-foot-long installation of a dissected shark suspended in formaldehyde-filled glass tanks. The shark itself symbolizes Hirst’s fascination with life, death, and the fragility of existence.
- Other Featured Artists: Besides Hirst, Palms showcases works by artists like Jean-Michel Basquiat, Andy Warhol, and KAWS. The resort’s eclectic collection of murals, sculptures, and paintings sets it apart from more traditional casino properties, making it a cultural destination in its own right.
Theaters, Movie Screenings, and Private Events
The Palms Casino Resort also offers a wide variety of other entertainment options beyond the traditional concert or nightclub experience. The resort’s theater spaces and private event rooms are perfect for hosting special screenings, conferences, and private parties.
Brenden Theatres: A Cinematic Experience
Brenden Theatres, located inside the Palms, offers a luxurious movie-watching experience with comfortable seating, premium sound, and crystal-clear screens. The theater is known for showing the latest blockbuster films and independent releases, allowing visitors to catch a movie after a day of gaming or sightseeing.
- IMAX Experience: The theater includes an IMAX screen, making it one of the few off-strip properties to offer this cinematic experience. The larger-than-life screen and surround sound make for an immersive moviegoing experience.
- Private Movie Screenings: The theater also hosts private movie screenings and special events, including red-carpet premieres for Las Vegas-based filmmakers and independent productions. It’s a great place to host a corporate event or a private gathering with friends and family.
Shopping and Nearby Attractions
While Palms Casino Resort does not have the extensive shopping malls found at some of the larger Strip resorts, it is conveniently located near some of Las Vegas’s most exciting shopping destinations.
Connected to the resort is the Palms Place Tower, which includes a handful of boutique shops offering a curated selection of fashion, accessories, and beauty products. While not as expansive as the shopping options on the Strip, the Palms Place Shops provide a more intimate and personalized shopping experience for guests.
Close Proximity to the Strip
Though Palms is an off-strip property, it’s just a short drive or cab ride away from some of the Strip’s most famous attractions. Within minutes, guests can reach world-renowned shopping centers like the Fashion Show Mall, The Forum Shops at Caesars Palace, and the Grand Canal Shoppes at The Venetian, all of which offer a wide variety of luxury and retail brands.
Spa and Wellness at Palms Casino Resort
After a long day of gaming, dining, and partying, guests can relax and rejuvenate at the Palms Spa & Salon. The resort’s full-service spa offers a range of treatments designed to soothe the body and mind, making it the perfect place to unwind.
- Spa Treatments: The Palms Spa offers everything from deep tissue massages to hot stone treatments. Guests can also enjoy facials, body scrubs, and aromatherapy sessions.
- Fitness Center: For guests looking to stay active, Palms offers a state-of-the-art fitness center with a full range of cardio equipment, free weights, and yoga classes.
Final Thoughts on Palms Casino Resort
Palms Casino Resort is a standout among Las Vegas’ off-strip properties, offering a luxurious and dynamic experience without the intensity of the Strip’s hustle and bustle. From its massive gaming floor to its world-class dining options and legendary nightlife, Palms remains a top destination for locals and visitors alike. The recent renovations have only enhanced the resort’s appeal, blending old-world charm with cutting-edge modernity.
With top-tier entertainment at the Pearl Theater, a rejuvenating spa experience, and diverse dining options ranging from casual to fine dining, Palms Casino Resort is truly a comprehensive getaway in Las Vegas. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend of gambling or just looking for a relaxing day by the pool, Palms delivers on all fronts.