Bear Down Wildcats

Heading to Vegas right after work for the weekend. WooHoo!

First time at the Mandalay Bay. This place is enormous.

azgreg wrote:First time at the Mandalay Bay. This place is enormous.

Really enjoyed staying there during the PAC 12 tournament.

Did you hit the wave pool?

Jefe wrote:Did you hit the wave pool?

Yep, but I prefer the lazy river.


On a side note I accidentally left my kindle in the cab at McCarran. I did get it back though.

azgreg wrote:

Jefe wrote:Did you hit the wave pool?

Yep, but I prefer the lazy river.


On a side note I accidentally left my kindle in the cab at McCarran. I did get it back though.

Kind of off-topic, but one of the local news stations did a story comparing prices for taxis, Uber, and Lyft here in Vegas. The taxis were more than three times more expensive than the ride share companies going to and from the exact same place.

VegasCatFan wrote:

azgreg wrote:

Jefe wrote:Did you hit the wave pool?

Yep, but I prefer the lazy river.
On a side note I accidentally left my kindle in the cab at McCarran. I did get it back though.

Kind of off-topic, but one of the local news stations did a story comparing prices for taxis, Uber, and Lyft here in Vegas. The taxis were more than three times more expensive than the ride share companies going to and from the exact same place.

According to the LVRJ the ride-sharing companies are actually generating more revenue for McCarran (almost $900k more over a six month period) than the taxis now. The days of Vegas cabbies tunneling unsuspecting tourists are finally coming to an end!

Side note, currently counting down towards a three-nighter at Wynn at the end of August!!! Might just use some ride-sharing to make our way down to Fremont for some Vic and Anthony's....

How are they doing that? Are they charged an airport tax like the cabs?

CalStateTempe wrote:How are they doing that? Are they charged an airport tax like the cabs?

From the article:
"Ride-hailing companies pay $2.45 anytime one of their contracted drivers picks up or drops off customers at McCarran. Taxis pay a $2 fee for each airport pick up and nothing for drop-offs."

All the cars are linked up via some tech that tells McCarran anytime they enter the area, so it all sounds very streamlined. It would seem that anybody that's not part of the taxi union must see this as a no-brainer.

Empty Strip

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0LYE669fbpU" target="_blank

CatsbyAZ wrote:Empty Strip

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0LYE669fbpU" target="_blank

It’s like a nightmare out here. So many people have lost their jobs, including a lot of friends. Streets are vacant. Fortunately my wife and I are able to work from home, at least for now.

paging VegasCatFan.

https://www.casino.org/news/luxor-las-v ... -numbered/" target="_blank

azgreg wrote:paging VegasCatFan.

https://www.casino.org/news/luxor-las-v ... -numbered/" target="_blank

I’ve seen those rumors. Haven’t heard anything from people I know.

I was expecting Excalibur before Luxor honestly. Had a departmental meeting with the CFO a couple years ago and one of the questions was whether the company would do something similar like the transformation of Monte Carlo to Park MGM. He said that, while it hadn’t been discussed, if it was to happen he said Excalibur would be a good choice. His reasoning is that the hotel rates are about the cheapest on the Strip and with the proximity to the new Raider stadium, they could remodel the hotel and rooms and charge a helluva lot more. Also, the Excalibur has a lot of land and quite a bit of it is used for parking.

VegasCatFan wrote:

azgreg wrote:paging VegasCatFan.

https://www.casino.org/news/luxor-las-v ... -numbered/" target="_blank

I’ve seen those rumors. Haven’t heard anything from people I know.

I was expecting Excalibur before Luxor honestly. Had a departmental meeting with the CFO a couple years ago and one of the questions was whether the company would do something similar like the transformation of Monte Carlo to Park MGM. He said that, while it hadn’t been discussed, if it was to happen he said Excalibur would be a good choice. His reasoning is that the hotel rates are about the cheapest on the Strip and with the proximity to the new Raider stadium, they could remodel the hotel and rooms and charge a helluva lot more. Also, the Excalibur has a lot of land and quite a bit of it is used for parking.

Any plans to run the light rail to the stadium?

azgreg wrote:

VegasCatFan wrote:

azgreg wrote:paging VegasCatFan.

https://www.casino.org/news/luxor-las-v ... -numbered/" target="_blank

I’ve seen those rumors. Haven’t heard anything from people I know.

