Archive for the ‘Las Vegas Entertainment’ Category

Ian Ziering Wins Over New Fans in Chippendales

Former “Beverly Hills, 90210″ star Ian Ziering has officially joined the cast of Chippendales at Rio Las Vegas as a celebrity guest host, and he’s definitely made a splash with his charisma and new physique.

Ian Ziering makes it look easy.

Ian Ziering makes it look easy.

Said Ziering, “When Chippendales called, my first thought was of Chris Farley and Patrick Swayze on ‘Saturday Night Live.’ I weighed the pros and cons, but couldn’t come up with any cons. I have more facets than Steve Sanders [on '90210']. This is another role for me.”

Ziering, Jaymes and James (of "Amazing Race" fame).

Ziering, Jaymes and James (of “Amazing Race” fame).

The actor donned the show’s signature cuffs and collar, and showed off some new-found buffness, the result of three months of training.

“I told my wife about Chippendales,” says Ziering, “and I asked her what she thought of my dancing in front of a whole bunch of screaming women. And she said, ‘That’s not too different from the ’90s.’ There was some pandemonium back then, but I wasn’t pulling my shirt off or
gyrating my hips.”

Once he decided to make the leap and join the Chippendales show as a guest host, he committed to a strict fitness regimen, saying, “I have a two-year-old and a newborn at home, so it’s been tough the last couple of years to find the time to concentrate on myself. For the last three months I’ve been eating right and going to the gym twice a day. Sometimes it’s tough to anchor yourself to a foundation of accountability to make it happen.”

All the hard work’s clearly paid off.

Ian Ziering, holding his own with the guys of Chippendales.

Ian Ziering, holding his own with the guys of Chippendales.

As if there were any doubt of the sex appeal of the Chippendales, listen to what Ziering said of his journey to get in shape for his Chippendales premiere: “It’s been an amazing journey for my wife and I, because as I’ve lost weight, she’s responding more. Because she just gave birth April 25th, and I’m ready for that response and that kick-up in attention and intimacy, so it was perfectly-timed.”

Ifyouknowwhatweresayin’.

Trivia: Ian Ziering's daughters were born on the same day (April 25), two years apart.

Trivia: Ian Ziering’s daughters were born on the same day (April 25), two years apart.

What’s been the most surprising thing about performing with the world-famous Chippendales?

“When I first came to see the show, I wasn’t sure what to expect. That ‘Magic Mike’ movie had been out, and that was scandalous and kind of raunchy. But Chippendales is such a well-produced show. This is Las Vegas entertainment at its finest. The show’s flirty, not dirty,” says Ziering.

This photo of John seems fairly gratuitous.

This photo of Gavin seems fairly gratuitous.

As for his upcoming projects, easily this blog’s favorite is “Sharknado.” In chatting about it, Ziering got to display his self-depricating humor, saying, “Oh, god, it’s a horrible movie. It’s one of those movies where you can’t turn the channel. The visual effects are amazing, though. There are sharks falling out of tornadoes onto land. I had fun.” He is not making this up.

This would be the precise moment where a Las Vegas blog got a man crush on Ian Ziering.

This would be the precise moment when a Las Vegas blog got a man crush on Ian Ziering.

Another upcoming film, “Snake and Mongoose” is about drag racing culture. Ziering also did a pilot for HGTV about celebrities and their pets (airs June 15), called A-List Pets.

Unrelated: A fan favorite, Jace, has been sidelined from the show for a few weeks due to an injury.

Unrelated: A fan favorite, Jace, has been sidelined from Chippendales for a few weeks due to a hand injury. He didn’t want to miss the fun of Ian Ziering’s debut, though.

Ian Ziering’s easily one of this blog’s favorite Chippendales guest hosts to-date, and seems to relish the gig, including joining the guys for choreographed dance numbers and other popular segments in the show.

As gratuitous photos go, this one of Gavin is likely to be very popular with certain segments of our audience. You're welcome.

As gratuitous photos go, this one of John is likely to be very popular with certain segments of our audience. You’re welcome.

