MGM Grand Las Vegas, as part of the broader MGM Resorts International portfolio, provides a variety of complimentary offerings and benefits to guests. These benefits range from free entertainment and attractions available to the general public to exclusive perks for members of the MGM Rewards loyalty program. Understanding the distinction between general public freebies and member-specific benefits is essential for visitors looking to maximize their experience. The availability of these offers often depends on factors such as membership status, specific promotional periods, and eligibility requirements for events.
The MGM Rewards program serves as the primary vehicle for guests to access personalized offers, including free play credits, complimentary hotel rooms, and dining credits. Additionally, the resort features various free attractions that are accessible to all visitors, regardless of their loyalty status. These include visual art displays, seasonal exhibitions, and public spaces designed for exploration. For those seeking promotional offers, the integration of loyalty programs with credit card benefits and partner alliances, such as Southwest Airlines, creates multiple avenues for earning and redeeming rewards.
General Public Free Attractions at MGM Grand
MGM Grand Las Vegas offers several attractions that are open to the public at no cost. These freebies allow visitors to experience the resort's unique atmosphere and entertainment without a significant financial commitment.
M&M's World Las Vegas
Located adjacent to the MGM Grand, M&M's World Las Vegas is a four-story immersive experience dedicated to the iconic candy brand. Visitors can explore the colorful store, view life-size M&M's character displays, and take photos with the occasional mascot. A highlight of the visit is the free 3-D movie available to guests. This attraction serves as a popular stop for families and candy enthusiasts.
The District at MGM Grand
The District is a shopping and dining promenade within the resort that offers a vibrant atmosphere for guests to stroll through. While shopping and dining incur costs, the atmosphere and visual elements are accessible to everyone. The area often features live music or visual displays, contributing to the energetic vibe of the resort without requiring a ticket.
Public Art and Architecture
While the provided sources do not detail specific free art installations solely within MGM Grand, the broader Las Vegas landscape offers numerous free art experiences. For instance, the nearby Arts Factory and Downtown Art Murals provide free access to contemporary art. Additionally, the Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Gardens, a short distance away, offers free, rotating floral displays. Guests at MGM Grand can also appreciate the resort's own architectural design and interior decor as part of their visit.
MGM Rewards Membership Benefits
The MGM Rewards program is the loyalty framework that unlocks a tiered system of benefits, including complimentary services and exclusive offers. Membership is free and can be linked to a player's card or created online. Benefits increase significantly as members ascend through the tiers: Sapphire, Pearl, Gold, Platinum, and Noir.
Complimentary Hotel Offers and Free Play
MGM Rewards members may receive personalized offers for complimentary hotel stays based on their gaming activity and loyalty history. These offers are accessible via the member's account on the MGM Rewards website or app. For eligible members, these offers can include free rooms at MGM Grand and other participating resorts.
Members who book an eligible MGM Rewards offer (loyalty, certificate, or group) and provide their MGM Rewards number at the time of booking can access specific benefits. Furthermore, members who book a qualifying cruise receive Onboard FreePlay credits based on their tier status: - Sapphire: $25 - Pearl: $50 - Gold: $75 - Platinum: $100 - Noir: $200
Gold, Platinum, and Noir members also receive welcome amenities and prepaid onboard credits.
Free Parking and Other Tier Perks
One of the most valued complimentary benefits for MGM Rewards members is free parking. The Pearl tier, which includes automatic entry-level status for MGM Rewards World Elite Mastercard holders, grants free self-parking at MGM Rewards destinations. Higher tiers, such as Gold and above, typically include free self-parking and, in some cases, free valet parking, though specific details for MGM Grand specifically were not provided in the source data.
MGM Rewards World Elite Mastercard
The MGM Rewards World Elite Mastercard offers an automatic entry-level Pearl elite status. This card has no annual fee and provides benefits that include: - Free self-parking at MGM Rewards destinations. - Points expiration protection: Points do not expire as long as the account remains open. - Earnings: 3 tier credits and 3 points per $1 spent at MGM Rewards destinations; 2 tier credits and 2 points per $1 spent at gas stations and supermarkets; and 1 tier credit and 1 point per $1 spent everywhere else. - Welcome offer: Earn 10,000 points (worth $100) when spending $1,000 in the first three months.
The MGM Rewards Iconic World Elite Mastercard, with a $249 annual fee, offers higher rewards earning rates and travel perks.