I was expecting Excalibur before Luxor honestly. Had a departmental meeting with the CFO a couple years ago and one of the questions was whether the company would do something similar like the transformation of Monte Carlo to Park MGM. He said that, while it hadn’t been discussed, if it was to happen he said Excalibur would be a good choice. His reasoning is that the hotel rates are about the cheapest on the Strip and with the proximity to the new Raider stadium, they could remodel the hotel and rooms and charge a helluva lot more. Also, the Excalibur has a lot of land and quite a bit of it is used for parking.

Any plans to run the light rail to the stadium?

MGM wanted the city to pay for the monorail to go to the backside of Mandalay Bay and the city wanted MGM to pay. Right now it’s not being built. I would think between the city and MGM they could come up with a compromise and split the costs.

Heading to Vegas in the morning for the MGA Tour World Championship. Wish me luck.

Greg, let's see some pics of you on the strip with your MGA championship belt.

Lately I've been staying at the Flamingo but this past weekend I couldn't get the usual deal I wanted so I stayed down the strip at the Tropicana for the first time. In a lot of ways the Trop is like the Plaza (on Fremont) where the rooms are great but the casino floor is lagging. Trop's gaming floor feels pretty outdated, like it's trying to prolong its 90s era, and not in a warm, nostalgic way. The lagging gaming floor compared to the spruced up rooms makes sense now that Trop's hotel towers are under management of Hilton (Homewood Suites) who know how to run a hotel but maybe not care for the gaming floor.

Best place to stay on/near the strip for March Madness and where to golf? Got a wedding in Zion that weekend and extended the trip so Ill be in Vegas for the first round. Golf Thurs or Fri, whatever day we don't play. Won't be in the room much at all but a view & jacuzzi would be ideal.

Playing golf in St George after Zion as well. Either Sand Hollows or Black Desert

Why is the Stratosphere only $32? haha. $50 in taxes/fees but can't be that bad right? Circa is $179. Planned on watching the action from their pool

You will have to pay a big minimum to watch from that pool. Think it was $1000 last year. Strat is near one of the highest crime areas and that is why it is so low. Book early whatever you do

Jefe wrote: Mon Dec 04, 2023 5:07 pm

Why is the Stratosphere only $32? haha. $50 in taxes/fees but can't be that bad right? Circa is $179. Planned on watching the action from their pool

I read somewhere that it's a big hub for prostitution.

UAEebs86 wrote: Mon Dec 04, 2023 5:39 pm

Jefe wrote: Mon Dec 04, 2023 5:07 pm

Why is the Stratosphere only $32? haha. $50 in taxes/fees but can't be that bad right? Circa is $179. Planned on watching the action from their pool

I read somewhere that it's a big hub for prostitution.

That's listed as one of it's perks.

azcat49 wrote: Mon Dec 04, 2023 5:33 pm You will have to pay a big minimum to watch from that pool. Think it was $1000 last year. Strat is near one of the highest crime areas and that is why it is so low. Book early whatever you do

Damn, thanks for the heads up. So Circus Circus then? ha

UAEebs86 wrote: Mon Dec 04, 2023 5:39 pmI read somewhere that it's a big hub for prostitution.

And the search continues...

Even Golden Nugget is approaching $300 for a basic room. Platinum King Suite $250

azgreg wrote: Mon Dec 04, 2023 5:41 pm

UAEebs86 wrote: Mon Dec 04, 2023 5:39 pm

Jefe wrote: Mon Dec 04, 2023 5:07 pm

Why is the Stratosphere only $32? haha. $50 in taxes/fees but can't be that bad right? Circa is $179. Planned on watching the action from their pool

I read somewhere that it's a big hub for prostitution.

That's listed as one of it's perks.

Not included in the $32 price unfortunately

Alieberman wrote: Mon Dec 04, 2023 5:45 pm

azgreg wrote: Mon Dec 04, 2023 5:41 pm

UAEebs86 wrote: Mon Dec 04, 2023 5:39 pm

Jefe wrote: Mon Dec 04, 2023 5:07 pm

Why is the Stratosphere only $32? haha. $50 in taxes/fees but can't be that bad right? Circa is $179. Planned on watching the action from their pool

I read somewhere that it's a big hub for prostitution.

That's listed as one of it's perks.

