Luxor Las Vegas stands as one of the most recognizable landmarks on the southern end of the Las Vegas Strip, featuring a massive 30-story pyramid structure that houses approximately 4,400 rooms and suites. This Egyptian-themed resort offers an immersive experience with its hieroglyphic decor, towering sphinx statue, and the world’s most powerful man-made light beam shooting from the pyramid’s peak. Operated by MGM Resorts International, Luxor provides a unique blend of budget-friendly accommodations, a 120,000-square-foot casino with over 1,100 slot machines and 60+ table games, multiple dining options, and signature attractions like Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition. While the resort maintains its distinctive pyramid design, recent renovations have modernized many areas while scaling back some of the original Egyptian theming inside. Located between Excalibur and Mandalay Bay, Luxor connects via free tram service to these neighboring resorts, making it an ideal starting point for exploring the southern Strip. With daily resort fees around $45 plus tax covering Wi-Fi, fitness center access, and digital publications, Luxor remains a popular choice for travelers seeking an affordable yet distinctive Vegas experience.
Key Takeaways
- Luxor offers two distinct room options: pyramid rooms (with slanted walls and inclined elevators) and modern tower suites (located in the newer black-glass towers)
- Resort fee is approximately $45 per night plus tax and includes Wi-Fi, fitness center access, digital newspapers, and local calls
- Casino features over 1,100 slots, high-limit gaming areas, and table games including blackjack, craps, and roulette
- Four outdoor pools sit on a 125,650-square-foot deck with seasonal gay pool parties on Sundays
- MGM Rewards program connects Luxor to nine other Vegas properties for earning points on dining, shows, and gambling
- January, February, and September typically offer the lowest room rates due to off-peak travel seasons
- Free tram connects Luxor to Excalibur and Mandalay Bay for easy exploration of multiple resorts
Table of Contents
How is the Location of Luxor Hotel on the Las Vegas Strip?
Luxor Hotel and Casino occupies a strategic position at the southern end of the Las Vegas Strip, nestled between Excalibur and Mandalay Bay in Paradise, Nevada. This location offers several distinct advantages for visitors. While situated away from the bustling center of the Strip around Bellagio and Caesars Palace, Luxor provides easier access to Harry Reid International Airport, which is approximately 2.5 miles away (about a 7-10 minute drive). The hotel sits within Zone 1 for fixed-rate taxi fares from the airport, making transportation costs predictable.
What makes Luxor’s location particularly convenient is the complimentary tram service connecting it to both Excalibur and Mandalay Bay resorts. This seamless indoor connection allows guests to explore three major properties without venturing outside, which is especially valuable during Las Vegas’s extreme summer heat or rare rainy days. The southern Strip location also tends to be less crowded than central areas, offering shorter lines at casinos and restaurants.
| Distance | From Luxor | Travel Time |
|---|---|---|
| Harry Reid International Airport | 2.5 miles | 7-10 minutes by car |
| MGM Grand Garden Arena | 0.8 miles | 15 minutes walking or 5 minutes by tram |
| T-Mobile Arena | 0.7 miles | 12 minutes walking |
| The Venetian | 2.8 miles | 10 minutes by Deuce bus |
| Allegiant Stadium | 3 miles | 10 minutes by ride-share |
Transportation Options from Luxor
Several transportation options serve Luxor guests:
- Deuce Bus: This double-decker bus runs up and down the entire Strip 24/7 for $9.25 per ride. Stops directly in front of Luxor for convenient access to all major Strip properties
- Monorail: Located about a 15-minute walk east of Luxor (behind the hotels), this elevated train connects MGM Grand, Bally’s, Paris, Flamingo, Caesars Palace, Harrah’s, and LINQ
- Tram: Free service connecting Luxor to Excalibur and Mandalay Bay through indoor climate-controlled walkways
- Taxis/Rideshares: Readily available 24/7 at the casino entrance; airport rides typically cost $15-20 USD
Rooms at Luxor Las Vegas
Luxor offers two distinct accommodation experiences: rooms within the original pyramid structure and suites in the two additional ziggurat-inspired black-glass towers added in 1996. The pyramid building contains approximately 2,500 rooms, while the two towers house roughly 1,900 rooms, for a total of about 4,400 accommodations. Each room type offers a different experience that significantly impacts your stay.
