This is an exciting time for Las Vegas, full of creativity, redevelopment and investment.  MGM Resorts International will invest $350 million in its resorts this year, ensuring that guests have new wonders to explore with each visit. Below are the highlights of recent programs we have introduced and announced. 

Top News                                                                               

Stripside Revitalization at Monte Carlo and New York-New York

The front facades of Monte Carlo and New York-New York will be transformed into an outdoor plaza experience featuring a series of casual bars, eateries and retail destinations.

 

At Monte Carlo, the current formal European-style exterior has been removed to make way for a sophisticated pedestrian-friendly entryway and dynamic new offerings including Double Barrel, a casual roadhouse restaurant and bar concept by the hospitality experts at sbe; Yusho, authentic Japanese street food by celebrated chef Matthias Merges; Sambalatte, the art of sipping found in the ultimate coffee experience, beloved by Las Vegas locals, and soon available to visitors; and 800 Degrees Neapolitan Pizzeria, serving build-your-own personal pizzas prepared to each guest's liking and baked in around a minute in an 800-degree wood-burning oven, right before their eyes. Read the full details on Monte Carlo's Newsroom. Anticipated completion in spring 2014.

 

New York-New York is modifying its skyline and Brooklyn Bridge to create an environment brought to life through a vibrant patio culture and retailers new to the market.  Anchoring the new experience will be Hershey's Chocolate World, a two-story interactive, experiential destination that celebrates the incredible array of Hershey's-branded products which inspire the "Hershey's Happiness" mantra. Steps away are three entertaining shops and The Strip's first 24-hour Starbucks. The stores include Swatch, the renowned Swiss watch maker features new models, collections and special editions in a bright and colorful new store design; Stupidiotic, a specialty retail store featuring a wide variety of ingenious and UN-genius products and ideas; and I Love NYNY, which offers must-have NYNY apparel and gifts, beverages, snacks and sundry items. Additionally, the hotel's Irish pub Nine Fine Irishmen has been enhanced, including an expansion of its high-energy patio culture both on the casino floor and the Brooklyn Bridge. Read the full details on New York-New York's Newsroom. Swatch, Stupidiotic, I Love NYNY and Starbucks opened December 2013. Hershey's Chocolate World scheduled to open in Q2 2014.

 

The Monte Carlo and New York-New York revitalization will lead visitors to a new world-class 20,000-seat arena being developed by AEG and MGM Resorts. The companies expect to break ground on the arena in spring 2014 with a grand opening anticipated for spring 2016. Read the full details on the MGM Resorts Newsroom.

 

Delano Las Vegas at Mandalay Bay

Delano Las Vegas, an all-suite hotel introduced by MGM Resorts International and Morgans Hotel Group, will come to life in place of THEhotel. All 1,100 suites will be redesigned to reflect the Delano personality and its iconic South Beach charm. Read the full details on Mandalay Bay's Newsroom. Construction will begin in March 2014 with an anticipated opening in Q3 2014.

 

 

Stay Well Collection at MGM Grand

The first of its kind in the hospitality industry, MGM Grand offers a collection of Stay Well rooms and suites designed to help travelers take their healthy lifestyles on the road. Developed by New York-based Delos, these rooms combine the best of medical science and technology to enhance guests' physical and mental well-being during their stay. The overwhelming success of the original 42 Stay Well rooms, completed in October 2012, resulted in the expansion of the collection to an entire floor of 171 rooms in addition to a new dedicated registration retreat. Stay Well Rooms contain more than a dozen health and wellness features including aromatherapy, wake-up light therapy and Vitamin C-infused shower water. All Stay Well rooms and suites are located on the 14th floor of the hotel's main tower. Read the full details on MGM Grand's Newsroom. Expansion completed January 2014. 

