Renowned for its quick weddings and thrilling wins, is there any place that moves as fast as Vegas? The pace of change in this city is astonishing! Influencers on TikTok and YouTube frequently showcase the expanding array of dining options, entertainment, and accommodation.
Poker is no different—the top locations for play poker in Vegas are constantly evolving.
Here's what you must know about where to enjoy poker in Las Vegas in 2024 .
Las Vegas Poker Rooms in 2024: The Complete Guide
In the book A GIRL’S GUIDE TO POKER Published in early 2020, a chapter is dedicated to evaluating the poker rooms on the Las Vegas Strip… much of that information is already outdated. Even if you knew where to find a good poker game in Vegas recently, it's very likely the landscape has shifted since then.
Here’s a *comprehensive list* of essential spots to play poker in Vegas for 2024.
(Note: these locations are roughly organized by their proximity. Additionally, all of these venues host tournaments.)
1) Mandalay Bay poker room: The Ideal Poker Spot for New Players
Let’s begin at the northern end of The Strip. This cozy poker room, nestled in the Mandalay Bay Hotel, offers a welcoming atmosphere for those new to the game or feeling overwhelmed by Vegas. It truly is a hidden treasure for novices.
The stakes here are generally lower than most poker rooms in Vegas, with usually just 1-2 blinds—occasionally not even 1-3! It’s a beginners' friendly table where you can comfortably join the action with a modest buy-in.
The ambiance is gorgeous, featuring an open layout, a pleasant aroma, and bright blue card tables.
Thus, the Mandalay Bay poker room is a straightforward choice if you're seeking a peaceful, laid-back environment.
It’s perfect for those starting out.
2) MGM Grand: Ample Small Stakes and Late-Night Poker Excitement
The MGM Grand has been known to try out various promotions, utilizing unique and inventive approaches. At one point, they enticingly offered $20,000 to anyone who clocked the most poker hours during a promotional timeframe. They also feature a variety of unique tournament styles, including mystery bounties and low-stakes midnight games available daily.
Interestingly, MGM allows for uncapped games. This means that even in 1-2 blinds, players can buy in for any amount they desire.
Does this actually happen? Yes and no.
Sometimes, the action escalates—especially when a 2-5 game kicks off. Yet, many evenings, most of their tables feel similar to a typical 1-2 or 1-3 setting.
You can never predict what kind of experience you’ll have. The poker games at MGM often coincide with several events happening nearby, so the atmosphere can fluctuate considerably depending on the night.
Similar to Mandalay Bay, this venue has a relaxed vibe where casual players and visitors engage in small stake games.
The poker room is dimly lit with a sports bar ambiance. It might not be luxurious, but MGM is a prime place for a fun night out with friends or for spontaneous late-night games. poker tournament .
3) Aria: High-End Poker with Lengthy Wait Lists
Ah, Aria! This venue evokes a range of emotions! On one hand, you're enveloped in opulence; for instance, if you order a bottle of water at the table, you're treated to Fiji brand. It's known for an exceptional house red wine selection. poker table . Even the chips have a nice, lovely feel.
However, the main downside of the Aria is its limited space—it’s significantly undersized. Typically, there's a long queue to get seated at a table, often stretching for thirty minutes if you're lucky... but more like an hour is the norm. During busy seasons, like the World Series of Poker, you may wait up to three hours for a seat.
It's clear why this venue is continually popular—
- It has a pleasant and welcoming poker atmosphere .
- The Aria offers a wide array of stakes along with mixed game options.
- You can always play PLO here.
Yet, the wait times are excessive, and many professionals frequent this space. The overall skill level can be notably challenging, especially for those aiming for 2-5 games or higher.
Unless you're planning to play in the late hours when it's less busy, consider skipping this room.
4) Bellagio Poker Room: Premium Poker with Larger Buy-In Levels
The Bellagio resembles Aria in many ways (again, expect top-notch chips!). While the poker room is lavish, it is on the smaller side, although the wait times tend to be manageable—rarely exceeding 20 minutes.