Pyramid Rooms: The Classic Luxor Experience
The most distinctive feature of pyramid rooms is their slanted windows that form the sides of the pyramid structure. These rooms range from 420 square feet for basic accommodations up to 600 square feet for premium options. The pyramid rooms maintain Luxor’s signature Egyptian theme with hieroglyphic patterns and stone-like finishes, though recent renovations have modernized some elements.
“Many first-time visitors don’t realize the pyramid rooms have inclined elevators traveling at a 39-degree angle – it’s a unique experience but can disorient those with motion sensitivity. Request a mid-level pyramid room if you want the experience without the longest elevator ride.”
– Frank Legato, Casino Industry Analyst at Global Gaming Business
While pyramid rooms offer the most authentic Luxor experience, they come with some drawbacks. Standard pyramid rooms lack mini-fridges and coffee makers (available for an additional daily charge), and some guests report maintenance issues like musty smells or inconsistent temperature control. The iconic inclined elevators, while fascinating, can be slow during peak times.
Tower Suites: Modern Comforts
The black-glass towers provide more contemporary accommodations with standard rectangular layouts. Tower rooms start at approximately 420 square feet (similar to pyramid rooms) but often feel more spacious due to their conventional layout. These rooms feature modern amenities including multiple charging outlets, multi-purpose wardrobe-desk combinations, and bathrooms with separate showers and soaking tubs.
Tower rooms generally offer better views of the Strip or surrounding mountains, though they’re positioned further from the main casino floor and some restaurants compared to pyramid rooms. For travelers seeking premium accommodations, Luxor offers several suite options including the Tower Two Bedroom Penthouse Suite (over 3,000 square feet), Pyramid Two Queen Corner Suite, and Stay Well Pyramid rooms featuring wellness technologies like enhanced air filtration.
| Feature | Pyramid Rooms | Tower Suites |
|---|---|---|
| Layout | Slanted walls with diagonal configuration | Traditional rectangular layout |
| Entry Method | Inclined elevators (39-degree angle) | Standard vertical elevators |
| Average Size | 420 sq. ft. (basic) | 420+ sq. ft. |
| Proximity to Casino | Closer to main casino floor | Further from casino |
| Unique Features | Egyptian theming, pyramid views | Modern amenities, better views |
| Best For | First-time visitors seeking iconic experience | Frequent travelers wanting comfort |
Room Types Overview
- Pyramid King Room: Features one king bed with pyramid views, basic amenities, slanted walls
- Pyramid Premier Two Queen Room: Two queen beds with upgraded amenities and prime pyramid placement
- Tower Premier Two Queen Room: Modern tower accommodation with two queen beds and contemporary finishes
- Stay Well Pyramid King Room: Features wellness-focused amenities including air purification systems
- Pyramid Two Queen Corner Suite: Corner location with expanded space and premium views
“Request a tower room on an even-numbered floor (2, 4, 6) for better views of the Strip and surrounding mountains. The pyramid’s angled design means odd-numbered floors have more obstructed views due to the structural slant.”
– Sarah Hyslop, Las Vegas Travel Editor at Travel Weekly
Casino Experience at Luxor Las Vegas
Luxor boasts a 120,000-square-foot casino housed entirely within the pyramid’s massive atrium, making it one of the most unique gambling environments on the Strip. The casino floor features more than 1,100 slot and video poker machines, 60+ table games, a dedicated poker room, and the BetMGM Sportsbook for race and sports betting. Unlike many newer casinos, Luxor’s gaming area maintains its Egyptian motif with stone architecture, plinths, and hieroglyphic designs throughout.
Table Games
Luxor offers approximately 60 live table games including:
- Blackjack (multiple variants including Spanish 21)
- Roulette (American and European versions)
- Craps
- Baccarat
- Three Card Poker
- Crapless Craps
- Ultimate Texas Hold’em
- Various specialty poker games
The casino layout features well-spaced table games with generally good elbow room, though some areas near the Mandalay Bay walkway can feel more cramped during peak hours. The table minimums are competitive with other mid-tier Strip properties, typically starting at $15 for blackjack and roulette, though busy nights may see higher minimums.