 

Michael Jackson ONE by Cirque du Soleil at Mandalay Bay

Mandalay Bay, in partnership with Cirque du Soleil and the Michael Jackson estate, is thrilled to unveil Michael Jackson ONE, a permanent production dedicated to the King of Pop. ONE is a fusion of acrobatics, dance and visuals that takes the audience on an immersive journey through the music and spirit of Michael Jackson. Michael Jackson ONE showcases his artistry and spirit as expressed through the vibrant energy of the cast of 63 dancers and performers, underscored by aerial performances, driving acrobatics and vivid choreography. The show is driven by Michael's powerful, multi-layered music – heard like never before in a riveting, state-of-the-art surround-sound environment. ONE is a heartfelt tribute to the work, innovative spirit, and legacy of Michael Jackson – the King of Pop, the genius, the visionary, the One. Read the full details on Mandalay Bay's Newsroom. Opened June 2013.

 

El Loco at Circus Circus

Circus Circus Las Vegas recently debuted the world-class, record-breaking roller coaster El Loco at The Adventuredome. This gravity-defying coaster is the second of its kind in the United States and leaves riders screaming for more with its unique negative G drops and over-the-edge twists and turns. Designed by S&S Worldwide, Inc., the world's leading manufacturer of vertical and family thrill rides, El Loco roller coasters are famous for their record-breaking steep first drops and one-of-a-kind moves. Offering one of the smoothest rides in the business, El Loco's innovative, four-person cars feature an open design which gives riders the feeling of flying during the 75-second ride along 1,300 feet of track. Read the full details on Circus Circus' Newsroom. Opened February 2014.

 

More News from Las Vegas:

 

Bellagio                                                                                  

“O” by Cirque du Soleil Unveils VIP Suites

“O” by Cirque du Soleil invites guests to experience the show in ultimate comfort and luxury as it introduces the new VIP suites to the theater. Combining the grandeur of Bellagio with the master creativity of “O,” the seven exclusive box suites offer a unique opera-house style and feel. With the suites, guests have a choice of a bottle of champagne or wine, chocolate truffles, and a private cocktail server with a full range of ordering options from the show's concessions including popcorn, premium cocktails, chocolate-covered strawberries and more. The VIP Suites at “O” mark the first-time Cirque du Soleil has combined a VIP seat with such detailed, personalized service. VIP suite tickets are $295.00 per person (excluding tax and fees; $335.45 including) and must be purchased in pairs. Debuted February 2014.

 

Painting Women: Works from the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston

Organized in partnership with the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston (MFA), the Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art presents “Painting Women: Works from the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston.” The exhibition showcases 34 paintings spanning the 18th, 19th and 20th centuries, revealing the story of women artists, their activism and artistic achievements. The exhibition features a series of paintings portraying female artists as confident practitioners of their craft, as well as a survey of work by women artists including Mary Cassatt, Georgia O'Keeffe and Berthe Morisot. Opened February 2014 and will be on view through October 2014.

 

An Executive Chef's Culinary Classroom

Bellagio invites guests to put on their chefs' coats for a hands-on lesson in the culinary arts at An Executive Chef's Culinary Classroom, a series of interactive cooking classes in which Bellagio Executive Chef Edmund Wong and his team guide students through the preparation of a three-course meal including an appetizer, entrée and dessert. During each two-hour session held in Tuscany Kitchen, the resort's state-of-the-art demonstration kitchen, participants have the chance to taste their creations, which are paired with a specially selected wine. Each class follows a seasonal theme and features a menu created with the freshest ingredients. Classes are held monthly. The 2014 schedule is as follows:

• I Heart Food: February
• The Noodle Lover's Guide to Pasta: March 5
• Blossoming Taste of Spring: Thursday, April 3
• Grilling Perfection: Wednesday, May 28
• Father's Day Bellagio Barbeque: Thursday, June 12
• What to Eat First? The Chicken or the Egg: Wednesday, August 27
• Farm to Table: Wednesday, September 24
• Cooking with Chocolate: Wednesday, October 1
• Harvesting Thanksgiving: Wednesday, November 19

 

ARIA                                                                                                        

Zarkana

Zarkana by Cirque du Soleil is a spirited journey through an abandoned theater where an extraordinary circus comes back to life. Populated by a motley collection of off-the-wall characters and incomparable acrobats, Zarkana is a visual vortex set in a twisted acrobatic fantasy universe where, little by little, chaos and craziness give way to a true celebration. The quintessential Cirque du Soleil spectacular features an international cast of 70 world class acrobats, aerialists, jugglers, high-wire and trapeze artists. Zarkana's newest act, the Atherton Twins, hail from the UK and most recently performed in Cirque du Soleil's IRIS. Additional appearances include a performance on the 84th Academy Awards which was televised in more than 225 countries worldwide. The Atherton Twins debuted in Zarkana in February 2014.

