Exploring Las Vegas’ Iconic Pyramid Resort

Cheers Friend! Welcome to the vibrant world of Las Vegas, where the lights never dim, and the energy is always electric. Today, we’re taking you on a journey through one of the Strip’s iconic landmarks – the Luxor Hotel & Resort. But before we dive into the depths of this legendary resort; let’s talk about something that’s on everyone’s mind when they hit Vegas – comps.

Comped or complimentary offers are used by resorts, and let’s be honest here, to get you to spend more money. Comped meals, show tickets and rooms are used to make you feel like you’re winning! But they’re really distractions from how much money you’re putting through the casino. Now, obviously you can’t spend money at the resort if you’re not here in Vegas. Our comped room at the Luxor hotel was really easy to get, but was it worth it?

Not all resorts were created equal, and nothing is ever “free”. You don’t come to vegas just for a room, you come for the whole experience. Here’s our resort and “free” Luxor room tour! You can decide for yourself if it’s worth taking the comp bait.

Luxor Hotel Location

It feels like it’s in east Egypt. There’s currently just vacant lots across Las Vegas Blvd from the onyx monolithic pyramid. Located at the southern end of the Strip, Luxor hotel stands between Mandalay Bay and Excalibur. The three connected by a less than convenient tram system. There is little else besides these 3 resorts at this end of the strip. While the trams offer easy transit, be prepared to wait with no shade from the desert sun. The tram is best for going between Mandalay and Excalibur. There are walkways inside the resort that take the same time to walk as it does to traverse out to the Luxor tram station, which is out in front of sphinx, passed valet and wait for the train.

Easy access to sports and concerts

But one thing of note that is close by are the sports arenas Allegiant Stadium and T-Mobile Arena. Most people should have no problem walking from Luxor to sporting or concerts at either of these event centers. Mandalay Bay is a popular drop off spot for people going to the Raider games at Allegian. Excalibur is just a cross walk away from the home of the Golden Knights at T-Mobile.

If you’re traveling by car, the parking area behind the iconic pyramid awaits you. It’s $18 per night to park here. If you’re a higher tier with MGM Rewards, parking is an included perk of your membership. For those opting for Uber or Lyft, the main entrance facing the strip is where you’ll be dropped off.

From the front entrance, stepping into the lobby, the vast expanse of Luxo’s interior is striking. Check-in desks await to assist you, with the option of mobile check-in via MGM’s app for a hassle-free experience. The property comprises the grand pyramid alongside the east and west towers, boasting a total of 4,000 rooms

Luxor History and Theming

As someone who appreciates the evolution of the Vegas experience, visiting the Luxor hotel is a bit of a journey through time and creativity. It still holds that allure of something you just want to experience.

Evolution of the Luxor Hotel’s Theming Over the Years

Dating back to its opening in 1993, Luxor Hotel & Resort represented the era of family-friendly Vegas, striving to create an adult Disneyland atmosphere. Themes were integral back then, with Luxor embracing Egypt wholeheartedly. However, as time passed, the resort adapted to guest preferences, shifting towards more luxurious accommodations. The theming, while still evident in the iconic pyramid structure, has been subtly toned down in other aspects to cater to a broader audience.

Fascinating Facts About the Luxor Pyramid

Standing tall at 350 feet, the largest pyramid in the United States, the Luxor pyramid remains an icon and a testament to Vegas’s penchant for grandeur. One cannot overlook the mesmerizing Skybeam that crowns the pyramid, consisting of 39 powerful lamps emitting 7,000 watts of light each. The Skybeam’s brilliance is such that it can be seen by pilots flying over Los Angeles, 275 miles away, and even from outer space. Luxor’s pyramid still captures the imagination and leaves a lasting impression.

Entertainment and Dining at Luxor

From the electrifying performances of the Blue Man Group to the comedic genius of Carrot Top, Luxor offers a dazzling array of entertainment options. Explore the depths of history with exhibits showcasing the wonders of ancient civilizations, or unleash your competitive spirit at the cutting-edge esports gaming area. And when hunger strikes, tantalize your taste buds with a culinary journey through the resort’s diverse dining options, each offering a unique blend of flavors and ambiance.

Stage Shows and Exhibits

As we wandered through the expansive hotel, we were impressed by the variety of show options available. From the high-energy performances of The Blue Man Group to the clever prop comedy of Carrot Top, there was no shortage of shows to choose from.

• The Blue Man Group: A show for all ages, full of audience participation and surprises.
• Carrot Top: Known for his humorous prop comedy, this show was entertaining and filled with comedic anecdotes.
• Fantasy: On the Las Vegas Strip for over 24 years, the “Strips Sexiest Tease” is still earning awards.
• America’s Got Talent: Showcases some of the best acts from the hit franchise “America’s Got Talent”.
• Exhibits: Luxor also boasts intriguing exhibits such as the Body Exhibit, Titanic Museum, and the King Tut exhibit, offering a unique blend of history and entertainment.

Additionally, the Luxor features an innovative e-sports gaming area for PC gaming enthusiasts to enjoy and even stream live. It’s clear that Luxor caters to a diverse range of interests.

Dining Options

When it comes to dining, Luxor offers a mix of restaurants and eateries, though the options may seem somewhat limited compared to other resorts. During our stay, we sampled a few of the dining establishments and also ventured over to Mandalay Bay for more options.