Not included in the $32 price unfortunately

Circa Stadium Swim you have to spend $2K for a day bed all day Thurs. Gen admin is $60 all day but you're standing or in the pool

Jefe wrote: Mon Dec 04, 2023 5:54 pm Circa Stadium Swim you have to spend $2K for a day bed all day Thurs. Gen admin is $60 all day but you're standing or in the pool

Is that with or without the prostitutes? Asking for a friend.

pc in NM wrote: Tue Dec 05, 2023 10:58 amIs that with or without the prostitutes? Asking for a friend.

Without ... but girls gotta eat I can schmooze my way into someone's cabana Im sure

I had it narrowed down to Westgate, Rio(eeeek) and Palace Station but wound up booking a Signature at MGM deluxe balcony strip view suite for $50 more, mainly for the lazy river. Not seeing any TVs out there though and Ill have to go to MGM for bets or just do it on the app.

Getting old enough to where the Casinos I grew up staying in are shuttering to make room for the next big thing.

First the Tropicana earlier this year, closing after 67 years; now the Mirage this week, closing after 34 years.

Opening in November 1989, the Mirage was the first "megaresort" to open on the Las Vegas Strip, making way for the rest, from the Wynn down to Mandalay Bay.

That’s too bad o have good memories of the mirage

My wife's parents were there when they brought the Sands Hotel and Casino down. When they were finished everyone starting chanting the name of the next door casino (can't remember what it was).

From 2002-2015, I, along with somewhat rotating groups of friends, hit Vegas for the first 2 rounds of the NCAA tourney (apologies for the comma abuse). Our tradition was staying at the Golden Nugget downtown and spending the vast majority of the four days in their tournament ballroom (which has always been a blast!). I would always try to place at least some type of bet on each of the 48 games. Worst I ever did was break even twice. We started doing this when I was in grad school, but after 2015 our group had dwindled and we just didn't do it again.

Anyway...after a decade I'm hitting the Nugget again on 3/19-3/21. Only getting 2.5 days of bball action, but better than nothing. Had coincidentally been planning a Vegas trip to see Danzig live at the Virgin Theater and staying with a buddy who lives in Henderson and I am staying with him 3/21 and 3/22 as already set up.

For Vegas regulars/residents; what have I missed in the past decade that I should check out? Museums, shows, eats, etc. Other than basketball viewing/betting, the only other thing I've got scheduled is the Lobster and crab buffet at the Palms. THAT I am looking forward to.

UAdevil wrote: Thu Mar 06, 2025 9:39 pm For Vegas regulars/residents; what have I missed in the past decade that I should check out? Museums, shows, eats, etc. Other than basketball viewing/betting, the only other thing I've got scheduled is the Lobster and crab buffet at the Palms. THAT I am looking forward to.

The newest, coolest thing to see here in Vegas is the Sphere. I saw the Eagles perform there and it was amazing. They do some kind of movie during the day that’s supposed to be pretty awesome but it’s north of $100 a ticket. Haven’t seen it but people I know that went to it loved it.

If you’re gonna be downtown at the Nugget, the biggest and best sports book is downtown now at Circa. The pool area has huge big screen TVs that’s about the most popular place to watch games. I know for people not staying at Circa they can pay to hang out at the pool, but I’m not sure if that’s the case with big sporting events or not.

VegasCatFan wrote: Thu Mar 06, 2025 9:50 pm The newest, coolest thing to see here in Vegas is the Sphere. I saw the Eagles perform there and it was amazing. They do some kind of movie during the day that’s supposed to be pretty awesome but it’s north of $100 a ticket. Haven’t seen it but people I know that went to it loved it.

Saw it last week when my sister-in-law was in town. Fantastic show. It was a little shy of $400 for the three of us.

If you’re gonna be downtown at the Nugget, the biggest and best sports book is downtown now at Circa. The pool area has huge big screen TVs that’s about the most popular place to watch games. I know for people not staying at Circa they can pay to hang out at the pool, but I’m not sure if that’s the case with big sporting events or not.

Circa is pricey. During football season they get in the neighborhood of $1,200 a day for a cabana.

Thanks guys. Looking forward to eating and drinking my way thru Vegas in a couple weeks. I think my food budget is well above my gambling budget, ha! Priorities.

UAdevil wrote: Thu Mar 06, 2025 9:39 pm From 2002-2015, I, along with somewhat rotating groups of friends, hit Vegas for the first 2 rounds of the NCAA tourney (apologies for the comma abuse). Our tradition was staying at the Golden Nugget downtown and spending the vast majority of the four days in their tournament ballroom (which has always been a blast!). I would always try to place at least some type of bet on each of the 48 games. Worst I ever did was break even twice. We started doing this when I was in grad school, but after 2015 our group had dwindled and we just didn't do it again.

