The Mirage

In many ways, The Mirage invented the concept of the modern Las Vegas resort. When it opened in 1989 there was nothing like it -- a spectacle of excess that though often repeated since, set a new standard for the outrageous fortune of Las Vegas. It has changed since then, of course -- much more dark wood, Asian minimalist decor at least in the casino -- but the wonder still exists and so does our love for the place.

Occupying 102 acres, The Mirage is fronted by more than a city block of cascading waterfalls and tropical foliage centering on a "volcano," which, after dark, erupts every hour, spewing fire 100 feet above the lagoons below. (That volcano cost $30 million, which is equal to the entire original construction cost for Caesars next-door.) The lobby is dominated by a 53-foot, 20,000-gallon simulated coral-reef aquarium stocked with more than 1,000 colorful tropical fish. This gives you something to look at while waiting for check-in.

Next, you'll walk through the rainforest, which occupies a 90-foot domed atrium -- a path meanders through palms, banana trees, waterfalls, and serene pools. If we must find a complaint with The Mirage, it's with the next bit, because you have to negotiate 8 miles (or so it seems) of casino mayhem to get to your room, the pool, food, or the outside world. It gets old fast. On the other hand, the sundries shop is located right next to the guest-room elevators, so if you forgot toothpaste, you don't have to travel miles to get more.

Fresh room renovations have turned the lodgings into that white bed/bold, solid colors/'70s-inspired look that everyone is sporting a variation of these days. Admittedly it does fit the current mod look of the hotel. Plus, a pillow-top mattress and 42-inch LCD TVs do wonders for overcoming any decor concerns. The bathrooms remain small -- though they have been given a solid makeover as well -- which won't bother you unless you have space issues and/or have seen the bigger ones elsewhere on the Strip. The Mirage Cravings Buffet is reviewed under 'Restaurants.' The Cirque production Love is reviewed under 'Nightlife,' as is a show starring Terry Fator, winner of America's Got Talent. The Mirage has one of our favorite casinos and some excellent nightclubs and bars.

Out back is the pool, one of the nicest in Vegas, with a quarter-mile shoreline, a tropical paradise of waterfalls and trees, water slides, and so forth. It looks inviting, but truth be told, it's sometimes on the chilly side and isn't very deep. But it's so pretty you'll hardly care. There is also Bare, a "European-style pool" offering a more adult aquatic experience. Free swimming lessons and water-aerobics classes take place daily at the pool. Behind the pool are the Dolphin Habitat and Siegfried & Roy's Secret Garden. The Mirage Day Spa teems with friendly staff anxious to pamper you, bringing you iced towels to cool you during your workout, and refreshing juices and smoothies afterward. The gym is one of the largest and best stocked on the Strip.

Facilities:
12 restaurants; casino; concierge; executive-level rooms; health club; beautiful outdoor pool; room service; showrooms; spa

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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