The immensely
popular Caesars Place has been on the strip since 1966, and in many ways represents Las
Vegas itself. Considered the epitome of luxury, Caesars also represented the worst in
kitsch and cheese. Doing the Roman theme to death, there were cocktail waitresses in short
togas, Roman colonnades, pillars and statues -all surrounded by mirrors and neon. It
was Las Vegas/Roman decadence at it's best/worst. However, that was the old Vegas
(The Elvis years), so in 1997 Caesars spent $300 million to completely renovate it's
facilities.
Caesar's Palace
still has the Roman theme but eliminated much of the casino's cheese. The mirrors have
been replaced with hand-painted murals and the volume has been turned down on the garish
neon colors. The new Caesars Palace evolved into a beautiful, delicate balance between
class and kitsch. The direction Las Vegas in general is trying to emulate.(see the
Bellagio).
Caesars has always
been known for it's rooms and service, and that has not changed much. The drink service is
prompt and the staff is very friendly. The rooms are designed in a variety of styles that
are consistent with the Roman theme. Most feature large marble baths and Jacuzzis,
and all have safes, hair dryers, irons and ironing boards.
The casino floor is
bright and airy and is still one of our editor's favorite casinos. The sports book is
large and comfortable, but is extremely crowded on Sundays during football season. Most of
the gaming facilities are among the best in Vegas, but part of what separates Caesars from
the other casinos are it's gambling alternatives. Caesars Forum is a
fabulous mall attached to the casino floor that has to be seen to believe. It blends the
best in shopping and entertainment.
Besides all the stores and restaurants in the Forum,
there is also the " Race For
Atlantis " simulator ride- which is probably the best ride in Las Vegas.
