MGM Grand Hotel & Casino

Once touted for its leviathan size, efforts over the years have tried to scale things down, or at least give the impression that they are scaled down. Whatever. Despite plenty of signage, it is still a lengthy, confusing schlep from anywhere to anywhere.

Having said all of that, we've grown very fond of this hotel, and we have to admit that it's gone to some efforts to make the ridiculous size work to its -- and, thus, your -- advantage. Rooms in the main tower are blandly upscale but generously proportioned and equipped with pretty much everything you might need. While they may not be as large or as opulent as some of the superluxe hotels in town, they are also not as expensive (usually). A second section of the tower is called the West Wing, and it is here that you'll find the memorable accommodations. With a kicky contemporary style, these rooms are smaller (a rather tiny 350 sq. ft.) but full of the trendy touches we are complete suckers for. There is no counter space in the open bathroom plan, but frosted green glass doors preserve privacy. Rooms include iPod radios, TVs in the bathroom mirrors, and fluffy bedding. Each has a king-size bed and a shower-only bathroom. Better yet, the staff couldn't be more friendly and helpful.

MGM houses a prestigious assemblage of dining rooms, among them Joël Robuchon's two sterling entries and Emeril's New Orleans Fish House. These, and other on-site restaurants, are reviewed in this guide.

As befits a behemoth of this size, there's an appropriately gigantic casino. The show is KÀ, a dazzling offering from Cirque du Soleil. Plus, there's MGM Grand's Crazy Horse Paris, a very adult topless show; a hot lounge, Tabú; nightclub Studio 54; a headliner showroom; and a larger events arena that hosts sporting events and bigger concerts.

The MGM Grand's Grand Spa is a Zen-Asian minimalist wonder, all natural stone and aged wood (a full litany of services is offered); the fitness center is state-of-the-art in case you need to work off a few buffet pounds. The swimming pool area is a rousing success. The 6 1/2 acres of landscaped grounds feature five pools, including the longest lazy river in town (though we wish portions of it weren't closed off for nonsummer months). The "pool club" -- sort of like a nightclub, but during the day -- called Wet Republic only further pushes kids out of the picture.

Note that the MGM Grand has its own separate, casino-free, all-suite additions called The Signature and the super luxury Skylofts. Prices range from high to heart-palpitation inducing, but some insist they are worth it.

Facilities:
21 restaurants; nightclub; cabaret theater; casino; concierge; events arena; executive-level rooms; large health club; Jacuzzi; Lion Habitat; 5 outdoor pools w/lazy river; room service; salon; shopping arcade; spa; 2 wedding chapels

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.

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