He’ll be in Chippendales at Rio Vegas through June 30, so don’t miss it!

Posted on June 10th, 2013 by sroeben  |  No Comments »

“Big Elvis” Named One of the Best Ever, Again

Our buddy Pete “Big Elvis” Vallee, still packing them in at Harrah’s Las Vegas with his free Elvis tribute show, has received yet another accolade.

Vallee has been named one of the “Top 10 Elvis Presley Impersonators” in the world by Top100Arena.com. Check out the full list.

Big Elvis, bigger talent.

Big Elvis, bigger talent.

We popped by just yesterday at the Harrah’s piano bar and amphitheater to catch Big Elvis in the act (photo above), and he never fails to wow his capacity crowds.

Pete “Big Elvis” Vallee is easily one of the best free shows in Las Vegas. Just ask his legions of die-hard fans. See more.

Posted on June 4th, 2013 by sroeben  |  No Comments »

Donny Osmond Superfans Reunite With Singer 40 Years Later (To the Day)

Flamingo Las Vegas headliner Donny Osmond doesn’t just have fans, he has rabid fans, and legions of them!

Two special fans let us know they’d be at the May 28, 2013 show of Donny & Marie at the Flamingo, and that the date was special to them, so we stopped by for a photo op.

Shari and Leslie, meet everyone. Everyone, Shari and Leslie.

Leslie and Shari, meet everyone. Everyone, Leslie and Shari.

Here’s the story: The first time BFFs Sheri Sloan and Leslie Larson saw Donny Osmond in concert together was on May 28, 1973, at the Seattle Center Coliseum.

Sheri even kept a program from the show, as well as her ticket stub.

That's Donny out front.

That’s Donny out front. Remember bell bottoms? They were awesome.

Check out the ticket stub, below. Talk about a blast from the past!

In 1973, the cost of a ticket to see one of the hottest groups around, The Osmonds, was $6. It’s a smidge more to see “Donny & Marie” now, sorry.

Is Shari a devoted fan or pack rat? You decide!

Either someone’s a huge fan or a pack rat. This blog doesn’t judge.

An amazing 40 years later, to the day, Sheri Sloan and Leslie Larson got to see Donny Osmond again, but this time, it was up-close and personal at an after-show meet-and-greet.

You guys are making us a little weepy. Knock it off.

An epic moment. And, yeah, we got a little weepy. It’s 40 flipping years later!

For 40 years, the friends have bonded over their celebrity crush, and have seen Donny perform whenever possible, either in concert or in his award-winning theatrical production, “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat.”

Through it all, their “Puppy Love” has never waned, and we observed some definite swooning going on at the meet-and-greet. The pair has seen Donny perform at least once every decade since that original show in 1973.

Sheri snagged this pic of Donny during his "Soldier of Love" era.

Sheri snagged this pic of Donny during his “Soldier of Love” era.

What an amazing tale of friendship and a unique connection to a star who continues to shine on The Las Vegas Strip, and thanks to Sheri and Leslie for sharing it with us.

See Donny & Marie live at Flamingo Las Vegas. And keep your ticket stub. It might come in handy someday.

Posted on May 29th, 2013 by sroeben  |  6 Comments »

Ian Ziering Preps for Chippendales Debut

CBS News caught up with former “Beverly Hills 90210″ star Ian Ziering to chat about his upcoming stint as host in Chippendales, the saucy male revue at Rio Las Vegas.

It's pronounced "eye-uhn," not "ee-uhn." You're welcome.

It’s pronounced “eye-uhn,” not “ee-uhn.” You’re welcome.

Through the miracle of the Interwebs, you can view the aforementioned news segment via this handy link.

More gratuitous photos of Ian Ziering may also be found at VH1.com.

Ziering will join Chippendales as the show’s celebrity guest star for four weeks, June 6-30, 2013. Find out more, and don’t miss it.