After years of wondering when I'd do so, next week will be my first MM weekend to Vegas. For those who've done so before, any advice on where to catch all the games? Thinking any sports book will do?

CatsbyAZ wrote: Wed Mar 12, 2025 8:34 am

UAdevil wrote: Thu Mar 06, 2025 9:39 pm From 2002-2015, I, along with somewhat rotating groups of friends, hit Vegas for the first 2 rounds of the NCAA tourney (apologies for the comma abuse). Our tradition was staying at the Golden Nugget downtown and spending the vast majority of the four days in their tournament ballroom (which has always been a blast!). I would always try to place at least some type of bet on each of the 48 games. Worst I ever did was break even twice. We started doing this when I was in grad school, but after 2015 our group had dwindled and we just didn't do it again.

After years of wondering when I'd do so, next week will be my first MM weekend to Vegas. For those who've done so before, any advice on where to catch all the games? Thinking any sports book will do?

Pretty much any sportsbook on the strip is going to try and rob you blind to watch the games. I went a few years ago and places like Caesars were charging over $800 just to sit in their crappy sports book. I ended up paying for a watch party at one of the spot in the Venetian, but it was a pain in the ass because my gambling apps didn't work there so I would have to leave and walk to the sports book to make bets. The last day I was able to watch in the Resort World Sportsbook for $100, covered by food and drinks which wasn't bad.

Usually do the Golden Nugget on Fremont downtown. Longest running NCAA tourney party in Vegas.

https://www.goldennugget.com/las-vegas/ ... ever-2025/

Catch the first four days of pulse-pounding college hoops at our popular March Fever Viewing Party in The Grand at Golden Nugget. You'll be surrounded by the perfect combination of giant screens, stadium style food, live betting stations, and FUN!

Viewing Party is open to the public. For a guaranteed seat, purchase a VIP ticket.

VIP Ticket Details

Thursday 3/20 - $224. Includes 4 free food items and 4 free drink tickets.
Friday 3/21 - $234. Includes 4 free food items and 4 free drink tickets.
Saturday 3/22 - $184. Includes 4 free food items and 4 free drink tickets.
Sunday 3/23 - $154. Includes 4 free food items and 4 free drink tickets.
4 Day Package - $624. Includes 4 free food items per day and 4 free drink tickets per day..
Ticket prices do not include tax and gratuity.

https://lasvegasthenandnow.com/vegas-ma ... h-parties/

Free Watch Parties
The D March Hoops Viewing Party: The D holds a free watch party in their 12th-floor Detroit Ballroom with food and drink available for purchase. The event is first come first served, so getting there early is recommended.

Venetian Pool Party

Madness in March at TI: Treasure Island is hosting a free party in their 2nd-floor ballroom from March 20th through March 22nd. Doors open at 8:00am, and betting stations and concessions will be offered.

Circa’s Galaxy Watch Zone: A FREE party, Circa’s Galaxy Watch Zone will again be available on a first-come, first-served basis. This one will be a hot commodity – I’d get there early. Circa will also have paid party options in their sportsbook and at Stadium Swim.

College Basketball Madness at El Cortez: A free viewing party, El Cortez will offer food and drink for purchase on Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday of the first weekend.

March Fever at Golden Nugget: Open to the public, GN’s party will feature massive screens, betting stations, and stadium-style food and drink for purchase.

Notably, you can guarantee a seat by buying a full-day VIP ticket, which costs $256.38 on Thursday and $266.38 on Friday and also includes 4 free food items and 5 drink tickets.

More Madness at South Point: An annual tradition for many, South Point’s free party will take place in the Grand Ballroom and be completely free. Inexpensive stadium food and drinks will be available for purchase ($5 drinks, $4 Bud, $20 buckets of beer). As tends to be the rule with free parties, we’d recommend getting there early if you want a seat.

March Hoops at GVR: Green Valley Ranch will host a free watch party on March 20th & 21st in their Estancia Ballroom. Doors open at 8:30am.

Basketball Bonanza at Palms: Palms will host a free watch party at their pool from March 20th to the 23rd. Doors open at 8:30am, and bring your trunks!

March Hoopla at Gold Coast: Doors open at 8am for Gold Coast’s annual free party in the Nevada Ballroom that’ll feature unspecified food & drink specials.