Few places encapsulate the spirit of Las Vegas as vividly as the MGM Grand Resort. Once heralded by a towering bronze lion and steeped in the whimsical charm of the Wizard of Oz, the MGM Grand has evolved into a sleek, modern marvel that blends luxury, culinary mastery, and world-class entertainment. This article takes you on an expansive journey through the resort’s rich history, its current gastronomic offerings, and the electrifying entertainment that cements its status as a must-visit destination on the Las Vegas Strip.
A Roaring Start: The Lion’s Legacy
When the MGM Grand first welcomed guests in 1993, it did so with a flourish that was quintessentially Vegas—bold, theatrical, and larger than life. Built on the site of the former Marina Hotel and Casino, the resort emerged as a sprawling tribute to MGM’s cinematic roots, drawing inspiration from the beloved film “The Wizard of Oz.” At its entrance stood Leo, a colossal 100-foot bronze lion statue that towered over the Strip, its majestic presence a nod to the studio’s iconic roaring mascot. This wasn’t just a sculpture; it was a statement, a beacon that invited visitors into a fantastical world of emerald-green decor and playful imagination.
Inside, the Oz theme unfolded with meticulous detail. Guests wandered through an “Emerald City” arcade, where the vibrant colors and fantastical elements of Dorothy’s journey came to life. The casino floor echoed the theme with Wizard of Oz-inspired motifs, immersing players in a whimsical atmosphere that felt like stepping onto a Hollywood set. For years, this theatrical flair defined the MGM Grand, making it a standout among the Strip’s crowded roster of resorts.
But Las Vegas is a city that never stands still, and as the new millennium dawned, tastes began to shift. The appetite for over-the-top themes waned, replaced by a growing demand for sophistication and elegance. In response, the MGM Grand embarked on a dramatic transformation. By 2012, the lion statue—once an indelible symbol of the resort’s identity— was removed, its departure marking the end of an era. The entrance was reimagined with sleek, modern lines, shedding the emerald tones for a more refined aesthetic. While some mourned the loss of Leo, the change reflected a broader evolution in Las Vegas, where glamour and luxury were taking center stage over kitsch and spectacle.
Today, the lion’s legacy lingers in the memories of longtime visitors and in the resort’s storied past. It serves as a reminder of the MGM Grand’s ability to adapt while honoring its roots, a balance that has kept it relevant for over three decades.
A Culinary Wonderland: Dining at the MGM Grand
If the MGM Grand’s exterior tells a story of transformation, its dining scene is a testament to its current stature as a culinary titan. The resort has curated a collection of restaurants that rival any food destination in the world, offering a spectrum of flavors that cater to every taste, from the refined to the rustic. Whether you’re a gourmand chasing Michelin-starred excellence or a casual diner seeking comfort food with flair, the MGM Grand delivers an unforgettable gastronomic adventure.
One of the crown jewels of this culinary empire is Joël Robuchon, a restaurant that carries the name and legacy of the legendary French chef. With three Michelin stars to its credit, it’s a sanctuary of fine dining where every dish is a work of art. The menu is a celebration of classic French cuisine, elevated with modern techniques and the finest ingredients sourced from around the globe. Think delicate foie gras, perfectly seared scallops, and desserts that are almost too beautiful to eat. The ambiance is intimate and opulent, with plush furnishings and attentive service that make every meal feel like a special occasion. For those willing to splurge, the tasting menu is a journey through Robuchon’s genius, a multi-course experience that lingers in the memory long after the last bite.
For a different kind of indulgence, Morimoto Las Vegas brings the artistry of Iron Chef Masaharu Morimoto to the Strip. This isn’t just Japanese cuisine—it’s a fusion of tradition and innovation, where pristine seafood and bold flavors take center stage. The sushi is a revelation, each piece crafted with precision and care, while dishes like the toro tartare and black cod miso showcase Morimoto’s knack for blending the familiar with the unexpected. The restaurant’s sleek, modern design complements the food, creating an atmosphere that’s both stylish and welcoming. It’s a place where you can savor a quiet omakase dinner or share plates with friends over sake, soaking in the vibrant energy of the space.
Meat lovers, meanwhile, find paradise at Craftsteak, the brainchild of acclaimed chef Tom Colicchio. This isn’t your average steakhouse—it’s a temple to high-quality, sustainably sourced meats, cooked with a reverence for simplicity and flavor. The menu offers a range of cuts, from tender filet mignon to robust ribeyes, each grilled to perfection and paired with seasonal sides that highlight the best of the harvest. The wine list is a treasure trove, with selections that elevate every bite. Whether you’re celebrating a big win or just craving a hearty meal, Craftsteak delivers a dining experience that’s both comforting and sophisticated.
For a taste of the South, Emeril’s New Orleans Fish House channels the soul of Louisiana into the heart of Las Vegas. Chef Emeril Lagasse infuses the menu with Creole and Cajun flair, serving up dishes like gumbo, jambalaya, and blackened fish that burst with flavor. The seafood is impeccably fresh, a nod to the coastal roots of New Orleans, while the lively atmosphere captures the city’s festive spirit. It’s the kind of place where you can kick back with a cold beer and a plate of oysters, feeling the rhythm of the Big Easy even amidst the desert.