 

Cabaletta

Cabaletta, a craft beer brewed exclusively for ARIA, was created by ARIA Mixologist Craig Schoettler and Baltimore's Stillwater Artisanal Ales Founder and Brewer Brian Strumke. The Saison Golden Ale appeals to craft beer aficionados as well as the casual beer drinker with its light and crisp body comprised of pilsner malt and wheat, accented with herbal and grassy German hops. Its 12 oz. bottles feature an elegant vintage-looking label. ARIA's personal brew also will be available on tap throughout the resort's restaurants, bars and lounges. Debuting March 10, 2014.

 

Hour Passion

A new multi-brand watch boutique from The Swatch Group, Hour Passion houses some of the most globally revered brands including Longines, Rado, Tissot, Balmain, Certina, Mido, Hamilton, Calvin Klein, Swatch and Flik Flak. Opened December 2013.

 

FIVE50 Pizza Bar

FIVE50 Pizza Bar is James Beard award-winning chef Shawn McClain's first casual concept. The restaurant's name is inspired by the temperature at which the pizza is cooked, and the time when the pizza bar celebrates a special happy hour daily. The menu features McClain's signature pizzas paired with an impressive selection of craft beers along with small plates, handmade pastas, an artisanal charcuterie selection and decadent desserts. Designed by Rockwell Group, the space blends the soul and warmth of the world's most iconic pizzerias with the social energy of the greatest bar scenes by featuring built in wood-fired ovens, a central, high-energy bar and a walk-up slice counter for guests on the go. Five50 Pizza Bar is open daily for lunch, dinner and late night. This is McClain's second venue at ARIA – the chef is the visionary behind the popular Sage restaurant. Opened July 2013.

 

ARIA Wedding Chapel

The Wedding Chapel at ARIA provides brides and grooms a level of contemporary luxury unparalleled on the Las Vegas Strip. While couples have a wealth of ways to say 'I do' in Vegas, from simple civil ceremonies and elegant services to themed extravaganzas, venues offering cutting-edge sophistication have remained scarce. The Wedding Chapel at ARIA combines sleek modern lines with soft, lavish décor for a look and feel that is as sophisticated as it is inviting. Opened April 2013.

 

Starbucks

The ever popular gourmet coffee house opened three locations within ARIA and The Shops at Crystals. One is conveniently located on the second level of ARIA steps away from the guest elevators, the second inside Crystals with a view of many of the designer stores and the third is located next to Pinkberry with a sidewalk entrance on Las Vegas Blvd. Opened April 2013.

 

Vdara                                                                                                          

ESPA at Vdara

Vdara Hotel & Spa and ESPA, the globally recognized spa industry leader with 30 years of spa heritage and knowledge, have joined forces to create an elevated spa experience unlike any other in Las Vegas – ESPA at Vdara. The 18,000-square-foot, two-level haven features 11 treatment rooms with three distinct relaxation lounges, a co-ed meditation room, sauna, eucalyptus steam rooms, hot plunges and heated lounge chairs. In addition to the pre-existing salon, fitness center and smoothie bar, the Forbes Four-Star destination will continue to promote holistic health and overall well-being for its guests with signature treatments that are bespoke to its new Las Vegas home. Aligning with Vdara's commitment to sustainability, ESPA's skin and body care products are derived from natural ingredients that include ethically sourced marine botanicals to yield immediate, visible results while producing long-term benefits. ESPA at Vdara is ESPA's first branded spa on the West Coast and only third in the United States.  Launched January 2014.