Posted on May 21st, 2013 by sroeben  |  No Comments »

Shania Twain Talks About Residency at Caesars, New Album

Tickets for “Shania: Still the One” at Caesars Palace just went on sale for 22 shows, Oct. through Nov. 2013. The music superstar’s first 24 shows sold out, so, no, it’s not too early to grab your tickets. Some tickets are still available for dates in May, too, through June 1. Get details.

Twain, sometimes called “The Queen of Country Pop,” is one of the world’s best-selling female artists of all time, which only slightly less impressive than the fact this blog has had a crush on her since, oh, 1995.

Blog crushes are, by far, the least creepy of all crushes.

Blog crushes are, by far, the least creepy of all crushes.

Her show at Caesars Palace is a journey through Twain’s life and career, with many of her hits, a 13-piece band, stunning visuals (including Shania herself, of course), and a ton of Twain’s trademark fashions, courtesy of her longtime collaborator, Marc Bouwer.

Our friends at the Las Vegas Sun interviewed Shania Twain about her residency, plans for a new album and other tidbits. Take a look.

Trivia: Shania's real name is Eilleen Regina Edwards.

Trivia: Shania’s real name is Eilleen Regina Edwards.

Learn more about Shania Twain’s residency at Caesars Palace.

Posted on May 21st, 2013 by sroeben  |  No Comments »

Mac King Proves Nice Guys Don’t Always Finish Last

Comedy-magician Mac King recently celebrated the lucky 13th anniversary of his show, the Mac King Comedy Magic Show, at Harrah’s Las Vegas.

In honor of the occasion, the supremely likeable King got a proclamation from Mayor Carolyn Goodman naming May 11 “Mac King 13th Anniversary Day” in Las Vegas. Sadly, no cash value, but money isn’t everything.

Mac King also got a cake, because some things are worth more than money.

Mac King also got a cake, because some things are worth more than money.

Said King in a news release we just cut and paste this quote from, “A big thank you to all my pals and fans who have come out to support comedy and magic in the afternoon. I look forward to making more memories here at Harrah’s Las Vegas and I really am the luckiest boy on Earth.”

Also in attendance at the event were cast members from Million Dollar Quartet, also at Harrah’s.

Joining Mac King were "Million Dollar Quartet" stars Martin Kay (who plays Jerry Lee Lewis), Benjamin D. Hale (Johnny Cash), Robert Britton Lyons (Carl Perkins).

Joining Mac King were “Million Dollar Quartet” stars Martin Kay (who plays Jerry Lee Lewis), Benjamin D. Hale (Johnny Cash), Robert Britton Lyons (Carl Perkins). Elvis had apparently left the building.

Thanks to our buddy, Gabe Ginsberg, for the great pics.

Some Mac King stats: He’s performed more than 6,760 shows at Harrah’s, used 20,280 feet of rope in his timeless rope trick, and he’s magically appeared more than 20,280 Fig Newtons. Or whatever they’re calling Fig Newtons now, possibly just Newtons.

As for some of our favorite Mac King moments from the past 13 years?

Don’t miss Mac King’s very funny, family-friendly show at Harrah’s, consistently named the best afternoon show in Vegas, as well as one of the best bargains in the known universe. Although we may have embellished that last part a little bit.

Posted on May 15th, 2013 by sroeben  |  No Comments »

How to Work Out Like a Las Vegas Showgirl

Being a Las Vegas showgirl might seem glamorous (and it is), but it also takes a lot of work. Staying in shape is part of the gig.

One of our favorite Vegas newscasters, Maria Silva from Fox 5, recently dropped in on two “Jubilee!” showgirls at Bally’s Las Vegas, Jane Cesler and Amelia Bruff, to get some showgirl workout tips.

The "Jubilee!" dressing room at Bally's is the holy grail of dressing rooms.

The “Jubilee!” dressing room at Bally’s is the holy grail of dressing rooms.

Through the miracle of the Interwebs, you can view the full workout segment here.

Check out these showgirls, and seemingly hundreds of others, in action at Bally’s Las Vegas in the last of the classic production shows on The Strip, Jubilee!