• Buffet: Luxor’s buffet, available for brunch on select days, provides a decent dining option for those looking for a variety of choices.
• Pyramid Cafe: Ideal for breakfast, the Pyramid Cafe served up a satisfying meal with fluffy omelets and hearty sides.
• Public House: Offering standard American bar food, Public House provided a casual dining experience.
• Diablo’s Cantina: While showcased in the Excalibur video, this vibrant eatery offers flavorful Mexican cuisine.
• Tender: Is a staple Las Vegas steakhouse.
• Backstage Deli: A place ofr quick bites like sandwiches, salads and pastries.
• Food Court: Has a selection of popular American fast food like burgers, pizza, subs and such from chains like Johnny Rockets.

It’s worth noting that pricing at the food court are that much cheaper than what you’ll pay at the sit down resturuants, so double check before just assuming it’s the cheapest if you’re on a budget.

Nightlife Scene

While the resort may not have much of a nightlife scene beyond the shows, guests can easily venture to neighboring properties like Mandalay Bay for a vibrant night out.

From sports bars to speakeasies and live music, Mandalay Bay offers a diverse array of nightlife options just a short stroll away from Luxor. Whether you’re into sports betting or live entertainment, there’s something for everyone within walking distance.

Our experience at Luxor was a blend of entertainment, tasty delights, and a peek into the bustling nightlife of Las Vegas. With its array of shows, exhibits, dining options, and easy access to neighboring attractions, Luxor offers a well-rounded experience for guests. Whether you’re seeking a family-friendly show or indulging in a delicious meal, Luxor has something for everyone.

Accommodation and “Free” Room

For our stay we booked a comped room. Comps rooms are not free, you still have to pay the ever dreaded resort fee and taxes. But what do you get for the lowest price room at the Luxor Hotel & Resort?

Detailed Room Amenities and Features

• Upon entering the room, we were immediately struck by the spaciousness and the comfortable ambiance.
• Then we were struck by the thick musty smell in the air.
• The bedding was comfortable, and Gina appreciated the option of a hard and soft pillows.
• The bathroom featured a great shower with consistent hot water and good water pressure.
• The room had a large desk area, perfect for catching up on work, and the chair provided was quite comfortable.
• Although the room lacked a coffee maker and refrigerator, it was equipped with a good-sized television set.
• The air conditioning worked exceptionally well, maybe too well.
• Getting to the room feels a little sketchy, the 30 year old hallways and elevators could use some TLC.

During our stay at Luxor Hotel, we couldn’t help but appreciate the affordability it offered. Through MGM rewards wewere able to get our first night stay comped and friday night was only an additional $21. We had to 2 nights of parking for $18, and of course there were the resort fees and taxes. With the discounted rates through the MGM Rewards program, our nightly cost averaged around $70, which is quite reasonable for Las Vegas standards.

Pool and Spa

Nestled within the resort, we were able to explore the pool and spa area. We found the modest-sized spa and fitness area in the west tower, inviting us to indulge in some well-deserved relaxation amidst the bustling energy of Las Vegas. But it was the promise of refreshing dips and sun-soaked lounging that we were after.

We discovered the four pools that Luxor offers. One is currently under construction and should be open in time for the resort to bring back Temptations Sunday, an LGBTQ+ pool party, in May 2024. The larger of the three remaining pools was also closed off, leaving just the two smaller pools and two hot tubs available. By 3pm on Friday the free chair selection was pretty dried up. We were able to find two together by the smallest pool.

We notice the a small shop by the poolside. Here, guests could buy essentials like swimwear or sunscreen. However, that convenience came at a cost – with swimwear fetching a hefty $40 to $50 per piece, a tank top priced at $26, and sunscreen ranging from $16 to $26 for a small bottle.

There were a few servers walking around taking food and drink orders. Also, there was the option to scan a QR code and order directly to our chairs. Prices here are pretty standard with the resort – with beers priced at $12, cocktails around $17, wine at $14, and food costing $20.

Pros and Cons of Staying in a Comped Luxor Hotel Room

Pros:

• Complimentary nights through the resort’s reward program offered great value for the price.
• The easy access to Mandalay Bay was a huge bonus as Mandalay is an exceptional property.
• The spacious room layout and comfortable bedding provided a relaxing stay.

Cons:

• The dining options within Luxor were somewhat limited, but easy access to Mandalay Bay offered more choices.
• Nightlife options at Luxor were scarce, but neighboring hotels provided ample entertainment.
• Some areas of the hotel, such as the walk to the room, showed signs of wear and needed maintenance.

Tips for Getting the Best Deals on Room Rates

To secure the best room rates at Luxor, I recommend joining the MGM Resort’s reward program for potential complimentary nights and discounts.

Exploring different booking options and being flexible with dates can also help in finding affordable rates.

Consider utilizing taxis or ride-sharing services to easily access various attractions along the Strip regardless of where you stay.

Final Recommendations for Visiting Luxor Hotel & Resort

Would we recommend a visit to Luxor? Absolutely. The value provided by the comped nights and the proximity to other attractions make it a worthwhile choice, especially for budget-conscious travelers. While the dining options within Luxor may be limited, the easy access to Mandalay Bay’s offerings mitigates this issue. Additionally, the array of shows and entertainment options at Luxor ensure there’s never a dull moment.

• https://luxor.mgmresorts.com/en.html
• https://www.mgmresorts.com/en/mgm-rewards.html