 

 

V Dog

Vdara Hotel & Spa now offers a canine-friendly program that not only welcomes, but caters to, man's best friend. With its new Vdog program, Vdara allows guests to travel with up to two dogs with a combined weight of 75 lbs or one dog at the same weight for an additional $50 per dog, per night. A non-refundable cleaning fee will also be charged to guests. Upon check-in, all dogs receive a welcome amenity that includes an all-natural, freshly baked dog treat from a local pet bakery, eco-friendly waste bags, information about Vdara's 24-hour dog park that features a walking path and an in-suite doggie dining menu created by Vdara's executive chef. Upon request, Vdara provides crates for pet owners who choose to leave their dogs alone and dog-sitting services can be arranged through Vdara concierge. Launched July 2013.

 

The Shops at Crystals                                                                         

Bobby's Burger Palace

Food Network star and celebrity chef Bobby Flay brings his casual burger concept to The Shops at Crystals as its first West Coast location. An array of specialty burgers, many named after the cities for which they were created, grace the menu with a variety of meats, sauces and toppings. The signature Vegas Burger is a spicy delight made with white American cheese, Fresno red chilies and BBQ potato chips. Guests can choose between certified angus beef, ground turkey or whole chicken breast and even have the option to “Crunchify” any burger with a layer of potato chips. Sides include French fries with a special BBP Fry Sauce, Sweet Potato Fries or Beer Battered Onion Rings. Guests looking for lighter option can choose to have their favorite burger “topless,” served on a bed of lettuce. Two types of gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches are also available. Rounding out the menu is a scrumptious selection of milkshakes and adult milkshakes including mint chocolate chip and a spiked Mocha Kahlua vodka shake. Opened January 2014.

 

LALIQUE

The internationally renowned inventor of modern jewelry and master in the art of glassmaking, brings the first home goods boutique to The Shops at Crystals. LALIQUE's newest retail destination showcases the five pillars of the LALIQUE lifestyle brand including crystal objects, interiors, fine jewelry, fragrance and art. Opened January 2014.

 

Loro Piana

Loro Piana continues its six-generation legacy of delivering fine cashmere, wool products and luxury goods from Italy at The Shops at Crystals. The lavish 2,500-square-foot boutique features the brand's traditional collections and showcases the new “Gifts” offering. All furnishings in the exquisite Crystals' location are upholstered in the finest Loro Piana fabrics while soft interior lighting contributes to a warm and inviting atmosphere. The boutique's décor emulates the brand's core values of simplicity, timelessness and attention to materials and finishes. Opened October 2013.

 

Richard Mille

The premier Swiss watchmaker and jeweler, Richard Mille, expands its collection to The Shops at Crystals with a new 750-square-foot showroom and an exclusive VIP area. Luxurious interior design features include materials such as Makassar wood, Corian stone, leather, steel and glass. More than 40 handmade watches are displayed in a highly technical showcase with elements such as anti-reflective glass and custom choreographed lighting. Opened September 2013.

 

Tourbillon
Tourbillon expands its third U.S.-based boutique at Crystals making it the largest and most impressive store to date within the Swatch Group family. Only in a Tourbillon boutique can guests peruse prestigious brands such as Breguet, Blancpain, Glashütte Original, Jaquet Droz, Leon Hatot and Omega under one roof. In homage to the parent company's namesake, Swatch Group, a selection of exclusive watches and jewelry from the Swatch brand, also is featured. Opened September 2013.

 

Valentino

Established in Rome in 1962, the legendary house of Valentino expands to The Shops at Crystals. The 3,000-square-foot boutique is the first location in Las Vegas to boast the new store design concept that features a more intimate and personal feel than a traditional retail boutique, yet remains true to Valentino's iconic brand with signature black and white checkered flooring, layered mirror glass walls and gypsum curtains. The Crystals location carries the largest selection of products in Las Vegas with items from all retail categories including the latest ready-to-wear, handbag and shoe collections. Opened August 2013.

