2 Exciting New Exhibits Opening at The Plaza

Last year, the Plaza opened a special gallery full of some of the most iconic sports memorabilia. The Las Vegas Club Gallery at the Plaza was filled with hundreds of sports-related items available for purchase by the public. The exhibit was a huge success, with many of the items quickly bought by eager sports enthusiasts and collectors. In response to the overwhelming success of the Plaza’s sports memorabilia exhibit, the Plaza is doing it again. This time, with two exciting new exhibits that pay homage to the hotel’s old Vegas roots. These exhibits are an excellent way to showcase the history of not only Downtown Las Vegas, but also the unique role the Plaza Hotel & Casino has played in shaping the area into what it is today. Whether you are a local or visitor, the Plaza’s new displays are sure to give you a distinct perspective on the rich and interesting history and culture of Downtown Las Vegas.

Jerry Misko

In a style true to the artistic and creative vibe that flows through downtown, the Plaza’s first new exhibit will be one from famed local artist, Jerry Misko. The exhibit, which opened on Jan. 15, features a collection of Misko’s edition prints accompanied by one-of-a-kind paintings of classic Vegas neon signs. Misko, a Las Vegas native, has collaborated on projects with some of the most recognizable names in the city, including the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority, the Neon Museum, First Friday, and even the city of Las Vegas. These collaborations, combined with 12 years of experience as a practicing artist in Las Vegas have given Misko’s art a distinctly Vegas personality perfect for the Las Vegas Club Gallery. Those looking to take a piece of Vegas nostalgia home with them will be able to purchase Misko’s retro-meets-modern interpretations at the exhibit.

Union Plaza Then and Now

The second exhibit, which opens Feb. 4, is an exciting look at the evolution of the Plaza throughout the past five decades. The free exhibit, “Union Plaza Then and Now,” offers guests a rare look into the history of the Plaza through artifacts, photos, and videos. The exhibit is one of many from the Museum of Gaming History, a non-profit educational project of The Casino Chip & Gaming Token Collectors Club, Inc. that aims to preserve gaming history. Since it opened in 1971, the Plaza has cemented itself as a cultural icon, not only in Vegas but throughout the world. The exhibit aims to explore this rich and iconic history by showcasing the evolution of the Plaza. “Union Plaza Then and Now” will feature over 150 artifacts including chips, dice, ashtrays, postcards and even a unique lightbox display of a rare shot glass collection. Museum-of-gaming-history-plaza-hotel Guests will also have the opportunity to explore the history of the Plaza through a series of photographs that chronicles the progress made by the hotel from its groundbreaking to present day. For an even broader perspective of the transformation of both the Plaza and Downtown Las Vegas, guests will be treated to a 30-minute video about the hotel’s place in the historical development of downtown. A special grand opening of both exhibits will be held on Thursday, Feb. 4 at 11 a.m. The museum will be open to the public from 3 p.m. to 11 p.m. daily. Whether you are a seasoned Las Vegas native with a broad understanding of the history of the city, or someone looking for a fun and unique activity downtown, you are sure to love the one-of-a-kind insights garnered from both exhibits.

What to Expect When Dining at Oscar’s

Oscar's Steakhouse Las Vegas

Source: Vegasmagazine.com

Come on In

It isn’t a trip to Vegas unless you’ve dined at Oscar’s. Flirt with all the showgirls you want, but you haven’t done Sin City without the signature steaks and cocktails that await you at the only dining establishment that’s earned the name of the Happiest Mayor on Earth. And while you’re here, you may even get to meet the legendary mob-boss-turned-mayor, Oscar Goodman himself. Located in the iconic glass dome of the the jewel of Downtown – the Plaza Hotel and Casino – it’s a true Vegas experience worthy of any appetite.

Take in the View  – Inside & Out

The all-glass dome of the Plaza used to be home of this Downtown classic’s pool. This was a scene where you wanted to be seen…and not much has changed to this day. From your table, you’ll be treated to views of the iconic Fremont Street Experience. Inside, enjoy the glitz and glam of old-school Vegas with mood lighting and classic jazz. While you’re here, take in some of Oscar’s rare photographs of vintage Vegas, along with memorabilia from Mr. Goodman’s 12-year tenure as mayor.