If you’re after something more laid-back, Wolfgang Puck Bar & Grill offers a versatile menu that blends American classics with a Californian twist. Puck, a pioneer of modern cuisine, brings his signature style to dishes like wood-fired pizzas, juicy burgers, and grilled salmon. The vibe is relaxed yet refined, making it a perfect spot for a casual lunch or a leisurely dinner. The outdoor patio adds an extra layer of charm, letting you soak in the Vegas energy while you dine.
Beyond these marquee names, the MGM Grand is dotted with casual eateries, cafes, and bars that ensure no craving goes unmet. From quick bites at the food court to craft cocktails at a stylish lounge, the resort’s dining options are as diverse as its guests. It’s a culinary wonderland where every meal is an opportunity to explore, indulge, and celebrate.
Entertainment Extravaganza: The MGM Grand Garden Arena and Beyond
The MGM Grand isn’t content to dazzle with food alone—it’s also a powerhouse of entertainment, drawing crowds with a lineup that spans music, sports, and spectacle. At the heart of this offerings is the MGM Grand Garden Arena, a 17,000-seat venue that’s hosted some of the most unforgettable moments in Vegas history. This is where legends like Elton John, Madonna, and U2 have taken the stage, their performances echoing through a space designed for maximum impact. It’s not just about music, though—the arena has also been home to championship boxing matches, UFC fights, and awards shows, cementing its status as a versatile hub of excitement.
Stepping into the arena is an experience in itself. The energy is palpable, whether you’re cheering for a knockout punch or singing along to a chart-topping hit. The state-of-the-art sound and lighting systems ensure that every seat feels close to the action, while the sheer scale of the venue amplifies the thrill. For visitors, catching a show here isn’t just entertainment—it’s a rite of passage, a chance to be part of the Vegas legacy.
For a more intimate spectacle, the David Copperfield Theater offers a front-row seat to the artistry of one of the world’s greatest illusionists. Copperfield’s shows are a masterclass in magic, blending mind-bending tricks with storytelling that keeps audiences on the edge of their seats. From making cars disappear to defying the laws of physics, he’s a living legend whose performances tap into the timeless wonder of illusion. Night after night, he proves why he’s been a Vegas staple for decades, drawing fans from across the globe to witness his wizardry.
The entertainment doesn’t stop at the big venues. The MGM Grand’s nightlife scene is a constellation of lounges, bars, and clubs, each with its own personality. Want to dance the night away? The high-energy nightclubs pulse with top DJs and vibrant crowds. Prefer a quieter evening? The sophisticated cocktail bars serve up expertly crafted drinks in settings that ooze elegance. It’s a choose-your-own-adventure kind of nightlife, where the options are as endless as the Vegas skyline.
The Evolving Facade: A Symbol of Change
The MGM Grand’s physical transformation is more than skin deep—it’s a mirror to the evolution of Las Vegas itself. The decision to remove the lion statue and overhaul the entrance wasn’t just about aesthetics; it was a strategic shift to align with the city’s changing identity. Where once the Strip thrived on extravagant themes and over-the-top gimmicks, today’s Vegas leans into luxury, sophistication, and a cosmopolitan vibe. The MGM Grand’s current facade—sleek, modern, and understated—embodies this new era.
Gone are the emerald hues and playful nods to Oz, replaced by clean lines and a grand entrance that radiates elegance. The redesign prioritizes a streamlined experience, welcoming guests with an air of exclusivity and refinement. It’s a far cry from the roaring lion days, but it’s no less impressive. This evolution reflects a broader trend among Vegas resorts, where the focus has shifted from spectacle to substance, from fantasy to a more grounded sense of glamour.
Yet even as the exterior changes, the MGM Grand retains a connection to its past. The lion may be gone, but its spirit lives on in the resort’s ability to captivate and surprise. It’s a place that honors its history while embracing the future, a balance that keeps it at the forefront of the Strip’s ever-shifting landscape.
A Resort fit for a King
The MGM Grand Resort is more than a hotel or a casino—it’s a microcosm of Las Vegas itself, a place where reinvention is the rule, not the exception. From its roaring beginnings as a Wizard of Oz wonderland to its current incarnation as a bastion of luxury and entertainment, it has never stopped evolving. The culinary offerings alone are worth the trip, a global tour of flavors that spans French finesse, Japanese innovation, and American comfort. Add to that the thrill of the MGM Grand Garden Arena, the magic of David Copperfield, and a nightlife scene that never sleeps, and you’ve got a destination that delivers on every level.
For visitors, the MGM Grand is a chance to experience the magic of Las Vegas in all its forms—past, present, and future. It’s a cornerstone of the Strip, a place where memories are made and stories are born. Whether you’re sipping a cocktail at Wolfgang Puck’s, marveling at Copperfield’s sleight of hand, or savoring a meal at Joël Robuchon, you’re part of a legacy that’s as dynamic as the city it calls home. The MGM Grand isn’t just a resort—it’s a journey, one that continues to unfold with every guest who walks through its doors.