Posted on May 15th, 2013 by sroeben  |  No Comments »

“Legends in Concert” at Flamingo Celebrates 30 Star-Studded Years on The Strip

Wow. Thirty years ago, there was no Internet, no DVDs and no cell phones. There was no Prozac or Viagra, and no disposable contact lenses.

What was around 30 years ago? “Legends in Concert,” the tribute show now at Flamingo Las Vegas that shows no signs of slowing down. “Legends in Concert” celebrated its 30th anniversary on The Strip on May 5, and recently put on a special anniversary show, so we grabbed some photos to memorialize the occasion.

Britney Spears is played by Katie Murdock. We assume we have your attention now.

Britney Spears is played by Katie Murdock. We trust we have your attention now.

When it opened in 1983, “Legends in Concert” originally ran in the hotel now called The Quad, then had a long run at Harrah’s Las Vegas. Now, it’s all about the Flamingo Showroom, on a stage shared with famed performers George Wallace and Donny & Marie.

The current line-up of “Legends in Concert” features Britney Spears (played by the aforementioned Katie Murdock), Michael Jackson (Damian Brantley), Elvis (Victor Trevino), Rod Steward (John Anthony) and Lady Gaga (Kate Steele.)

Damian Brantley will make you unison clap as Michael Jackson, and we don't typically care for unison clapping.

Damian Brantley, as Michael Jackson, will make you want to unison clap, even if you’re a unison clapping hater.

There have been about 18,000 performances of “Legends in Concert” during its run on The Strip, and it’s estimated the production has been seen by a staggering 6.5 million Las Vegas visitors. Well, not all of them were staggering, but quite a few were. It’s Las Vegas. We’re just saying.

Did we mention there's a Britney Spears impersonator? Our memory isn't what it used to be.

Did we mention there’s a Britney Spears impersonator? Our memory isn’t what it used to be.

Each of the performers in “Legends in Concert” has to be a triple-threat: They must look similar to the star they emulate, they must sing like the star, and must must be able to replicate the star’s moves.

Rod Steward is portrayed by John Anthony, owner of a voice even Rod Stewart mistakes as being his own, probably.

Rod Steward is portrayed by John Anthony, owner of a voice even Rod Stewart mistakes as being his own, probably.

And, yes, these performers do their own singing. No lip-syncing.

There are times when you’d swear you’re at a concert by the superstars they emulate. In that way, it’s like getting five mini-concerts, all in one fast-paced show.

And, honestly, what tribute show would be complete without a Britney Spears? Unless we already said that, then nevermind.

And, honestly, what tribute show would be complete without a Britney Spears? Unless we already said that, then nevermind.

The featured performers are backed up by one of the most talented live bands on The Strip. Remember, they have to master music from multiple artists, across multiple styles and decades.

The dancers and choreography are top-notch as well.

This ain't your grandpa's kick ball change.

This ain’t your grandpa’s kick ball change.

Dancers never get enough love, so please enjoy this photo of the show’s dancers we grabbed at the anniversary party.

From left to right are Cece Correia, Anne Carter, Melani Michaud, Julie Furness, Jessica Morales and Andrea Fortuno.

From left to right are Cece Correia, Anne Carter, Melani Michaud, Julie Furness, Jessica Morales and Andrea Fortuno. This blog truly has a rough job.

“Legends in Concert” has managed to remain fresh for three decades because the show changes often, and audiences can return over and over and always see something new.

More than 500 tribute artists have been featured in the Las Vegas version of “Legends in Concert.”

Kate Steele as Lady Gaga is crazy good. She always seems to be changing up her costumes and songs, and does a mean solo on the piano, with spot-on vocals and a Tony-worthy take on Gaga’s whole vibe.

It's rumored Lady Gaga takes lessons in Gaga from Kate Steele.

It’s rumored Lady Gaga takes lessons in Gaga from Kate Steele. Unconfirmed.

Of course, no Vegas tribute show would be complete without The King, and Victor Trevino (below) is easily one of the best Elvises we’ve seen in a town teeming with them.

Taking. Care. Of. Business.

Taking. Care. Of. Business.