Did We Mention the Broads?

Can you beat beauty and brains? No way. The Broads of Oscar’s are beautiful dinner hostesses and companions who can regale you with tales of Vegas history, recommend must-do Vegas attractions (although you’d be experiencing one during your conversation), talk sports, debate politics – anything you want. They were inspired by Oscar Goodman’s “booze and broads” trial back when he was a mob attorney, and the Bacchanal Room at the old Caesars Palace where guests were invited to party with the Goddesses. Oscar’s Broads are there to enliven your experience…after all, nothing complements a great dinner like sparkling conversation with a beautiful companion. As the man himself says, “I’d take one Betty over 100 showgirls any day.”

Eat and Drink Like You Own This Town

Oscars Steakhouse Steak The crowning jewel of Oscar’s is the amazingly varied food menu and classic drink offerings. As a fine dining steakhouse, Oscar’s offers a variety of perfectly aged cuts which are then seared over a 600 degree grill to ensure they are flavorful, juicy and tender. Adding to the unmistakably Las Vegas glam feel, Oscar’s offers jumbo shrimp, crab legs and lobster tail to complement any of the already delicious entrees. All of the side dishes at Oscar’s are made from scratch with only the highest quality ingredients. Featuring staples such as smashed potatoes and steamed asparagus to less-expected offerings such as roasted corn brulee and onion strings, you are sure to find something you love. With a full bar, you can opt for a classic cocktail or one of the many signature and hand-crafted Las Vegas inspired drinks at the restaurant. Don’t forget to try Mr. Goodman’s signature Bombay Sapphire martini while you’re here. Oscar would insist on it.

So When Are You Coming?

Hopefully your appetite is whetted for the quintessential Vegas dining experience, courtesy of beloved Mayor and famed mob attorney Oscar Goodman. Just remember, if you haven’t been here, you haven’t really been to Vegas. Cheers!

The Best Spots in Downtown Las Vegas to Have a Nightcap with “Old Vegas” Nostalgia

Atomic Liquors Las Vegas Travel back in time to the days of Elvis, Frank Sinatra, mobsters and showgirls. Here  nightcaps are in style and cocktails are elaborate concoctions unique to every bar, lounge or speakeasy on the streets of Vegas. Flash forward to present day: The magic of Old Vegas is alive and well downtown. Many of the vintage bars and cocktail lounges have become a part of the downtown renaissance — destinations that are reminiscent of days long passed but with a decidedly modern twist. Here are some of the best spots to have a nightcap with Old Vegas nostalgia.

Atomic Liquors

The oldest freestanding bar in Vegas, Atomic Liquors has been around since 1952.  The name comes from what used to be the main attraction — watching nuclear blasts at the nearby atomic test site from the roof of the bar. This downtown gem has quite a history in show business and was frequented by the Rat Pack, the Smothers Brothers and Barbara Streisand. Today, it boasts a well-stocked bar, a fabulous drink menu, late night hours and special events just about every day. Step into the Atomic and head right back to the 1950s.

Downtown Cocktail Room

Located in the Fremont East Entertainment district, the Downtown Cocktail Room is an upscale cocktail lounge and speakeasy that serves up luscious libations in a Bohemian-Chic atmosphere. The handcrafted cocktails are one-of-a-kind creations that have acquired a huge following among locals and visitors alike. Be a part of the downtown scene that escapes the spectacle of the Strip — and embrace the glamour of Vegass’ past, present and future.

Oscar’s Steakhouse

Locatedin the iconicx dome at the Plaza Hotel and Casino, Oscar’s has been attracting discriminating visitors to its restaurant and bar since 2011. Oscar’s famous bar, adjacent to the steakhouse, serves up world-famous martinis in a glamorous, old-school Vegas atmosphere. Overlooking the Fremont Street Experience, Oscar’s also has the best view in town.

