MGM Grand Las Vegas isn’t just a hotel; it’s an iconic piece of the Las Vegas Strip’s history and a playground for entertainment seekers worldwide. From its whimsical beginnings to its status as one of the largest hotels globally, MGM Grand has a story worth telling—and an array of attractions to explore. We recently stayed at the MGM Grand to see what it’s like to stay at the World’s Largest Hotel…well the world’s largest single building hotel. Check out our Vlog on YouTube and continue to read to learn more about the massive Vegas resort.

A Brief History of MGM Grand Las Vegas

Opened in 1993, MGM Grand originally embraced a Wizard of Oz theme, complete with an elaborate yellow brick road and an entrance flanked by green-tinted glass and a giant lion statue. At the time, it was the largest hotel complex in the world, and its Adventure Theme Park catered to families with rides and interactive entertainment.

However, as Vegas transformed into an adult playground, MGM Grand shifted gears, removing the Oz theming and the theme park to focus on upscale dining, nightlife, and high-stakes gaming. Today, the hotel retains its grandeur while offering a modernized experience that appeals to a broad audience.

The hotel is massive and has lost a lot of it’s theming as tastes have changed over the years. This is a shame since the Wizard of Oz theming was so fun and the Adventure Park would be amazing and probably super popular in this new age of Theme Park popularity. MGM Grand has shifted from ultra Hollywood theming but it is still very family friendly.

Dining: A Culinary Wonderland

Food enthusiasts will find no shortage of options at MGM Grand, with restaurants helmed by celebrity chefs and cuisines to suit every palate.

1. Joël Robuchon: Las Vegas’ only three-Michelin-starred restaurant, offering exquisite French cuisine in an intimate setting.

2. L'Atelier de Joël Robuchon: A slightly more casual take on fine French dining, offering dishes crafted in an open kitchen.

3. Hakkasan Restaurant: This award-winning Cantonese restaurant is perfect for flavorful dishes like Peking duck and dim sum.

4. Wolfgang Puck Bar & Grill: A casual yet refined spot to enjoy American classics.

5. Emeril’s New Orleans Fish House: A must-visit for seafood lovers, featuring a Cajun twist from celebrity chef Emeril Lagasse.

MGM Grand’s food court and casual eateries also provide quick and satisfying options for those on the go. It’s nice that MGM Grand offers options from fine dining to super casual/grab-and-go. Culinary delights of all types make it great, no matter what you seek. We dined at Nellie’s Southern Kitchen while visiting MGM Grand. It’s from the Jonas family. Yes, that Jonas family, the famed by the Jonas Brothers. The Southern kitchen offers great value and a wonderful dining experience with Southern hospitality. The food is fantastic too. Read our review here.

Shows: Entertainment for Every Taste

MGM Grand is synonymous with world-class entertainment.

• KÀ by Cirque du Soleil: A jaw-dropping theatrical masterpiece featuring acrobatics, martial arts, and a unique rotating stage.

• Jabbawockeez: The celebrated dance crew combines hip-hop, storytelling, and cutting-edge visuals in a high-energy show.

• David Copperfield Theater: Experience the magic of one of the most famous illusionists in the world.

The resort also regularly hosts major boxing and UFC events in the Grand Garden Arena, ensuring there’s always something exciting happening. Some of the biggest acts in the world also stop by MGM Grand during their tours. We’ve seen so many amazing artists during their domestic tours. MGM Grand Garden Arena can hold many people, and it is very convenient with its access from the monorail and MGM Grand.

Accommodations

The rooms are certainly older but have recently had a massive renovation. From the beginning, the classic Vegas room, from low ceilings to the Motel 6 vibe, will be felt. However, MGM Grand’s rooms are well-appointed and seem well-maintained compared to other moderate resorts. Don’t expect bright colors and a lot of lighting. Depending on what wing of MGM Grand you end up on, the room can be rather dark, even during the daytime. Luckily, it’s so large that most rooms will have a Vegas Strip view or a sliver of Strip View. The beds are comfortable; unless you need a suite and spend a ton of time in your room, MGM Grand is more than serviceable. The desk area was enough for us to work and edit during our stay. Pictured below are from our Standard King room at MGM Grand. Full video tour in our YouTube video (linked above).

Monorail Access

Conveniently located adjacent to the Las Vegas Monorail, MGM Grand offers direct access to the rest of the Strip. The monorail is a fantastic way to explore other resorts, casinos, and attractions without worrying about parking or traffic. With several options for riding, from single rides to 24-hour passes and more, it can be very economical depending on where you are staying and what you are doing. Note that the monorail is not super convenient for every hotel on the Las Vegas Strip. With the monorail set back on the East side of Las Vegas Blvd, the walk to Caesar’s Palace and other resorts on the West side of the Strip can be a bit long.

We would still recommend the monorail for most hotels as it saves on rideshares and taxis. If you have mobility issues, don’t worry; the monorail is very accommodating. If you haven’t checked out our vlog, we go over all of the features and stops available on the monorail.

Pool Complex: A Tropical Escape

MGM Grand’s pool complex spans 6.5 acres and features five swimming pools, three whirlpools, and a lazy river. Guests can also enjoy cabanas and daybeds, perfect for a luxurious day in the sun. The Wet Republic Ultra Pool, a premier day club experience, features live DJs, celebrity appearances, and an upbeat atmosphere. The lazy river is enjoyable and should not be missed. It's not as great as Mandalay Bay’s pool complex, but it is undoubtedly fun for people of all ages. With several food and beverage options, you’ll find everything from frozen drinks to great cocktails at the poolside. This is no different from any other Vegas resort. The dining is basic pool food with everything from burgers to wraps and other fried faves.

Record-Setting Facts

MGM Grand holds several records and accolades that set it apart:

• Size: With over 6,800 rooms, it’s the largest single hotel in the United States and among the largest in the world.

• Casino: Spanning 171,500 square feet, the casino is one of the largest on the Strip, featuring everything from slot machines to high-limit gaming.

• Green Lion Statue: The massive bronze lion at the entrance is the largest bronze sculpture in the U.S., weighing over 100,000 pounds.

MGM Grand Las Vegas is a testament to the evolving nature of the Strip. From its family-friendly beginnings to its current status as a mecca for luxury, entertainment, and relaxation, the resort offers something for everyone. Whether dining at world-class restaurants, lounging by the pool, or catching a show, MGM Grand delivers an unforgettable Las Vegas experience.