I. Introduction
If you’re a fan of Las Vegas and its famous casinos, you might be wondering whether MGM Casino is open now during the global pandemic. As a traveler or a local resident, knowing whether you can enjoy the thrill of gambling, dining, and entertainment at this iconic destination safely is essential. Moreover, understanding the measures that casinos and other businesses are taking to adapt to the pandemic can help you make informed decisions about your health and well-being. In this article, we’ll take an inside look at MGM Casino’s reopening process and safety measures, guide you through the visitor experience, discuss both the benefits and drawbacks of visiting during COVID-19, and more.
II. An Inside Look at MGM Casino’s Reopening: What You Need to Know
MGM Casino, like many other casinos in Las Vegas and around the world, was forced to close its doors for several months in early 2020 due to the pandemic. However, the casino has since reopened with new safety measures in place. Specifically, MGM Grand and Mandalay Bay reopened on July 1st, while ARIA and Bellagio followed on July 16th. According to MGM Resorts International, these measures include:
- Mandatory masks for all employees and guests
- Temperature checks at all resort entry points
- Social distancing requirements in all public areas, including at gaming tables and slot machines
- Limiting casino capacity to no more than 50%
- Enhanced cleaning and sanitization procedures, including of high-touch areas like elevator buttons and door handles
- Providing hand sanitizer dispensers throughout the resort
- Implementing an air filtration system that meets or exceeds industry standards
It’s essential to note that these safety measures are in line with or go beyond current regulatory requirements set by the Nevada Gaming Control Board. MGM Casino’s reopening plan also places a high priority on communication and transparency with guests, so you can rest assured that you’ll be fully informed on any changes or updates that may arise during your visit.
III. Ready to Roll the Dice? What to Expect When Visiting MGM Casino
So, what can you expect when you visit MGM Casino now during the pandemic? Firstly, it’s important to arrive early for your check-in as the process may take longer than usual. Additionally, you will be required to wear masks throughout your visit, except when eating, drinking, or smoking. MGM Casino has a variety of gaming options available, including slot machines, table games such as blackjack and roulette, and a sportsbook. However, unlike pre-pandemic times, you may notice some changes, such as limited seating at table games to promote social distancing or plexiglass barriers between players and dealers.
Additionally, dining experiences will be different. You can still enjoy a range of cuisine and dining options at MGM Casino’s restaurants, cafes, and bars, but there will be limits on the number of people who can be inside these areas and reduced hours of operation.
If you’re concerned about potential exposure to COVID-19, we recommend that you take some additional steps to protect yourself. These may include washing your hands regularly or using hand sanitizer, avoiding touching your face, and following the social distancing guidelines that are in place.
IV. MGM Casino’s New Safety Measures and How They’re Keeping Guests Safe
MGM Casino has been carefully planning and implementing new safety measures to ensure that guests and employees are protected during the pandemic. We interviewed a casino representative to understand more about these measures and how they work:
“At MGM Casino, our primary focus is on keeping our guests and employees safe while still providing them with the exciting and engaging Las Vegas experience that they expect. The safety measures we’ve put in place, including mandatory masks, social distancing requirements, and enhanced cleaning procedures, exceed current industry standards and local regulations. We want our guests to enjoy their time with us without worrying about their health or well-being.”
The representative noted that MGM Casino staff are trained to monitor and enforce these safety measures to ensure that everyone is following the rules and that guests feel comfortable and confident during their visit. Additionally, the casino has implemented new technologies, such as physical barriers and air filtration systems, to help further reduce the spread of the virus and promote a clean and healthy environment.
V. Is MGM Casino Worth the Risk? An Analysis of the Pros and Cons of Visiting During COVID-19
As with any destination during the pandemic, there are both benefits and drawbacks to visiting MGM Casino. Some of the pros include:
- Lower crowds and reduced wait times
- More personalized attention from staff
- Access to a wide range of gaming options and dining experiences
- The excitement of being in Las Vegas
However, there are also some potential cons and risks to consider before you visit, such as:
- The potential exposure to COVID-19 and other viruses
- Adjusted hours, limited capacity, and other changes to the visitor experience that may be less enjoyable or convenient
- Additional precautions and safety measures that may take time and effort to follow
Ultimately, the decision to visit MGM Casino during the pandemic will depend on your individual circumstances and priorities. We recommend that you consider the latest information on COVID-19 in Las Vegas, the safety measures put in place at the casino, and your own level of comfort and risk tolerance before making any travel plans.
VI. A Look at the Financial Impact of MGM Casino’s Closure and Reopening
The pandemic has had far-reaching impacts on the Las Vegas economy and on the casino industry specifically. The closure of MGM Casino, along with other casinos and tourist attractions in Las Vegas, has led to significant revenue losses. However, the reopening of MGM Casino and other casinos has brought some positive changes and initiatives to the industry. For example, MGM Resorts International has launched a new campaign called “Seven-Point Safety Plan” that aims to educate guests on the safety measures in place at their casinos and resorts and highlight the importance of responsible tourism during the pandemic.
VII. Experience the Thrill of Las Vegas: What to Do and See at MGM Casino Now
If you do decide to visit MGM Casino during the pandemic, there are still plenty of attractions and experiences that you can enjoy while staying safe and healthy. Some of our top recommendations include:
- Trying your luck at the slot machines or table games
- Watching a live entertainment show or performance, such as Cirque du Soleil or virtual reality games
- Savoring a delicious meal or drink at one of MGM Casino’s restaurants or bars, such as Wolfgang Puck’s Spago or the new Eataly
- Relaxing by the pool or spa for some well-deserved R&R
VIII. Conclusion
In conclusion, MGM Casino has reopened its doors with a host of new safety measures to protect guests and employees during the pandemic. With these measures in place, you can still enjoy the excitement and thrill of Las Vegas while staying safe and healthy. By understanding the features, protocols, and visitor experience of the casino during these challenging times, visitors to Las Vegas can make informed decisions about how they want to take part in the excitement of Sin City.