Since its recent move to the Flamingo, the show has become the city’s only big production that offers a matinee show, at 4:00 p.m., six days a week. Other shows happen at 9:30 p.m., each Sunday and Monday.

And last but not least, it's Katie Murdock as Britney Spears. She looks so familiar for some reason.

And last but not least, it’s Katie Murdock as Britney Spears. She looks so familiar, for some reason.

Congratulations to everyone at Legends in Concert for a truly remarkable, 30-year run. This crowd-pleasing show is part of what makes Vegas so, well, Vegas.

Posted on May 8th, 2013 by sroeben  |  No Comments »

Caesars Entertainment Salutes Military Members With Show, Restaurant Deals and Freebies

Throughout May 2013, Las Vegas resorts in the Caesars Entertainment family will offer special deals and freebies on dining and shows as part of Military Appreciation Month. Here are some of the highlights.

Bally’s Las Vegas

Tickets to “Tony N’ Tina’s Wedding” are buy-one-get-one-free for general and VIP tickets. The hotel’s Blu Pool is offering free admission and half-price bottle service to active military members.

Planet Hollywood

BurGR restaurant is offering a two-for-one burger entrée. Spice Market Buffet offers a two-for-one lunch buffet, Monday through Friday.

Thunderbirds

Fly-overs not included.

Flamingo Las Vegas

Comedian George Wallace will offer one free ticket to members of the military, past and present. “X Burlesque” is offering $20 off General Admission and VIP tickets, along with a free shot glass. “Legends in Concert” will provide free Golden Circle or Main Floor admission. Paradise Garden Buffet will offer a two-for-one lunch buffet, Monday through Friday.

Harrah’s Las Vegas

The pool at Harrah’s offers free admission and half-price bottle service. KGB: Kerry’s Gourmet Burgers is offering a two-for-one burger entrée. Toby Keith’s: I Love This Bar & Grill is offering a complimentary military burger and French fries to active military members with valid ID. Flavors Buffet offers a two-for-one lunch buffet, Monday through Friday. “Defending the Caveman” is offering a free admission with each paid admission.

Salute

Just prior to a deployment. This is the place in the blog post where we tend to get a little weepy.

The Quad

Frank Marino’s “Divas Las Vegas” has an ongoing half-price ticket offer. Comedian-juggler Jeff Civillico is offering up to four free tickets with a military ID. “Recycled Percussion” is providing an ongoing 50 percent discount.

Paris Las Vegas

Taylor Hicks is offering 10 two-for-one tickets to anyone who presents a military ID at least two hours before show time. Comedy-hypnotist Anthony Cools is providing a two-for-one ticket deal. Le Burger Brasserie is offering a two-for-one burger entrée, and Le Village Buffet is offering a two-for-one lunch buffet, Monday through Friday. The hotel’s pool will offer free admission and half-price bottle service.

USO

Did you know the Caesars Foundation donated $100,000 to the USO to support services offered at the USO Las Vegas center at McCarran International? Now, you do. Vets Woody and Terry seemed appreciative, despite our forcing them to have their photo taken.

Rio Las Vegas

“Chippendales” has an ongoing 50 percent off discount for military members. VooDoo Rooftop Nightclub will offer free admission. All-American Bar and Grill is offering a two-for-one burger entrée. Carnival World Buffet is offering a two-for-one lunch, Monday through Friday.

Caesars Palace

The Garden of the Gods Pool Oasis is offering free admission and half-price bottle service. Shadow Bar offers free admission and half-price bottle service. Gordon Ramsay Pub & Grill is offering a two-for-one burger entrée.

Flag

We never take freedom for granted, especially in Las Vegas.

Please note that the show deals are for active and retired military, and restaurant offers are for active military only. Just show a government-issued, military I.D. to take advantage of all these great deals.

And our heartfelt appreciation goes out to all those who serve so selflessly in our nation’s armed services. In Las Vegas, they get to be a little selfish. Or a lot. This blog doesn’t judge.

