History of Caesars Palace Las Vegas
Caesars Palace, one of the most iconic resorts and casinos on the Las Vegas Strip, has a rich history spanning more than half a century. Opened on August 5, 1966, by hotelier Jay Sarno, the lavish resort was designed to evoke the opulence and grandeur of ancient Rome, providing guests with a luxurious and indulgent experience. Over the years, Caesars Palace has played host to a multitude of high-profile events, celebrities, and unforgettable performances, securing its place as a legend in the world of entertainment.
The concept for Caesars Palace began with Sarno’s desire to create a resort that would surpass all others in Las Vegas. With financial backing from the Teamsters Central States Pension Fund and assistance from renowned architect Melvin Grossman, Sarno’s dream was brought to life. The resort was constructed at a cost of $24 million, a staggering sum for the time. The 14-story hotel featured 680 rooms, a 20,000 square-foot casino, and numerous dining options, as well as an opulent Roman-themed decor that included replicas of famous statues, fountains, and columns.
From the very beginning, Caesars Palace attracted celebrities and high rollers from around the world. Its grand opening featured a spectacular gala attended by stars such as Kirk Douglas, Tony Bennett, and Shelley Winters. Over the years, the resort continued to host legendary performers, including Frank Sinatra, Diana Ross, and Elton John, who have graced its many stages, particularly at the famous Caesars Palace Colosseum.
One of the most memorable moments in the resort’s history occurred in 1967 when daredevil Evel Knievel attempted to jump over the hotel’s iconic fountains on his motorcycle. The stunt was unsuccessful, with Knievel suffering multiple injuries, but the event further solidified Caesars Palace as a hub of excitement and entertainment.
Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, Caesars Palace expanded and evolved to meet the needs of its ever-growing clientele. In 1979, the resort unveiled a 280,000 square-foot convention facility, establishing itself as a premier destination for business travelers. The resort also continued to add hotel towers, increasing the number of guest rooms and suites available to visitors.
In 1992, Caesars Palace was acquired by ITT Corporation, which invested heavily in further expansions and renovations. One of the most significant additions was the opening of The Forum Shops in 1992, a high-end shopping destination that would eventually become one of the most successful retail spaces in the United States.
By the 2000s, Caesars Palace had become a sprawling complex that offered guests a multitude of gaming, dining, shopping, and entertainment options. In 2003, the resort opened the Colosseum, a state-of-the-art entertainment venue that has since hosted some of the most celebrated artists and performers in the world, including Celine Dion, Cher, and Rod Stewart.
In 2005, Caesars Entertainment Corporation was acquired by Harrah’s Entertainment, which later changed its name to Caesars Entertainment. The company continued to invest in the iconic resort, with major renovations and expansions taking place in the years that followed, including the addition of the Octavius Tower and Nobu Hotel, as well as the extensive remodeling of hotel rooms and suites.
Today, Caesars Palace remains a symbol of luxury and excess on the Las Vegas Strip. With over 3,900 guest rooms, a sprawling casino floor, world-class dining options, and unparalleled entertainment offerings, the resort continues to draw visitors from around the globe. As it enters its sixth decade, Caesars Palace remains a testament to the vision of its founder, Jay Sarno, who sought to create a resort that would stand the test of time and define the Las Vegas experience.
Caesars Palace Hotel Details
Rooms at Caesars Palace
Caesars Palace offers a variety of room and suite options to suit a range of budgets and preferences. Regardless of the option you choose, you can expect opulence and comfort. The rooms are tastefully decorated, with plush bedding, ample space, and modern amenities. The bathrooms are equally impressive, featuring marble accents and high-quality toiletries. For a truly extravagant experience, the high-roller suites boast private terraces, whirlpool tubs, and even personal butlers.
The Augustus and Octavius Tower rooms, in particular, offer a more upscale and tranquil experience, as they are situated away from the bustling casino floor. Guests staying in these towers also enjoy access to the exclusive Laurel Collection Lounge, where a dedicated concierge team can assist with any requests. Below is a list of some of the more popular rooms available at Caesars Palace:
- Julius Deluxe Room: These rooms offer stylish and contemporary decor with 1 king or 2 queen beds, featuring a custom-upholstered headboard, modern furnishings, and luxurious linens. They are equipped with a flat-screen TV, a mini fridge, and an en-suite bathroom with a walk-in shower.
