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The Mandalay Bay Casino Guide | LeoVegas

The Mandalay Bay Casino

The Mandalay Bay Casino is one of the most famous casinos in all of Las Vegas. Best known for its distinctive glow, it’s a standout landmark on the Strip especially when its golden facade gleams in the desert sun. Located at the southern end of the Las Vegas Strip, the casino is known for its tropical oasis theme, dining, and expansive amenities. Most notably, the pool area, which is home to a wave pool, a Beach Club, and an actual sandy beach with over 2,700 tonnes of imported sand.

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Mandalay Bay’s 130,000 sq ft gaming floor, award-winning restaurants, Shark Reef Aquarium, and Events Center set it apart from other casinos in Las Vegas. Its unique design and attention to detail create an immersive experience that goes beyond traditional gaming. Its famous convention centre has also made it a popular choice with business travellers and those organizing large-scale events or conferences.

Mandalay Bay is sure to leave a lasting impression and is a destination for gaming and sightseeing, no matter where you stay while in Vegas.

Location and Accessibility

Where is Mandalay Bay Casino Located?

Located at 3950 South Las Vegas Boulevard, the Mandalay Bay Casino sits on a prime piece of Las Vegas real estate at the southern end of the Strip, standing somewhat alone compared to other properties further north. Its location provides a clear line of sight up the street, making it an unmistakable destination.

How to Get to The Mandalay Bay Casino: Transport and Parking

If you're arriving by air via Harry Reid International Airport (formerly McCarren Airport), Mandalay Bay is just three miles away, making it pretty easy and quick for you to get settled into your room with minimal hassle.

To get there, you can easily hop in a cab, use a rideshare app like Lyft or Uber, take a city bus, or use the Las Vegas Airport Hotel shuttles. If you're considering the latter, just know that since Mandalay Bay is at the very end of the Strip, it can be the first stop or the very last!

If you arrive by car, Mandalay Bay Casino has an expansive parkade which may run you anywhere from $15 and $30 a day, depending on when you’re visiting.

Proximity to Major Attractions on the Las Vegas Strip

Located at the southern tip of the Strip, Mandalay Bay isn’t as far away from other Vegas attractions as you may think, thanks to a tram service that connects the hotel to the Tropicana Las Vegas Boulevard intersection, Excalibur Hotel and Casino, and the Luxor. Nearby, you'll also find Allegiant Stadium, which became home to the Las Vegas Raiders after their move from Oakland in 2020. For video game and pop culture lovers, you’ll also be within reach of the iconic 'Welcome to Las Vegas' sign, which is famously featured in Bethesda’s 'Fallout: New Vegas.’

Casino Overview

Casino Floor Layout

Mandalay Bay's casino floor spans an impressive 130,000 square feet. It has a convenient layout that makes it easy for players to find their favourite slot machines, table games, a dedicated poker room, as well as a High Limit Slots Room for those interested in betting more in a private, personalized setting. This intuitive design makes navigation easy and ensures guests can quickly find their way around.

Types of Games Available

As you'd expect from one of Las Vegas's most popular casinos, Mandalay Bay offers a huge variety of gaming options to appeal to the varying interests of those visiting, including video slot games and classic table games like blackjack and roulette. Mandalay Bay is also home to its very own BetMGM Sportsbook, so players can wager on their favourite sports teams without leaving the premises.

Ambience and Interior Design

The interior of Mandalay Bay Casino reflects its South Seas tropical theme, with elements like warm lighting, palm trees, and furnishings designed to evoke the feel of a relaxing tropical paradise. Open and airy, it creates a comfortable and enjoyable environment for spending time there, whether you’re gaming or simply soaking up the island vibes.

Slot Machines

Variety of Slot Machines

With around 1,200 slot machines, Mandalay Bay has something for every slot player. From penny slots to $100 buy-ins, the casino floor is home to traditional three-reel classic slots, high limit slots, and progressive jackpot games, including the legendary Megabucks, Wheel of Fortune, and Blazing 7s.

If you’re a slot player, you likely have a favourite game you seek out on the casino floor. But for beginners, it’s nice to know what the crowds are playing. Most popular these days at Mandalay Bay Casino are Blazin’ 7s, Wheel of Fortune, Monte Carlo, Super Spin, Megabucks for its monster progressive potential, as well as Buffalo Ultimate Stampede and Magic Treasures.

Slot Machine Payouts and Odds

Payouts and odds can vary from one slot title to another, however, expect the casino’s average to be around a 95% return to player (RTP) rate, with the very highest being around 97%. Buffalo Ultimate Stampede comes in at the lower end, slightly below 95%, but features a top jackpot of $200,000.

Table Games

Range of Table Games Available

Table game enthusiasts can enjoy a variety of options at Mandalay Bay, including classic games such as blackjack, roulette, craps, and baccarat. Whether you're a seasoned player or a beginner, the Mandalay Bay Casino team is sure to provide a welcoming experience for all types of table game fans.

Blackjack, Roulette, and Baccarat – Featured Games

Mandalay Bay has all of the classic casino table games on their expansive casino floor. Blackjack tables follow 3:2 payouts for natural blackjacks, while roulette offers a choice of American or European tables to try your luck. For baccarat, Mandalay has quite a selection of tables in play including Mini Baccarat and Midi Baccarat. Craps is also on the floor, and you’ll simply need to follow the crowd cheers to find it, as it’s one of the most social games out there.

Table Game Betting Limits

Table limits at Mandalay Bay range from $10 to $10,000 in areas designated for high-rollers, so they clearly appeal to both casual players and high rollers comfortable with all risk levels.

