You’ve seen the emerald glow from the airplane window. Honestly, it’s hard to miss. The MGM Grand Las Vegas is basically a city-state disguised as a hotel. With over 5,000 rooms, it’s a behemoth that can feel intimidating if you don't know the layout. But here's the thing: while newer, shinier towers keep popping up along the Strip, the "Grand" just finished a massive $300 million renovation in late 2025. It’s not just the old green giant anymore; it’s finally acting its age in a good way.
Walking into the lobby, you still get that rush of "Old Vegas" scale, but the vibe has shifted. The carpets are fresher. The tech is actually functional. Gone are the days of hunting for a single outlet behind a heavy wooden desk. They’ve leaned into a sort of "disco-glam" aesthetic that somehow works without being tacky.
The $300 Million Refresh: What Actually Changed?
Most people worry that "remodeled" just means new curtains and a fresh coat of paint. Not here. The project overhauled nearly 4,000 guest rooms in the main tower. If you haven't stayed here since 2024, the difference is night and day.
They brought in the architecture firm Gensler to rethink the space. The result?
- Walk-in showers that actually feel like a spa rather than a cramped plastic tub.
- Illuminated closets (because who can ever find their black socks in a dark hotel room?).
- Integrated power stations with USB-C ports on both sides of the bed. Finally.
One of the smartest moves they made was adding 111 new suites, bringing the total suite count to 753. These aren't just bigger rooms; they’re reconfigured layouts with actual privacy. If you’re traveling for business or with a group, the new sectionals and open floor plans make it feel less like a dorm and more like a residence.
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Eating Your Way Through the Emerald City
Food is where the MGM Grand usually wins. You’ve got the heavy hitters like Joel Robuchon (the only Three-Michelin-Star spot in the city) and Tom Colicchio’s Craftsteak, but 2026 has brought some interesting pivots.
The big news this year is the return of Avenue Café. For a while, that space was occupied by a Netflix BITES pop-up—which was fun for the fans—but locals and regulars missed the classic breakfast spot. It officially reopened on January 12, 2026, and it’s basically the heartbeat of the morning crowd again. Think retro-glam interiors and omelets that actually justify the price tag.
Then there’s Morimoto. The contemporary Japanese staple just finished its own menu refresh. If you haven't tried the revised selection, you’re missing out on some of the most inventive sashimi pairings on the Strip. For something more casual, TAP Sports Bar remains the go-to for catching a game, though it can get incredibly loud during NFL Sundays.
Entertainment Beyond the Casino Floor
The MGM Grand doesn't just host shows; it owns the "Entertainment Authority" title for a reason. KÀ by Cirque du Soleil is still the resident powerhouse. It’s a technical marvel involving a 360-degree rotating stage that will make your head spin.
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But if you want something a bit more high-energy and "2026," check out FREQNCY. It’s the new residency by the Jabbawockeez. It’s immersive, loud, and way more interactive than their previous sets.
For the nostalgia seekers, The FRIENDS Experience is still drawing crowds. You can sit on the orange couch or try to "pivot" a sofa up a staircase. It’s a total tourist trap, sure, but the photos are worth it if you grew up on the show.
The Logistics: Survival Tips for the 6.5-Acre Pool Complex
Let’s talk about the pool. It’s 6.5 acres of water, people, and palm trees. There are four pools, three whirlpools, and a lazy river that is legendary.
- The Inner Tube Hack: They will charge you a fortune to buy an inner tube for the lazy river. Most regulars just bring their own collapsible ones and save thirty bucks.
- The Chair Hunt: If you want a free lounge chair, you need to be there when they open at 9:00 AM. Otherwise, you’re looking at paying for a daybed or a cabana.
- Palm Tree Beach Club: This is the new day club concept by Kygo’s Palm Tree Crew. It’s replaced the old Wet Republic vibe with something a bit more tropical and "boutique," though it still gets rowdy when a big DJ is in town.
Managing the "Mega-Resort" Fatigue
The biggest complaint about the MGM Grand Las Vegas is always the size. You will walk. A lot.
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Check-in is at 3:00 PM, but if you’re an MGM Rewards member, use the app for mobile check-in. It lets you skip the massive line in the lobby, which can sometimes look like a TSA queue at JFK. You get a digital key on your phone and head straight to your room.
Also, a quick note on the resort fee. It’s currently around $50 per night. It covers the basics—Wi-Fi, fitness center access, and those local calls no one makes—but it’s a standard Vegas tax you should just factor into your budget from the start.
Actionable Next Steps for Your Stay
If you're planning a trip to the MGM Grand in 2026, here is how to play it smart:
- Book the "Stay Well" Rooms: If you’re sensitive to the smell of cigarette smoke (which lingers in almost every Vegas casino), these rooms have air purifiers and specialized lighting. They’re worth the small upgrade fee.
- Join MGM Rewards Before You Arrive: Even if you don’t gamble much, charging your meals to your room helps you rack up points that can lead to "comped" rooms on your next visit.
- Check the Arena Schedule: The Grand Garden Arena hosts huge boxing matches and concerts. If there’s a major event, the hotel will be packed and the elevators will be slow. If you want peace and quiet, pick a weekend when the arena is dark.
- Use the Monorail: The station is tucked at the back of the property. It’s a long walk to get to it, but it beats paying $40 for an Uber to go three blocks down the Strip when traffic is at a standstill.
The MGM Grand isn't the "newest" thing in town, but with the 2025 renovations finally complete, it’s found its footing again. It’s a solid, reliable choice that offers everything from 3-star-Michelin dining to a simple burger at a sports bar, all under one (very large) green roof.