Posted on May 1st, 2013 by sroeben  |  No Comments »

Happy National Pole Dance Day

It’s Vegas, just deal with it.

Pole dance balloon

In Las Vegas, pole dances are free, but lap dances are usually $20 a pop.

Thanks to the roaming balloon-maker at Carlos’n Charlie’s restaurant at Flamingo for the balloon sculpture this blog probably does not condone.

If you’re ever in the mood to master the pole yourself, check out Stripper 101 at the V Theater in The Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood. You might also enjoy X Burlesque University at Flamingo Las Vegas.

Posted on May 1st, 2013 by sroeben  |  No Comments »

“Defending the Caveman” Star Ends 10-Year Run at Harrah’s Las Vegas

Kevin Burke, star of the one-man show, “Defending the Caveman” at Harrah’s Las Vegas, has announced he’ll end his 10-year run on May 13, 2013.

Kevin Burke

Kevin Burke has been a fixture on The Strip since approximately the Paleolithic Era.

Despite Burke’s departure, the show will continue with Second City improv alum Chris Allen stepping in for Burke, starting May 14. The show will be re-staged with new props, updated lighting and visuals. Get a head start and find Chris Allen on Twitter.

As for why he’s leaving the long-running show, Kevin Burke says, “My kids are growing up in the Midwest and I want to spend these remaining years with them.”

The news of Kevin Burke “turning over his spear” follows on the heels of his breaking the Guinness World Record for the most theatrical performances in a 50-day period. Burke has done an astonishing 3,000 performances during his time in “Defending the Caveman.”

Burke will perform limited engagements in the national Broadway tour of “Defending the Caveman” in the future.

Posted on April 23rd, 2013 by sroeben  |  No Comments »

Celine Dion Brings Tribute Artist Véronic DiCaire to Bally’s Las Vegas

Bally’s Las Vegas will soon be the new home of a break-out female tribute artist, Véronic DiCaire.

The versatile singer, who pays homage to a wide range of popular female artists, will play a limited engagement at Bally’s, June 20 through Aug. 31, 2013.

Veronic

It's sort of pronounced "VRAANihK." You'll get the hang of it.

“Véronic Voices” will showcase the performer’s take on iconic singers like Lady Gaga, Madonna, Whitney Houston, Adele, Pink and Celine. The show will also feature half-a-dozen dancers and state-of-the-art visuals.

In case you wonder about how singers feel about being paid homage to, DiCaire’s show has the stamp of approval from Caesars Palace headliner Celine Dion, who serves as the shows co-producer.

Take a listen as Véronic DiCaire shows off those pipes.

Véronic DiCaire has a long show biz history, despite this being her first engagement in Vegas. She released a self-titled album in 2002 in her native Canada, and a follow-up album that lead to appearances in two high-profile comedy festivals: the Just For Laughs Festival in Montreal and Grand Rire Festival in Quebec.

The singer’s unique ability to mix singing and comedy caught the eye of Celine Dion and her husband, Rene Angelil, who invited DiCaire to open for Celine during her “Taking Chances” tour. DiCaire has most recently performed nearly 200 sold-out shows in France, Switzerland and Belgium, and she became a reality TV star in Europe as a judge on “X-Factor France.”

Visit Ticketmaster for tickets ($60 to $120), and see more video at the official Véronic Voices site.

Posted on April 23rd, 2013 by sroeben  |  No Comments »

“90210″ Heartthrob Ian Ziering Joins Chippendales at Rio Las Vegas This Summer

Former “90210″ star Ian Ziering will join the bounty of beefcake at Chippendales this summer for a guest hosting gig.

Ian Ziering (Ian is pronounced “EYE-ahn,” not the usual “EEE-ahn,” by the way) will guest host the popular male revue from June 6 to June 30, 2013, Thursdays through Sundays, at Rio Las Vegas.

ian_ziering

Ian Ziering is flanked by "Amazing Race" alums Jaymes Vaughan and James Davis.

Thanks to Scott Harrison for the photos.