Seasonal and Event-Based Freebies
MGM Grand Las Vegas frequently hosts seasonal events and viewing parties that offer free admission to the public or specific groups.
National Finals Rodeo (NFR) Viewing Parties
During the National Finals Rodeo (NFR), typically held in December, MGM Grand hosts live viewing parties and entertainment. According to the provided sources, MGM Grand offers: - Live music, watch parties, and giveaways at Level Up. - Free admission to the public for these events. - Operating hours: 5:00 p.m. to 3:00 a.m., with a last call at 2:30 a.m.
These events provide a festive atmosphere for rodeo fans and visitors looking for free entertainment.
Veterans Day Deals
While not exclusively at MGM Grand, MGM Resorts International offers significant benefits to veterans and active military members. For Veterans Day, MGM Resorts provides: - Discounts on attractions: $2 off admission to the Shark Reef at Mandalay Bay, up to 50% off select shows at Luxor and Excalibur, and special savings on performances at MGM Grand and Bellagio (including KA and O by Cirque du Soleil). - Spa and salon discounts: 30% off spa and salon services. - Dining discounts: 20% off at participating restaurants.
These benefits require verification of military status and are typically available during the Veterans Day period.
Birthday Freebies
MGM Grand is mentioned as a destination for birthday celebrations where guests can leverage various freebies. While specific birthday offers at MGM Grand were not detailed in the source data, the resort is listed among Vegas venues where one can enjoy a birthday toast or test their luck. Guests interested in birthday freebies are encouraged to sign up for the MGM Rewards program prior to their visit, as personalized offers, including free play or dining credits, may be sent around a member's birthday.
Partner Benefits and Point Earnings
MGM Rewards has partnerships that allow members to earn points and status through other activities, such as airline travel.
Southwest Airlines Partnership
MGM Rewards members can earn 600 Southwest Rapid Rewards points for stays at qualifying MGM properties. To earn these points, guests must provide their Rapid Rewards account number at check-in. This is an "either-or" situation; guests must choose between earning Southwest points and MGM points for the same stay. However, if booking directly with an MGM property or through the MGM Rewards website, guests can still earn 4 tier credits per eligible $1 spent, which contributes to their MGM status.
NerdWallet values Southwest points at approximately 1.3 cents per point, making this a potentially valuable option for frequent Southwest flyers.
Understanding the MGM Rewards Tier System
The MGM Rewards tier system dictates the level of complimentary benefits a member receives. While the source data provides specific details regarding cruise FreePlay and credit card status, general benefits typically scale with tier.
- Sapphire: The entry-level tier. Benefits are limited but include the ability to earn points.
- Pearl: Includes free self-parking (via credit card or earned status) and points do not expire.
- Gold and Above: Members at these tiers generally receive enhanced benefits, including free play offers, complimentary hotel rooms, dining credits, and invitations to exclusive events. The source data indicates that Gold, Platinum, and Noir members receive welcome amenities and prepaid onboard credits on cruises.
Maximizing Complimentary Offers
To access the most lucrative freebies at MGM Grand, guests should consider the following strategies based on the provided information:
- Join MGM Rewards: Signing up is free and is the prerequisite for receiving personalized offers.
- Utilize the MGM Rewards Credit Card: The World Elite Mastercard automatically grants Pearl status, unlocking free parking and points protection.
- Link Southwest Rapid Rewards: If a frequent flyer of Southwest, linking accounts can earn airline points while still earning tier credits for status progression.
- Monitor Seasonal Events: Events like NFR offer free entertainment and viewing parties open to the public.
- Check for Military Discounts: Veterans and military members should inquire about specific discounts on dining, spa services, and entertainment.
Conclusion
MGM Grand Las Vegas offers a diverse array of complimentary benefits and freebies, accessible through both public attractions and the MGM Rewards loyalty program. While general visitors can enjoy free entertainment such as viewing parties during major events like the NFR and explore the M&M's World attraction, the most substantial benefits are reserved for MGM Rewards members. By leveraging the loyalty program, credit card perks, and strategic partnerships, guests can significantly enhance their Las Vegas experience with complimentary rooms, free play, parking, and dining credits. It is recommended that guests always verify their eligibility and the specific terms of any offer directly with the resort or via the official MGM Rewards platform.