MGM Grand Las Vegas

The property was originally the site of the Tropicana Country Club and the Golf Club Motel, both opened in the 1960s.{{cite news |title=Question of the Day |url=https://www.lasvegasadvisor.com/question/mgm-grand-acreage/ |access-date=November 12, 2023 |work=Las Vegas Advisor |date=July 31, 2022}}{{cite web|title=Golf Club Motel|url=http://vintagelasvegas.com/tagged/Golf-Club-Motel|website=Vintage Las Vegas|access-date=April 6, 2017|archive-date=April 6, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170406074619/http://vintagelasvegas.com/tagged/Golf-Club-Motel|url-status=dead}}

Tom Wiesner, a Clark County Commissioner, co-founded Southwest Securities Development Company in 1972, and later founded Wiesner Investment Company.{{cite news|last=Morrison|first=Jo Ann|title=As regent, politician, businessman, Tom Wiesner did it all for Las Vegas|url=http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2002/Jun-26-Wed-2002/news/19043170.html|work=Las Vegas Review-Journal|date=June 26, 2002|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20020629001102/http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2002/Jun-26-Wed-2002/news/19043170.html|archive-date=June 29, 2002}} In November 1973, Southwest Securities was planning the Marina Hotel. It would be next to the Golf Club, which itself would receive a renovation. The Marina was built by Wiesner Investment Company,{{cite news|last1=Knight|first1=Jennifer|last2=Guiremand|first2=Steve|last3=Kantowski|first3=Ron|last4=Neff|first4=Erin|title=Wiesner brought appealing mix of politics, pubs to LV|url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2002/jun/26/wiesner-brought-appealing-mix-of-politics-pubs-to-/|access-date=April 6, 2017|work=Las Vegas Sun|date=June 26, 2002|archive-date=April 7, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170407055417/https://lasvegassun.com/news/2002/jun/26/wiesner-brought-appealing-mix-of-politics-pubs-to-/|url-status=live}} and opened on May 1, 1975.{{cite news |title=Marina Hotel, newest resort complex, opens |url=https://reviewjournal.newsbank.com/search?text=%22Marina+Hotel%2C+newest+resort+complex%2C+opens%22&content_added=&date_from=&date_to=&pub%5B%5D=1508AFD0E83DBED6 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=May 2, 1975 |access-date=November 5, 2023 |url-access=subscription}}{{cite news |title='Love Affair' Opens with Marina Hotel |url=https://reviewjournal.newsbank.com/search?text=%22%27Love+Affair%27+Opens+with+Marina+Hotel%22&content_added=&date_from=&date_to=&pub%5B%5D=1508AFD0E83DBED6 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=May 2, 1975 |access-date=November 5, 2023 |url-access=subscription}}

The Marina was 14 stories,{{cite web |last=Heine |first=Martha |title=MGM uses precast on a grand scale |url=https://www.concreteconstruction.net/_view-object?id=00000154-1cd7-db06-a1fe-7fdf7b530000 |website=ConcreteConstruction.net |access-date=November 9, 2023 |date=1993}} and contained 714 rooms,{{cite news |title=Marina Hotel Opens in Spring |url=https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/78959854/ |work=Nevada State Journal |date=February 22, 1975 |access-date=November 5, 2023 |via=Newspapers.com |url-access=subscription}} as well as a casino, two restaurants, and an entertainment lounge. The casino portion was initially operated by Allen Glick through his company, Argent Corporation.{{cite news |title=Marina Hotel in Las Vegas Sets Opening in June |url=https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/385903019/ |work=Los Angeles Times |date=April 6, 1975 |access-date=November 5, 2023 |via=Newspapers.com |url-access=subscription}}{{cite news |title=... He's Selling Vegas Operation |url=https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/79010017/ |work=Reno Evening Gazette |agency=Associated Press |date=August 9, 1975 |access-date=November 5, 2023 |via=Newspapers.com}}{{cite news |title=Gaming commission studies Vegas casino operating sale plan |url=https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/151467675/ |work=Reno Evening Gazette |agency=Associated Press |date=October 16, 1975 |access-date=November 5, 2023 |via=Newspapers.com}} Fred Harvey Company served as operator of the hotel, its restaurants, and other areas of the property. Fred Harvey had previously opened other Marina-branded hotels in the U.S.{{cite news|title=Fred Harvey Planning Big Las Vegas Hotel|url=https://cdnc.ucr.edu/cgi-bin/cdnc?a=d&d=DS19731129.2.97|access-date=April 6, 2017|work=The Desert Sun|date=November 29, 1973|archive-date=April 7, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170407055427/https://cdnc.ucr.edu/cgi-bin/cdnc?a=d&d=DS19731129.2.97|url-status=live}} Meanwhile, the adjacent Golf Club Motel later operated as the Mariner, before being demolished in 1986 to become a parking lot for the larger Marina.{{cite news |title=Building Demolished |url=https://reviewjournal.newsbank.com/search?date_from=1986&date_to=&text=%22Building%20Demolished%22&content_added=&pub%5B0%5D=1508AFD0E83DBED6 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=July 31, 1986 |access-date=November 9, 2023 |url-access=subscription}}{{cite news |title=To Our Readers |url=https://reviewjournal.newsbank.com/search?text=%22To%20Our%20Readers%22%20%22Marina%22&date_from=1986&date_to=&content_added=&pub%5B0%5D=1508AFD0E83DBED6 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=August 1, 1986 |access-date=November 9, 2023 |url-access=subscription}}

The Marina faced financial problems in February 1987, owing $700,000 to the Internal Revenue Service.{{cite news |title=IRS can't seize casino's assets |url=https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/150440385/ |work=Reno Gazette-Journal |date=February 13, 1987 |access-date=November 5, 2023 |via=Newspapers.com |url-access=subscription}} Landlord Southwest Securities also filed a writ of attachment, seeking $393,000 in back rent from the resort's operators. The Marina filed for bankruptcy in March 1987,{{cite news |title=Marina officials to close resort after rent dispute |url=https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/149397525/ |work=Reno Gazette-Journal |date=March 28, 1987 |access-date=November 5, 2023 |via=Newspapers.com |url-access=subscription}}{{cite news |title=Vegas casino to stay open |url=https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/149280530/ |work=Reno Gazette-Journal |date=April 4, 1987 |access-date=November 5, 2023 |via=Newspapers.com |url-access=subscription}} and gaming was briefly shut down the following month, after the casino cage bankroll fell below $256,000, a minimum set by the Nevada Gaming Control Board.{{cite news |title=Action back at Vegas hotel |url=https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/149374461/ |work=Reno Gazette-Journal |date=April 9, 1987 |access-date=November 5, 2023 |via=Newspapers.com |url-access=subscription}}

In 1989, Wiesner and his partners agreed to sell the Marina to Kirk Kerkorian,{{cite book|last=Burbank|first=Jeff|title=Lost Las Vegas|date=2014|publisher=Pavilion Books|isbn=978-1-90981-503-2|pages=88–89|chapter=Holy Cow!}} through his company MGM Grand, Inc. Also purchased was the Tropicana Country Club, located behind the Marina.{{cite news |title=MGM planning $700 million movie theme park in Vegas |url=https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/149859176/ |work=Reno Gazette-Journal |date=October 4, 1989 |access-date=November 5, 2023 |via=Newspapers.com |url-access=subscription}}{{cite news |title=MGM's $130 million stock offering approved |url=https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/150101578/ |work=Reno Gazette-Journal |date=October 27, 1989 |access-date=November 5, 2023 |via=Newspapers.com |url-access=subscription}} Kerkorian announced plans to construct the MGM Grand Hotel and Theme Park on the parcels.{{cite news |title=Big New Casino For Las Vegas |url=https://www.nytimes.com/1991/07/14/travel/travel-advisory-big-new-casino-for-las-vegas.html |access-date=November 6, 2023 |work=The New York Times |date=July 14, 1991}} The project was part of ongoing efforts to make Las Vegas a family friendly tourist destination.{{cite news |last=Cohen |first=Roger |title=Trying to Give Las Vegas a G Rating |url=https://www.nytimes.com/1991/10/02/business/trying-to-give-las-vegas-a-g-rating.html |access-date=November 6, 2023 |work=The New York Times |date=October 2, 1991}} An earlier MGM Grand had been opened by Kerkorian in 1973, at the center of the Las Vegas Strip;{{cite news |last=Austin |first=Paige |title=Dropout to Billionaire--LA's 'Richest Man' Kirk Kerkorian Dies |url=https://patch.com/california/culvercity/dropout-billionaire-las-richest-man-kirk-kerkorian-dies |access-date=November 9, 2023 |work=Patch |date=June 16, 2015}}{{cite web |last=Tuttle |first=Brad |title=5 amazing facts about Kirk Kerkorian |url=https://fortune.com/2015/06/16/kirk-kerkorian-facts/ |website=Fortune |access-date=November 9, 2023 |date=June 16, 2015}} it was rebranded as Bally's in 1986.{{cite web |title=The scale gets grander with each new project |url=https://variety.com/1993/biz/news/the-scale-gets-grander-with-each-new-project-116792/ |website=Variety |access-date=November 9, 2023 |date=December 15, 1993}} The present MGM is located near the southern end of the Strip, at the Tropicana – Las Vegas Boulevard intersection.{{cite news |last=Marroquin |first=Art |title=Pedestrian bridge linking Tropicana, MGM Grand to reopen |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/local/traffic/pedestrian-bridge-linking-tropicana-mgm-grand-to-reopen/ |access-date=November 9, 2023 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=June 26, 2017}}

Kerkorian's $80 million purchase of the Marina was completed in January 1990.{{cite news |title=MGM Buys Marina Hotel and Casino |url=https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/930449118/ |work=Thousand Oaks Star |date=January 5, 1990 |access-date=November 9, 2023 |via=Newspapers.com |url-access=subscription}} The hotel structure was remodeled and briefly operated as the MGM Marina.{{cite news |title='First Lady of Magic' opens at the MGM Marina |url=https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/118428491/ |work=Arizona Republic |date=February 11, 1990 |access-date=November 9, 2023 |via=Newspapers.com |url-access=subscription}}{{cite news |title=Lion back at MGM Marina |url=https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/122377756/ |work=Arizona Republic |date=May 6, 1990 |access-date=November 9, 2023 |via=Newspapers.com |url-access=subscription}} The Tropicana Country Club closed later that year, followed by the MGM Marina on November 30, 1990, both making way for the MGM Grand.{{cite news |title=Las Vegas' Marina closes |url=https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/151128392/ |work=Reno Gazette-Journal |date=December 1, 1990 |access-date=November 9, 2023 |via=Newspapers.com |url-access=subscription}}{{cite news |last=Krane |first=Elliot |title=Marina makes way for MGM Grand |url=https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/922583777/ |work=The Press of Atlantic City |date=December 9, 1990 |access-date=November 9, 2023 |via=Newspapers.com |url-access=subscription}} The Marina was incorporated into the MGM, becoming its West Wing.{{cite news |title=Question of the Day |url=http://www.lasvegasadvisor.com/qofday.cfm |work=Las Vegas Advisor |date=February 9, 2007 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070210000613/http://www.lasvegasadvisor.com/qofday.cfm |archive-date=February 10, 2007}}{{cite web |title=Marina Hotel was Never Imploded |url=http://www.vegastodayandtomorrow.com/marina.htm |website=Vegas Today and Tomorrow |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070210000613/http://www.vegastodayandtomorrow.com/marina.htm |archive-date=February 10, 2007}}