Poker Room

Poker Room Features

Open every day except Tuesday, the Mandalay Bay dedicated poker room offers a variety of games including Texas Hold’em, Omaha, and other popular poker variants. Comfortably elegant with dim lighting, the Mandalay Bay Poker Room can vary from relaxed cash games to energetic high stakes poker, depending on the time of day. It’s nicely situated on the casino floor beside the sportsbook, and it’s somewhat open, so you can watch hands play out and see who’s seated with lady luck.

Players can enjoy jackpots and promotions in all Hold'em games, including those with $5 and $10 blinds. Both Limit and No Limit Hold'em games are usually running, catering to a range of poker enthusiasts.

Tournaments and Cash Games

Daily poker tournaments and cash games are designed to appeal to a wide range of players with buy-ins starting as low as $50, making it affordable for beginners to participate while still being appealing enough to entice seasoned players.

High-Stakes Poker at The Mandalay Bay Casino

For those seeking high-stakes action, Mandalay Bay occasionally hosts special events and private games, attracting professional players and serious poker enthusiasts.

High-Limit Gaming

VIP and High-Roller Services

If you’re a high-roller at Mandalay Bay, you can expect to receive a dedicated host, priority reservations at restaurants, and exclusive promotions that up the ante and give you the chance to win even more.

Exclusive High-Limit Rooms

Mandalay Bay’s High Limit Slots Room offers an elevated gaming experience. Off the common casino floor, it’s where high stakes slot machines guests are treated to premium service like cocktails, wine, dedicated dealers, High Limit hosts, and upgraded seating. Consider it your first-class lounge for gaming.

Benefits of High-Limit Gaming at The Mandalay Bay

High-limit players are privy to better rewards, similar to many loyalty programs on the Strip. MGM Rewards offers higher-tier points, exclusive invitations, and priority access to the casino’s amenities, including bars, restaurants, concerts, and other live events.

Sportsbook

Overview of The Mandalay Bay's Sportsbook

As an MGM property, Mandalay Bay's sportsbook is a BetMGM Sportsbook state-of-the-art lounge. It's the perfect spot to sit back, relax, and watch all your favourite sports action on 17 large screens, or choose a seat with your very own individual monitor - perfect for taking in NFL action while betting on the horses. For larger groups and a more private, upscale experience, VIP Luxury Boxes can host up to 8 guests.

Betting Options and Live Sports Viewing

The Mandalay Bay sportsbook provides access to a wide range of sports betting options, including point spreads and parlays, as well as futures and in-game betting. You’ll have plenty to choose from, including NFL, NBA, horse racing, UFC, MMA, boxing, baseball, and more. You can even bet while at Mandalay Bay and request your winnings be mailed home.

Key Events and Promotions

Like many casinos in Las Vegas, Mandalay Bay hosts special promotions and events coinciding with key sporting events, such as UFC Fight Nights or the NBA's March Madness. During these, it’s likely you’ll find promotional odds and giveaways to entice guests and provide another level of entertainment.

Comparing The Mandalay Bay Casino to Other Las Vegas Casinos

The Mandalay Bay vs. Circus Circus

Both resorts welcome adventuresome families, gamblers, and those simply seeking a short vacation away from it all. While Circus Circus leans more towards budget-friendly family entertainment, Mandalay Bay balances family amenities like its wave pool, sandy beach, and giant aquariums, with luxury experiences, fine dining, and nightlife. So, when choosing between these two Vegas resorts, take into account who you're travelling with and what level of style you're after.

The Mandalay Bay vs. MGM Grand

Consider what you’re looking for in your stay - a warm tropical oasis complete with a Beach Club, or a grand gaming floor with every game imaginable. While MGM Grand dominates with its massive entertainment lineup including KÀ by Cirque du Soleil, Hakkasan Nightclub, and celebrity restaurants, Mandalay Bay offers House of Blues concerts, the "Michael Jackson ONE" show, and underwater dining at Shark Reef, making it perfect for those seeking a more laid-back Vegas experience.

The Mandalay Bay vs. New York-New York

New York-New York has a very specific design based on the skyline of Manhattan and a casual street-vibe that’s extremely welcoming. Both casinos offer unique themed experiences, albeit NY-NY’s is somewhat more immersive and playful given the resort’s Big Apple Coaster. Mandalay Bay’s resort-style amenities and pool beach facilities may give it the edge especially for visitors flocking to Vegas to gamble and enjoy the desert blue sky and heat.

FAQs

What are the typical minimum bets at The Mandalay Bay Casino?

Expect to wager at least $10 when playing table games at Mandalay Bay, however, this is just a minimum. At some tables, the buy-in wager will be much higher, so make sure to check before joining a table.

Does The Mandalay Bay offer free drinks while gambling?

Most casinos in downtown Las Vegas offer free drinks while gambling and staff often come around to offer drinks if you're playing table games or poker. However, you will need to confirm this when you arrive at Mandalay Bay as the guidelines are prone to change.

Is Mandalay Bay a good casino for beginners?

The Mandalay Bay Casino is high quality and has a lively vibe, making it perfect for those who don’t have a huge amount of experience visiting casinos.

Can I smoke inside The Mandalay Bay Casino?

There are designated smoking areas in the casino and bars; however, the use of marijuana and hookahs is prohibited in both smoking and non-smoking areas. For the location of designated smoking areas, check the on-site map or ask a member of staff.

What is the dress code for Mandalay Bay’s casino and restaurants?

Almost any type of clothing in any establishment will be allowed in Las Vegas, especially one with a tropical theme, but if you’re in doubt and don’t want to be caught lacking, it’s always better to dress up than down.