1st ever TR Oct.13-17, Orleans

Okay, I'll try to keep this within reason, but no promises. Arrived Thurs. PM. Quick trip out to Orleans to check in before heading to South Strip. Can't say enough good about The Orleans. Room was excellent--both size and comfort. Ate at Don Miguel's, Courtyard Cafe, and Buffet. I actually think dinner here was even a little better than my old favorite, MSS-Downtown.
Day One--Took in NYNY, ate at America Restaurant. Food and service both acceptable but nothing to write home about. Hopped over to Excal. and Luxor after that. Could not believe all the nickel and penny machines everywhere you go. Had lots of fun trying these out. Spent rest of day at MGM playing the Sigma Derby ponies. This is only place in the whole town who appears to still have this game. Can't understand why as big groups are constantly hovered around watching the action.
Day 2 Friday--Quick run to North Strip before going to Freemont Street. Had to get last ever cheapo specials at the Westward Ho before it goes. Downtown new favorite find was Mermaids Casino. This is ONE FUN place. If you want to know your neighbors and get blotto at the same time, this is the place! Finished up day with Lazer Show before heading back to play at Orleans. This was the one place we seemed to win or stay even pretty consistantly.
Day 3--Only dissapointment of trip--Aladdin. Ouch!!. Thunderstorm show is out of order, only you don't know this until you are 100 miles inside the Desert Passage trying to find it. Employees very unfriendly and of no help at all. Mentioned to one manager that they might at least note on schedule outside. "We would lose business if we do that" was his very concerned reply. We loved Venetian, Paris, and Bellagio Gardens. I won't say we bought alot, but it is beautiful to see how realistic these hotels are.
Day4--Last day in town. Best surprise casino, Bally's. People there are so friendly and will actually walk you where you are trying to get. Also visited Caesars Cheesecake Factory. Wow! go hungry. Just the dessert will do you in. Finished out trip with evening back Orleans playing and eating.
All in all, great trip. No big wins, but came back with what I left with. Those nickels really add up!

 

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Not only a great trip, but you actually explained why it was great.

Those are some interesting observations on casinos and restaurants...

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Glad you enjoyed Orleans! We've had fun when we've ventured there. Don't blame the Desert Passage thunderstorm problems on Aladdin though--mall is owned & operated completely separately from the hotel & casino!!

 

Wow! The MGM brought back the infamous horse-race game?

Many a drunken night has befallen thee who hath "played the ponies."

Is it located by the sports book? Or has it found a new home?