A groundbreaking ceremony for the MGM Grand, heavily inspired by the resort's Wizard of Oz theme, was held on October 7, 1991.{{cite news |last=Citron |first=Alan |title=MGM Grand: Will It Shift Vegas From Slots to Tots? |url=https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1991-10-07-fi-286-story.html |access-date=November 6, 2023 |work=Los Angeles Times |date=October 7, 1991}}{{cite news |last=Citron |first=Alan |title=Kerkorian Launches Las Vegas Mega-Resort |url=https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1991-10-08-fi-94-story.html |access-date=November 6, 2023 |work=Los Angeles Times |date=October 8, 1991}} A topping off ceremony followed on February 23, 1993.{{cite news |title=Ceremony marks MGM progress |url=https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/152161552/ |work=Reno Gazette-Journal |date=February 24, 1993 |access-date=November 9, 2023 |via=Newspapers.com |url-access=subscription}}{{cite news |title=Opening scheduled |url=https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/923086171/ |work=The Press of Atlantic City |date=March 7, 1993 |access-date=November 9, 2023 |via=Newspapers.com |url-access=subscription}} Casino executive Clifford S. Perlman was named to oversee the resort and theme park,{{cite news |last=Furlong |first=Tom |title=Perlman to Run MGM's Las Vegas Park |url=https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1989-12-08-fi-231-story.html |access-date=November 5, 2023 |work=Los Angeles Times |date=December 8, 1989}} the latter known as MGM Grand Adventures. The MGM Grand and its theme park occupied {{convert|112|acres|abbr=on}},{{cite news |title=MGM Grand Roars Into Las Vegas With New Hotel and Casino |url=https://www.mcall.com/1993/12/12/mgm-grand-roars-into-las-vegas-with-new-hotel-and-casino/ |access-date=November 9, 2023 |work=The Morning Call |date=December 12, 1993}} and cost a total of $1 billion to build.

File:20080404-Vegas-MGMGrand-Day.jpg

The MGM Grand opened to the public on the morning of December 18, 1993, following a private VIP party for 3,000 guests the night before.{{cite news |title=World's Largest Hotel Opens in Las Vegas |url=https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1993-12-19-mn-3597-story.html |access-date=November 6, 2023 |work=Los Angeles Times |agency=Associated Press |date=December 19, 1993}} The opening came three months earlier than initially planned, as construction proceeded ahead of schedule.{{cite news |title=MGM Grand Hotel moves up opening date |url=https://www.upi.com/Archives/1993/07/29/MGM-Grand-Hotel-moves-up-opening-date/9145743918400/ |access-date=November 6, 2023 |work=UPI |date=July 29, 1993}}{{cite news |last=Petruno |first=Tom |title=Las Vegas Betting on New Family-Oriented Image |url=https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1993-08-23-fi-27104-story.html |access-date=November 6, 2023 |work=Los Angeles Times |date=August 23, 1993}} The MGM employed 8,000 people. A 251-foot-high sign was added along the Strip shortly after the resort's opening, and was among the biggest signs in Las Vegas.{{cite news |title=Dueling Signs |url=https://reviewjournal.newsbank.com/search?text=%22Dueling%20signs%22&content_added=&date_from=&date_to=&pub%5B0%5D=1508AFD0E83DBED6 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=January 30, 1994 |access-date=November 11, 2023 |url-access=subscription}} A monorail opened in 1995, connecting the MGM Grand with Bally's. It served as a forerunner to the Las Vegas Monorail.{{cite news |title=New monorail project said hint of future transportation |url=https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/477267005/ |work=Elko Daily Free Press |agency=Associated Press |date=February 17, 1995 |access-date=November 9, 2023 |via=Newspapers.com |url-access=subscription}}{{cite news |title=Casinos link up to launch Las Vegas monorail service |url=https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/153310801/ |work=Reno Gazette-Journal |date=June 15, 1995 |access-date=November 9, 2023 |via=Newspapers.com |url-access=subscription}}{{cite news |last=Hawley |first=Tom |title=Video Vault {{!}} All aboard the original Las Vegas monorail |url=https://news3lv.com/news/local/video-vault-all-aboard-the-original-las-vegas-monorail |access-date=November 9, 2023 |work=KSNV |date=November 4, 2020}} In 1996, the MGM Grand received a four-star rating from Mobil Travel Guide.{{cite news |title=Three hotels rate four stars |url=https://reviewjournal.newsbank.com/search?text=%22Three%20hotels%20rate%20four%20stars%22&content_added=&date_from=&date_to=&pub%5B0%5D=1508AFD0E83DBED6 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=January 29, 1996 |access-date=November 9, 2023 |url-access=subscription}}

Rapper Tupac Shakur visited the MGM shortly before his murder in 1996. He attended the Bruce Seldon vs. Mike Tyson boxing match at the resort, and subsequently got into a fight with gang member Orlando Anderson in the hotel lobby, before being shot later that night just off the Strip.{{cite news |title=Troubled Rapper Is Injured Again in Shooting Near Las Vegas Strip |url=https://www.nytimes.com/1996/09/09/us/troubled-rapper-is-injured-again-in-shooting-near-las-vegas-strip.html |access-date=November 7, 2023 |work=The New York Times |date=September 9, 1996}}{{cite news |last1=Leeds |first1=Jeff |last2=Philips |first2=Chuck |title=Man found who fought with Shakur |url=https://www.latimes.com/local/la-tupacorlando1may3196-story.html |access-date=November 7, 2023 |work=Los Angeles Times |date=October 4, 1996}}{{cite news |last=Scott |first=Cathy |title=The death of Tupac Shakur one year later |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/1997/sep/06/the-death-of-tupac-shakur-one-year-later/ |access-date=November 7, 2023 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=September 6, 1997}}

In mid-1996, MGM Grand, Inc. began a 30-month, four-phase renovation of the resort.{{cite web |last=Thompson |first=Gary |title=MGM will spend $250 mil. on new look |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/1996/may/06/mgm-will-spend-250-mil-on-new-look/ |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=May 6, 1996 |access-date=January 21, 2019 |archive-date=January 22, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190122044447/https://lasvegassun.com/news/1996/may/06/mgm-will-spend-250-mil-on-new-look/ |url-status=live }}{{cite web |last=Thompson |first=Gary |title=Monster MGM plan detailed |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/1996/may/07/monster-mgm-plan-detailed/ |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=May 7, 1996 |access-date=January 21, 2019 |archive-date=January 22, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190122044239/https://lasvegassun.com/news/1996/may/07/monster-mgm-plan-detailed/ |url-status=live }} Terrence Lanni, the chairman of MGM Grand, Inc., said he wanted customers to "feel like guests coming to a premiere of one of the world's greatest movies. When we're completed, every aspect of this property will bespeak entertainment." Much of the Wizard of Oz theming was removed during the renovation, and revenue improved substantially. As the resort marked its 10th anniversary, additional renovation work was underway to help it compete against the nearby Mandalay Bay.{{cite news |last=Jones |first=Chris |title=Makeover part of Grand ambition |url=http://www.reviewjournal.com/lvrj_home/2004/Mar-11-Thu-2004/business/23387555.html |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=March 11, 2004 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20040406154744/http://www.reviewjournal.com/lvrj_home/2004/Mar-11-Thu-2004/business/23387555.html |archive-date=April 6, 2004}} A $160 million hotel renovation took place from 2011 to 2012, marking the first makeover for the rooms in more than a decade.{{cite news |last=Goldberg |first=Delen |title=MGM Grand begins $160 million hotel renovation |url=http://www.vegasinc.com/news/2011/oct/11/mgm-plans-160-million-hotel-renovation/ |access-date=November 9, 2023 |work=VegasInc |date=October 11, 2011}}{{cite news |last=Sylvester |first=Ron |title=MGM designer provides a glimpse of how Las Vegas resorts plan room renovations |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2012/mar/26/mgm-designer-provides-glimpse-how-las-vegas-resort/ |access-date=November 9, 2023 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=March 26, 2012}}{{cite news |last=Sylvester |first=Ron |title=MGM Grand unveils $160 million room renovation in Las Vegas |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2012/sep/27/mgm-grand-unveils-160-million-room-renovation-las-/ |access-date=November 9, 2023 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=September 27, 2012}} The West Wing was renamed the Studio Tower in 2022, following renovations.{{cite news |title=MGM Grand Las Vegas launches room remodeling with 'retro desert' design |url=https://news3lv.com/news/local/mgm-grand-las-vegas-launches-room-remodeling-with-retro-desert-design |access-date=November 9, 2023 |work=KSNV |date=September 16, 2022}}

In January 2020, MGM Resorts announced that it would sell the resort to a joint venture consisting of MGM Growth Properties and The Blackstone Group. MGM Growth would own 50.1 percent of the joint venture, and Blackstone would own the remainder. The MGM Grand would be leased to MGM Resorts, which would continue to operate the resort.{{cite web |last1=Sayre |first1=Katherine |last2=Gottfried |first2=Miriam |last3=Lombardo |first3=Cara |title=MGM Resorts Agrees to Sell MGM Grand, Mandalay Bay to Joint Venture Including Blackstone |url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/mgm-resorts-nears-deal-to-sell-mgm-grand-mandalay-bay-to-joint-venture-including-blackstone-11579006815 |website=The Wall Street Journal |access-date=January 14, 2020 |date=January 14, 2020 |archive-date=August 18, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210818123848/https://www.wsj.com/articles/mgm-resorts-nears-deal-to-sell-mgm-grand-mandalay-bay-to-joint-venture-including-blackstone-11579006815 |url-status=live }}{{cite news |title=MGM Resorts selling MGM Grand, Mandalay Bay for about $2.5B |url=https://vegasinc.lasvegassun.com/business/gaming/2020/jan/14/mgm-resorts-selling-mgm-grand-mandalay-bay-for-abo/ |access-date=January 14, 2020 |agency=Associated Press |date=January 14, 2020 |archive-date=August 18, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210818123849/https://vegasinc.lasvegassun.com/business/gaming/2020/jan/14/mgm-resorts-selling-mgm-grand-mandalay-bay-for-abo/ |url-status=live }} The deal was finalized a month later.{{cite news |last=Velotta |first=Richard N. |title=MGM's REIT anticipates more growth after Mandalay, MGM Grand deals |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/casinos-gaming/mgms-reit-anticipates-more-growth-after-mandalay-mgm-grand-deals-1957694/ |access-date=March 11, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=February 14, 2020 |archive-date=February 15, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200215185210/https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/casinos-gaming/mgms-reit-anticipates-more-growth-after-mandalay-mgm-grand-deals-1957694/ |url-status=live }} Vici Properties bought MGM Growth in April 2022, and then bought out Blackstone's stake in the MGM Grand in January 2023.{{cite news |last=Segall |first=Eli |title=Casino landlord Vici closes $17B buyout of MGM Resorts spinoff |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/casinos-gaming/casino-landlord-vici-closes-17b-buyout-of-mgm-resorts-spinoff-2570429/ |access-date=August 30, 2022 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=May 2, 2022 |archive-date=August 24, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220824074248/https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/casinos-gaming/casino-landlord-vici-closes-17b-buyout-of-mgm-resorts-spinoff-2570429/ |url-status=live }}{{cite news|title=Casino landlord closes buyout of MGM Grand, Mandalay Bay|work=Las Vegas Review-Journal|author=Eli Segall|date=January 9, 2023|url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/casinos-gaming/casino-landlord-closes-buyout-of-mgm-grand-mandalay-bay-2709131/|accessdate=2023-01-11|archive-date=2023-01-10|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230110080111/https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/casinos-gaming/casino-landlord-closes-buyout-of-mgm-grand-mandalay-bay-2709131/|url-status=live}}