Along with his pecs, Ziering is expected to show off some of his “Dancing with the Stars” moves. The actor appeared in season four of the popular dance-off. Take a gander.

Says Ziering of his upcoming stint at Chippendales, “Actors and performers never know what their next job will be, and when I got the call from Chippendales, my jaw dropped as it came on the heels of TMZ calling me fat on national TV. I am passionate about health and fitness so I’ve kept in shape, and dancing is something I’ve always enjoyed, so I figured why not?”

Ziering adds, “Hey TMZ, I’ve got two front row seats for you!”

ian_ziering

Ian Ziering and friends at a recent wingman convention.

Other hunky Chippendales guest hosts have included Joey Lawrence, Jake Pavelka (“The Bachelor”), Ronnie Magro (“Jersey Shore”) and Jeff Timmons (of 98 Degrees).

Find out more about the genetically-gifted men of Chippendales, one of this blog’s favorite shows in Vegas, and we don’t care who knows it.

Posted on April 22nd, 2013 by sroeben  |  No Comments »

15 Things We’re Loving at Harrah’s Vegas Right Now

We’ve decided we don’t visit Harrah’s Las Vegas enough. Why? Because there’s so much to love! Here are 15 things this blog is loving about Harrah’s right this very minute.

1. This Shirt

Who wouldn’t want to stroll down The Strip with a little Hugh Hefner vibe going on? Get this long-sleeve tee in the gift shop at Harrah’s.

Robe shirt

Waxing not included.

2. Pool Season

It can never arrive too soon, or stay too long.

Harrah's pool

Insider tip: Go up the stairs on this end of the pool for some sweet rooftop tanning action.

3. Poolside Mimosas

Speaking of the pool, don’t miss the eye-opening mimosas at the pool’s bar. There’s a deal going on at the moment, but we can’t remember what it is, for obvious reasons.

Mimosa

Champagne glasses are for babies.

4. Cheap Keno

Looking for a great value in the casino? Check out the keno “Stimulus” deal below. You get to play 100 keno games for a nickel each, for a total of $5. “Catch-all” means you have to hit 100% of the numbers you select. Tough, but not impossible. And did we mention your total investment is $5?

Insider tip: You can buy-in for 1,000 keno games at once at Harrah’s. Do it as you’re heading back home, and check to see if you’ve won online at KenoUSA.com. Yay, technology.

Keno

See all the stimulus jokes we're not making? Maturity is this blog's calling card.

5. Brandi

What we meant to say is we’re loving Numb, where Brandi works as a bartender. Unlike many of its slushy drink bar competitors, Numb is a full bar, with a number of delicious signature cocktails.

Brandi

Thanks for playing along, Brandi.

6. 500-Degree Plates

After trying Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse, it’s going to be weird going back to a regular steakhouse. That’s because Ruth’s Chris serves its amazing meat on plates baked to 500 degrees. That means your steak is sizzling when it arrives, and that makes a great steak incredible.

500 degress plate

"Would you like a side of aloe with that?"

7. The Purple Strap-On

Hey, that’s not our name for it! The Purple Strap-On is sold at everyone’s favorite place to party mid-Strip, Carnaval Court. You get the equivalent of 8-10 cocktails (see below for scale), which would normally cost $100 or more, for $40.

Bonus: You get to hang out with a Vegas legend, Brian Thomas. He formerly did a stint as Lucky the leprechaun at the now-closed O’Sheas casino, and was recently featured on “Counting Cars,” the reality show on the History channel.

Lucky

Two of our favorite things in Las Vegas.

8. French Kiss Oysters

Oyster Bar at Harrah’s has some die-hard fans! Here’s a little tip: Before you visit, download the Oysterpedia app. You’ll need it to keep up with all the varieties of oysters at this popular Harrah’s hot spot. We used the free app to learn French Kiss oysters come from Neguac, New Brunswick, Canada and have a flavor profile that’s “high in salinity, with a sweet finish.”

French Kiss oysters

French Kiss oysters, like many Las Vegas performers, have "deep cups." Hey, it says so in the app!

