Excalibur Hotel & Casino stands as one of the most recognizable landmarks on the Las Vegas Strip. With its vibrant red and blue turrets, white battlements, and medieval European theme, it captures the imagination of travelers before they even step foot inside. Strategically located at the intersection of Tropicana Avenue and Las Vegas Boulevard, this 3,981-room resort has built a reputation as a budget-friendly, family-oriented destination that offers a classic "Old Vegas" theme-park feel combined with modern amenities.

Owned by Vici Properties and operated by MGM Resorts International, Excalibur is part of a powerful trio of southern Strip properties, connected to its sister resorts, Luxor and Mandalay Bay, via a free tram. Whether you are a first-time visitor looking for an affordable stay or a seasoned gambler seeking a high-traffic, energetic casino floor, this guide provides every detail you need to navigate the castle.

The Medieval Vision: History and Evolution

When Excalibur opened its drawbridge to the public on June 19, 1990, it was the largest hotel in the world. Built by Circus Circus Enterprises, the resort was a cornerstone of the "mega-resort" era, a time when Las Vegas moved away from its mob-tied past toward family-friendly, high-concept themes.

The original vision for Excalibur was a fully immersive King Arthur experience. In its early years, a fire-breathing animatronic dragon lived in the moat out front, engaging in nightly battles with a wizard figure representing Merlin. While the dragon and Merlin show was retired in 2005 to make way for a more contemporary look, the architectural bones of the castle remain.

Today, while much of the kitschy medieval interior decor has been streamlined in favor of modern aesthetics, the spirit of Camelot survives through its signature shows and the sheer spectacle of its exterior. The property’s recent integration into the Marriott Bonvoy loyalty program marks a new chapter, allowing international travelers to earn and redeem points while staying within the castle walls.

Accommodations: Choosing Your Tower

Excalibur is divided into four 28-story towers, housing nearly 4,000 guest rooms. Understanding the difference between the room tiers is crucial for setting expectations.

Royal Tower Rooms

The Royal Tower rooms represent the higher-end offering at Excalibur. These rooms were recently renovated to feature a more contemporary design with cleaner lines, updated furnishings, and a neutral color palette. If you are looking for a room that feels less like a 1990s time capsule and more like a standard modern hotel room, the Royal Tower is the preferred choice.

Resort Tower Rooms

The Resort Tower rooms are often the most budget-friendly option. While they are clean and functional, they tend to retain more of the original build’s character. These rooms are perfect for travelers who plan to spend very little time in their room and want to maximize their budget for entertainment and dining.

Room Amenities and Constraints

All standard guest rooms at Excalibur come equipped with:

  • Cable TV with major networks (ABC, CBS, CNN, ESPN, FOX).
  • Hairdryers, irons, and ironing boards.
  • In-room Wi-Fi (included in the resort fee).
  • Wake-up call services.

However, it is important to note what these rooms do not typically include. There are no coffee pots, microwaves, or refrigerators in standard rooms. Refrigerators can be rented for a nightly fee (approximately $25), and cribs are usually available upon request. For those requiring accessible features, Excalibur offers both hearing-impaired rooms with TDD/TTY devices and wheelchair-accessible rooms.

The Casino Experience: Gaming at Camelot

The casino floor at Excalibur spans roughly 100,000 square feet, offering a high-energy environment that is generally less intimidating than the ultra-luxury floors of the Bellagio or Wynn.

Slot Machines and Video Poker

With over 1,200 slot machines, the floor caters to every level of player, from penny slots to high-limit games. You will find a mix of classic mechanical reels and the latest themed video slots. Video poker is also widely available, particularly at the Sherwood Bar and Center Bar, where you can play while enjoying a drink.

Table Games

Excalibur maintains a robust selection of table games, often with lower minimum bets than its neighbors.

  • Blackjack: Multiple tables with various rule sets.
  • Craps and Roulette: Essential Strip staples with energetic crews.
  • Specialty Games: Including Three Card Poker, Let It Ride, and Ultimate Texas Hold'em.

