This casino is probably one of the most recognized strip locations in Las Vegas.

MGM Grand

Buffet -We thoroughly enjoyed this buffet, with the exception of the long line for entry. However the line moved quickly and we were serviced well. They serve Brunch until 2:30 so we ate mostly breakfast items, including omelets, bacon, sausage, hash browns, and various juices. I liked the fact that even though they have an omelet station, they served REAL EGGS, any way you like them. Hours: Open daily, Brunch buffet 7a.m.-2:30 pm $9.50 Children under 12, $5.95. Dinner all you can eat shrimp and prime rib 4:30 pm -10 pm $13.95 Children under 12, $7.95. Children under 4, No Charge.

Attractions –

Lion Habitat – Don’t worry, there’s glass between you and the lions. A nice habitat complete with rock ledges, waterfalls, and overhanging flora. Walk into the alcove and watch the lion above and around you. Take a look at the picture below, this lion was feeling a bit playful the day we visited.

Review of Mirage

Hotel -One of the nicer places to stay on the strip.

Mirage Hotel

Buffet -About a 15-minute wait was reasonable. Recommend Mirage buffet over Harrah’s buffet. Peel your own shrimp, ham, chicken, steak, and turkey were a daily offering at the buffet. Make your own pasta and Mexican Togel bars were a nice touch. A big salad bar, fresh fruit bar, and the desert bar were abundantly stocked with many choices. Service was top notch and nice decor. Save room for the chocolate moose as well as the fresh strawberries atop a vanilla cream shell. Skip the éclairs. I requested a coke and was surprised by the return of a coca cola and a carafe filled with extra coca cola. Coffee was ample. Dinner $14.50, Lunch $9.50, Breakfast $8.50.

Insiders tip to buffets given by a Casinojudge jury member: Buffets are typically more expensive as the day goes on. (Lunch is more expensive than breakfast, dinner is more expensive than brunch) (Example) If you enter a buffet at the end of breakfast, you get to have the lunch buffet at the price of breakfast.

Attractions –

Volcano – The volcano is now a symbol of modern day vegas. It erupts every 15 minutes, generally 6:00pm-12:00am. It can get crowded quickly, so be there early if you have kids.

Mirage Volcano #1

Mirage Volcano #2

Mirage Volcano #3

White Tigers, Aquarium, Jungle Gardens – You can see the White Siberian Tiger exhibit when you enter via the Las Veges Strip walkway. 24 hours, but the tigers may not be there at all times. It advertises Vegas’s most popular magic act, Siegfried and Roy. Take a look at the tigers, then stroll to the check-in desk to see the humongous aquarium behind the desk. If you correctly find your way, you can walk through the “Jungle Gardens”.

The Secret Garden of Siegfried and Roy – A habitat for wildlife. Lions, tigers, a jaguar, an elephant, a snow leopard, and a dolphin habitat are part of this tour. From 11 am to 5 pm Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, opens at 10 am on Saturdays and Sundays; Cost $10, children under 10, free.

Pool area – Take a day off and relax at the pool.

Mirage Pool

Shows – Both Danny Gans and the eternal Las Vegas Magicians, Siegfried and Roy, perform at the Mirage.