File:MGM Grand (7979963072).jpg

Veldon Simpson was the MGM's architect,{{cite news |title=Veldon Simpson to design MGM |url=https://reviewjournal.newsbank.com/search?text=%22Veldon%20Simpson%20to%20design%20MGM%22&content_added=&date_from=&date_to=&pub%5B0%5D=1508AFD0E83DBED6 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=October 28, 1990 |access-date=November 5, 2023 |url-access=subscription}} while the original interior design was handled by Henry Conversano & Associates, and Miller & Jedrziewski Associates.{{cite news |title=Conversano to design MGM hotel interiors |url=https://reviewjournal.newsbank.com/search?text=%22Conversano%20to%20design%20MGM%20hotel%20interiors%22&content_added=&date_from=&date_to=&pub%5B0%5D=1508AFD0E83DBED6 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=June 8, 1990 |access-date=November 5, 2023 |url-access=subscription}}

The MGM contains 5,044 rooms; its hotel towers rise up to 30 stories,{{cite web |title=MGM Grand fact sheet |url=https://newsroom.mgmresorts.com/mgm-grand-fact-sheet.htm |website=MGM Resorts International |access-date=November 9, 2023}} while the original western wing remains a 14-story structure. The MGM originally opened with 5,005 rooms;{{cite web |last=Cunningham |first=Todd |title=Let it roar! |url=https://variety.com/1993/biz/news/let-it-roar-116796/ |website=Variety |access-date=November 11, 2023 |date=December 15, 1993}} by room count, this made it the largest hotel in the world, beating the Rossiya Hotel in Russia.{{cite news |title=Las Vegas beckons to families, seniors |url=https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/182618460/ |work=Courier-Post |date=November 19, 1989 |access-date=November 7, 2023 |via=Newspapers.com |url-access=subscription}}{{cite news |title=Las Vegas adding 30,000 hotel rooms |url=https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/463883672/ |work=The Ottawa Citizen |date=November 25, 1989 |access-date=November 7, 2023 |via=Newspapers.com |url-access=subscription}}{{cite news |title=Travel Tidbits |url=https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/440682124/ |work=The Boston Globr |date=September 5, 1993 |access-date=November 7, 2023 |via=Newspapers.com |url-access=subscription}} It remains the largest hotel in the U.S.{{cite news |last=Velotta |first=Richard N. |title=MGM Grand celebrates 25 years on Las Vegas Strip |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/casinos-gaming/mgm-grand-celebrates-25-years-on-las-vegas-strip-photos-1553932/ |access-date=November 9, 2023 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=December 18, 2018}}

Upon opening, the resort also included the world's largest casino, measuring {{convert|171500|sqft|abbr=on}}. It featured 3,500 slot machines and 165 table games. The casino floor was divided into four themed areas, including the Emerald City Casino, themed after the eponymous fictional locale in The Wizard of Oz. This area featured costumed performers and animatronics depicting characters from the film. The entry featured a seven-story dome with a ceiling that switched between day and night; and a 15-minute magic show known as The Wizard's Secret, which incorporated a hydraulic moving floor.{{cite news |last=Flemmons |first=Jerry |title=Las Vegas Is Fired Up |url=https://www.tampabay.com/archive/1994/03/06/las-vegas-is-fired-up-families-are-a-big-priority/ |access-date=November 10, 2023 |work=Tampa Bay Times |date=March 6, 1994}} Other themed gaming areas included the Hollywood Casino, featuring a Hollywood movie theme; the Monte Carlo Casino, focused on high rollers; and the Sports Casino, which included the property's sportsbook.

File:MGM Grand Hotel & Casino (4134759436).jpg

Hotel rooms were also divided into themes, including Casablanca, Hollywood, and southern American. The Wizard of Oz served as the primary hotel theme.{{cite news |last=Drucker |first=Stephen |title=Las Vegas, Theme City |url=https://www.nytimes.com/1994/02/13/travel/las-vegas-theme-city.html |access-date=November 6, 2023 |work=The New York Times |date=February 13, 1994}} The hotel's exterior consists of green glass panels, originally meant to evoke Emerald City.{{cite web |title=Neon Survey |url=https://gaming.unlv.edu/v_museum/neon_survey/surveys/mgm_grand.html |website=University of Nevada, Las Vegas |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210617233621/https://gaming.unlv.edu/v_museum/neon_survey/surveys/mgm_grand.html |archive-date=June 17, 2021}} Blair Kamin, architecture critic for the Chicago Tribune, considered the movie and Wizard of Oz themes poorly integrated, and wrote that the resort exterior "resembles a bland suburban office building with a cartoonish lion's face stuck on the front." Kamin also was critical of the property's size, calling it "so overwhelming and, occasionally, so confusing, that they hand out a map of the hotel-casino at the front door."{{cite news |last=Kamin |first=Blair |title=Three Attempts to Marry Form and Feeling |url=https://www.chicagotribune.com/news/ct-xpm-1994-05-15-9405150344-story.html |access-date=November 6, 2023 |work=Chicago Tribune |date=May 14, 1994}}

The casino opened with 50 Lion's Share slot machines, offering a jackpot of more than $2 million. Only one of the machines remained after several years, gaining a cult following among gamblers.{{cite news |last=Leach |first=Robin |title=The legend and cult of the $2.345 million Lion's Share slot machine at MGM Grand |url=http://www.lasvegassun.com/vegasdeluxe/2014/feb/19/cult-2345-million-lion-slot-machine-payoff-mgm-gra |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=February 19, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141018183844/http://www.lasvegassun.com/vegasdeluxe/2014/feb/19/cult-2345-million-lion-slot-machine-payoff-mgm-gra |archive-date=October 18, 2014}}{{cite news |last=Copeland |first=Rob |title=Vegas Gamblers Keep Vigil on Aging Slot Machine They Expect to Pay Off Millions |url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/SB10001424052702303973704579354830486470944 |access-date=November 9, 2023 |work=The Wall Street Journal |date=February 7, 2014}} It was the most popular slot machine at the casino. A New Hampshire couple eventually won the jackpot in 2014,{{cite news |last=Leach |first=Robin |title=After 20 years, 'Lion's Share' slot machine at MGM Grand pays out $2.4 million jackpot |url=http://www.lasvegassun.com/vegasdeluxe/2014/aug/23/after-20-years-lions-share-slot-machine-mgm-grand-/ |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=August 23, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141012123012/http://www.lasvegassun.com/vegasdeluxe/2014/aug/23/after-20-years-lions-share-slot-machine-mgm-grand-/ |archive-date=October 12, 2014}}{{cite news |title=Couple Wins $2.4M in MGM Grand Casino's Famous 'Lion's Share' Slot Machine |url=https://abcnews.go.com/GMA/video/couple-wins-24m-mgm-grand-casinos-famous-lions-25101531 |access-date=November 9, 2023 |work=ABC News |date=August 24, 2014}} after which the machine was retired.{{cite news |title=US couple win slot machine's $2.4m jackpot after 20 years of waiting |url=https://www.theguardian.com/world/2014/aug/24/us-couple-win-las-vegas-lions-share-slot-machine-jackpot |access-date=November 9, 2023 |work=The Guardian |date=August 24, 2014}}

In 2000, the hotel launched a satellite registration and reservations desk at McCarran International Airport. It was the first Las Vegas resort, along with New York-New York across the street, to offer such a feature.{{cite news |last=Smith |first=Hubble |title=Landing Party: MGM Grand opens satellite check-in desk at airport |url=http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Apr-29-Sat-2000/business/13470001.html |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=April 29, 2000 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20000823214918/http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Apr-29-Sat-2000/business/13470001.html |archive-date=August 23, 2000}}

File:MGM - Villa Entry - 2008-10-03.jpg

The Mansion, a secluded area of private suites and villas reserved for high rollers, opened in May 1999.{{cite news |last=Berns |first=Dave |title=MGM reveals some Grand new plans |url=http://www.lvrj.com:80/lvrj_home/1997/Jun-04-Wed-1997/business/5490591.html |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=June 4, 1997 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/19970719163536/http://www.lvrj.com:80/lvrj_home/1997/Jun-04-Wed-1997/business/5490591.html |archive-date=July 19, 1997}}{{cite news |last=Whaley |first=Sean |title=April gaming win puzzles analysts |url=http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/1999/Jun-11-Fri-1999/business/11352249.html |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=June 11, 1999 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20001009070822/http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/1999/Jun-11-Fri-1999/business/11352249.html |archive-date=October 9, 2000}}{{cite news |last=Whitely |first=Joan |title=Sweet Treat: Flavor of Home |url=http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2002/Jun-19-Wed-2002/living/18962925.html |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=June 21, 2002 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20021022005314/http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2002/Jun-19-Wed-2002/living/18962925.html |archive-date=October 22, 2002}} It was inspired by Tuscany architecture.{{cite news |last=Weatherford |first=Mike |title=Changing Face |url=http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/1997/Jul-06-Sun-1997/news/5668716.html |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=July 6, 1997 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20000903070715/http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/1997/Jul-06-Sun-1997/news/5668716.html |archive-date=September 3, 2000}} The Mansion's villas and dining were opened to the public two years later.{{cite news |last=Clarke |first=Norm |title=Secrecy surrounding The Mansion being lifted |url=http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/May-20-Sun-2001/news/16140931.html |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=May 20, 2001 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20020106071950/http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/May-20-Sun-2001/news/16140931.html |archive-date=January 6, 2002}}