The Commonwealth

This swanky, 6,000-square-foot cocktail lounge was inspired by pre-prohibition era design. Serving a huge array of cocktails, craft beers and other libations, Commonwealth boasts over-the-top chandeliers, bow-tied bartenders, a dance floor and a rooftop patio. What more could you want in a classic, downtown bar? When you are ready to reminisce, there is no place like downtown to find that Old Vegas style. With such a unique array of nightlife opportunities, these are truly hidden gems, tucked away from the circus of the Strip. If you have been neglecting the downtown area, now is the time to visit these popular watering holes to see what you’ve been missing.

Food Diary: Eating Our Way Through the Day

Plaza breakfast 7:00 a.m. The alarm clock went off and there was no hitting snooze. We had a lot to get to at the Plaza Hotel in Las Vegas, but before we could do anything, whether work or play, we needed to eat a solid breakfast. The best way to start the day is with breakfast at Hash House A Go Go. One of our favorite dishes there is the classic Boston Hash – crispy potatoes, mixed onions and fresh tomatoes crowned with blue crab cake drizzled with horseradish cream and served with eggs and fresh fruit. After a breakfast of that magnitude we were almost ready to begin the day. We just needed to stop by Cafelatte for a Lavazza coffee first. 12:32 p.m. Before we knew it, it was already time for lunch. We were still a little full from breakfast and were busy making the most of the day so we opted for something quick and easy at Pop Up Pizza. We indulged in a slice of cheese, but also had a salad. Mom always said eat your veggies! 5:00 p.m. Five o’clock rolled around. It was a busy and productive day, but now it was time to relax and enjoy the evening. It was a beautiful fall day in Vegas. Today’s sky was a mix of pink, orange and red as the sun set. We headed to the Bier Garten for a craft beer and to enjoy the sights and sounds of Downtown Las Vegas from the outdoor area. In addition to our beers, we ordered a giant pretzel and wurst to share as a snack before dinner. Bier Garten food and drinks 6:52 p.m. We had a reservation at Oscar’s for 7 p.m. so we headed upstairs to the restaurant. The decor of Oscar’s is glamorous. It incorporates memorabilia from Oscar Goodman’s 12-year tenure as mayor as well as classic photographs of Las Vegas from over the years. It makes you feel like a star. We started with some calamari and chose the pork chop for the entrée. The calamari was nice and crispy on the outside and the pork chop had been perfectly seared. Not a bad way to wrap up another fun day at the Plaza. Oscar's calamari Oscar's pork chop

Plaza Employees are Going to School!

plaza hotel casino employee school drive One day per month a group of volunteers will help at the Sunrise Acres Elementary School mobile food pantry. Three Square Food Bank works with the Downtown Las Vegas school to assist upwards of 400 families by providing 40 to 50 pounds of food for free every month. Many families struggle with proper nutrition because of difficult financial circumstances. The Sunrise Acres staff and volunteers ensure that students and their caretakers do not go hungry. The Plaza and its employees cherish opportunities to give back to the local community. If you would like to lend your help and donate time and/or nonperishable food to the Three Square Food Bank please call (702) 644-FOOD (3663) or visit threesquare.org.  