Slot Machines
Luxor’s slot selection covers virtually every denomination and theme:
- Penny slots to high-limit machines ($100+ per spin)
- Traditional reel slots and modern video slots
- Popular titles like Wheel of Fortune, Jeopardy!, and Willy Wonka
- Dedicated high-limit slot areas with premium machines
To play slot games at Luxor (or any Vegas casino), you’ll need cash as most machines don’t accept cards directly. Insert bills into the machine, select your bet level, and press play. When done, you can redeem your ticket at any of the many redemption machines on the casino floor. Remember that high-limit slots operate with higher denomination bets but often offer better payout percentages.
“Avoid the slot machines near the main entrance and high-traffic walkways – these typically have lower payout percentages. For better odds, seek out machines near the bars or in the high-limit areas where competition for gamblers is fiercer.”
– Bob Dancer, Professional Video Poker Player and Author of Video Poker for the Intelligent Beginner
High Limit Gaming at Luxor Casino
For serious players, Luxor offers dedicated high-limit areas with:
- Table game minimums starting at $100 and going higher
- High-denomination slot machines ($5-$100 per spin)
- Private gaming areas with personalized service
- Exclusive cocktail service and premium seating
These high-limit areas remain open 24/7 for slots, though table games typically operate only during peak hours. Complimentary drinks are available for high-limit players, but service quality can vary depending on how actively you’re gambling. The high-limit lounge provides a more intimate gaming environment away from the main casino floor’s bustle.
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Total Casino Space | 120,000 square feet |
| Slot Machines | Over 1,100 |
| Table Games | 60+ including specialty variants |
| Sportsbook | BetMGM Sportsbook with full betting options |
| Complimentary Drinks | Available while gambling (ID required) |
| Minimum Bets | Start at $3 for electronic tables, $15 for traditional tables |
Dining Options and Restaurant Scene at Luxor
Luxor Las Vegas offers an extensive dining selection ranging from casual fast food to fine dining experiences. With more than a dozen restaurants, cafes, and bars, the resort caters to diverse tastes and budgets. The food court on the casino level provides quick-service options, while more formal restaurants offer traditional Vegas dining experiences.
Full-Service Restaurants
Luxor features several signature dining establishments:
- The Buffet at Luxor: Open all day with all-you-can-drink mimosas on weekends; offers American comfort food and international dishes
- Johnny Rockets: Classic American diner serving burgers, shakes, and retro-style meals
- Public House: Casual pub fare with sports viewing options
- Little Caesars: Pizza and casual snacks for quick bites
- Starbucks: Coffee, pastries, and light breakfast options
Notable dining experiences include the all-day brunch at The Buffet with bottomless mimosas (weekends only), and various ethnic cuisines available through the food court. While Luxor doesn’t feature celebrity chef restaurants like some higher-end properties, it offers solid options for value-conscious travelers.
Bars & Lounges
Luxor has five primary bars and nightlife venues:
- Aurora: Located near the front desk, offering specialty cocktails and Luxor signature drinks in a sophisticated setting
- Centra: Central social scene surrounded by casino action, ideal for mingling with friends
- Flight: Features bar-top gaming options alongside drinks
- Playbar: Focuses on interactive gaming with drinks service
- Oasis Bar: Poolside bar serving refreshments during pool hours
Complimentary drinks are available to visitors actively gambling at bar-top games in Aurora, Centra, Flight, and Playbar. Waitress service circulates the main casino floor, though quality can vary depending on location within the casino. The bars featuring Northern Lights-themed ceilings offer unique ambiance not found at many other Strip properties.
Entertainment and Attractions at Luxor
Luxor takes pride in offering diverse entertainment options beyond standard casino offerings. The resort serves as a destination in itself with several permanent attractions that draw both guests and day visitors.