In 2001, the MGM Grand led an effort to legalize private casinos, which are closed off to the general public. The Nevada Legislature agreed to change state law, allowing the operation of private gaming salons for players with at least $500,000 to spend and willing to bet $500 minimums.{{cite news |last=Morrison |first=Jane Ann |title=Double downer: High rollers pass on 'gaming salons' after slap to public |url=http://www.reviewjournal.com/lvrj_home/2004/Aug-26-Thu-2004/news/24625478.html |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=August 26, 2004 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20050101103927/http://www.reviewjournal.com/lvrj_home/2004/Aug-26-Thu-2004/news/24625478.html |archive-date=January 1, 2005}}{{cite news |last=Simpson |first=Jeff |title=Control Board OKs MGM Grand's salon |url=http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2002/Jul-11-Thu-2002/business/19163801.html |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=July 11, 2002 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20020812105420/http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2002/Jul-11-Thu-2002/business/19163801.html |archive-date=August 12, 2002}} In August 2002, the MGM Grand became the first Nevada casino to offer a private gaming salon.{{cite news |last=Simpson |first=Jeff |title=Plenty of good seats are available |url=http://www.reviewjournal.com/lvrj_home/2004/Jan-06-Tue-2004/business/22934584.html |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=January 6, 2004 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20040815112141/http://www.reviewjournal.com/lvrj_home/2004/Jan-06-Tue-2004/business/22934584.html |archive-date=August 15, 2004}} However, demand for such a feature turned out to be extremely low.{{cite news |last=Simpson |first=Jeff |title=High roller salons post low action |url=http://www.reviewjournal.com/lvrj_home/2003/Jul-29-Tue-2003/business/21828634.html |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=July 29, 2003 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20050129085346/http://www.reviewjournal.com/lvrj_home/2003/Jul-29-Tue-2003/business/21828634.html |archive-date=January 29, 2005}}

In 2005, the hotel unveiled its Skylofts at MGM Grand, consisting of 51 units occupying the top two floors. The units were designed by Tony Chi to resemble urban apartments and are meant for wealthy guests.{{cite news |last=Padgett |first=Sonya |title=New Twist: Sky's the Limit |url=http://www.reviewjournal.com/lvrj_home/2005/Mar-03-Thu-2005/living/25911560.html |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=March 3, 2005 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20051201012133/http://www.reviewjournal.com/lvrj_home/2005/Mar-03-Thu-2005/living/25911560.html |archive-date=December 1, 2005}}{{cite web |title=Skylofts at MGM Grand |url=http://www.forbestravelguide.com/las-vegas-nevada/hotels/skylofts-at-mgm-grand |website=Forbes Travel Guide |access-date=November 8, 2023}} A trio of condo hotel towers, known as The Signature at MGM Grand, began opening in 2006.{{cite news |last=Smith |first=Hubble |title=Broker: Rooms are still needed |url=http://www.reviewjournal.com/lvrj_home/2006/Jun-06-Tue-2006/business/7797251.html |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=June 6, 2006 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070608102415/http://www.reviewjournal.com/lvrj_home/2006/Jun-06-Tue-2006/business/7797251.html |archive-date=June 8, 2007}}{{cite web |title=July Opening of The Signature at MGM Grand's Tower 3 Marks Completion of Las Vegas' First Condo Hotel Project |url=http://www.mgmgrand.com/press_room/press_room_releases_template.aspx?ID=173 |website=MGM |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071123205227/http://www.mgmgrand.com/press_room/press_room_releases_template.aspx?ID=173 |archive-date=November 23, 2007 |date=2007}}

File:Las Vegas. MGM Grand Las Vegas.jpg resort across the street.]]

The MGM's original facade along the Strip consisted of a giant lion head, made of fiberglass and blocky in appearance,{{cite web |title=It's the end of the lion at MGM - at least for a while |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/1997/may/14/its-the-end-of-the-lion-at-mgm----at-least-for-a-w/ |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=May 14, 1997 |access-date=January 21, 2019 |archive-date=January 22, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190122044130/https://lasvegassun.com/news/1997/may/14/its-the-end-of-the-lion-at-mgm----at-least-for-a-w/ |url-status=live }} with visitors entering beneath the lion's closed mouth.{{cite news |last=Yenckel |first=James T. |title=Las Vegas |url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/archive/lifestyle/travel/1994/09/04/las-vegas/df6a6a9a-7cf0-40f3-a923-9a8481d3b93c/ |access-date=November 7, 2023 |newspaper=The Washington Post |date=September 4, 1994}}{{cite web |last=Levitan |first=Corey |title=Vegas Myths Re-Busted: Guests Once Entered MGM Grand Through the Gold Lion's Mouth |url=https://www.casino.org/news/vegas-myths-busted-guests-once-entered-the-mgm-grand-through-the-mouth-of-its-gold-lion/ |website=Casino.org |access-date=November 13, 2023 |date=October 12, 2023}} Measuring 88 feet in height, the lion was a cartoon-like version of MGM's logo, Leo the Lion. Because of its design, Asian gamblers reportedly perceived the facade as if they were entering through the lion's mouth, which is considered bad luck in Chinese culture.{{Cite web |last=Friess |first=Steve |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2007/02/21/us/21vegas.html |title=Las Vegas Adapts to Reap Chinese New Year Bounty |access-date=2019-11-29 |archive-date=2020-11-11 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201111195836/https://www.nytimes.com/2007/02/21/us/21vegas.html |url-status=live |work=The New York Times |date=February 21, 2007}}{{Cite web |last=Potempa |first=Philip |url=https://www.nwitimes.com/entertainment/columnists/offbeat/offbeat-las-vegas-mgm-grand-hotel-and-casino-losing-trademark/article_4465b977-33b6-5607-9a2d-29c63cbd5d5b.html |title=Las Vegas MGM Grand Hotel and Casino losing trademark 'live' lions |access-date=2019-11-29 |archive-date=2020-09-22 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200922112220/https://www.nwitimes.com/entertainment/columnists/offbeat/offbeat-las-vegas-mgm-grand-hotel-and-casino-losing-trademark/article_4465b977-33b6-5607-9a2d-29c63cbd5d5b.html |url-status=live }} As a result, plans were announced in May 1996 to remove the lion entrance. Demolition began on May 13, 1997, and was expected to take two weeks, with a new $40 million facade taking its place.{{cite news |last=Berns |first=Dave |title=The Grand Plan: MGM replacing lion during $250 million renovation |url=http://www.lvrj.com:80/lvrj_home/1997/May-14-Wed-1997/business/5373010.html |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=May 14, 1997 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/19970719214232/http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/1997/May-14-Wed-1997/business/5373010.html |archive-date=1997-07-19 |access-date=2019-02-21 |url-status=live }}

File:Golden Lion - panoramio.jpg

The new facade consists of a lion statue. It weighs 50 tons, and at {{convert|45|ft|m}} tall, on a 25-foot pedestal,{{cite news |title=Big foot spotted at MGM |url=http://www.lvrj.com:80/lvrj_home/1997/Dec-12-Fri-1997/news/6590522.html |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=December 12, 1997 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20000918224851/http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/1997/Dec-12-Fri-1997/news/6590522.html |archive-date=2000-09-18 |access-date=2019-02-21 |url-status=live }} is the largest bronze statue in the U.S.{{cite web|title=MGM Grand Fact Sheet|url=http://www.mgmgrand.com/press_room/press_room_releases_template.aspx?ID=49|publisher=MGM Resorts International|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20061017122526/http://www.mgmgrand.com/press_room/press_room_releases_template.aspx?ID=49|archive-date=17 October 2006|access-date=13 November 2015}} It was designed by Snellen Johnson,{{cite news |title=Creator of MGM Grand's lion, Johnson dies at 62 |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2001/mar/22/creator-of-mgm-grands-lion-johnson-dies-at-62/ |access-date=November 7, 2023 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=March 22, 2001}}{{cite news |title=MGM Lion changed lives, Strip |url=https://reviewjournal.newsbank.com/search?text=%22MGM%20Lion%20changed%20lives%2C%20Strip%22&content_added=&date_from=&date_to=&pub%5B0%5D=LVBPL |work=Las Vegas Business Press |date=August 3, 2001 |access-date=November 7, 2023 |url-access=subscription}} and created through his Arizona company American Art. Johnson initially worked with a team of 11 people to sculpt a foam mold, which would be used to create the statue.{{cite news |title=Lion of the desert |url=http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/1997/Jul-25-Fri-1997/photos/mgmlion.html |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=July 25, 1997 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/19991013185306/http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/1997/Jul-25-Fri-1997/photos/mgmlion.html |archive-date=October 13, 1999}}{{cite news |title=Enormous lion taking shape under Arizona's night sky |url=http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/1997/Jul-25-Fri-1997/news/5768160.html |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |agency=Associated Press |date=July 25, 1997 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/19991010073438/http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/1997/Jul-25-Fri-1997/news/5768160.html |archive-date=October 10, 1999}}

In November 1997, the property installed 18 promotional and entertainment LED screens, including 15 outside the resort.{{cite news |last=Smith |first=Hubble |title=MGM Grand gets signs of the times |url=http://www.lvrj.com:80/lvrj_home/1997/Nov-24-Mon-1997/business/6469635.html |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=November 24, 1997 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20000917184125/http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/1997/Nov-24-Mon-1997/business/6469635.html |archive-date=2000-09-17 |access-date=2019-02-21 |url-status=live }} Installation of the statue was underway a month later, with the addition of a 5,000-pound paw. The new facade also includes 11 statues of winged Atlas-like men holding 16-foot diameter bowls. The statues were made of bronze-finished fiberglass and accompany the lion statue,{{cite news |last=Smith |first=Hubble |title=Brawn and bronze appearing at MGM |url=http://www.lvrj.com:80/lvrj_home/1998/Jan-08-Thu-1998/business/6730794.html |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=January 8, 1998 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20021129022254/http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/1998/Jan-08-Thu-1998/business/6730794.html |archive-date=2002-11-29 |access-date=2019-02-21 |url-status=live }} along with water fountains and the LED screens. Work on the statue and accompanying fountains was expected to conclude in February 1998.{{cite news |last=Berns |first=Dave |title=MGM Grand lion nearing completion |url=http://www.lvrj.com:80/lvrj_home/1998/Feb-02-Mon-1998/business/6871684.html |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=February 2, 1998 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20000529132131/http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/1998/Feb-02-Mon-1998/business/6871684.html |archive-date=2000-05-29 |access-date=2019-02-21 |url-status=live }}

{{clear}}

{{see also|List of restaurants in the Las Vegas Valley}}

File:MGM Grand Buffet Entrance.jpg

The MGM Grand opened with eight restaurants,{{cite news |last=Reynolds |first=Christopher |title=Bold New Las Vegas Hotels Make for Strange Skyline |url=https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1993-10-17-tr-46805-story.html |access-date=November 6, 2023 |work=Los Angeles Times |date=October 17, 1993}} including the 1,000-seat Oz Buffet, the 750-seat movie-themed Studio Cafe, and a restaurant by chef Wolfgang Puck.{{cite news |last=Reynolds |first=Christopher |title=Inside the New Las Vegas |url=https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1994-02-20-tr-25006-story.html |access-date=November 6, 2023 |work=Los Angeles Times |date=February 20, 1994}} The property also featured a food court with seven additional eateries.{{cite news |last=Jacobson |first=Max |title=Top hotels boast some of the area's top food courts |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2003/jul/16/top-hotels-boast-some-of-the-areas-top-food-courts/ |access-date=November 7, 2023 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=July 16, 2003}} Emeril's New Orleans Fish House opened in 1995, marking the first Las Vegas restaurant for chef Emeril Lagasse.{{cite news |last=Radke |first=Brock |title=It's time to revisit the refreshed Emeril's New Orleans Fish House |url=https://lasvegasweekly.com/dining/reviews/2014/nov/05/its-time-revisit-refreshed-emerils-new-orleans-fis/ |access-date=November 10, 2023 |work=Las Vegas Weekly |date=November 5, 2014}}{{cite news |last=King |first=Nina |title=Emeril's New Orleans Fish House in Las Vegas celebrates 25 years |url=https://lasvegasmagazine.com/dining/2020/nov/02/emerils-new-orleans-fish-house-mgm-grand-25-years/ |access-date=November 10, 2023 |work=Las Vegas Magazine |date=November 2, 2020}} A Rainforest Cafe opened at the resort in 1997,{{cite news |last=Paskevich |first=Michael |title=Food First: Rainforest Cafe a themed eatery that focuses on quality of menu |url=https://reviewjournal.newsbank.com/search?text=%22Food%20First%3A%20Rainforest%20Cafe%20a%20themed%20eatery%20that%20focuses%20on%20quality%20of%20menu%22&content_added=&date_from=&date_to=&pub%5B0%5D=LVRB |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=January 2, 1998 |access-date=November 7, 2023 |url-access=subscription}} and operated until 2015.{{cite web |last=Stapleton |first=Susan |title=Rainforest Cafe Turns Off The Animatronics at MGM Grand |url=https://vegas.eater.com/2015/8/24/9200583/las-vegas-restaurants-rainforest-cafe-the-shutter-mgm-grand |website=Eater |access-date=November 7, 2023 |date=August 24, 2015}}

