Las Vegas July 2008 - The Golden Nugget

The next few posts are all about Vegas in July. This was the annual family trip … me and my younger son. So … its mostly family oriented. We’ll start with our two nights at the Golden Nugget … then move on to our two nights at the Luxor. We’ll finish with the magic shows.

We don’t usually stay downtown. We don’t really like Freemont Street, but about 2 years ago the Golden Nugget opened a new pool complex with a Shark Tank (aquarium), water slide and all new pool. We saw it last year, and agreed to stay and play this year. The water slide goes right through the Shark Tank – which is very cool.

The owners have spent a great deal of money renovating the venerable downtown property, and this is by far the best hotel-casino on Freemont. The room was excellent; huge flat panel TV, very well appointed bathroom, comfortable beds with way too many pillows. Only wish there had been a few more channels for my son to watch on the TV.

But we came to swim – and wouldn’t you know, as soon as we arrived, we were told that the pool complex would be closed for most of our full day for a private party. That really stinks. I have no use for a hotel that puts private parties above its guests. I did get a late check-out on our departure day so we could swim in the morning, and we really did have plenty of time over the three days/ two nights we were there – but it is the principal of the thing. We had the same problem last year in Miami. I am, perhaps, jinxed. All that said, the complex is great – the waterslide really fast and really fun; the shark tank amazing. You can swim up to it on all four sides.

Perhaps not of interest for all, but there is a lot of shade at this pool. When it is 105 degree out, shade is a good thing. In fact, obe entire side of the pool is under cover. Just worth mentioning.

We ate primarily at the 24 hour Market Café. Food was very good, prices quite reasonable, and the wait staff generally fine. The other eating choices looked to be excellent with a great variety of cuisines. Obviously we did not sample the casino – with a 13 year old in tow – but it looked to be busy.

Nice property. They are building another tower with 500 more rooms, so it must be doing well. We prefer the Strip – so its unlikely we would stay t here again. Word to families – Vegas can be a great family vacation. Just set your expectations. We spend most evenings at the magic shows, days swimming and enjoying the noises and lights. We often spend a few hours at Jillians shooting pool. And we know the best arcades on the Strip.