Just off the Las Vegas Strip, this is a very popular casino.
Rio Casino
Buffets –
Seafood Buffet
Stand in this line to get a ticket and wait for your number then wait to stand in the line to pay and enter the buffet. It was slightly crowded so this was a 30-minute process. Mini lobster tails, peel your own shrimp, snow crab legs (warm and cold), oysters, turkey, prime rib, mahi-mahi were among the daily offerings of the buffet. A well stocked desert bar. Save room for the chocolate chip cookies. A waiter named Lee was very attentive and quick. This is a popular spot so be sure to get there early if you can. Dinner @ $24.95 was more expensive than most, but worth it if you are a seafood lover.
Carnival World Buffet
The world buffet is named appropriately. This is an excellent place to bring kids along. A seemingly endless buffet choice is astonishing. Foods include: Italian, Mexican, USA, Asian, Amazon Grille, Western Bar-B-Q, Fish and Chips, Hamburgers, Sushi, Salad and Fruit Bars, and a Desert bar. A point of distinction from other buffets was a milkshake machine in the Hamburger buffet area. I was partial to the Amazon Grille. You put together your choice of vegetables and hand them to the chef. He then will ask you if you would like chicken, beef, or pork. He will place the ingredients on a circular grill and cook them in front of you. Service was a minus as it seemed slower than some of the other buffets. Prices were reasonable and in line with the other buffets. Breakfast $7.95, Lunch $9.95, Dinner $12.95
Attractions –
Rio Show on the Casino Floor – From trapize-like dancers to the showgirls and guys singing, a Mardi Gras celebration occurs directly above your head as you sit at a slot machine. It runs every 2 hours starting at 4 pm and ending at 10 pm Thursday through Monday. Stick around towards the end of the show and catch some Mardi Gras bead necklaces. It might be a good idea to plan your dinner or lunch reservations so that you will catch a show.
Review of Stratosphere
“The tallest building west of the Mississippi”
Attractions – For a spectacular view of Las Vegas, take the escalator up to the 2nd floor and walk through the shopping district to purchase tickets ($6.00) to go to the observation deck. (1029 ft) If you are daring enough, purchase Togel tickets for the two rides and the obeservation deck ($15.00). First is the “High Roller” coaster that circles the top of the building on the 108th floor. Second is a ride called the “Big Shot”, which is attached to the needlepoint of the tower. This starts on the 112th floor and shoots you up to the top of the needle within a second. You then freefall back down and bounce up and down until the ride is over. It truly is a great view if you can stomach the ride!
Rides are weather permitting. Height requirement for rides is 48 inches. 10 am to 1 am; until 2 am Fridays and Saturdays.
Money Saving Tip – Take a look in the local tourist books available in most casinos. You may find a coupon for free entrance to the observation deck.