9. Jerry Lee Lewis

So, in an ensemble show like Million Dollar Quartet, you’re not supposed to play favorites. Everyone is equally awesome and contributes to the overall blah, blah, blah. Seriously, though, Martin Kaye, who plays Jerry Lee Lewis in the hotel’s new musical, steals the show and will blow you away with his unbelievable talent, musical and otherwise. We promise.

Martin Kaye

Martin Kaye, one of the many talented performers in "Million Dollar Quartet." Happy now?

10. The Dessert Station at Flavors Buffet

Flavors Buffet doesn’t get a lot of glory, but it’s dependably good, especially the desserts. When you think you’re done tasting everything, there’s another dozen or so offerings beyond that, and the temptations never seem to end. Our tip: Start your Flavors Buffet visit with dessert. Rules, schmules. It’s Vegas.

Tart

Tell the tarts at Harrah's we sent you.

11. This Bank of Slots

We love to play slots, but the machines below hold a special place in this blog’s heart.

Slot machines

Can you tell what makes them special?

Why do we love them, despite the fact we’ve never played them? Because they’re aspirational! See, on these machines, you have a choice to make your “coins” worth $100 or $500. And it’s two coins a spin. That means if you see someone playing them, they could be betting $1,000 per spin. Hey, in Vegas, it’s go big or go home!

Slot machine

They don't call them "high limit" slots for nothing.

12. Craps With Fresh Air and Sunlight

Hey, we love a casino with a little smoke for atmosphere as much as the next blog, but at Harrah’s Las Vegas, the craps table is close to a wide open door (facing Carnaval Court and The Quad), so you get fresh air and real sunlight.

Fresh air craps

The ideal mix of inside and out.

13. IcePan

This one’s never leaving our list of things we love at Harrah’s, ever. Made from scratch, this low-cal, no-additives ice cream can alter your state of being and magically transport you to your happy place.

Strawberry Cheesecake

The Strawberry Cheesecake ice cream is made from both actual strawberries and actual cheesecake.

14. KGB Burgers

It seems like KGB: Kerry’s Gourmet Burgers adds new menu items almost hourly, which makes it worthy of frequent visits. Below, some kind of heavenly concoction of sauteed mushrooms and Swiss cheese and a fabulous set of buns.

KGB

Watch for monthly specials that pair burgers and KGB's signature shakes.

15. This

Stop by the Higuchi Gallery shop at Harrah’s for this monster. Hey, we did say “go big or go home,” right?

Giant flask

That oughta hold you.

We feel like we’re just getting started! Now, stop daydreaming and get back to work. Or, alternatively, “Come to Las Vegas. The official opposite of work.” TM

Posted on April 11th, 2013 by sroeben  |  No Comments »

Penn & Teller Catch a Star on Hollywood Walk of Fame

They’ve been stars in Las Vegas for decades, and stars around the world even longer than that. Now, Rio Las Vegas headliners Penn & Teller have their very own star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

Penn & Teller

The Hollywood Walk of Fame attracts more than 10 million people a year. Yes, we counted.

Thanks to Bob Freeman for the pic from the Apr. 5, 2013 ceremony in L.A.

In the photo with Penn & Teller are (to Penn’s right) Leron Gubler, President and CEO of the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce, Councilman Tom LaBonge (to Teller’s left), magician David Copperfield (behind Teller), soap star Lisa Rinna and (between Penn & Teller) Trey Parker, one of the creators of “South Park.”

Unrelated: For all you sticklers out there, yes, that sign says “ATM Machine,” one of the most criminal redundancies in the history of ever. But let’s try to stay focused.

Penn Teller

Penn & Teller's star bears a comedy/tragedy mask symbol representing theater/live performance. Other categories are film, TV, music and radio.

Congrats to Penn & Teller, and you can catch Penn Jillette on “Celebrity Apprentice,” or the duo live in their record-breaking show at Rio Las Vegas. In Las Vegas. Because it would be weird to have a Rio Las Vegas in Butte, Montana.

Posted on April 5th, 2013 by sroeben  |  No Comments »