Must-See Luxor Attractions
- Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition: Authentic artifacts recovered from the Titanic wreck, including sections of the ship’s hull and personal belongings of passengers
- Blue Man Group: Multi-sensory comedy and music show combining percussion, comedy, and technology
- Carrot Top: Long-running stand-up comedy show featuring the prop comic’s signature style
- Fantasy: Topless revue showcasing dance and acrobatics
- HyperX Arena: 30,000-square-foot esports venue with 50-foot LED screen and professional gaming tournaments
- Discovering King Tut’s Tomb: Interactive exhibition showcasing Egyptian artifacts
The resort also features PLAY Playground, an innovative space featuring puzzle, physical, and memory games in a lively environment. This family-friendly attraction provides immersive entertainment with games and a bounce house, making Luxor somewhat more appealing to travelers with children than many Strip properties.
Iconic Architectural Features
Luxor’s most recognizable features include:
- Luxor Sky Beam: The most powerful man-made light in the world, shining four miles into the night sky from the pyramid’s tip
- Giant Sphinx: 106-foot-tall reproduction facing the Strip, one of the largest sphinx statues outside Egypt
- World’s Largest Atrium: Measuring 29 million cubic feet, creating a dramatic entry experience
- Lobby Design: Modeled after Abu Simbel temples with two-story statues of Pharaoh Ramesses II
Pool and Spa Facilities at Luxor Las Vegas
Luxor’s pool complex spans 125,650 square feet with four distinct outdoor pools, two hot tubs, and numerous lounge chairs. The pool deck sits directly behind the pyramid structure, offering incredible views of the iconic building while you relax.
Luxor Pool Features
- Four Large Pools: Spread over five acres with varying depths and temperatures
- Oasis Bar: Poolside service with drinks and light snacks
- Cabana Rentals: Available for daily fee, include refrigerator, bottled waters, fruit bowls, newspapers, and 42-inch TVs
- Temptation Sundays: Adults-only 21+ gay pool party during summer months with DJ and go-go dancers
- Seasonal Hours: Open daily from 9am to 6pm during peak season
The largest pool features multiple platforms where guests can sunbathe, socialize, or simply float. While the pool facilities are substantial, they don’t distinguish themselves dramatically from other mid-tier Strip resorts like Excalibur or Planet Hollywood, with standard cement decks and plastic lounge chairs. For a daily fee, padded lounge chairs and daybeds are available through an online reservation system, including towel service, rafts, and water bottles.
Nurture Spa & Salon at Luxor
Luxor’s spa facility offers a full range of treatments:
| Service | Duration | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Deep Tissue Massage | 50-80 minutes | $120-$180 |
| Hot Stone Massage | 50-80 minutes | $130-$190 |
| Facials | 50-80 minutes | $90-$150 |
| Aromatherapy Treatments | 50-80 minutes | $100-$160 |
| Reflexology | 30-50 minutes | $75-$120 |
The spa includes men’s and women’s steam rooms, saunas, whirlpools, and meditation lounges. While not considered “Vegas-style top-of-the-line” following its 2014 renovation, Nurture Spa provides a pleasant retreat from the casino energy. The 24-hour fitness center adjacent to the pool is well-equipped with Cybex cardio machines, free weights, strength equipment, and Pilates balls.
Room Rates and Value Assessment
Luxor offers some of the most budget-friendly rates among Strip properties while still providing the complete Las Vegas experience. Room rates vary significantly based on season, day of the week, and special events.
What is the Cheapest Month to Stay at Luxor?
Based on historical pricing data, the most affordable times to visit Luxor include:
- January: After New Year’s but before Super Bowl (rates 30-40% lower than peak)
- February: Weekdays outside of Valentine’s Day weekend
- September: After Labor Day until conventions begin
- Early December: Before holidays but after major conventions conclude
Rates surge during major events like:
- Consumer Electronics Show (January)
- Super Bowl weekend
- New Year’s Eve
- CBS Sports broadcast week (December)
| Season | Pyramid Room | Tower Suite | Best Booking Strategy |
|---|---|---|---|
| Peak (New Year’s, CES) | $120-$180 | $170-$250 | Book 3+ months early |
| High (Weekends, Holidays) | $90-$140 | $130-$200 | Book 4-6 weeks ahead |
| Average (Weekdays) | $70-$100 | $100-$150 | Book 2-3 weeks ahead |
| Low (January-February, September) | $50-$80 | $80-$120 | Book 1-2 weeks ahead |
Resort Fee Transparency
The daily resort fee at Luxor Hotel and Casino is approximately $45 plus tax per night and includes:
- Wi-Fi internet access
- Fitness center access
- Digital newspaper and magazine subscriptions
- Local phone calls
While some guests consider this fee excessive, the combined value of these amenities typically exceeds the daily charge. Self-parking and valet parking are available for an hourly or daily fee, though both are free for certain MGM Rewards tier members. Always confirm rates at check-in, as fees are subject to change.