The Sportsbook

The BetMGM Sportsbook at Excalibur provides a dedicated space for wagering on professional and college sports. With large-screen displays and comfortable seating, it is a popular hub during major events like the Super Bowl or March Madness.

Note: The Excalibur poker room is currently closed. Players looking for live poker are encouraged to visit nearby MGM properties such as MGM Grand or Mandalay Bay.

Iconic Entertainment: From Jousting to Australian Charms

Entertainment is where Excalibur truly shines, offering shows that have become Strip institutions.

Tournament of Kings

This is arguably the most famous dinner show in Las Vegas. Set in a 900-seat arena, Tournament of Kings is an immersive medieval banquet. Guests are seated in sections representing different countries (Austria, France, Spain, etc.) and are encouraged to cheer for their respective knights.

  • The Experience: The show features jousting, sword fighting, pyrotechnics, and stunt riding.
  • The Meal: In keeping with the medieval theme, guests eat a three-course meal with their hands—no silverware allowed. The menu typically includes a Cornish game hen, potatoes, corn on the cob, and a dessert.

Thunder from Down Under

For a different demographic, Thunder from Down Under is Australia's premier male revue. It is a high-energy, choreographed production that has been a staple of Excalibur’s night-life for years, making it a go-to choice for bachelorette parties and birthday celebrations.

The Australian Bee Gees Show

A tribute to one of the greatest disco acts in history, this musical show captures the sound and style of the Bee Gees. It is a nostalgic trip through hits like "Stayin' Alive" and "How Deep Is Your Love," performed with impressive vocal accuracy.

The Fun Dungeon

Located on the lower level, the Fun Dungeon is a massive arcade that serves as the resort's primary family attraction. It features:

  • Over 200 games, including classic arcade titles and modern prize-redemption games.
  • A World’s Largest Pac-Man.
  • Midway games where kids (and adults) can win carnival-style stuffed animals.
  • Dairy Queen and Orange Julius for quick snacks within the arcade area.

Dining: 19 Ways to Feast

Excalibur offers a surprisingly diverse range of dining options, from quick-service bites to sit-down family meals.

Sit-Down Restaurants

  • The Steakhouse at Camelot: For a more refined experience, this restaurant offers high-quality cuts of beef, fresh seafood, and a comprehensive wine list. It has received accolades for its value compared to other Strip steakhouses.
  • Buca di Beppo: Known for its massive portions and family-style Italian dining. It is an ideal spot for large groups.
  • Dick’s Last Resort: A "notoriously" rude dining experience where the servers are instructed to be sarcastically obnoxious. Guests often leave wearing tall paper hats with insults written on them. It is all in good fun and serves classic American bar food.
  • TAP Sports Bar: The place to go for burgers, wings, and a wide selection of draft beers while watching the game.

The Buffet at Excalibur

The Buffet offers an "infinite brunch" experience. While it may not have the gourmet flair of the Bacchanal Buffet at Caesars Palace, it provides a solid variety of American, Mexican, and Asian cuisines at a fraction of the price.

The Food Court

Located on the Castle Walk level, the food court is perfect for travelers on the go. Options include:

  • Fatburger
  • Popeyes
  • Pizza Hut Express
  • Einstein Bros. Bagels
  • Johnny Rockets
  • Krispy Kreme
  • Hot Dog on a Stick

Pools, Spa, and Wellness

The pool deck at Excalibur is surprisingly spacious, covering 30,000 square feet. It features four seasonal outdoor pools, including:

  • The Slide Pool: Featuring a water slide that is a hit with children.
  • The Drenched Bar & Grill: Provides poolside dining and drinks so you don’t have to leave the sun to grab a burger.
  • Adults-Only Pool: For those seeking a quieter experience away from the family-centric areas.

The Royal Treatment Spa & Fitness Center provides a space for relaxation and exercise. While the fitness center is included in the daily resort fee (for guests 18+), spa treatments like massages, facials, and wraps are available for an additional charge.