The MGM added several new restaurants in the early 2000s,{{cite news |last=Berns |first=Dave |title=Nevadan at Work: Gamal Aziz - President and chief operating officer of MGM Grand |url=http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/Aug-05-Sun-2001/business/16680143.html |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=August 5, 2001 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20011224084204/http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/Aug-05-Sun-2001/business/16680143.html |archive-date=December 24, 2001}} including Craftsteak by chef Tom Colicchio,{{cite news |last=Scherzer |first=Barbara |title=MGM Grand celebrates first decade |url=http://www.lvbusinesspress.com:80/articles/2003/12/26/news/news01.txt |access-date=November 7, 2023 |work=Las Vegas Business Press |date=December 26, 2003 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20040218205735/http://www.lvbusinesspress.com:80/articles/2003/12/26/news/news01.txt |archive-date=February 18, 2004}} and Nob Hill by chef Michael Mina.{{cite news |last=White |first=Ken |title=Nob Hill offers Las Vegans flavors of San Francisco |url=http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/Jul-25-Wed-2001/living/16560612.html |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=July 25, 2001 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20011214154905/http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/Jul-25-Wed-2001/living/16560612.html |archive-date=December 14, 2001}} Also added was a Chinese restaurant known as Pearl,{{cite news |last=White |first=Ken |title=Pearl reinvents Chinese-inspired dishes at MGM Grand |url=http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2002/Feb-06-Wed-2002/living/17982364.html |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=February 6, 2002 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20020924221601/http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2002/Feb-06-Wed-2002/living/17982364.html |archive-date=September 24, 2002}} and the Italian restaurant Fiamma Trattoria, the latter by chefs Michael White and Anthony Amoroso.{{cite news |last=Stevens |first=Muriel |title=Las Vegas version of Fiamma an eye-popper |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2003/aug/29/columnist-muriel-stevens-las-vegas-version-of-fiam/ |access-date=November 10, 2023 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=August 29, 2003}} Pearl was replaced in 2018 by China Tang, which closed two years later.{{cite web |last=Stapleton |first=Susan |title=China Tang Delivers Cantonese Fare |url=https://vegas.eater.com/2018/1/26/16936346/china-tang-cantonese-food-las-vegas |website=Eater |access-date=November 10, 2023 |date=January 26, 2018}}{{cite news |last=Radke |first=Brock |title=China Tang reinvents the fancy Chinese casino restaurant |url=https://lasvegasweekly.com/dining/reviews/2018/apr/12/china-tang-reinvents-the-fancy-chinese-restaurant/ |access-date=November 10, 2023 |work=Las Vegas Weekly |date=April 12, 2018}}{{cite web |last=Martin |first=Bradley |title=MGM Grand Loses a Sophisticated Dining Destination Early Next Year |url=https://vegas.eater.com/2019/12/2/20991006/china-tang-closes-february-2020-mgm-grand |website=Eater |access-date=November 10, 2023 |date=December 2, 2019}} Fiamma was replaced by a new Italian restaurant, Ambra, in 2019.{{cite web |last=Martin |first=Bradley |title=Ambra Replaces Fiamma at the MGM Grand This Summer |url=https://vegas.eater.com/2019/5/23/18636383/ambra-italian-restaurant-replaces-fiamma-mgm-grand-this-summer-2019 |website=Eater |access-date=November 10, 2023 |date=May 23, 2019}}{{cite web |last=Stapleton |first=Susan |title=Meet the New Italian Restaurant with a Speakeasy on the Strip |url=https://vegas.eater.com/2019/8/29/20838953/ambra-italian-restaurant-opens-mgm-grand-speakeasy |website=Eater |access-date=November 10, 2023 |date=August 29, 2019}}{{cite news |last=Moon Reed |first=C. |title=Ambra serves up upscale Italian fare with a lively vibe |url=https://lasvegasweekly.com/dining/2019/oct/31/ambra-serves-up-upscale-italian-fare-with-a-lively/ |access-date=November 10, 2023 |work=Las Vegas Weekly |date=October 31, 2019}}

File:L'Atelier De Joël Robuchon (Las Vegas).jpg]]

Chef Joël Robuchon opened two restaurants at the Mansion in 2005, including L'Atelier de Joël Robuchon and the eponymous Joël Robuchon.{{cite news |last=Knapp-Rinella |first=Heidi |title=Celebrity Chef Coup: Foodies Rejoice |url=http://www.reviewjournal.com:80/lvrj_home/2005/Sep-07-Wed-2005/living/3161655.html |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=September 7, 2005 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20051126232737/http://www.reviewjournal.com:80/lvrj_home/2005/Sep-07-Wed-2005/living/3161655.html |archive-date=November 26, 2005}} The latter has won numerous accolades from Mobil Travel Guide{{cite news |last=Spillman |first=Benjamin |title=Las Vegas resorts adding to star distinction |url=http://www.reviewjournal.com:80/lvrj_home/2006/Nov-10-Fri-2006/business/10738607.html |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=November 10, 2006 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070503053202/http://www.reviewjournal.com:80/lvrj_home/2006/Nov-10-Fri-2006/business/10738607.html |archive-date=May 3, 2007}}{{cite news |last=Robison |first=Jennifer |title=Las Vegas Resorts Never Looked Better |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/las-vegas-resorts-never-looked-better/ |access-date=November 9, 2023 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=January 29, 2008}}{{cite news |last=Knapp-Rinella |first=Heidi |title=MGM Grand, Wynn restaurants receive awards |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/entertainment/mgm-grand-wynn-restaurants-receive-awards/ |access-date=November 9, 2023 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=January 30, 2009}} and American Automobile Association.{{cite news |last=Finnegan |first=Amanda |title=Las Vegas tops list of AAA Five Diamond winners |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2010/nov/29/las-vegas-tops-list-aaa-five-diamond-winners/ |access-date=November 9, 2023 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=November 29, 2010}}

File:MGM Grand, Las Vegas (3191547431).jpg

Shibuya, opened in 2004, was the resort's Japanese restaurant.{{cite web |title=Review: Shibuya |url=https://www.cntraveler.com/restaurants/las-vegas/shibuya |website=Condé Nast Traveler |access-date=November 11, 2023}}{{cite web |last=Martin |first=Bradley |title=Updating the Progress of Morimoto Las Vegas at the MGM Grand |url=https://vegas.eater.com/2016/6/22/12005300/updating-the-progress-of-morimoto-las-vegas-at-the-mgm-grand |website=Eater |access-date=November 11, 2023 |date=June 22, 2016}} It was replaced when chef Masaharu Morimoto made his Las Vegas debut with Morimoto, a Japanese restaurant opened in 2016.{{cite web |last=Stapleton |first=Susan |title=Morimoto Finally Has An Opening Date |url=https://vegas.eater.com/2016/10/10/13229140/morimoto-opening-date-las-vegas |website=Eater |access-date=November 10, 2023 |date=October 10, 2016}}{{cite news |last=Harris |first=Jason |title=A first look at Masaharu Morimoto's new restaurant at MGM Grand |url=https://lasvegasweekly.com/dining/2016/oct/24/first-look-morimoto-restaurant-mgm-grand/ |access-date=November 10, 2023 |work=Las Vegas Weekly |date=October 24, 2016}}{{cite news |last=Day |first=Ashley |title=Morimoto opens his first Las Vegas restaurant |url=https://www.usatoday.com/story/travel/experience/food-and-wine/2016/11/21/morimoto-las-vegas-mgm-grand/94223314/ |access-date=November 10, 2023 |work=USA Today |date=November 21, 2016}} Three years later, Mina and chef Ayesha Curry partnered to open International Smoke, featuring cuisine from around the world, including barbecue.{{cite news |last=Mancini |first=Al |title=With celebrity flair, International Smoke to open at MGM Grand |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/entertainment/food/with-celebrity-flair-international-smoke-to-open-at-mgm-grand-1924461/ |access-date=November 10, 2023 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=December 30, 2019}}{{cite news |last=Durano |first=Genevie |title=International Smoke at MGM Grand gives barbecue a global spin |url=https://lasvegasweekly.com/dining/2020/feb/20/international-smoke-mgm-grand-barbecue-global-spin/ |access-date=November 10, 2023 |work=Las Vegas Weekly |date=February 20, 2020}} It was the fourth International Smoke location to open since the chain's inception earlier that year.{{cite news |last=Nowels |first=Michael |title=Viva Las Vegas! Ayesha Curry unveils new restaurant in MGM Grand |url=https://www.mercurynews.com/2020/01/01/viva-las-vegas-ayesha-curry-unveils-new-restaurant-in-mgm-grand/ |access-date=November 10, 2023 |work=The Mercury News |date=January 3, 2020}}

In 2022, the Jonas Brothers and their family members opened Nellie's Southern Kitchen, named after a great-grandmother. It was the second location to open, following a North Carolina debut six years earlier.{{cite news |last=Radke |first=Brock |title=The Jonas family's Nellie's Southern Kitchen keeps it homey on the Las Vegas Strip |url=https://lasvegasweekly.com/dining/2022/aug/11/nellies-southern-kitchen-keeps-it-homey-on-strip/ |access-date=November 10, 2023 |work=Las Vegas Weekly |date=August 11, 2022}}{{cite magazine |last=Chan |first=Tim |title=The Jonas Brothers Come 'Home' to Help Open New Restaurant in Las Vegas |url=https://www.rollingstone.com/product-recommendations/lifestyle/jonas-brothers-restaurant-nellies-las-vegas-1363967/ |access-date=November 10, 2023 |magazine=Rolling Stone |date=June 8, 2022}}{{cite news |last=Cruz |first=Martha |title=Jonas family restaurant, Nellie's Southern Kitchen, now open at MGM Grand in Las Vegas |url=https://news3lv.com/news/local/jonas-family-restaurant-nellies-southern-kitchen-now-open-at-mgm-grand-in-las-vegas |access-date=November 10, 2023 |work=KSNV |date=June 6, 2022}} Luchini, an Italian restaurant, debuted in 2023. It is accompanied by Chez Bippy, named after a fictional bar featured in the 1993 film A Bronx Tale.{{cite news |last=Wright |first=Johnathan L. |title=Bar inspired by mob movie opens on the Strip |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/entertainment/food/bar-inspired-by-mob-movie-opens-on-the-strip-2931912/ |access-date=November 10, 2023 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=November 1, 2023}}{{cite news |title=Luchini Italian Restaurant In Las Vegas A Heavenly Treat |url=https://www.vannuysnewspress.com/luchinis-italian-restaurant-in-las-vegas-a-heavenly-treat/ |access-date=August 22, 2024 |work=Van Nuys News Press |date=February 6, 2024}}