This venue, like the Aria, attracts a considerable number of pros. The atmosphere is quite serious, lacking the recreational feel of MGM. Players here are intense and focused.
Due to this seriousness, beginners might prefer to avoid Bellagio. Yet, they have recently modified their stakes, making it a contender worth revisiting.
Bellagio’s 1-3 still operates with the typical Vegas buy-in of $100-$300. However, for those who fancy deep-stacked games, they have recently increased their limit caps:
- 5-5 is now $400-$1000.
- 5-10 is now $800-$2500.
If a more refined poker experience in a quieter environment appeals to you, Bellagio could be your optimal choice.
5) Horseshoe: The Newly Established WSOP Venue for Casual Poker Sessions
The Horseshoe (previously known as Bally’s) has taken over as the new venue for the World Series of Poker, and they've revamped their poker room significantly. The front desk echoes themes of cowboy culture. WSOP greats and nods to famed Texas Holdem With a decent number of tables for a medium-sized poker room, it strikes a balanced feel.
Nevertheless, the games tend to be quite soft and lacking in excitement. The player base includes several retired regulars. Moreover, it doesn't draw in high-stakes gamblers.
If you're after action, this room might not be your best bet.
The pace of the game is slow. As is often the case in Vegas, you may stumble upon some tourists enjoying the complimentary drinks, occasionally bringing a lively atmosphere to the Horseshoe. However, it lacks the upscale ambiance found in many other luxury hotels.
As indicated by the front desk decor, you’re firmly in cowboy territory.
6) Caesars Palace: Affordable Poker in a Vibrant Setting
Caesars Palace may unfortunately be somewhat undersized given the demand it faces. It often feels like an afterthought. However, it provides enjoyable low-stakes entertainment.
At their 1-3 tables, you’ll see a diverse array of players—ranging from cautious to adventurous. There’s a healthy mix of both grinders and risk-takers, making it an inviting atmosphere for everyone, regardless of experience.
Just keep in mind that the game sizes can be modest, particularly in their 2-5 offerings. Now that Bellagio has elevated the limits for their 2-5 games, Caesars is left as the only 2-5 option on The Strip that enforces a $500 cap.
Sometimes, it's refreshing to step up from the chaos of 1-3 without facing the same regulars in a deep-stacked 2-5.
Caesars also experiences a fair amount of foot traffic. Being located between the food court and a nightclub might seem like a disadvantage, but it can lend a unique charm. The poker room itself feels dated—the chips have seen better days. So, manage your aesthetic expectations. It’s not as soothing as the Wynn or Mandalay Bay.
Yet, it draws a diverse crowd of players at various skill levels, making it a worthwhile experience for first-time Vegas poker players. There's no shortage of 1-3 tables available. Therefore, feel free to explore until you find a table that suits your comfort level.
The 2-5 game is occasionally available, but often it consists of only a table or two, and waiting lists tend to move slowly. Getting seated can be frustratingly lengthy. So, unless you're specifically seeking a small 2-5 game, it's advisable to focus on the 1-3 tables.
7) Venetian: Expansive Poker Room with Diverse Stakes
The poker room at the Venetian is spacious and friendly. It’s the perfect venue for bringing along a friend or family member—a rarity in Vegas where you won’t often feel confined.
Additionally, it features the best dining options of any poker room in Vegas, hands down. Their extensive tableside menu offers a variety of choices, all of commendable quality.
However, as you might have gathered, the high-end hotels typically attract a significant number of professional poker players . The games here can be rather tight. They offer a good range of stakes—1-3, 2-4, 3-5, and 5-10. This variety in blind levels means there's something for everyone. However, most tables are likely to operate at 1-3.
The only drawback could be the variety of players you encounter. Particularly if you advance beyond 1-3, you’ll encounter a noticeable increase in skill level. Winning at these games will be more challenging compared to other venues such as MGM.