Practical Logistics: Navigating Your Stay

Location and Transportation

Excalibur is located at 3850 South Las Vegas Boulevard. It is approximately 2 miles from Harry Reid International Airport (LAS).

  • Airport Shuttle: The hotel does not provide a free shuttle. Options include ride-sharing (Uber/Lyft), taxis, or private shuttle services like Bell Trans (approx. $15 one-way).
  • The Tram: A free tram connects Excalibur to Luxor and Mandalay Bay. This is an excellent way to explore the southern Strip without walking in the desert heat.
  • Pedestrian Bridges: Overhead bridges connect Excalibur to New York-New York and the Tropicana site (currently undergoing redevelopment), allowing for safe passage over the busy intersection.

Check-in and Check-out

  • Check-in: 3:00 PM.
  • Check-out: 11:00 AM.
  • Early Check-in: Available for a fee (usually around $20) if rooms are available before 10:00 AM.
  • Mobile Check-in: MGM Rewards members can use the mobile app to skip the front desk line.

Parking Fees

As of recent updates, Excalibur charges for both self-parking and valet.

  • Self-Parking: Typically around $15–$20 per day, depending on the day of the week.
  • MGM Rewards Benefit: Higher-tier MGM Rewards members (Pearl and above) may qualify for free self-parking.

The Daily Resort Fee

Like most Strip hotels, Excalibur charges a mandatory daily resort fee. This fee covers:

  • High-speed Wi-Fi.
  • Fitness center access.
  • Local and 800-number phone calls.
  • Boarding pass printing.

Pet Policy

Excalibur is a dog-friendly resort. Up to two dogs are allowed per room, with a combined weight limit of 100 pounds. There is a nightly pet fee, and dogs must not be left unattended unless they are in a kennel or carrier.

Why Choose Excalibur?

Deciding where to stay in Las Vegas often comes down to a trade-off between luxury and location.

Excalibur is the right choice if:

  1. You are on a budget: It consistently offers some of the lowest room rates on the Strip.
  2. You are traveling with family: Between the Fun Dungeon, the water slide, and the Tournament of Kings, there is plenty to keep children entertained.
  3. You want central access: Its location on the "Four Corners" of the south Strip makes it easy to walk or tram to several other major resorts.

Excalibur might not be for you if:

  1. You want ultra-luxury: It is a mid-range, older property. If you want marble bathrooms and five-star service, look toward the ARIA or Bellagio.
  2. You want a quiet environment: The property is high-traffic and can be quite noisy, especially in the common areas and the food court.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the minimum age to check into Excalibur?

Because it is a gaming establishment, the primary guest on the reservation must be at least 21 years of age.

Does Excalibur have a poker room?

No, the poker room at Excalibur is permanently closed.

Is there a microwave or fridge in the room?

Standard rooms do not have them. You can rent a small refrigerator for a nightly fee, but microwaves are generally not available for guest rooms.

Is the tram to Luxor and Mandalay Bay free?

Yes, the Mandalay Bay Tram is free and runs frequently between the three properties.

Can I earn Marriott Bonvoy points at Excalibur?

Yes, as part of the MGM Collection with Marriott Bonvoy, guests can earn and redeem points for their stays at Excalibur.

Is smoking allowed in the rooms?

All guest rooms and suites at Excalibur are smoke-free. However, smoking is permitted in designated areas of the casino floor and certain bars.

Summary

Excalibur Las Vegas remains a quintessential piece of the Las Vegas experience. While it has evolved from a pure "King Arthur" theme park to a more balanced budget resort, it retains a unique charm that is hard to find elsewhere on the Strip. It offers a practical solution for travelers who want to be in the heart of the action without the premium price tag of the luxury towers. From the thundering hooves in the Tournament of Kings arena to the digital glow of the Fun Dungeon, Excalibur provides a diverse, high-energy, and accessible gateway to the wonders of Las Vegas.