Question of the Day — 28 Aug 2014

You are right about MGM Grand: no shoeshine stand. (Vegas’ largest casino floor and no place to get your pumps polished? Go figure.) Mandalay Bay’s has been moved over to opposite the buffet, according to hotel personnel. A shine there will set you back nine bucks.

We called all the MGM Resorts International casinos on the Strip and conducted a state-of-the-shoeshine survey. It breaks down as follows …

• Aria: On the east side of the casino floor, adjacent to Deuce Lounge. Cost: $6.50.
• Bellagio: Between the casino cage and Hyde lounge. Cost: $7.
• Circus Circus: None.
• Excalibur: None.
• Luxor: At the rear entrance. Cost: $9.
• Mirage: In the men’s room nearest the poker room. Cost: Hotel staff didn’t know.
• Monte Carlo: None.
• New York-New York: By the elevator next to Chin Chin Café. Cost: $7-$9.
• Vdara: None.

From the sound of things, you’re best off taking your business to Aria or Bellagio. Good luck. Incidentally, our research staff says that Green Valley Ranch Station, Red Rock Resort & Spa, Trump International and Hilton Lake Las Vegas include a shoeshine in their resort fee, regardless of what footwear you may typically sport, so don’t forget to pack your best thigh-high suede boots if any of those properties in your travel plans. For a freebie, on the other hand, head on out to M Resort, where shoe shines (located between the cashier’s desk and Baby Cakes) are complimentary for guests and visitors alike (we suggest a small gratuity might be in order).