This poker room is seldom loose, and even during favorable occasions, you’ll find yourself competing intensely with numerous careful players for the same chips.
8) Wynn/Encore Poker Room: Upscale Poker with High Stakes Action
Lastly, we arrive at the illustrious Wynn! Home to the World Poker Tour’s December series, the Wynn epitomizes luxury. Enjoying your time here is a delight, as everything from the carpets to the decor is simply exquisite.
Regrettably, despite having invested in a substantial poker room, the waitlists can still be quite discouragingly lengthy. The food options are also exorbitantly priced and surprisingly limited, so it’s wise to dine ahead of time.
There are two significant advantages to playing at the Wynn:
- It’s gorgeous.
- It has bigger buy-ins.
At present, it is the only establishment offering a 1-3 game with a $500 cap. This elevated buy-in level leads to more action, making the 1-3 games feel bigger (but you don’t have to purchase the maximum).
The downside is that the 2-5 games are highly competitive. Since the limits for 1-3 are higher, the caps for the 2-5 games follow suit ($1500 cap). As a result, 2-5 games can feel more akin to a 5-10 game concerning skill level. Many aspiring poker professionals who relocate to Vegas spend their time grinding at the Wynn.
Who wouldn’t want to make the opulent Wynn their workplace? The games extend well beyond the 2-5 stakes, making it best to stick with the 1-3 and arrive well-fed!
9) Resorts World: Laid-Back Poker for Both Locals and Visitors
Finally, we present Resorts World, the newest addition to the poker scene on The Strip. Significant investments have gone into creating a comfortable space—think excellent seating! It's an ideal location for daily tournaments. Many locals participate in the nighttime tournaments hosted there.
Being situated at the far end of The Strip, you’re more likely to encounter locals. The relaxed atmosphere promotes a tranquil and refined environment for an enjoyable experience. Seating at tables is a breeze, although primarily limited to 1-3 games. With a $400 cap on their 1-3, the 2-5 games don’t often take place—which isn’t necessarily detrimental.
This approach helps keep many of the top professionals and sharks at bay.
Resorts World has become a hidden gem in the gaming scene. It's a welcoming venue, meticulously maintained, and efficiently managed. (To check the current games available, refer to the PokerAtlas app, which also allows you to join waitlists. Other establishments use an app called Bravo.)
One particularly interesting feature of Resorts World is their exclusive area where you can hire a table with a dealer at a reasonable hourly rate. (As of the latest update, this costs $180 per hour). This could be an appealing choice if you're looking to enjoy a game with some colleagues or friends in a more private setting.
This gaming room has a more laid-back vibe compared to the bustling atmospheres of Wynn, Bellagio, or Aria. If you’re after intense action, this isn't your top pick. Instead, opt for this place if you prefer a tranquil and enjoyable environment.
You have the option to order food from an Asian cuisine food court or take a short stroll to the nearby Starbucks. In many respects, this venue satisfies a variety of needs.
Your 2024 Guide to Vegas Poker Rooms
Choosing where to play poker in Vegas largely hinges on your personal preferences. With that said, here’s a curated list of some of the top spots in various categories:
- Best overall low-stakes place to poker in Vegas: Resorts World
- Best overall high-stakes Ideal spot for poker in Las Vegas: Wynn/Encore poker room
- The most entertaining venue for poker in Vegas: Caesars Palace
- Best poker venue for novices in Vegas: Mandalay Bay poker room
These places top the list. Securing a seat at Aria is a fantastic opportunity! If you’re looking to have some fun and perhaps spend a bit more, MGM is worth considering, although you might find the quality of games varies, and the atmosphere isn't as upscale as some other venues.
Always utilize free poker applications like Bravo and PokerAtlas to find out how many tables are open, particularly for games such as PLO or 2-5+.
No matter where you decide to dive into the poker scene in Vegas, wishing you the best of luck at the tables!
Make 2024 your most successful poker adventure yet.