South Point

South Point is More than just “Big”


New Writer Andrew J. Benavidez shares his first stay at South Point.

Approaching South Point from the Strip can be intimidating. As a Texan (being totally honest, born in California, but Texas resident since I was 3), we’re familiar with big things, in fact, things usually bigger than in other places. South Point standing bigger than big, on the other hand, struck me as almost stupidly huge.

Walking from the parking garage to the hotel room hauling three suitcases and a case of water was a true test of endurance. It would’ve gone faster with better luggage and if I didn’t constantly get distracted by the sights and sounds all around me. By the time I made it to the room, I was drenched with sweat; it was July after all. My body wanted to rest, but the hundreds of unexplored slot machines I saw on my way in were calling my name.

South Point

The machines might have been calling my name, but they certainly weren’t rolling my way. My favorite games were burning through my cash no matter what I tried. The Michael Jackson slot drew me in like some sort of smooth criminal and left me feeling bad like a cheap thriller novel. I can’t remember how many slots I lost money on, but the variety was impressive. What I do know is I earned that German Steak Knife set and then some. Thanks, South Point Slot Club. As far as souvenirs go, as I still use them and they’re still quite sharp, they’re pretty great. Also, thanks again for the free play ever since, South Point Slot Club.

If I failed to express how gobsmackingly big South Point is before, I assure you it is rather large. I have spent hours just walking the building. From parking garage to the hotel room, from bar to bar to bar to the pool, from the buffet to equestrian center (which I didn’t even know such venues existed outside of Texas), there is a lot to look at, and I have not even mentioned the 2nd floor yet.

South Point

Early on, on my first trip to South Point, I couldn’t believe all that I could do in one building. There is food for every craving; Steak and Shake was a personal favorite for the price, but Baja Miguel’s does make some killer fish tacos. I really need to check out Del Mar Deli and the Coronado Café the next time I go. I could get a drink at every bar and be too far gone to go around again. That might not sound like much to you, but that is a magical, wonderful, thing to a lush like me. Then again I did have a little culture shock coming from a place that bars liquor sales on Sundays (Thanks a lot, Texas) to a place where I could build a full bar at the South Point gift shop.

I remember thinking that I had never been at a place with so much under one roof. Then I found the escalator to the 2nd floor. Boy, was I right… I found myself in a peculiar state of awe, amusement, and wonder as I walked South Point’s impressive 64 lane bowling alley.

South Point

Now, clearly I am not a pro-bowler, but I appreciate an opportunity to overexert myself in rolling a heavy ball towards a cultish gathering of pins. My ability as a bowler are much like a new student driver’s; I have trouble with staying in my lane, sometimes I swerve too much, and I often go too fast or too slow at inopportune times. However, I do appreciate a good opportunity to make fun of myself. Also, the bowling snack bar serves a wicked cheesecake for when you’re hungry for a sweet treat.

The bingo hall was impressive, despite winning nothing in my first bingo game, I got a few beers out of it and a drive to give it another shot in the future.

South Point

I really like that South Point has a movie theater (even though I have never utilized it after three trips). The temptation to stop and watch a movie was strong, but the temptation to gamble was stronger.

So, why go to South Point? You’ll never be bored. And if gambling, bowling, good food and drink, movies, excellent pools and hot tubs, or equestrian centers don’t interest you, what are you doing going to Vegas? Okay, maybe, this place might not have everything you may want in a casino, but it comes pretty close. As I write this, I find myself getting hungry, eager to gamble, and wanting a swim. At South Point, I could take care of all three desires in a span of 30 minutes with nearly too many options to choose from. Seriously, this place is just that big.

[Photos: Courtesy of South Point Las Vegas]

15 thoughts on “South Point is More than just “Big”

  1. Good read. I have not been to South Point in a really long time. If you think this place is big, I’d love to hear your thoughts on the MGM Grand.

    1. Thanks! If I remember correctly the MGM Grand has more slots so I think I would enjoy it. I haven’t spent much time on the Strip.

    1. It’s pretty much just between the M Resort and Silverton which helps if you get cabin fever. That’s if you don’t lose yourself at the ridiculous hot tub.

    1. Thanks! It’s definitely one of my favorite places. I really like how I can get lost with stuff to do like a good visit to Fremont Street.

  2. I love trying off-strip properties to stay at. Do you know if the pool area is peaceful or is it crowded with kids

    1. The pool area is usually too busy with kids, but they have a great semi-secluded hot tub that I have spent a lot of time in.

  3. South Point definitely has a certain unique draw to it. I’ve had quite a good run of luck on their slots and have seen many many movies at their high-tech cinemas. Also enjoy seeing it from the air, as it’s frequently the first recognizable landmark on my flight path into the city. A very regal-looking structure indeed.

    1. I really appreciate their slot club. They always seem to have free play for me or some sort of promotion to get free stuff.

      The last couple times I went we were flying in early morning so the blazing sun made it look like a beacon shining across the Mojave. Can’t miss it.

  4. South Point is always our very first stop in Vegas, they have the best selection of slots including the newest. We can’t resist Steak and Shake but really want to try some of the other great restaurants. There is so much to see and do too. The parking garage is free and the elevator takes you right into the Casino.

    1. To be honest, I have had a couple dreams of Baja Miguel’s fish tacos. Now, that could be because I just really like Mexican Seafood or because they were just that good.

      I also haven’t been disappointed by the buffet yet. The Italian stuffed bell peppers and chile relleno pair together quite well. Similar enough to match flavors, but different enough to appreciate the culinary differences.

  5. I love reading articles like this. Fun to see newbies discover things I often take for granted here. I live very close to South Point and often the GF will ask what we will do for dinner and we’ll decide “Lets just jump over to SP for happy hour at Zenshin” or recently I had a meeting in the lounge near the parking structure recently. (Used the place like the Millennials use Starbucks. LOL)
    The SP is a nice place and there is plenty to do. The only thing I do not like is the smell there. Often it smells like horses and stuff and that is not my favorite so…
    Did you get a chance to see the showroom? Have seen many concerts there and saw Jerry Lewis there last year. Sometimes they have concerts out by the pool as well.
    What about Michael’s restaurant? “Michael’s awards have included being named one of the Top 5 Restaurants in Las Vegas by the Zagat Survey. It received the Four-Diamond Award for Exceptional Cuisine, Excellent Service, and Elegant Dining Atmosphere from the American Automobile Association, the Award of Excellence from Distinguished Restaurants of North America, and the Finest Gourmet Restaurant recognition from the Las Vegas Review-Journal Readers’ Poll.” It is rather hidden so if sort of feels like you are mega VIP or going into someplace only you and a few others know about / are allowed into.

    Next time you are in town, try Silverton. Maybe not as big at SP but in my opinion, more amazing. Be sure to go trailer bowling while there. :)

  6. First Hotel/Casino I ever stayed at in Las Vegas back in 2007, SP will always have a special place in my heart! If you love Thai food I suggest you try the Pad Thai from the Chinese menu.. It is the BOMB!!

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