Architectural Highlights and Historical Significance
Luxor Las Vegas represents a fascinating chapter in Las Vegas architectural history. Opened on October 15, 1993, the resort was part of a wave of themed properties that transformed the Strip in the 1990s. With its 30-story black glass pyramid housing 2,526 original rooms, Luxor featured the world’s largest atrium by volume (29 million cubic feet) and was built at approximately 75% scale of the Great Pyramid of Giza.
Engineering Marvels
The Luxor pyramid incorporates several impressive engineering features:
- Inclined Elevators: Eight elevators traveling at a 39-degree angle, with two at each pyramid corner
- Luxor Sky Beam: The most powerful man-made light in the world, using 39 xenon lamps totaling 13 million candlepower
- Temperature Extremes: The lamp room reaches 300°F (150°C) during operation, and temperatures of 500°F (260°C) have been recorded near the pyramid tip
- Structural Scale: The sphinx replica measures 106 feet high, 80 feet wide, and 262 feet long
Construction began April 21, 1992, with the resort financed entirely through Circus Circus Enterprises’ internal cash flow, avoiding outside investors. The project represented a significant gamble on themed resorts at a time when many industry observers questioned whether such elaborate theming would withstand changing tastes.
Practical Tips for Your Luxor Stay
Based on extensive experience with Las Vegas properties, here are essential tips to maximize your Luxor experience:
Booking Strategies
- Book tower suites for more modern amenities and comfortable layouts, especially if staying multiple nights
- Avoid pyramid rooms on the top floors if you’re concerned about slow elevator service
- Request rooms away from the casino level if you’re sensitive to noise, as the atrium can amplify sounds
- Check cancellation policies carefully, as some rates may be non-refundable
- Consider visiting during Temptation Sundays if you enjoy pool parties (21+ only)
Daily Operations
- Cash is king on the casino floor – bring sufficient funds or use on-site ATMs (but be aware of potential fees)
- Sign up for MGM Rewards even for short stays – it’s free and helps earn comps on gambling, dining, and shows
- Pack your own coffee maker or mini-fridge accessories as standard rooms don’t include these
- Use the free tram service to Mandalay Bay for access to additional dining and shopping options
- Check pool availability before arrival, as not all pools may be open depending on season
“Don’t pay for the ‘room with a view’ upgrade at Luxor – due to the pyramid’s angled design, many ‘premium view’ rooms actually have more obstructed sightlines than standard rooms. Instead, book a tower room between floors 10-20 for the best overall Strip views without the premium price.”
– Jetset John A. Carver, Founder of Luxury Las Vegas
What Experts Say About Luxor Las Vegas
Industry professionals offer unique perspectives on Luxor’s place within the evolving Las Vegas landscape:
Bill Friedman, Gaming Historian and Author of Caesars Palace Las Vegas: The Chronicle of An American Icon: “Luxor represents a fascinating transitional period in Las Vegas history when themed resorts reached their zenith before the current trend toward more sophisticated, less literal theming. The pyramid structure was a bold architectural statement that captured the public imagination, even if the interior Egyptian theme has been dialed back over time. What’s remarkable is how Luxor has maintained relevance for over 30 years by evolving while keeping its core identity.”
Nancy J. Campbell, Hospitality Consultant and Former MGM Resorts Executive: “Luxor’s strategic location at the south end of the Strip has proven increasingly valuable as convention traffic grows at the nearby Las Vegas Convention Center expansion. The property benefits from being less crowded than central Strip locations while still offering seamless connections to Mandalay Bay’s convention facilities. Luxor’s value proposition has strengthened as other budget properties have either closed or significantly increased rates.”
