Reflecting the spirit of Las Vegas' past while embracing a passion and vitality for the future, the legendary Bally's resort in the heart of the Strip is an enduring favorite among visitors. Offering much more than just affordable accommodations, Bally's showcases cosmopolitan dining, a fine spa and a premier race and sports book.
Of course, entertainment makes up a cornerstone of the resort. Donn Arden's "Jubilee!" is truly a must-see. With a 30-year history, the grand-scale production is the longest-running show on the Strip. "Jubilee!" is also responsible for pioneering the showgirl-style revue. Gorgeous women parade around in feathered headdresses and lavishly beaded costumes while still flaunting plenty of skin. And each evening before the curtain rises, a showgirl stands outside the theater to pose for photos with enamored guests. Combined with dramatic scenes, such as the sinking of the Titanic, "Jubilee!" is like nothing you've ever seen before.
And if you can't get enough of it onstage, go on the Jubilee! Backstage Tour. The all-access afternoon walking tour, which is led by a showgirl, takes you behind the scenes to check out the giant-sized props, the extravagant outfits designed by Pete Menefee and much more.
During the day, you can catch "The Price is Right, Live!" which is hosted by Todd Newton. You may even get selected to "come on down" and play the beloved game that you grew up watching on TV.
Bally's has its share of acclaimed restaurants. At the top of the list is the venerable Bally's Steakhouse. Not only does it boast slow-roasted, succulent steaks, but every Sunday this gourmet room provides the setting for the Sterling Brunch. For 25 years, the decadent brunch has served items like champagne, lobster, freshly prepared sushi, beef tenderloin and an array of exquisite desserts to patrons.
Other distinctive restaurants tucked in alongside the steakhouse include the Tequila Bar and Grill, with flavorful Mexican favorites, and Sea - The Thai Experience, which features unique fusion cuisine in a sleek setting. The Sidewalk Café is open for those who want to grab a quick bite for breakfast or lunch. Elsewhere on the property, you'll find fast eats at Sbarro, Nathan's, Java Coast and Nosh. The Beach Boys Good Vibration Restaurant, themed around the famous band, is currently under construction and scheduled to open in the summer of 2012.
In the evenings, dance the night away at the Indigo Lounge (also dubbed the "Go" Lounge). Live bands perform in this seductive spot, usually accompanied by a sexy tabletop dancer or two. And you can make friends with other visitors in Sully's, the wood-paneled bar near the lobby that has been welcoming guests to Bally's for many years.
If you're interested in the day's big games, the resort is home to the finest race and sports book around. Located at one end of Bally’s Avenue Shoppes (an eclectic collection of fashion, souvenir, jewelry, luggage and sundries stores), this stadium-style venue has projection-screen TVs wherever the eye can see. A VIP lounge, called the Sky Box, features additional flat-screen televisions and comfortable seating. It can accommodate up to 100 guests. Plus, there's a big bar with high-top tables spilling out out into the shopping area.
Bally's 43-acre site includes an Olympic-sized pool with palm trees, private cabanas and a whirlpool. There's also an impressive tennis complex, the largest one on the Strip. All eight championship-caliber courts are lit for night play. A full-service pro shop and lessons from a former ATP Tour player are also available.
A place that offers rejuvenation and profound relaxation, The Spa at Bally's is an exceptional facility. It has 18 treatment rooms, multiple hot tubs, wet and dry saunas, and a eucalyptus steam room. There is a salon and fitness center as well.
The comfortable accommodations at Bally's comprise 2,814 spacious guest rooms and suites. Among the standard amenities are hair dryers, irons and ironing boards, clock radios, internet access (for a fee) and cable TVs. Unlike many hotels on the Strip, Bally’s has designated "PetStay" rooms where pets are allowed to stay for an additional fee.
The resort is connected to Paris Las Vegas through Le Boulevard shops. It also is on the Las Vegas Monorail route. This means you'll have easy access to other great hotels on the Strip as well as to the Las Vegas Convention Center.
Bally's opened in 1973 as the original MGM Grand. At that time, with more than 2,000 rooms, it was one of the largest hotels in the world. Today, it's no longer among the biggest properties -- but at Bally's you can surround yourself with the charm of yesteryear while enjoying a fabulous present-day Vegas vacation.
-- By Renée LiButti