 

RIMOWA

German luxury luggage manufacturer, RIMOWA, debuts its flagship location at The Shops at Crystals. The second location in Las Vegas and only fifth in the United States, the Crystals' RIMOWA location spans 2,000 square feet and offers exclusive items, including the new leather goods collection and all RIMOWA accessories. The bright white design of the Crystals boutique allows the quality and array of colors to stand out while a custom VIP room, accented in darker hues, highlights special aluminum magnesium alloy cases. The VIP room is designed to be an intimate space for shoppers to peruse the RIMOWA selection with their own dedicated salesperson. Opened August 2013.

 

James Turrell Installation

In May 2013, a new installation by internationally acclaimed artist James Turrell debuted at The Shops at Crystals. The installation is the latest addition to the CityCenter Fine Art Collection,the first major permanent collection in Las Vegas integrated into a public space.

 

Central to the project is the transformation of the tram station where light saturates the space with color, in coordination with the arrival and departure of each train. In response to the unique architecture of the Daniel Libeskind-designed building, Turrell created a new visual experience for guests of the luxury fashion center. The installation features works that can be experienced from multiple vantage points – seen from afar as subtly changing planes of color or from within an area flooded with light.

 

A second, more intimate experience titled Akhob, is found on the fourth level of Louis Vuitton's Maison at Crystals. This by-appointment-only experience was created by James Turrell especially for Louis Vuitton. The work is Turrell's largest “ganzfeld effect” to date. A “ganzfeld effect” is a three dimensional experience where guests navigate through the space and ultimately experience a void of dimension. Installations completed May 2013.

 

MGM Grand                                                                                          

TAP

The ideal setting to watch the latest sporting events, TAP is a fully immersive sports bar that surrounds guests with sports history. One-of-a-kind memorabilia from events held at the Grand Garden Arena and around Las Vegas hang throughout the space, plus every seat offers a prime view of the biggest games broadcast on the restaurant's 60 HD flat-screen televisions. Open for lunch and dinner daily, TAP serves up American favorites including two-fisted sandwiches, specialty sliders and the option to create a build-your-own burger. TAP boasts an extensive beer selection including local and seasonal craft brews. The varied beer list is even incorporated into the cocktail program with several beer cocktails available. From NHL Hockey to UFC to NBA Basketball, TAP is a true sports lover's paradise. Opened January 2014.

 

Joël Robuchon Parisian Terrace Wedding Package

Joël Robuchon Restaurant has elevated the wedding experience to new heights with an extraordinary package designed for those looking to celebrate marriage in an elegant setting reminiscent of Paris in the 1930s. The picturesque Parisian Terrace showcasing a vertical garden of ivy and landscaped design provides a magical backdrop for the bride and groom's wedding ceremony. A post-ceremony toast in the exquisite Aperitif Lounge will kick off an evening to be remembered, followed by an elegant five-course meal in the private dining room of Las Vegas' only AAA Five Diamond and Michelin three-star restaurant. The wedding package will turn dreams into reality with several touches that ensure an extraordinary nuptial celebration. The Joël Robuchon Restaurant wedding package is priced at $5,895, all-inclusive. Began January 2014.

 

Hecho en Vegas

Located in MGM Grand's bustling restaurant row, “The District,” Hecho en Vegas offers authentic Mexican cuisine served in a festive atmosphere. The menu features traditional Sonoran dishes and popular Mexican favorites including nachos and fajitas inspired by the Flores family of restaurateurs, known for their iconic Arizona restaurants, El Charro Café and Sir Veza's. To complement the traditional menu, Hecho en Vegas boasts a large selection of fine tequilas, tasty margaritas and Mexican beers. Opened December 2013.

 

CRUSH eat, drink, love

CRUSH eat, drink, love is a fresh and inviting communal dining concept by Michael and Jenna Morton of The Morton Group. The menu features shared plates and large entrees rounded out by an expertly selected list of wine, spirits and beer. Upon entry, guests find themselves within a “greenhouse” garden, which serves as the lounge portion of the restaurant. At the back of the garden lies the entrance to the main dining room and wine cellar complete with a barrel-vaulted ceiling and white brick walls. A celebration of food, drinks and friends, CRUSH provides the ideal atmosphere for indulgence. Opened December 2013.

