Unlocking the Empire: Is Caesars Palace Las Vegas Still the Emperor of the Strip? (My Honest Review & Video Tour!)
Las Vegas! The name alone conjures images of dazzling lights, endless entertainment, and unforgettable experiences. And at the heart of it all stands an icon: Caesars Palace Las Vegas. For decades, it's promised a taste of Roman grandeur and imperial luxury. But in a city constantly reinventing itself, does Caesars Palace still live up to its legendary status?
I recently spent some time exploring every corner of this colossal resort, from the grand lobby to the hidden gems of its casino floor, and of course, its famous pool oasis. I've captured my entire journey in my latest video, where I give you an honest, no-holds-barred look at what it's really like to stay and play at Caesars Palace today.
Ready to dive deeper? Let's break down my experience.
First Impressions & Location: Center of the Strip
Right off the bat, Caesars Palace hits you with its sheer scale and central Strip location. Seriously, it's right in the middle of everything, making it super easy to explore other resorts, attractions, and just a quick ride from the airport. Convenience is king in Vegas, and Caesars definitely reigns supreme here.
A Walk Through History (and Drama!)
Did you know Caesars Palace first opened its doors way back in 1966? Built for a then-staggering $24 million, it was designed to make every guest feel like Roman royalty. This place has seen it all – from grand openings with elephants to legendary entertainers and even infamous stunts like Evel Knievel's failed fountain jump! Speaking of legends... you'll even hear a fun (and dramatic!) Frank Sinatra story when we walk the casino floor in the video!
The Front Door: Entertainment Before You Even Step Inside!
Before even hitting the lobby, the area right outside the main entrance has some dining and entertainment options. You can't miss the distinctive red & white tent of Absinthe, one of Vegas's most popular and quirky adult shows. Right across, Gordon Ramsay's Hell's Kitchen beckons fans of the fiery chef. And for a refreshing (and often boozy) treat, Purple Zebra offers daiquiris – perfect for starting your Strip adventure.
Inside the Empire: Lobby Grandeur & My Honest Room Review
Stepping into the Caesars Palace lobby is a "wow" moment. The towering ceilings, classical Roman statues like the Three Graces fountain, and the beautiful Augustus Caesar replica (located in the room next to the lobby) truly set a majestic tone.
Note that if you want to check in early, Caesars Palace charges a fee (I think it was $35 or $45), but you can store your luggage at the bell desk for free (tips appreciated). At 4pm, it was time to see my home for the trip: a Julius Tower Deluxe Room.
Now, full disclosure: while the room was clean, comfortable, and the bathroom (with its two shower heads!) was fantastic, it felt more like a solid 3-star room than the luxurious 5-star experience I might have imagined from Caesars. It's a great base for exploring, but I want to set your expectations right! Get the full, honest room tour in my video!
If you're looking to upgrade your emperor status, they've got the newly renovated Colosseum Tower Deluxe rooms or the Octavius Premium Rooms, and of course, plenty of suites as well.
Oasis in the Desert: The Garden of the Gods Pool Complex
Forget any room gripes, because the Garden of the Gods Pool Oasis is where Caesars Palace truly shines. This sprawling five-acre complex boasts seven different pools, each with its own vibe. From relaxing sunbathing spots to the lively Fortuna Pool with swim-up blackjack tables, it's an incredible escape. Seriously, you could spend an entire day just exploring this aquatic paradise.
Casino, Culinary Adventures & Nightlife: A Non-Stop Feast for the Senses
The Caesars Palace Casino is vast and vibrant, sprawling across multiple areas. But it's not just gaming! This resort is a foodie's dream. There are many food options to choose from. From Beijing Noodle No. 9 to iconic Peter Luger Steak House, casual bites at Pronto by Giada, and exquisite dining at Mr. Chow and Nobu. Craving pastries? Dominique Ansel (yes, the Cronut guy!) has you covered and make sure to check out the robot-delivered Cookie Shot!
In the mood for drinks? Check out Caspian’s speakeasy and if you can’t find it, just head over to the Vanderpump Cocktail Garden for unique cocktails in a beautiful setting.
For evening entertainment, the colossal OMNIA Nightclub is a must-experience, hosting world-famous DJs like Steve Aoki – in the video I even share some tips on how to get in!
The legendary Colosseum theater continuously hosts superstar residencies. Click here to see the schedule.
The Forum Shops: A World Within a World
No visit to Caesars Palace is complete without a trip through The Forum Shops. This isn't just a mall; it's an attraction in itself! You'll wander under a sky-painted ceiling that magically changes from day to night, encounter stunning fountains like Neptune’s Fountain and the grand Fountain of the Gods.
A highlight for many is the Atlantis Show, an hourly animatronic spectacle near the Cheesecake Factory, complete with fire and water effects! It usually runs from 12PM to 8PM every hour on the hour, but stays dark on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
And trust me, you have to see (and ride!) the unique spiraling escalators in the Grand Hall – they're an architectural marvel.
Another fountain awaits Just outside the Forum Shops on the Las Vegas Strip: a charming replica of Rome's Trevi Fountain.
Final Verdict: Is Caesars Palace Right for Your Vegas Trip?
After exploring every nook and cranny, my final verdict on Caesars Palace Las Vegas is clear: I absolutely recommend it! While some rooms might not be the pinnacle of modern luxury, the rest of the property delivers big time.
If you're looking for that iconic, central Las Vegas experience with an incredible variety of entertainment, world-class dining, fantastic pools, and unique shopping all under one roof, Caesars Palace is definitely a top contender. Just adjust your room expectations for certain room types, and you're set for an amazing time.
For the full immersive experience, be sure to watch my complete Caesars Palace Las Vegas video tour! I dive into even more details, show you exactly what to expect, and share all my best 'Trip Tips' to make your Vegas vacation unforgettable.
What's your favorite part of Caesars Palace? Let me know in the comments below!
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