The Top Ten values list is a regular feature of our monthly newsletter, the Las Vegas Advisor -- and has been since Volume I Issue 1 in 1983. We always spotlight casino openings with a traditional number-one placement in the Top Ten, but there's a legitimate reason for doing this. The newest casino on the block represents the latest in casino design and concept -- whether it's a smaller locals-casino effort or the newest megaresort. As such, it's almost always something that Las Vegaphiles want (and sometimes need) to see. The fact that a casino is always free to tour makes it a natural deal, so it fits at number 1.
To further support the ranking, we cover the new casino throughout the issue in which it appears as number one. We review its dining, entertainment, gambling and general attractions, and discuss our subjective impressions. So much attention is focused on the place that several mini-deals often show up within the coverage, adding to the collective value.
Wynn Las Vegas, for example. In the June 2005 issue of the Advisor, in "Couponomy," Anthony Curtis discusses the feel of the casino -- it's Bellagio-esque and designed to attract the highest of high-end travelers; thus, the average Las Vegas visitor will find little to do there other than splurge for a big night out. In "Dining," we cover Alex (spectacularly expensive), as well as the buffet (also expensive, but problematic). In "Entertainment," we talk about the Cirque production show, Le Reve (too many kinks to spend $121 for a ticket). The hidden deal here is probably in "Gambling," where there are several good options in video poker and in the double-deck blackjack games. You can also combine another of our current Top Ten values -- the Happy Hour Triple Play across the street at the Fashion Show Mall -- to produce a convenient and enjoyable trip to the Wynn.
For the whole story on the Wynn and the rest of Vegas, you can buy a membership to the Las Vegas Advisor for $50 (hard copy) or $37 (online). Both come with a big book of coupons. If you only want to read about our take on the Wynn, you can get a $5 temporary membership that gives you access to the entire Web site (and/or buys you the June issue alone).
