MGM Grand or Bellagio for Anniversary trip home base?

Hi everyone, been a while since I've been posting (or even lurking) on the board, but a toddler and a newborn will do that to you.

TLDR: I need help deciding between MGM Grand (for the pool) or the Bellagio (for the uniqueness of having never stayed there and good location) for our upcoming anniversary weekend trip.

Long Story: Up until this year we tended to get to Vegas twice a year, this year getting away hasn't been in the cards until now due to a new baby, we got married at Ceasars in August 2010 and always comeback for our anniversary. So for the last 8 years, MGM has been our home base with one divergence to Mandalay and one to Ceasars. The wifey, who gets the best comp offers due to her penchant for slots, finally got one for Bellagio which has not an option in the past (MGM has been kind). We have never stayed at Bellagio before and are wondering if it's worth staying there or if we should stick with the Grand and a better comp package.

We are currently booked with Bellagio but keep discussing switching to MGM based on my pro/cons below extra opinions would be appreciated

Bellagio Pros/Cons:

• PRO: Never stayed there before
• PRO: Central location, we like playing a bit Planet Hollywood and Caesars (but keep most gambling/spending at MLife props for comp reasons)
• PRO: We had our wedding reception at Spago (previously at Ceasars) and go back every year for dinner if we stay here no travel needed for the anniversary dinner since Spago is now in Bellagio
• CON: My main game is craps, my preferred level is a 10 dollar table so I can play how I like, past play at Bellagio seems to hint at MOSTLY 25 dollar table stakes.
• CON: Not sure how good the pool is

MGM Grand Pros/Cons:

• Any CON: Same old same old.
• PRO: Comfortable (but enjoyable) gambling environment stakes wise
• PRO: Better resort credit offer (by about 70 bucks, basically a free lunch)
• PRO: We know we love the pool situation and enjoy drinking for a few hours while lounging in the lazy river.
• PRO: Proximity to other regular excursions like Fat Tuesday's and Hot Dog On A Stick (sure it's trashy, sue us )

All opinions welcome!

 

Bellagio without a doubt. Far better resort. I like the pool area there. Lots of different pools with cool fountains and it's never a zoo like the pool at Mgm.

 

For an anniversary, Bellagio all the way..

 

I prefer new experiences so I would definitely go Bellagio in this case.

 

I prefer the pool at B to MGM... I think your decision is easy here between the two

 

The Bellagio hands down. I have never stayed at MGM Grand but have stayed at Bellagio many times.

From what I have heard, the pool at MGM Grand is a madhouse (as is the casino and hotel). I know you like it there, but it doesn't seem on the same level as the pools at Bellagio.

Bellagio's casino floor is always crowded too but it is far less massive to get through those crowds than trying to navigate through MGM Grand. The pools at Bellagio are gorgeous - very elegant. There is one large main long pool and another big pool with several other smaller fountain pools (note - the pools with the fountains always have very cold, icy water) but it is a MUCH nicer setting than MGM Grand's pool, IMO. Google the Bellagio pool and you will see exactly what I mean. There are also a couple of Jacuzzi pools that I absolutely love, even when it's hot out!

There is also a great restaurant at the Bellagio pool (the Pool Café) that is exclusive to hotel guests. You cannot eat there if you are not a guest because the attendants at the pool have to swipe your key card to confirm you are a current guest when you access the pool:

https://www.bellagio.com/en/restaurants/pool-cafe.html

Lastly, Bellagio is a much more romantic hotel for such a special occasion. Make you sure you tell them it is your anniversary when you book and maybe they'll do something special for you!

 

One more for Bellagio....

 

For an anniversary, there is no question...Bellagio. The pool is wonderful.

 

Like most have said for an anniversary Bellagio for sure

 

I agree with this. I've stayed at MGM Grand twice, but the Bellagio pool area was so quiet, relaxing, beautiful-it seemed like an older crowd when I went, which was fine. I thought it was way better than Caesar's Palace also.

 

Cosmopolitan

 

#thatguy

 

Bellagio hands down - never enjoyed staying at MGM. Too large to enjoy and Bellagio is always something special.

 

You can still play $10 craps at Bellagio, you just have to play early. They usually start upping the stakes at the 11 am shift change.

 

Thanks for the input everyone, seems to be unanimous, we are sticking with our original Bellagio booking! I've changed so many dirty diapers since last August that the 23rd can't get here fast enough

 

Not to beat the dead horse but.... Bellagio!

Anniversary, never stayed, etc. It all adds up to Bellagio

 

Don’t forget to tell them it’s an anniversary when booking, if I comp then call. It’s usually good for a free upgrade or a nice arrival gift of chocolates or something

 

Bellagio. Centrally located, 4-5 star resort. I played craps there in November many a nights at a $10 table.

The last time I was at the MGM Grand, it was like a fucking daycare. Food options suck (got food poisoning from the buffet) Kids everywhere and the pool is a like an aquatic episode of Romper Room.

The Bellagio has 4 beautiful pools to choose from, and they're heated year round, better food options, much cleaner and has a better vibe imo. We informed them it was our 10 year anniversary and they sent us champagne and a fruit arrangement after we checked in.

Hope this helps.

 

Book a cabana or daybed at MGM. Check online for rates. It will get you access to the pool for a day as a non hotel guest. Also, their rentals are Food and Beverage minimum so the rental is “free” you just need to eat and drink a bit.

 

At Bellagio, try to request Tower Deluxe Room (located on floors 29-36 in the main tower) much better than the regular standard rooms..usually, the front desk would upgrade at no charge!