When word came out that the Bellagio was going to conduct some renovations to their sports book, I was a bit concerned. What was not to like about the current set up? This Vegas sports book was housed in a large space with over-sized leather captain chairs and plenty of seating areas with ample screens (both large monitors and personal TVs) throughout. And of course the dark wood decor, starting gate style betting counters, and generous seating areas for both horse racing and sports – there is nothing wrong with the Bellagio sports book so why is MGM changing things?
The Starting Gate Betting Windows & Rows of Desk Betting Stations (shown above) Have Been Removed
The Bellagio sports book space has definitely changed albeit not that drastically. The sports book is still bookended by a horse racing area on one side and a sports only section on the other. The middle section of this Vegas sports book has been modified and now contains numerous lounge chairs tables, and couches. The old style, multiple row, long-desk set up with individual work areas and monitors is now gone, except for what remains of the horse racing area, which still has plenty of space.
The New Lounge Set Up at the Bellagio Sports Book
The Monte Carlo, also an MGM run property, modified their sports book a couple of years ago and did the same thing by introducing a lounge-area. The MGM operated Aria sports book is also configured in a lounge type of layout so it appears that this is an emerging theme for Vegas sports books run by MGM. Mandalay Bay is a prime candidate to be next.
Bellagio Sports Book
The new lounge area at the Bellagio sports book is actually quite comfortable and fits in with the upscale property. I spent some time at this spot on a recent evening during NBA playoffs and MLB baseball. Lounge seating was easy to come by, however I highly doubt that will be the case come weekends in the autumn. I wouldn’t be surprised if some of these lounge couches or chairs are reserved come football season – the staff members I asked weren’t sure if that would be the case, but they certainly will be at a premium during prime sports days.
New Lounge Chairs & Sofas at Bellagio Sports Book. Fancy, Yes?
One thing that hasn’t changed at this Vegas sports book is the drink service. Comped drinks were easy to come by and I scored several free drink tickets during my recent visit – the drinks are quality and look pretty darn nice when placed on a table in the new fancy lounge set up.
At the Bellagio Sports Book, Even the Swizzle Sticks are Fancy
While other properties are slicing and dicing their sports books….ahem, Caesars, it’s nice to see that one of the more iconic Vegas sports books on the Strip is actually making the space nicer, instead of just smaller.
All About the Planet Hollywood Sports Book
March Madness in Vegas – The Crowd Goes Crazy
Pacquiao Mayweather Vegas Odds
Tips for Watching March Madness in Vegas
Scenes from Super Bowl Weekend in Vegas
Tips for Watching Super Bowl in Las Vegas
Las Vegas Super Bowl Parties 2015
10 Great Places to Watch Football in Vegas
Unwritten Rules of Vegas Sports Books
A New Las Vegas Super Book is in the Works
The Vegas Parlay’s Top 10 Las Vegas Sports Books
Las Vegas Sports Book NFL Season Win Totals
Fantasy Football Las Vegas Style
The $10,000 Kentucky Derby Sports Book Ticket
Speak Your Mind