During the 1990s, the casino included the Betty Boop Bar, which featured an animatronic of comedian Foster Brooks that recreated his drunken humor. It was removed after a few years due to poor aging.{{cite news |title=Question of the Day |url=https://www.lasvegasadvisor.com/question/2009-05-08/ |access-date=November 8, 2023 |work=Las Vegas Advisor |date=May 8, 2009}} A nightclub, Studio 54, opened at the MGM in December 1997.{{cite news |last=Clarke |first=Norm |title=Former Studio 54 exec remembers when Prince partied in 1999 |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/uncategorized/former-studio-54-exec-remembers-when-prince-partied-in-1999/ |access-date=November 8, 2023 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=April 23, 2016}} It featured memorabilia from the original Studio 54 in New York.{{cite news |last=Adams |first=Mark |title=54 days to go until Studio 54 Las Vegas closes |url=https://lasvegasweekly.com/nightlife/2011/nov/16/54-days-go-until-studio-54-las-vegas-closes/ |access-date=November 8, 2023 |work=Las Vegas Weekly |date=November 16, 2011}} The Las Vegas location closed in February 2012,{{cite news |last=Glaser |first=Sam |title=Studio 54 bids farewell to Las Vegas |url=https://lasvegasweekly.com/ae/2012/feb/07/studio-54-bids-farewell-las-vegas/ |access-date=November 8, 2023 |work=Las Vegas Weekly |date=February 7, 2012}} and much of its interior decor sat in an MGM parking garage for the next three years, before being purchased by two local collectors.{{cite news |last=Elfman |first=Doug |title=Pair rescue treasure trove from MGM's Studio 54 |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/entertainment/pair-rescue-treasure-trove-from-mgms-studio-54/ |access-date=November 8, 2023 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=May 27, 2016}}{{cite news |last=Prevatt |first=Mike |title=Studio 54's iconic sign gets a new home at the Neon Museum |url=https://lasvegasweekly.com/intersection/2016/jun/02/studio-54s-iconic-sign-the-neon-museum/ |access-date=November 8, 2023 |work=Las Vegas Weekly |date=June 2, 2016}} The former Studio 54 space was replaced by a nightclub and restaurant known as Hakkasan,{{cite web |last=Stapleton |first=Susan |title=Say Sayonara to Studio 54 This Weekend |url=https://vegas.eater.com/2012/1/31/6618061/say-sayonara-to-studio-54-this-weekend |website=Eater |access-date=November 8, 2023 |date=January 31, 2012}} which opened in April 2013.{{cite news |last=Mac |first=Ryan |title=Hakkasan Evolution: Growing From Las Vegas Megaclub To Global Lifestyle Brand |url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/ryanmac/2013/08/15/hakkasan-evolution-growing-from-las-vegas-megaclub-to-global-lifestyle-brand/ |access-date=November 8, 2023 |work=Forbes |date=August 15, 2013}}{{cite news |last=Gelt |first=Jessica |title=Las Vegas MGM Grand opens five-level, $200-million restaurant-nightclub Hakkasan |url=https://www.latimes.com/food/la-xpm-2013-apr-19-la-hakkasan-las-vegas-previews-at-mgm-grand-20130419-story.html |access-date=November 8, 2023 |work=Los Angeles Times |date=April 19, 2013}}{{cite news |last=Goldberg |first=Delen |title=Heading to Hakkasan? Here's what you should know |url=https://vegasinc.lasvegassun.com/business/2013/apr/18/heading-hakkasan-heres-what-you-should-know/ |access-date=November 8, 2023 |work=VegasInc |date=April 18, 2013}} Another nightclub, Tabu Ultra Lounge, opened in 2003, and had capacity for 340 people.{{cite news |last=Clarke |first=Norm |title=Crowded nightclub scene gets two new entrants |url=http://www.reviewjournal.com/lvrj_home/2003/Jan-19-Sun-2003/news/20496325.html |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=January 19, 2003 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20050221100437/http://www.reviewjournal.com/lvrj_home/2003/Jan-19-Sun-2003/news/20496325.html |archive-date=February 21, 2005}}{{cite news |last=Clarke |first=Norm |title=Ahoy mates! Get ready for spicy battle for treasures on the Strip |url=http://www.reviewjournal.com/lvrj_home/2003/Feb-28-Fri-2003/news/20788545.html |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=February 28, 2003 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20041229031146/http://www.reviewjournal.com/lvrj_home/2003/Feb-28-Fri-2003/news/20788545.html |archive-date=December 29, 2004}} It closed in 2013, and was replaced by a whiskey bar.{{cite web |last=Stapleton |first=Susan |title=The 24 Biggest Restaurant and Nightlife Closings of 2013 |url=https://vegas.eater.com/2013/12/27/6307233/the-24-biggest-restaurant-and-nightlife-closings-of-2013 |website=Eater |access-date=August 22, 2024 |date=December 27, 2013}} Netflix began construction for a one-year Netflix Bites residency based on its 2023 pop-up restaurant of the same name, which featured chefs from the broadcaster's streaming line-up, such as Dominique Crenn, Ming Tsai, and Andrew Zimmern. The new venue is slated to open in 2025.{{Cite web |last=Karel |first=Janna |date=2024-10-30 |title=The Latest Celebrity to Open a Restaurant on the Las Vegas Strip Is — Netflix |url=https://vegas.eater.com/2024/10/30/24283764/new-celebrity-restaurant-netflix-las-vegas-strip-mgm-grand |access-date=2024-11-06 |website=Eater Vegas |language=en}}

{{multiple image

| direction = vertical

| image1 = TopGolf bay at MGM Grand Las Vegas in October 2023.jpg

| caption1 = MGM's Topgolf attraction

| image2 = Mgm grand tiger exhibit.jpg

| caption2 = The MGM's lion habitat in 2006

}}

Upon opening, the MGM included family friendly attractions such as the Oz Arcade, offering more than 150 games; and the {{convert|30000|sqft|abbr=on}} Oz Midway, with 30 midway games. The theme park, MGM Grand Adventures, opened on {{convert|33|acres|abbr=on}} located northeast of the resort.{{cite news |last=Strow |first=David |title=MGM puts its rides up for sale |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2000/oct/11/mgm-puts-its-rides-up-for-sale/ |access-date=November 13, 2023 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=October 11, 2000}} It closed to the public in 2000, and was briefly used thereafter for corporate and special events.{{cite news |last=Strow |first=David |title=MGM converts theme park to group-rental operation |url=http://lasvegassun.com/news/2001/feb/07/mgm-converts-theme-park-to-group-rental-operation/ |access-date=November 12, 2023 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=February 7, 2001}} Some of the former theme park land would later be taken over by the Signature towers.{{cite news |last=Pomerantz |first=Dorothy |title=Damn the Bubble, Let's Build a City! |url=https://www.forbes.com/forbes/2005/1003/098.html |access-date=November 7, 2023 |work=Forbes |date=October 3, 2005}} Topgolf opened one of its driving ranges on the remaining acreage in 2016.{{cite news |last=Curtis |first=Anthony |title=Las Vegas: Topgolf coming to MGM Grand |url=https://www.azcentral.com/story/travel/destinations/las-vegas/2016/03/25/las-vegas-topgolf-mgm-grand/81891452/ |access-date=November 10, 2023 |work=The Arizona Republic |date=March 25, 2016}}{{cite news |last=Carter |first=Geoff |title=How fake frontier towns, an erupting volcano and other Las Vegas attractions paved the way for Sphere |url=https://lasvegasweekly.com/news/2023/sep/28/how-other-vegas-attractions-paved-way-for-sphere/ |access-date=November 10, 2023 |work=Las Vegas Weekly |date=September 28, 2023}}

The MGM opened a {{convert|380000|sqft|abbr=on}} conference center in April 1998.{{cite news |last=Berns |first=Dave |title=MGM to open new convention center |url=http://lvrj.com:80/lvrj_home/1998/Apr-16-Thu-1998/business/7325590.html |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=April 16, 1998 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/19990921233408/http://lvrj.com/lvrj_home/1998/Apr-16-Thu-1998/business/7325590.html |archive-date=1999-09-21 |access-date=2019-02-21 |url-status=live }} The facility, as well as a pool and spa, were constructed on 15 acres of land previously occupied by a portion of the theme park and a parking lot. An expansion of the conference center began in June 2017,{{cite web |last=Prince |first=Todd |title=MGM Grand to expand conference center |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/casinos-gaming/mgm-grand-to-expand-conference-center/ |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=June 16, 2017 |access-date=January 22, 2019 |archive-date=January 23, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190123010515/https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/casinos-gaming/mgm-grand-to-expand-conference-center/ |url-status=live }}{{cite web |last=Prince |first=Todd |title=Officials formally kick off conference center expansion at MGM Grand |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/casinos-gaming/officials-formally-kick-off-conference-center-expansion-at-mgm-grand/ |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=June 20, 2017 |access-date=January 22, 2019 |archive-date=January 23, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190123010748/https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/casinos-gaming/officials-formally-kick-off-conference-center-expansion-at-mgm-grand/ |url-status=live }} and was opened in January 2019. It was built at a cost of $130 million.{{cite web |last=Prince |first=Todd |title=MGM Grand planning revamp of Las Vegas Strip front |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/casinos-gaming/mgm-grand-planning-revamp-of-las-vegas-strip-front-1575029/ |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=January 16, 2019 |access-date=January 22, 2019 |archive-date=January 23, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190123010447/https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/casinos-gaming/mgm-grand-planning-revamp-of-las-vegas-strip-front-1575029/ |url-status=live }}

