Ballys, Las Vegas Strip

History of Ballys

Before Bally's became Bally's it was the MGM Grand, and one of the worst hotel fires ever took place there in 1980. 84 people died and 697 of the 5,000 guests were injured in what was determined to be an electrical malfunction although some think otherwise. KNPR has a great streaming audio with first hand accounts employees and guests. Regardless... MGM moved down the street and Bally's became Bally's... with that nutty LAX looking walkway thingy that is essential playground material for the Vegas Tripper.

How are the rooms at Ballys?

The rooms prices range from $59 (mid-week low) to $250 (weekend high). We didn't have a problem getting a room with a resonable view (it can be an issue with some places). Last time we visited Ballys, we paid $99 for a side view of the strip, half view of the Bellagio fountain (with music! Frank, good; Celine, bad.) and a direct view of the Ei-faux-l Tower. We were right over the pool at Paris and had a good view of it. Looked like a petri dish, with microbes swimmers. Rooms are clean, well kept and a decent size.

(Update: Dec 2004 - This time we upgraded to a jacuzzi suite - room 7311 on the 23rd floor - $180/night for a huge room, waterfall jacuzzi, steam room/shower, non cloth headboard [no chance of getting someones old jizz in your hair] marble floor, lit vanity, all manner of creams soaps and mouthwashes in the little bottle brigade, a truly fantastic south-facing view of the strip and lots of other goodies.)

Capt'n and Cookay give it 2 thumbs up!

What restaurants are at Ballys?

We recommend the room service. The price isn't that far off the cost of a coffee shop meal and you get the luxury of eating in your your robe and avoiding people. They set you up pretty nice for breakfast by including a basket of assorted muffins and stuff. The set up is beautiful - a great way to start the day. Sometimes they botch the order - don't hesitate to call down to get your stuff corrected.

Rather get out of the room for a meal? There are plenty of joints, from sit-down to food court style 420 hours a day. Of note? The Sterling Brunch where you can get Sturgeon caviar and lobster (reservations required). Ichiban Sushi serves it tokyo style - on a conveyer belt. If you have the hankering for a great classy meal, head over to Ballys Steakhouse. Steaks, chops, seafood and lobster (market price was $67 when we went) all cooked to perfection, with great service, great deserts and the greatest baked potato you'll ever have. al Dente- for Italian, ASIA - for "Heat of the Moment" and other early 80's hits, Sbarro - over by the sportsbook, Terrace Cafe for... cafe food and a whole bunch more.

Where is Ballys Located?

Ballys is on what we like to call the 4Bs Corner. Across the road is Bellagio , on the north side is Bill's Gamblin Hall and Saloon (formerly Barbary Coast). It takes eons to get from the street to the casino floor (although the tubular neon launchway is groovy), unlike it's neighbor to the south, Paris. It's a good location if you are undecided on the north or south end of the strip.

Exclusive Tips for Ballys:

Ballys is sorely lacking in the other shit category. They have Jubilee a 20-year running 'showgirls' extravaganza and of course the wonderful The Price Is Right stage show where you can win set of luggage, and the soul band at the casino lounge is smokin good. Other than that.... they've got a casino.