On November 15, 2001, Pamela Anderson, Joe Pesci, Samuel L. Jackson and other stars attended the ribbon-cutting of a trailblazing casino-resort concept just west of the Center Strip and I-15 on Flamingo Road. Purpose-built as “the ultimate party hotel in the world” by developer-owner George Maloof, Palms Casino Resort was the darling of the Hollywood and nightlife set before the fun fizzled out in the 2008 downturn.
Palms made headlines and history again in 2022 as the first Las Vegas casino-resort to be fully owned and operated by a Native American tribe, the California-based San Manual Band of Mission Indians, which reopened the property that year after the 2021 acquisition.
Following an eye-opening site tour in January 2024 with Executive Director of Sales Candice Zabelny and her colleagues, I overnighted at the Palms last October. At every touchpoint, it was evident that the former upstart has matured into a welcoming and relaxing environment where business is a pleasure.
“At Palms, we’ve created something truly special—an off-Strip destination property where business travelers and groups can enjoy the best of both worlds,” shared General Manager Stephen Thayer during my visit. “We offer all the amenities of a major resort, but with the intimacy, access and personalized service that makes every guest feel like a VIP. Whether you’re here to work or unwind, Palms delivers a complete experience. From flexible meeting spaces and high-end accommodations to world-class dining, rooftop cocktails, a resort-style pool and a serene spa for escapes, it’s the perfect setting to be productive by day and inspired by night.”
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Palms offers 766 rooms and suites in the 428-key Ivory Tower and 338-key Fantasy Tower, along with 599 condos in the Palms Place Tower.
Ten themed “experiential” suites include the 10,000-square-foot Hardwood Suite, featuring a half-basketball court. With two full-size bowling lanes, a private bar and lounge space for activations, the Kingpin Suite redefines the “high roller” experience.
The prized Sky Villas feature private pools. Sleek, spacious and sunlit, my 12th-floor Salon Corner Suite in the Fantasy Tower featured breathtaking views of the Strip and Allegiant Stadium.
Highly versatile indoor and outdoor rentals include 20,000-plus square feet of newly renovated conference space and 150,000-plus square feet of special event space. Multiple versatile room options and configurations include the 2,200-capacity Grand Ballroom.
Crowning the Fantasy Tower, the 52nd-floor Moon & View venue offers 360-degree views of the Las Vegas skyline, a retractable roof and upscale amenities. Other stellar spaces include the 2,000-capacity Pearl Concert Theater, multi-level Palms Pool, 14-screen IMAX cinema and recording studio.
The restaurant collection includes superb group dining venues such as ground-floor Scotch 80 Prime steakhouse. Celebrated Modern Italian aerie Vetri Cucina commands the 56th floor of the Ivory Tower, with famed group-capable nightclub Ghostbar one level below.
Calling cards also include the AYCE (All You Can Eat) Buffet and the Unknown Bar in the lobby, featuring bad boy British artist Damien Hirst’s installation of a 13-foot Australian tiger shark preserved in three steel and glass tanks. Other property pluses include free parking, a luxurious 17,000-square-foot spa and, because of its surprisingly compact footprint, shorter distances and easy navigation to and from meetings.
“Palms Casino Resort is exceptional for smaller programs such as executive retreats, teambuilding events and boutique conferences due to its unique blend of upscale amenities, personalized service and versatile event spaces,” Zabelny said. “Unlike larger, high-traffic Strip venues, Palms offers an intimate yet sophisticated atmosphere that allows for tailored experiences without sacrificing the energy and allure of Las Vegas. Our off-Strip location ensures ease of access and a more relaxed environment while offering top-tier dining, entertainment and accommodations—all under one roof.”