An indoor lion habitat opened at the resort as a free attraction on July 1, 1999. The $9 million enclosure measured {{convert|5000|sqft|abbr=on}} and featured several glass walls for viewing, as well as a see-through tunnel.{{cite news |title=Lion Around: A new habitat at the MGM Grand provides an up-close peek |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/1999/jul/09/lion-around-a-new-habitat-at-the-mgm-grand-provide/ |access-date=November 8, 2023 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=July 9, 1999}} The habitat consisted of more than 40 lions who were rotated out on a daily basis for viewing. The lions were owned by animal trainer Keith Evans and lived at his ranch outside Las Vegas.{{cite news |title=Photos of MGM Grand lions, on display at casino habitat for the last time today |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2012/jan/31/photos-mgm-grand-lions-display-casino-habitat-last/ |access-date=November 10, 2023 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=January 31, 2012}} As part of ongoing renovation work, the habitat closed on January 31, 2012.{{cite news |last=Berns |first=Dave |title=MGM lions, like other free attractions, posed dilemma |url=https://vegasinc.lasvegassun.com/business/2011/dec/30/mgm-lions-other-free-attractions-posed-dilemma/ |access-date=November 8, 2023 |work=VegasInc |date=December 30, 2011}}{{cite news |last=Goldberg |first=Delen |title=MGM Grand's lion habitat to close Jan. 31 |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2011/dec/28/mgm-grands-lion-habitat-close-jan-31/ |access-date=November 8, 2023 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=December 28, 2011}} It was replaced by a sports bar.{{cite web |last=Martin |first=Bradley |title=Sneak Preview of TAP at the MGM Grand |url=https://vegas.eater.com/2014/1/21/6294175/sneak-preview-of-tap-at-the-mgm-grand |website=Eater |access-date=November 10, 2023 |date=January 21, 2014}}

The 1996–1998 renovation added a retail and restaurant area known as the Studio Walk, featuring a Hollywood sound stage theme. In 2013, the Studio Walk was rebranded as The District.{{cite web |last=Martin |first=Bradley |title=First Studio Walk Takes a Hike. Now Studio Wok. |url=https://vegas.eater.com/2013/9/23/6367173/first-studio-walk-takes-a-hike-now-studio-wok |website=Eater |access-date=November 11, 2023 |date=September 23, 2013}} A separate, underground retail area was known originally as the Starlane Mall, before being renamed MGM Underground in 2012.{{cite news |last=Katsilometes |first=John |title=MGM Grand ditching Starlane Mall for name that's just below the surface |url=https://lasvegassun.com/blogs/kats-report/2012/mar/22/mgm-grand-ditching-starlane-mall-favor-new-title-s/ |access-date=November 11, 2023 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=March 22, 2012}}

In April 2001, CBS opened Television City, a television research facility located in the Studio Walk.Retrieved November 12, 2023:

• {{cite news |title=CBS opening research center, attraction at MGM Grand |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2001/apr/18/cbs-opening-research-center-attraction-at-mgm-gran/ |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=April 18, 2001}}
• {{cite news |last=White |first=Ken |title=CBS Television City gives networks forum for quizzing viewers |url=http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/May-08-Tue-2001/living/15915313.html |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=May 8, 2001 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20020804035102/http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/May-08-Tue-2001/living/15915313.html |archive-date=August 4, 2002}}
• {{cite news |title=Dialed in: TV viewers are heard at MGM's Television City |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2001/dec/04/dialed-in-tv-viewers-are-heard-at-mgms-television-/ |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=December 4, 2001}}
• {{cite news |last=Lawrence |first=Christopher |title=How the coronavirus is changing the way Las Vegas shapes TV |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/entertainment/entertainment-columns/christopher-lawrence/how-the-coronavirus-is-changing-the-way-las-vegas-shapes-tv-2002281/ |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=April 8, 2020}} An exhibit, CSI: The Experience, opened at the Studio Walk in 2009. It was a paid attraction based on the television series CSI: Crime Scene Investigation. Visitors would tour the exhibit, analyzing faux crime scenes and evidence to solve murder cases.{{cite news |last=Spillman |first=Benjamin |title=Interactive crime scene exhibit coming to MGM Grand |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/news/interactive-crime-scene-exhibit-coming-to-mgm-grand/ |access-date=November 10, 2023 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=July 15, 2009}}{{cite news |last=Finnegan |first=Amanda |title=New 'CSI' exhibit at MGM Grand turns visitors into sleuths |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2009/sep/12/new-csi-exhibit-mgm-turns-visitors-sleuths/ |access-date=November 10, 2023 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=September 12, 2009}} The attraction closed in 2020, due to the local effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.{{cite news |last=Roeben |first=Scott |title=CSI: The Experience Closes at MGM Grand |url=https://www.casino.org/vitalvegas/csi-the-experience-closes-at-mgm-grand/ |access-date=November 10, 2023 |work=Casino.org |date=January 21, 2021}}

The MGM opened with a {{convert|144000|sqft|abbr=on}} pool complex. Wet Republic, a popular {{convert|54000|sqft|abbr=on}} dayclub by Hakkasan,{{cite news |last=Kocay |first=Lisa |title=Inside Wet Republic: A Las Vegas Pool Party Boasting Performances By Top Artists |url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/lisakocay/2019/05/13/wet-republic-las-vegas-pool-party/ |access-date=November 10, 2023 |work=Forbes |date=May 13, 2019}}{{cite news |last=Hiller |first=Michael |title=Monster remodel of Vegas' Wet Republic promises an even splashier pool party |url=https://www.latimes.com/travel/story/2020-01-14/vegas-wet-republic-pool-party |access-date=November 10, 2023 |work=Los Angeles Times |date=January 14, 2020}}{{cite web |last=Stapleton |first=Susan |title=Wet Republic Reveals Its Renovated Space |url=https://vegas.eater.com/2020/3/10/21172613/wet-republic-renovated |website=Eater |access-date=November 10, 2023 |date=March 10, 2020}} has operated at the pool area since 2008.{{cite news |title=Hall of Fame: Wet Republic |url=https://lasvegasmagazine.com/entertainment/2021/jan/08/hall-of-fame-wet-republic-mgm-grand-pool/ |access-date=November 10, 2023 |work=Las Vegas Magazine |date=January 8, 2021}} Level Up, a video game lounge also by Hakkasan, opened in 2016, taking over the former Rainforest Cafe space.{{cite news |last=Radke |first=Brock |title=Interactive gaming lounge Level Up opens December 29 at MGM Grand |url=https://lasvegasweekly.com/nightlife/industry-weekly/2016/dec/12/evolution-level-up-gaming-lounge-mgm-hakkasan/ |access-date=November 10, 2023 |work=Las Vegas Weekly |date=December 12, 2016}}{{cite news |last=Moore |first=Thomas |title=Level Up, where casino gambling and video games meet, to open at MGM Grand |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2016/dec/13/level-up-where-casino-gambling-and-video-games-mee/ |access-date=November 10, 2023 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=December 13, 2016}}{{cite web |last=Stapleton |first=Susan |title=Game On: Level Up Debuts at the MGM Grand |url=https://vegas.eater.com/2016/12/30/14122230/level-up-now-open-mgm-grand |website=Eater |access-date=November 10, 2023 |date=December 30, 2016}}

File:MGMGRANDGARDEN1.JPG

The resort originally included the 15,200-seat MGM Grand Garden Arena, in addition to the 1,700-seat Grand Theatre and the 630-seat Hollywood Theatre.{{cite news |last=Swartz |first=Mim |title=Simply Grand |url=https://www.chicagotribune.com/news/ct-xpm-1994-01-23-9401230065-story.html |access-date=November 6, 2023 |work=Chicago Tribune |date=January 23, 1994}}{{cite news |last=Delaney |first=Joe |title=Mirage, MGM share entertainment commitment |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2000/mar/23/columnist-joe-delaney-mirage-mgm-share-entertainme/ |access-date=November 11, 2023 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=March 23, 2000}}

A production show, EFX, ran at the resort from 1995 to 2002. It was headlined by several different entertainers during its run, including Michael Crawford, David Cassidy, Tommy Tune, and Rick Springfield.{{cite web |last=Jones |first=Chris |title=Efx |url=https://variety.com/1999/film/reviews/efx-2-1200456920/ |website=Variety |access-date=November 7, 2023 |date=March 21, 1999}}{{cite news |last=Macy |first=Robert |title=Broadway star to headline 'EFX' show at MGM Grand |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/1999/jan/15/broadway-star-to-headline-efx-show-at-mgm-grand/ |access-date=November 7, 2023 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=January 15, 1999}}{{cite news |last=Clarke |first=Norm |title=Strip's 'EFX Alive' rings down curtain, ending nine-year run |url=http://www.reviewjournal.com/lvrj_home/2003/Jan-01-Wed-2003/news/20373825.html |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=January 1, 2003 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20040822150210/http://www.reviewjournal.com/lvrj_home/2003/Jan-01-Wed-2003/news/20373825.html |archive-date=August 22, 2004}}

In 1999, the resort debuted a version of the American game show Wheel of Fortune. Audience members were allowed to participate and potentially win money. The show had ended by 2001. It took place in a 400-seat venue previously home to Catch a Rising Star, a chain of comedy clubs.{{cite news |last=Katsilometes |first=John |title=Taking a spin on Vanna's 'Wheel' |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/1999/dec/13/columnist-john-katsilometes-taking-a-spin-on-vanna/ |access-date=November 11, 2023 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=December 13, 1999}}{{cite news |last=Cling |first=Carol |title=Audience members take a spin on MGM's 'Wheel' |url=http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/May-19-Fri-2000/weekly/13583676.html |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=May 19, 2000 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20011225193812/http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/May-19-Fri-2000/weekly/13583676.html |archive-date=December 25, 2001}}{{cite news |last=Maddox |first=Kate |title='Storm' reigns at Mandalay |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2001/mar/02/columnist-kate-maddox-storm-reigns-at-mandalay// |access-date=November 11, 2023 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=March 2, 2001 |quote=Catch a Rising star closed at the MGM Grand in 1999 after struggling to gain audiences. The hotel filled the spot with the now-defunct "Wheel of Fortune Live Onstage."}}

{{multiple image

| direction = vertical

| align = left

| image1 = MGM Grand Las Vegas - panoramio.jpg

| caption1 = Exterior banners promoting Kà and magician David Copperfield, 2011.

| image2 = Kà Theater - Elizabeth K. Joseph.jpg

| caption2 = Kà theater entrance

}}

Magician David Copperfield has been a longtime performer at the MGM,{{cite news |last=Smith |first=Tracy |title=David Copperfield pulls back the curtain (slightly) |url=https://www.cbsnews.com/news/david-copperfield-magician/ |access-date=November 10, 2023 |work=CBS |date=May 21, 2023}} entertaining there since 2000.{{cite news |last=Maddox |first=Kate |title=Copperfield reappears at MGM |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2000/jul/21/columnist-kate-maddox-copperfield-reappears-at-mgm/ |access-date=November 10, 2023 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=July 21, 2000}}{{cite news |last=Baird |first=Kirk |title=David Copperfield switches homes, reflects on career |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2000/aug/21/david-copperfield-switches-homes-reflects-on-caree/ |access-date=November 10, 2023 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=August 21, 2000}}{{cite news |last=Fink |first=Jerry |title=Topping Copperfield: Master illusionist constantly tries to top himself |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2002/oct/10/topping-copperfield-master-illusionist-constantly-/ |access-date=November 10, 2023 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=October 10, 2002 |quote=Copperfield performed at Caesars Palace for 15 years, but moved to MGM Grand two years ago when Caesars closed its showroom.}} Kà, a show by Cirque du Soleil, has been performed at the resort since 2005. It takes place in a custom-built theater seating nearly 2,000 people.{{cite news |last=Woolfe |first=Zachary |title=Seeing Met's 'Ring' in a Desert Spectacle |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2012/04/17/arts/music/in-cirque-du-soleils-ka-hints-of-lepages-ring.html |access-date=November 8, 2023 |work=The New York Times |date=April 16, 2012}}