 

Beacher's Madhouse

Legendary showman Jeff Beacher, creator and host of Beacher's Madhouse, made a triumphant return to Las Vegas in December 2013. With the energy of a circus and the atmosphere of an A-list Hollywood party, the world's most outrageously sexy and over-the-top Vaudeville-inspired show reaches new heights of madness. Beacher is best known for his ability to push the boundaries of sexuality, entertainment and fantasy. Opened December 2013.

 

Whiskey Down

The former Tabú space has been transformed into an intimate, high-end gaming lounge located on the casino floor. Open 24 hours, the lounge features six Blackjack tables, seven video poker machines at the bar and seating for up to 64 guests. In its beverage lineup, Whiskey Down offers a wide array of brown spirits including American, Canadian, Irish and Scotch whiskies as well as specialty cocktails. Opened August 2013.

 

Michael Mina's PUB 1842

Michael Mina's gastro pub features traditional pub fare including shellfish, sausage, burgers and craft beer. The dining room has a vintage pub theme complete with elevated dining booths, wooden bar stools and a keg room. Stone mosaic floors, vintage print wallpapers, plaid upholstery and butcher block tables add to the authentic tavern environment. Opened June 2013.

 

Hakkasan Las Vegas Restaurant and Nightclub

Envisioned and created by Hakkasan Group and its partners Angel Management Group (AMG), Hakkasan Las Vegas is a a bold evolution of the prestigious global restaurant brand into an all-encompassing nightlife experience. The five-level culinary and nightlife mecca showcases a unique convergence of dramatic design, modern Cantonese cuisine, world-class mixology and exclusive collaborations with in-demand artists across numerous genres. Hakkasan Nightclub opened April 2013, the restaurant debuted May 2013.

 

Mandalay Bay                                                                                       

Rx Boiler Room

Rx Boiler Room isaward-winning chef, restaurateur and cookbook author Rick Moonen's steampunk-inspired restaurant and lounge, located on the second level of rm Seafood inside The Shoppes at Mandalay Bay. The restaurant's décor is reminiscent of industrialism during the 19th century Victorian era featuring warm colors, opulent leather seating, chalkboard walls and a hammered metallic ceiling. The menu combines the alchemy of food and drink by showcasing Moonen's spin on classic comfort food served in small and large plate portions, complemented by hand-crafted cocktails. Opened July 2013.

 

Kumi

Kumi by Akira Back at Mandalay Bay features Executive Chef Akira Back's (Yellowtail at Bellagio) world-famous cuisine – a modern Japanese menu with a Korean American twist. Kumi is an inviting and engaging venue, featuring modern twists on authentic Japanese design. Kumi's 10,000 square feet of space offers various dining areas with seating for up to 300 people. The anchor of the dining room is Kumi's sushi bar, featuring glazed cobalt blue tiles in a scalloped pattern inspired by common Japanese homes. Adjacent to the sushi bar is a back rotunda with painted walls featuring giant interpretations of cherry blossom trees. Opened July 2013.

 

Seascape Ballroom

The Seascape Ballroom within Shark Reef Aquarium provides captivating views of the 30 sharks and other magnificent aquatic creatures that make their home in the 1.3-million-gallon exhibit. Ideal for intimate receptions, sit-down dinners and board meetings, the Seascape Ballroom is a one-of-a-kind location allowing guests to be immersed in the beauty and serenity of this underwater scene. An adjoining outdoor patio and lounge, with a pergola for ambiance and privacy, allows for flexible use of this distinctive space. Opened June 2013.

 

LIGHT

LIGHT, the first stand-alone nightclub presented by the partnership of The Light Group and Cirque du Soleil, revolutionizes the Las Vegas nightlife landscape with its latest venue. Designed to bring a unique, memorable experience each evening, LIGHT will tantalize senses with state-of-the-art production and theatrics. Redefining a “night out” and creating unique, memorable events each evening are a group of world-renowned resident DJs including Skrillex, Sebastian Ingrosso, Baauer, Axwell and Alesso, among others. Opened May 2013.