- Augustus Premium Room: Augustus Premium Rooms are spacious, offering 1 king or 2 queen beds, a seating area, and floor-to-ceiling windows with views of the Las Vegas Strip or the Garden of the Gods Pool Oasis. Rooms include a flat-screen TV, mini fridge, and en-suite bathroom with a spa bathtub and separate walk-in shower.
- Octavius Premium Room: These rooms boast a sleek and modern design with 1 king or 2 queen beds, a living area, and floor-to-ceiling windows. Rooms are equipped with a flat-screen TV, a mini fridge, and an en-suite bathroom with a spa bathtub and separate walk-in shower.
- Palace Premium Room: Palace Premium Rooms feature elegant furnishings with 1 king or 2 queen beds, a seating area, and views of the Garden of the Gods Pool Oasis. Amenities include a flat-screen TV, a mini fridge, and an en-suite bathroom with a spa bathtub and separate walk-in shower.
- Forum Classic Room: These comfortable and classically styled rooms offer 1 king or 2 queen beds, a flat-screen TV, a mini fridge, and an en-suite bathroom with a walk-in shower.
- Julius Executive Suite: The Julius Executive Suite offers a spacious living area separate from the bedroom, which features 1 king bed. The suite includes a flat-screen TV, a mini fridge, a wet bar, and an en-suite bathroom with a spa bathtub and separate walk-in shower.
- Augustus Executive Suite: These luxurious suites feature a separate living and dining area, as well as a bedroom with 1 king bed. Guests can enjoy floor-to-ceiling windows, a flat-screen TV, a mini fridge, a wet bar, and an en-suite bathroom with a spa bathtub and separate walk-in shower.
- Nobu Hotel Room: Located within Caesars Palace, the Nobu Hotel offers its own unique style and amenities, including custom Japanese-inspired furnishings and decor. Nobu rooms feature 1 king or 2 queen beds, a flat-screen TV, a mini fridge, and an en-suite bathroom with a walk-in shower.
- Nobu Hotel Suite: These suites offer additional space and luxury, with a separate living area, a bedroom with 1 king bed, custom Japanese-inspired furnishings, a flat-screen TV, a mini fridge, and an en-suite bathroom with a walk-in shower.
Restaurant Options
One of the standout features of Caesars Palace is its diverse and exceptional dining options. Whether you’re in the mood for a casual bite or a fine dining experience, there is something for every palate. The resort is home to numerous celebrity chef restaurants, including Gordon Ramsay Hell’s Kitchen, Nobu, and Restaurant Guy Savoy, each offering a unique and unforgettable culinary experience.
For a more casual affair, the Bacchanal Buffet is a must-try. Recently renovated, this buffet offers a vast array of dishes from around the world, prepared by skilled chefs in open kitchens. With options such as made-to-order tacos, sushi, and hand-carved meats, the Bacchanal Buffet is a food lover’s paradise. Here’s a look at some of Caesar’s most popular restaurants:
- Bacchanal Buffet: A highly acclaimed buffet restaurant offering a wide variety of dishes from around the world, including seafood, carving stations, Asian cuisine, and desserts. The Bacchanal Buffet is known for its visually stunning presentation and focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients.
- Gordon Ramsay Hell’s Kitchen: Inspired by the hit TV show, this restaurant features a menu created by celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay, offering signature dishes such as beef Wellington, lobster risotto, and sticky toffee pudding. The atmosphere is designed to replicate the television studio set, with an open kitchen and red and blue accents throughout the dining area.
- Nobu Restaurant and Lounge: Located within the Nobu Hotel at Caesars Palace, this upscale Japanese restaurant is helmed by renowned chef Nobu Matsuhisa. The menu features signature dishes such as black cod with miso, yellowtail sashimi with jalapeño, and a variety of sushi and sashimi options. The lounge offers a selection of innovative cocktails and light bites.