In 2001, the resort launched La Femme, a topless show that recreated the Parisian cabaret known as Crazy Horse.{{cite news |last=Delaney |first=Joe |title=Review: 'La Femme' remains a tasteful and artful adult revue at MGM Grand |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2002/jul/19/review-la-femme-remains-a-tasteful-and-artful-adul/ |access-date=November 11, 2023 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=July 19, 2002}}{{cite news |last=Bieber |first=Heather |title=La Femme |url=https://lasvegasweekly.com/news/archive/2006/jan/01/la-femme/ |access-date=November 11, 2023 |work=Las Vegas Weekly |date=January 1, 2006}} The producers chose the name La Femme as Las Vegas already had a strip club known as Crazy Horse Too, which filed a lawsuit regarding the name rights.{{cite news |title=La Femme continues evolution at MGM Grand |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2004/may/27/la-femme-continues-evolution-at-mgm-grand/ |access-date=November 11, 2023 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=May 27, 2004}}{{cite web|url=http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Oct-27-Fri-2000/news/14679906.html|title=Crazy Horse Too seeks to draw counterpart's reins|last=Clarke|first=Norm|date=October 27, 2000|work=Las Vegas Review-Journal|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20021104104020/http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Oct-27-Fri-2000/news/14679906.html|archive-date=November 4, 2002}} The show eventually took on the Crazy Horse name in 2007,{{cite web |title=La Femme Renamed MGM Grand's Crazy Horse Paris |url=https://investors.mgmresorts.com/investors/news-releases/press-release-details/2007/La-Femme-Renamed-MGM-Grands-Crazy-Horse-Paris/default.aspx |website=MGM Mirage |access-date=November 11, 2023 |date=January 15, 2007}} before closing in 2012.{{cite news |last=Weatherford |first=Mike |title=Crazy Horse bidding adieu |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/entertainment/entertainment-columns/mike-weatherford/crazy-horse-bidding-adieu/ |access-date=November 11, 2023 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=August 23, 2012}} A year later, Jeff Beacher opened his Beacher's Madhouse show in the former Crazy Horse venue.{{cite news |last=Katsilometes |first=John |title=A blast of Beacher: What to know as he preps to open the latest Madhouse at MGM Grand |url=https://lasvegassun.com/blogs/kats-report/2013/dec/20/blast-beacher-what-know-he-preps-open-latest-madho/ |access-date=November 11, 2023 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=December 20, 2013}} The Jabbawockeez dance group opened in the space in 2015,{{cite news |last=Katsilometes |first=John |title=Moving elephant gives Jabbawockeez a chance to open trunk at MGM Grand |url=http://lasvegassun.com/blogs/kats-report/2015/nov/11/moving-elephant-gives-jabbawockeez-chance-open-tru/ |access-date=November 11, 2023 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=November 11, 2015}} and is contracted to perform there through 2025.{{cite news |last=Katsilometes |first=John |title=It's 4 (more) on the MGM Grand floor for Jabbawockeez |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/entertainment/entertainment-columns/kats/its-4-more-on-the-mgm-grand-floor-for-jabbawockeez-2327771/ |access-date=November 11, 2023 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=April 12, 2021}}

Brad Garrett's Comedy Club opened in March 2012, with seating for 283 people. It was originally located in the MGM Underground area.{{cite news |last=Katsilometes |first=John |title=Brad Garrett's new comedy club gets some love from favorite comedians |url=https://lasvegassun.com/blogs/kats-report/2012/mar/30/garretts-new-comedy-club-gets-some-love-favorite-c// |access-date=November 11, 2023 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=March 30, 2012}}{{cite news |last=Katsilometes |first=John |title=It's good times for Brad Garrett as his Comedy Club turns 2 at MGM Grand |url=https://lasvegassun.com/blogs/kats-report/2014/apr/10/its-good-times-brad-garrett/ |access-date=November 11, 2023 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=April 10, 2014}} The club has hosted numerous comedians, including Garrett himself.{{cite news |last=Katsilometes |first=John |title=Brad Garrett returns (a day early) to his MGM Grand club; Palms staff departures |url=https://lasvegasweekly.com/blogs/kats-report/2012/may/02/brad-garrett-returns-day-early-his-mgm-grand-club-/ |access-date=November 11, 2023 |work=Las Vegas Weekly |date=May 2, 2012}} In 2022, the club moved to a better location at The District, taking over the former China Tang restaurant space. Although the new location sat in a higher-traffic area, seating was reduced to 210.{{cite news |last=Radke |first=Brock |title=Brad Garrett's Comedy Club gets a spotlight on the Strip |url=https://lasvegasweekly.com/ae/2022/sep/15/brad-garretts-comedy-club-gets-a-spotlight/ |access-date=November 11, 2023 |work=Las Vegas Weekly |date=September 15, 2022}}{{cite news |last=Katsilometes |first=John |title=Brad Garrett moving, expanding MGM Grand comedy club |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/entertainment/entertainment-columns/kats/brad-garrett-moving-expanding-mgm-grand-comedy-club-2412587/ |access-date=November 11, 2023 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=August 3, 2021}}{{cite news |last=Radke |first=Brock |title=From stand-up in Vegas to TV, Brad Garrett is as busy as ever |url=https://lasvegasmagazine.com/entertainment/2023/may/05/brad-garrett-stand-up-vegas-strip-comedy-club/ |access-date=November 11, 2023 |work=Las Vegas Magazine |date=May 5, 2023}}

{{clear}}

The MGM Grand has made appearances in several comedy films.

• The resort is featured prominently in The Great White Hype (1996).{{cite news |last=Mathews |first=Jack |title=Movie Review: Underlying Context Gets Ugly in 'Hype' |url=https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1996-05-03-ca-114-story.html |access-date=November 8, 2023 |work=Los Angeles Times |date=May 3, 1996}}{{cite magazine |title=Deja Vu of the Week: David Schwimmer |url=https://ew.com/article/1996/05/24/deja-vu-week-david-schwimmer/ |magazine=Entertainment Weekly |access-date=November 8, 2023 |date=May 24, 1996}}{{cite web |last=Cheshire |first=Godfrey |title=The Great White Hype |url=https://variety.com/1996/film/reviews/the-great-white-hype-2-1200445921/ |website=Variety |access-date=November 8, 2023 |date=May 3, 1996}}
• The Wizard of Oz theme is referenced in Swingers (1996); the character Trent picks up a waitress whose friend works as a costumed Dorothy Gale at the MGM.{{cite book |last=Roeper |first=Richard |title=Bet the House: How I Gambled Over a Grand a Day for 30 Days on Sports, Poker, and Games of Chance |date=2010 |publisher=Chicago Review Press |isbn=978-1-56976-611-8 |page=230 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=_XGkbwSi5eQC&pg=PT236 |access-date=November 10, 2023}}{{cite news |title='Swingers': Sex & The Single Guys Delightful Duo Goes Looking for Love in Vegas, Hoping to Hit the Jackpot |url=https://www.nydailynews.com/1996/10/18/swingers-sex-the-single-guys-delightful-duo-goes-looking-for-love-in-vegas-hoping-to-hit-the-jackpot/ |access-date=November 10, 2023 |work=New York Daily News |date=October 18, 1996}}
• The resort also appears near the end of Vegas Vacation (1997), as the casino where the Griswolds win back their money in a game of keno.{{cite magazine |title=5 Things You Didn't Know About MGM Grand |url=https://www.rollingstone.com/culture/culture-news/5-things-you-didnt-know-about-mgm-grand-118292/ |magazine=Rolling Stone |access-date=November 12, 2023 |date=December 15, 2016}}
• The MGM appears during the finale of Ready to Rumble (2000).{{cite news |last=Scott |first=A. O. |title='Ready to Rumble': Wallowing in the World of Wrestling |url=https://archive.nytimes.com/www.nytimes.com/library/film/040700rumble-film-review.html |access-date=November 9, 2023 |work=The New York Times |date=April 7, 2000}}{{cite web |title=Ready To Rumble review |url=https://www.gamesradar.com/ready-to-rumble-review/ |website=Total Film |access-date=November 9, 2023 |date=November 24, 2000}}
• The MGM is one of three casinos to be robbed by Danny Ocean and his crew in Ocean's Eleven (2001).{{cite web |last=Honeycutt |first=Kirk |title='Ocean's Eleven': THR's 2001 Review |url=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-news/oceans-eleven-2001-review-953698/ |website=The Hollywood Reporter |access-date=November 10, 2023 |date=December 7, 2016}} A staged title unification match between heavyweight boxing champions Lennox Lewis and Wladimir Klitschko is also prominently featured in the film.{{cite web |title=Scene In Nevada: Ocean's Eleven |url=https://nevadafilm.com/scene-in-nevada-oceans-eleven/ |website=Nevada Film Office |access-date=November 10, 2023 |date=June 8, 2016}}{{cite web |title=Ocean's 11 : Production Notes |url=https://www.cinema.com/articles/697/oceans-11-production-notes.phtml |website=Cinema.com |access-date=November 10, 2023}}

The MGM has made television appearances as well.

• The resort is featured in a 2001 episode of CSI: Crime Scene Investigation, titled "Table Stakes".{{cite news |last=Cling |first=Carol |title=City lives up to production billing in upcoming weeks |url=http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/Jan-29-Mon-2001/living/15317157.html |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=January 29, 2001 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20011215004528/http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/Jan-29-Mon-2001/living/15317157.html |archive-date=December 15, 2001}}
• It also appears in The Amazing Race 15 (2009){{cite news |last=Stutz |first=Howard |title='Amazing Race' reality TV series ends in Las Vegas |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/business-columns/inside-gaming/amazing-race-reality-tv-series-ends-in-las-vegas/ |access-date=November 12, 2023 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=December 7, 2009}}{{cite news |last=Pawlowski |first=A. |title=On 'The Amazing Race' trail in Las Vegas |url=http://www.cnn.com/2009/TRAVEL/12/07/amazing.race.las.vegas/ |access-date=November 12, 2023 |work=CNN |date=December 7, 2009}} and The Amazing Race 24 (2014).{{cite magazine |last=Bacle |first=Ariana |title=The Amazing Race season finale recap: Flying High |url=https://ew.com/recap/amazing-race-season-24-finale/ |magazine=Entertainment Weekly |access-date=November 12, 2023 |date=May 19, 2014}}
• In Dominion (2014–15), the MGM serves as the home base of David Whele.{{cite web |last=Woerner |first=Meredith |title=We Saw Syfy's Super Weird Angel Drama Dominion, And We Kind Of Love It |url=https://gizmodo.com/we-saw-syfys-super-weird-angel-drama-dominion-and-we-ki-1593962241 |website=Gizmodo |access-date=November 10, 2023 |date=June 20, 2014}}

• List of integrated resorts

{{Reflist|33em}}

{{Commons category|MGM Grand Las Vegas}}

• {{Official website|https://www.mgmgrand.com}}

{{Las Vegas casinos}}

{{Las Vegas hotels}}

{{Las Vegas Strip}}

{{MGM Resorts International}}

{{authority control}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Mgm Grand Las Vegas}}

Category:1993 establishments in Nevada

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