Kyle Berry: Memories of the Riviera

Reader Kyle Berry shares his memories of the Riviera… 

The first time I walked into the Riviera (around 2013), I admittedly did not think too much of the place. In fact, I laughed at how dead it was inside. I did partake in a few blackjack shoes and some video poker, but that was all.

Fast forward about a year and my annual March Madness trip was coming up. I was waiting for confirmation from my brother that he was attending, but by the time I went to book, room rates were sky high. I really was not ready to pay $200 a night, until I remembered that the Riviera sent me monthly mailers for free rooms. I called, fully expecting for my dates to be dark, but to my surprise, I had a free room booked in about 5 minutes. I could not believe I was about to stay in the same hotel I laughed at a short time ago.

When my trip arrived, my brother and I self-parked, and walked into the lobby. I love Vegas history, and I started to appreciate the history of the Riv, and I had just walked in. It was around 10 am, and I got in the modest line to check in. I showed them my players card, gave them my name, and asked for the newest tower (that turned out to be the Monaco tower – which was just imploded). I told her I understood that we were early, but asked if they had any open rooms. To my surprise, the check-in clerk treated me like royalty. She informed me that I could check in now, that there were no resort fees since I was a players club member, and that she gave us a strip view high floor room. I was starting to get impressed.

Once I had my bearings on the layout, we went up to the Monaco elevators and selected our floor. When we got off, I was surprised to see a well taken care of hallway (in contrast to some other places in Vegas where I have stayed). I walked into the room, and was pleasantly surprised (video of the room below).

https://youtu.be/erYvARn3RJ4

Granite countertops, clean room, mini fridge, it was all anyone would need for a nice stay. On top of that, their main bar downstairs had ridiculous drink specials and prices, their gift shop had $1-liter waters, and the pool screamed classic Vegas…I was hooked.

I returned to the Riv several more times, including the first day of the liquidation sale. I was one of the first 50 people inside (and there was a LOT of people).

Liquidation Sale Slideshow

I loved checking out the old school suites in the Monte Carlo tower, exploring the dressing room of their showroom, and of course, finally seeing the infamous upstairs pool.

The Riv went from last choice option to a preferred location, and I, more than most, miss it greatly. Vegas isn’t about paying $12 for a beer, $30 in resort fees, or $200 a-night rooms. It is about great customer service, great drink prices, and amazing Vegas vibes…All of which the Riviera had in spades.

[Photos and Video: Kyle Berry]

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