The Monte Carlo Casino really has a lot to live up to. The hotel is themed after one of the most popular gambling destinations in the world which also happens to offer one of the most beautiful casinos in the world. While everyone knows that the Monte Carlo is nothing like the real French Riviera, the casino is still very nice and plenty big for all your gambling needs. Actually when it comes to Strip hotels, this casino is a favorite for locals too. Many locals will tell you that the odds at the Monte Carlo are pretty good compared to some of the bigger hotels on the Strip.

They offer better than average odds on double-deck blackjack, craps, Let It Ride, Pai Gow, baccarat, and any other table game you could ask for. The casino also offers minimum bets as low as $5. This makes the Monte Carlo one of the cheapest casinos on the Strip to play at. The prices of betting at Monte Carlo are comparable to many of the casinos downtown but with the convenience of a Strip location. The casino itself is also huge and you will have no problem finding an open table. When it comes to slots, the Monte Carlo offers over 2,000 machines in pretty much any shape and size. They offer both older style machines as well as the newer video and progressive slots. For slot players, the reward club is shared with all the other MGM-Mirage properties. This is a good deal because the rewards can be redeemed at several different hotels. The cocktail service here is quick, efficient, and drinks are, of course, free for those gambling. The waitresses are friendly and the atmosphere in the casino isn’t intimidating which is great for new players. The casino also isn’t super busy or loud so serious players can concentrate while new players try to figure out how to play. The casino is also one of the best when it comes to comps for those of us who aren’t high-rollers. Betting $25 and up a hand might get you some free buffet coupons. Betting $100 and up for several hours may get you a free room or at least some offers in the mail for discounted rates.

The sports book is small and a place for serious bettors. There are 18 TVs with four big screens that are mostly for watching the races, not sports. There are about 100 seats total and the room is geared mostly toward the race books and weighs less heavily on the sports book aspect. The sports book has it’s own bar and drinks are comped for those betting. The minimum bets are the standard $5 for sports and $2 for racing.

The Monte Carlo has a small poker room with 9 tables. The room is separate from the casino and partially closed off so that it’s quiet enough for serious players to not lose their concentration. This room can get crowded on weekends and don’t be surprised if you have to wait for a table. They deal mostly Hold-em but will offer other games if they can get enough players.