Las Vegas Review-Journal Entertainment Critic John Katsilometes: “Luxor has quietly become one of the most diverse entertainment venues on the Strip. From the family-friendly HyperX Arena to Blue Man Group’s sensory experience and Carrot Top’s enduring comedy show, Luxor offers something for different audience segments without feeling disjointed. The resort has mastered the art of providing varied entertainment options that appeal to different demographics throughout the day and night cycle.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the check-out time at Luxor?
Luxor Hotel and Casino maintains a standard check-out time of 11:00 AM Pacific Time. Early check-out requests can sometimes be accommodated based on room availability, but this isn’t guaranteed. Late check-out options may be available for an additional fee, especially during periods of low occupancy.
Is parking available at Luxor Las Vegas?
Yes, Luxor offers both self-parking and valet parking services. The daily parking fee provides in-and-out privileges, which is valuable for guests planning to explore multiple properties. Self-parking typically costs less than valet, though both options come with the daily resort fee. Certain MGM Rewards tier members qualify for free parking.
Does Luxor have a laundry service?
Luxor provides coin-operated laundry facilities for guest use, typically located on specific floors throughout the property. The resort does not offer traditional in-room laundry service or same-day laundering, so guests seeking these amenities should plan accordingly or consider alternative accommodations.
How close is Luxor to the nearest airport, Las Vegas Harry Reid Intl Airport?
Luxor is approximately 2.5 miles from Harry Reid International Airport, making it one of the more conveniently located Strip resorts for air travelers. The drive typically takes 7-10 minutes depending on traffic conditions. Luxor falls within Zone 1 for the airport’s fixed-rate taxi pricing, which helps control transportation costs.
Are pyramid rooms or tower suites better at Luxor Las Vegas?
The better option depends on your priorities. Pyramid rooms offer the iconic Luxor experience with slanted walls and inclined elevators but can feel dated with maintenance issues. Tower suites provide more modern amenities, better layouts, and often superior views but lack the distinctive pyramid experience. Most repeat visitors and reviewers recommend tower suites for comfort, while first-time visitors might prefer pyramid rooms for the novelty.
What entertainment options are available at Luxor Hotel?
Luxor features multiple entertainment options including Blue Man Group, Carrot Top’s comedy show, Fantasy topless revue, Titanic artifact exhibition, Discovering King Tut’s Tomb exhibition, HyperX Arena for esports, and Temptation Sundays pool party. The resort also hosts regular live music performances and special events throughout the year.
What dining options are available at Luxor Hotel and Casino?
Luxor offers diverse dining including The Buffet at Luxor (open all day with weekend mimosas), Johnny Rockets diner, Public House pub, Little Caesars pizza, Starbucks, multiple food court options, and several bars with lounge fare. While lacking celebrity chef restaurants, Luxor provides solid value-oriented dining options for various tastes and budgets.
Is there a pool at Luxor?
Yes, Luxor features four large outdoor pools situated on a 125,650-square-foot deck. The pool complex includes multiple hot tubs, poolside beverage service, and seasonal events like Temptation Sundays. Pool hours typically run from 9am to 6pm daily during peak season, with limited availability during cooler months.
What is the resort fee at Luxor Hotel and Casino?
The daily resort fee at Luxor is approximately $45 plus tax per night. This fee covers Wi-Fi internet access, fitness center entry, digital newspaper and magazine subscriptions, and local phone calls. The resort fee is charged per room, not per person, and appears as a separate line item on your final bill.
How far is Luxor from MGM Grand Garden Arena?
Luxor is approximately 0.8 miles from MGM Grand Garden Arena, which is about a 15-minute walk along the Strip or a 5-minute ride via the complimentary tram service that connects Luxor to Mandalay Bay and Excalibur (from which MGM Grand is a short walk).
Is pricing at Luxor comparable to 3 star hotels in Las Vegas?
Luxor generally offers rates competitive with other three-star Strip properties but provides more amenities due to its size and casino operations. While room quality might not match boutique hotels, Luxor delivers significant value through its location, included resort amenities, and access to casino entertainment. During low season, Luxor often provides better value than non-casino three-star properties that lack similar resort features.
