Not to worry, there have not been any reports of Martian sightings at Las Vegas’ Gold Coast Hotel and Casino since the filming of Tim Burton’s 1996 cult film “Mars Attacks!”
However, that is not to say that this property lacks excitement. Opened in 1986, the mid-sized property attracts a mix of locals and visitors alike. Favored by the older crowd due to the hotel’s quieter nature, the Gold Coast is an excellent property to stay at or visit if you’re looking for a retreat from the hustle and bustle of the Las Vegas Strip’s tourist crowds.
Having retained the feel of a Victorian-style gambling hall, the front desk and lobby have a mixture of wood paneling and brass fixtures while the central gaming floor is embellished with a domed ceiling, eight elegant chandeliers, stained glass windows and hanging flower boxes. Although referencing the past in decor, its casino is firmly positioned in the present. Packed with an array of games, the 86,000-square-foot gaming floor offers guests 49 different table games and more than 2,100 slot and video poker machines. Additionally, the Race and Sports Book boasts 30 interactive betting terminals and 38 flat-screen TVs that surround the betting area. There’s also an expansive 720-seat bingo room upstairs, where eight action-packed sessions are called daily.
But when the growling of your stomach becomes louder than the bingo caller’s announcements, you will be happy to take a dining break at one of the hotel’s on-premises restaurants. For casual dining, Ping Pang Pong (a locals’ spot for dim sum), presents an array of bona fide Chinese fare. And along the lines of the same cuisine, the Noodle Exchange is a creative noodle bar with a plentiful selection of broth, Ban Ban and stir-fried noodles for meat lovers and vegetarians alike. But if you’re in the when-I-see-it-I’ll-know-I-want-it type eating mood, the Ports O’ Call Buffet will take you on a culinary journey around the world and you will surely find whatever it is that you are looking for.
For those of you looking to get spruced up for an evening of fine dining, the Gold Coast has a traditional steakhouse that will see those plans through. Serving a wide-ranging menu including perfectly seasoned and slow-roasted prime rib, Steak Diane, Chicken Oscar and Seafood Olympia, the Cortez Room is the hotel’s golden nugget. However, if you are just looking to quickly hush those hunger pangs and get back to the action, quicker bites can be enjoyed at T.G.I. Friday’s, the chain restaurant that is open 24/7,.
The small Gold Coast Showroom, swathed in red decor, showcases a variety of acts including mystifying magic, lively music and ballroom dancing. Additionally, guests can try for a strike in the 70-lane bowling alley on the resort’s second floor. Featuring state-of-the-art equipment along with bumper bowling for kids‚Äö and adults‚Äö we will only judge a little. And for a little more activity, you can get your sweat on in the fully equipped fitness center or take a dip in the hotel’s freeform pool, and then freshen up in the old-fashioned barber shop or beauty salon.