 

DAYLIGHT Beach Club

DAYLIGHT Beach Club is a departure from traditional Vegas pool parties, transporting guests from the hustle and bustle of The Strip to an upscale and chic tropical oasis. Centered around a luxurious pool with three wet decks, the 5,000-person DAYLIGHT Beach Club is the perfect setting to indulge. With 50,000 square feet of flexible outdoor space, DAYLIGHT allows the party to easily transition from day to night, always with Mandalay Bay as the backdrop. Opened May 2013.

                                   

Four Seasons Hotel Las Vegas

Four Seasons Hotel Las Vegas, located on floors 35-39 of Mandalay Bay renovated all 424 guest rooms and suites. This innovative design project was inspired in part by the vibrant Art Deco period, resulting in chic interiors that are simultaneously stylish, modern and reflective of the glamour and energy for which Las Vegas is known.  Creating an energetic social hub that evolves from espressos in the morning to draft beers and wine at night, Press is a new indoor/outdoor lobby bar ideal for refreshment, mingling and business. Rooms completed January 2013. Press opened May 2013.

 

Citizens Kitchen & Bar

Citizens Kitchen & Bar features Light Group's Executive Chef Brian Massie's creative and contemporary take on American comfort food. The menu features a wide range of signature favorites for breakfast, lunch and dinner with highlights including Maryland Blue Crab Cakes, Southern Fried Chicken and Bacon Wrapped Meatloaf. Opened January 2013.

 

Upgraded Food Court

The food court, located adjacent to the Convention Center and Shark Reef Aquarium has been newly upgraded with more branded names and furnishings. The all-new food court features a Nathan's Famous, Johnny Rockets, Bonanno's New York Pizzeria, Subway and Pan Asian Express as well as new décor, furniture, lounge chairs and televisions making it an ideal choice for conventioneers and guests looking to grab a quick bite. Opened January 2014.

 

OD the Sea Turtle

Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay welcomes OD the sea turtle, its newest family member, following a cross-country journey to Las Vegas that grabbed heartstrings and headlines nationwide. OD was first found in 1999 near Atlantic Beach, North Carolina with a lung infection. After recovering, he was tagged and released back into the ocean. In 2008, the tagged turtle was found with a collapsed lung near French Reef in the Florida Keys where he was treated at the Florida Keys-based Turtle Hospital. OD was unable to be rereleased and Shark Reef Aquarium offered him a permanent home. The estimated 50-year-old, 320-pound rescued sea turtle was officially put on display in the 1.3-million gallon Shipwreck Exhibit at Shark Reef Aquarium on Oct. 7, 2013.

 

The Mirage                                                                                                          

Tom Colicchio's Heritage Steak

Renowned New York chef Tom Colicchio brings his passion for cooking with fire to The Mirage with the opening of Tom Colicchio's Heritage Steak. The 250-seat restaurant focuses on meats prepared entirely over an open flame – from wood-burning ovens to charcoal grills. The warmth of the hearth permeates the entire restaurant; from the Bentel+Bentel design highlighting natural materials to the comforting aroma reminiscent of a campfire. Colicchio's new restaurant, located within The Mirage's iconic Atrium, is open for dinner, nightly. Opened August 2013.

 

Boyz II Men

Four-time GRAMMY Award-winning R&B vocal group Boyz II Men kicked off an extended residency at The Mirage in spring 2013. The trio, featuring baritone Nathan Morris alongside tenors Wanya Morris and Shawn Stockman, has extended their residency through 2014. Formed in 1990, Boyz II Men holds the distinction of being the best-selling R&B group of all time with more than 60 million albums sold worldwide. The group redefined popular R&B with its smooth harmonies and timeless themes delivered through a multi-octave sound and incredible vocal styling. Shows at The Mirage are highlighted by the trio's performance of hits including “Motownphilly” and “It's So Hard to Say Goodbye to Yesterday.” Opened March 2013; 2014 dates include:

• February 21-23; 28
• March 1-2; 8-9; 14-16; 21-23
• April 11-13; 25-27
• May 9-11; 23-25; 30
• June 1; 27-29
• July 5-6; 11-13; 18-20; 25-27
• August 29-31
• September 5-7; 12-14; 26-28
• October 3-5