The MGM Grand on the Las Vegas Strip may not be the top choice for accommodations unless you’re attending a show at one of their venues. While they have celebrity chef restaurants and a casino, the hotel lacks a distinct identity compared to other Strip hotels like Bellagio or Caesars Palace. The casino feels standard, and the interior resembles a typical large hotel catering to business conferences.
However, if iconic photo ops are not a priority for you, the MGM Grand boasts a large pool complex that is perfect for those who enjoy relaxing by the pool with a margarita.
During a press trip in early May hosted by Visit Las Vegas, I stayed at the hotel, and my meals and stay were covered. This review reflects my honest opinion and is not influenced by MGM or Visit Las Vegas.
If you’re looking to book a room, the Studio King room at the MGM Grand typically ranges from $150 to $200 but can go up to $450 during peak seasons or as low as $59 during slow periods. Additionally, there is a $50 resort fee on top of the room rate.
For those interested in using rewards, you can redeem MGM Rewards at MGM properties, where points are valued at 1 cent each. The hotel also has a partnership with Marriott, allowing you to redeem Marriott Bonvoy points towards your stay. Rooms at the MGM Grand can be booked for 20,000 points per night, which equates to a value of slightly over 0.6 cents per point.
While the MGM Grand offers various room options, including StayWell rooms with additional amenities, it’s worth noting that all rooms at the hotel are supposed to be non-smoking. If you prefer a completely smoke-free environment, the nearby Park MGM is a good alternative.
During my stay, I experienced subpar air conditioning in my room, with limited control over the temperature and no bathroom fan. This could potentially be uncomfortable, especially during the hotter months.
The hotel features a wide range of dining options, including Netflix Bites, a pop-up restaurant inspired by Netflix shows. The food was good, although somewhat uninspired, with a mix of American fare and dishes inspired by Netflix shows.
Late-night dining options are abundant at the MGM Grand, with many restaurants open 24 hours or until late at night. I particularly enjoyed a slice of diavola pizza from Luchini Italian Restaurant’s slice shop as a late-night snack.
The highlight of the MGM Grand is its 6.5-acre pool complex, which offers multiple pools, a lazy river, and the Palm Tree Beach Club. While the cabana rental fee can be steep, it can accommodate up to 10 people and includes amenities like a couch, TV, and food and bar service.
In conclusion, the MGM Grand is a great choice if you plan to spend a lot of time at the pool but may not be ideal if you prioritize being in the heart of the action on the Strip. Consider your preferences for room temperature and smoking policies when booking your stay.