- Restaurant Guy Savoy: A fine dining experience from Michelin-starred chef Guy Savoy, this restaurant offers contemporary French cuisine in an elegant and sophisticated setting. Signature dishes include artichoke and black truffle soup, roasted veal, and seasonal tasting menus.
- Beijing Noodle No. 9: This casual dining option features an extensive menu of authentic Chinese cuisine, including hand-pulled noodles, dim sum, and a variety of traditional dishes. The modern and colorful décor, including large fish tanks, adds to the vibrant atmosphere.
- Rao’s: An outpost of the legendary New York Italian restaurant, Rao’s offers classic Italian-American dishes in a warm and inviting atmosphere. Menu items include favorites like meatballs, veal parmigiana, and homemade pasta.
- Old Homestead Steakhouse: A traditional American steakhouse, Old Homestead offers prime cuts of meat, seafood, and classic side dishes in a refined setting. The menu also includes a selection of fine wines and signature cocktails.
- Searsucker: A casual, social dining experience, Searsucker offers a menu of contemporary American comfort food with a twist. The menu, created by celebrity chef Brian Malarkey, features dishes such as short rib poutine, brick chicken, and a variety of creative small plates.
- Café Americano: Located in the hotel lobby, Café Americano is a 24-hour dining option offering classic American dishes, such as burgers, sandwiches, and breakfast favorites. The restaurant also features a full bar with a selection of cocktails, beer, and wine.
Shopping
If retail therapy is on your itinerary, Caesars Palace has you covered. The Forum Shops, a 677,000-square-foot mall, offers an array of luxury and high-end retailers, including Louis Vuitton, Gucci, and Versace. The shopping experience is elevated by the mall’s opulent design, featuring marble statues, grand fountains, and even an enormous aquarium. For a more budget-friendly shopping experience, The Appian Way Shops offer a mix of specialty boutiques and souvenir stores.
Entertainment
Caesars Palace is synonymous with world-class entertainment, boasting an impressive lineup of resident performers and special events. The Colosseum, a 4,100-seat venue, has hosted legends such as Celine Dion, Elton John, and Mariah Carey. The rotating roster of performers ensures there is always a show to suit your taste.
In addition to its musical offerings, Caesars Palace is home to the renowned production “Absinthe,” a unique blend of circus, burlesque, and cabaret. This raunchy and comedic show is set in an intimate spiegeltent, creating an immersive experience that leaves audiences captivated.
For those seeking a more interactive form of entertainment, the casino floor at Caesars Palace is a lively and bustling hub of activity. With over 130,000 square feet of gaming space, visitors can try their luck at a variety of table games, slot machines, and poker. The casino staff is professional and courteous, ensuring an enjoyable gaming experience for both seasoned players and novices alike.
Spa Options
After a long day of exploring the Las Vegas Strip or trying your luck in the casino, a visit to the Qua Baths & Spa is the perfect way to unwind. This luxurious and tranquil retreat offers a range of treatments and amenities, including Roman baths, a laconium room, and an Arctic ice room. Highly skilled therapists provide a variety of massages, facials, and body treatments designed to rejuvenate and relax. For the ultimate indulgence, consider the Nobu Nagomi Ritual, a signature treatment that incorporates elements of Japanese wellness traditions.
In addition to the spa, Caesars Palace boasts multiple pools within its Garden of the Gods Pool Oasis. Each pool offers a unique atmosphere, from the secluded and serene Jupiter pool to the lively Neptune pool, complete with swim-up blackjack tables. Cabanas and daybeds are available for rent, providing an added level of luxury to your poolside experience.
Caesars Palace Overall
Caesars Palace is a legendary destination that lives up to its reputation. Its rich history, luxurious accommodations, diverse dining options, world-class entertainment, and upscale amenities make it a must-visit destination on the Las Vegas Strip. Though it comes with a few minor drawbacks, the resort’s grandeur and attention to detail create a truly unforgettable experience that leaves you feeling like royalty.