Experience Comfort and Value When You Stay at the Plaza Hotel & Casino

Lasvegaslights   If you are lucky enough to fly into Las Vegas at night, you’ll see the bright neon lights all over the city. We think Las Vegas is an amazing city and when you stay at the Plaza Hotel and Casino, you’ll get some of the best that this city has to offer for a very affordable price and don’t just take our word for it!
Plaza Bed There are lots of choices in Sin City for places to lay your tired head after a night of eating, drinking and gaming, which is why we go out of our way to make the Plaza one of the most comfortable hotel rooms in Las Vegas.  Our rooms were renovated less than two years ago. They may have a discounted price, but they do not have a discounted look! The rooms are the largest of all the downtown Las Vegas hotels. Our rooms have soft comfortable beds; the bathrooms have gorgeous raised sink vanities and fluffy absorbent towels. There are also small special touches like bottled water, wireless internet access, cable TV and more.  You’ll agree with Goldilocks when she says, “This bed is just right,” when you sleep like a baby with us at the Plaza.
Plaza Slots   I’ll bet on anything that moves.”- Oscar Goodman Are you like Oscar Goodman, Las Vegas former mayor and owner of Oscar’s-Beef, Booze and Broads? We bet you are! The Plaza Casino has it all; table games, slots, poker, sports book, tournaments and more! While we have all types of ways to game, our casino is large and spacious. So you can enjoy the excitement of playing without constantly bumping into fellow players.  Also, the Plaza has the only Bingo hall in downtown! Whether you enjoy the electronic cards or paper and daubers, the Plaza has you covered.
Freemont Street “I love Las Vegas. I like that Las Vegas has everything. Everything and anything you want to do, you can do in Las Vegas.”- Drew Carey We agree with Drew. You can practically do anything in Las Vegas that you want! It does help to be staying in a prime location though. The Plaza is located at the top of the downtown Fremont Experience where just about anything you would want to do is within walking distance. Just steps away there is everything from restaurants, casinos, bars, shopping and beautiful Vegas show girls! Not only is the Plaza in a great location, we also have some of the best resturants in downtown located right on property. Try tender juicy steaks at Oscar’s, a dragon roll at Island Sushi and Grill Express, pizza at Pop Up Pizza or for a quick bite, check out our food court. We have food for every taste and budget! “Man, I really like Vegas.”- Elvis Presley Thank you Elvis, thank you very much! Las Vegas loves you right back! Isn’t it time to book your trip to the Plaza? We are looking forward to having you here!

Free Vegas Stay! Jingle All the Way!

Free Vegas Stay!
Want to get away from it all this holiday season?  If visions of dashing through a mall with a broken-handled shopping bag don’t have you laughing all the way? Escaping to Vegas is a great way to do something special for yourself in the middle of all your obligations this holiday season. Well, we don’t have to tell you that December is a beautiful time to visit Las Vegas. The weather is crisp and cool to keep you in that holiday spirit yet, no ice or snow to scrape and shovel. There are tons of games to play…okay so you need to be 21, but it is worth it! Plenty of delicious food, specialty drinks, and hilarious entertainment! In sin city there is something for everyone! Plus, need we mention the number of shopping malls in Vegas with one only a half a mile from the hotel? You can still get all of your shopping done! So, this year your free December stay is the Plaza’s gift to you!  Here are the few simple steps to getting a free stay at the Plaza this December.
  1. Book by calling or online before November 30th 2013.
  2. Make your stay anytime between now and May 31st 2013.
  3. Mention code PARIVE when you book your stay.
  4. *An email address is required to receive an email with instructions on how to book your free stay in December.
  5. *Book an equal number of nights as your paid stay in December. Blackout dates do apply.
That’s it! Simple right? So book your free December nights today and take advantage one of the best casino hotel packages in Las Vegas. We look forward to seeing you soon!*
*This offer has expired

Why You Should Cool Off at the Plaza Hotel & Casino and Beat the Vegas Heat!

No need to fear the summer heat. Cooling off has never been so much fun and entertaining. Soak 75 at the Plaza Hotel is the summer entertainment series to ensure that catching those rays and cooling off at a pool and hotel in Las Vegas are loads of fun. The pool deck is open to the public on Fridays and Saturdays from 8 am to 8 pm. Las Vegas pool party Fridays, enjoy drink specials and the smoothing acoustics of Cameron from 4 pm to 8 pm poolside.  Saturdays bring more drink specials and the energy of DJ Ryno from 2 pm to 6 pm. When you’re ready for a little A/C go on inside. There are just as many things to do and ways to stay and be cool at the Plaza. Pool parties happen at many different venues and attract hundreds of people each day. The best way to enjoy them is to arrive early, stake out your spot and enjoy the water as people flood in throughout the day. Happy hour at one of many bars is always an option as well. Something about an ice cold beer or cocktail sure makes it easy to forget the heat and take your relaxation to the next level. There is also plenty on offer as far as Las Vegas entertainment goes. From shows to casino floors, and plenty of great dining options, this city has everything you could possibly want and more. Enjoying the air conditioning in any number of locations can provide a welcome break so check out a museum, eat in one of the countless buffets or restaurants, sit back and enjoy. Summer temperatures bring a little sizzle almost everywhere. Only in Las Vegas does the fun and entertainment out-sizzle the heat.