Back in 2005 (12/24) we tackled the subject of private gambling salons in Las Vegas, which had long been outlawed by a 1931 law that dictated all gaming in Nevada be "wide open." In 2002, following lobbying from some of the larger properties frequented by so-called "whales," certain exceptions were made and licenses granted that permitted MGM Grand, Mandalay Bay, Venetian, Caesars, and Wynn to offer closed-off gaming facilities for their highest of high rollers. But back then their future seemed in doubt through lack of use.
A quick call to the Chief of the Enforcement Division at the Gaming Control Board confirmed that these five licenses are all still in place, as far as he knows, and that although the use of these facilities fluctuates, they do generate enough income to persuade Gaming Control of their usefulness.
So, if you and your friends have a cool half-million dollars in your pocket (or credit line) and are prepared to wager a minimum of $500 per hand, you could look into arranging for a completely private salon for your gambling.
If, however, you're just looking to have a laugh on a bachelor(ette) weekend, or with your convention colleagues, or the family, and are happy to rub shoulders with the hoi polloi on the main casino floor, then there are a couple of more affordable options.
Only in the course of researching this answer did we discover that it was actually New York-New York that pioneered the concept of reserving a table on the casino floor in Las Vegas, some two or three years ago. According to the shift manager we spoke with, the casino management team subsequently moved over to the group's Luxor property and took the concept with them, where it was launched with some fanfare last January.
New York-New York still offers the same program, but they like to keep it low key. They tell us that it's only taken advantage of a few times a year. You need to book at least 48 hours in advance and it's available Sunday through Thursday only.
Luxor, however, says it's far more frequently taken advantage of over there and they have a special reservation line to call if you're interested: 702/371-7741. (Only 24 hours notice is required, although we'd recommend more, especially if it's likely to be a busy time. As far as we know, weekends are not excluded, although no doubt management reserves the right to refuse if the casino's likely to be jammed.)
As far as the restrictions are concerned, you're right on the money with the buy-in and minimum bet requirements for blackjack. Here's the scoop for both properties (same rules apply):
Blackjack: minimum of five people to a table; minimum $300 buy-in each; minimum average bet of $15 per person.
Craps: Minimum 10 people to a table; minimum buy-in $500; minimum bet $10 per person.
Roulette: minimum six people to a table; minimum buy-in $300; minimum bet $10 per person.
