⛔️Warning: YOU CANNOT STAY at PARK MGM with under $1000

[@christiancostello9562]

I would be really interested in videos that show a property at three different budget levels. Like one property, but day one is “budget”, day two is “mid-tier,” and day three is total luxury, and then you give us your thoughts on each level of experience and what level was the most “worth it”.

[@MACMAMI]

I LOVE this idea! 🙂 Like: maybe if he were to visit the Venetian again soon, he could go to the food court or maybe Rockhouse during happy hour on the first night, then on the second night go somewhere like Yardbird, and then on the final night check out the recently-opened Wakuda or maybe Villa Azur. 🙂

[@ammiller3911]

I love this!

[@maxsdad538]

He's done that multiple times.

[@rachelrake1718]

Oh that’s a great idea!!! I love thé challenges!

[@djm5687]

Interesting idea

[@nickfetrow5692]

James your channel is a sleeper. Should be way higher in sub count. You are very articulate with reviews and your video work is way above par. Anyways always appreciate the great work, look forward to seeing you hit 100k and above!

[@Coolist]

Appreciate that kind comment Nick, as well as the SC 👊.

[@socalmacguy]

I enjoy the “money is no object” videos. They always give me ideas for my splurge nights.

[@devilingrey]

I enjoy both the budgeted and budget free videos. They afford varying incites on a property and, perhaps, lead you to discover things you may otherwise miss by only following one of those scenarios. Either way, it’s enjoyable viewing.

[@Coolist]

Good point, Shakes - I’m a big fan of switching things up so they don’t get stale. Thanks so much for the support 👊

[@divinediva71]

Thank you so much for informing us that $1000 budget won't last there!! It's good to know how far your money will stretch when you plan a trip to Las Vegas! My last trip in October, 2022, I had $800 in cash....came home with $50.00. Now my upcoming trip in July, I may not spend as much but will bring about the same amount. Vegas isn't cheap, but it's great when you're on a budget...especially when travelling with family! Very informative video:)

[@Krunchy71]

I'm loving your $1000 challenges, James! "half college dorm room, and half hunting cabin" is one of the funniest things I've ever heard on KZbin lol

[@adzisme]

I don’t understand why the TV was placed where it is in these rooms. I like the bathrooms; there was some creativity at work. Thank you for the work you put into these videos.

[@robyoung64]

For me it was the Albania comment. I was in stitches

[@adzisme]

@@robyoung64 and James is correct; those are some strange hallways.

[@Piggy-Oink-Oink]

Dimly lit halls and walls ready to collapse. Definitively worth 550.00 for 3 nights right lol

[@davidbox146]

I enjoy when you use a budget since most of us need one to manage a Las Vegas experience, but I also like the occasional "throw the budget out the window" videos that you present! They provide sort of a goal to achieve for a really special occasion type trip. Thank you for your hard work. This is a great channel!

[@frankrichards4733]

I'm a big Park MGM fan and site fan too. I've learned that Sunday through Thursday ( Sunday and Thursday travel days) trips work best for room budgeting; now that everything is open seven days a week. Besides the non-smoking asset, Park is an easy walk to Aria and the tram to Bellagio. if I want to spend more on a room, the view from the Fountain View rooms at Vdara or the balcony rooms at Cosmo are always tempting. I agree that both budget and splurge videos are informative because of your exceptionable way of describing your experiences and showcasing each venue.

[@AdamBA380]

I love the new series of staying within a budget. Many, if not most, people visiting Vegas are doing this challenge anyway! Like another commenter said, I’d like to see the room rates broken out from your spending challenge. More like a “So I’ve got my room at this resort, now how do I use my spending money?” This way the videos can more easily be a helpful barometer no matter the season. But either way I like the series a lot :)

[@mblumenstein1]

Consider hitting up Toscana tucked up inside of Eataly. Highly underrated. Park's rooms: ' Part dorm room, part cabin" are perfect description for them. Keep up the rad work.

[@GaryVC]

I like it when you go crazy and spend like there is no tomorrow. As I like to say, “If you can’t go first class then why go at all?” If you are on a budget, then go to Circus Circus. Nothing is worse than going to a Restaurant that you can not afford. Somehow if you are worried about the cost, the meal just does not taste very good.

[@underpressure9799]

Love the budget concept, James. Makes it feel more real!

[@tiffaniegulley4091]

You're such a fancy guy with good taste. It's more fun to see you with an unlimited budget! We go to Vegas at least once a year but stick to quick eats or buffets. It's neat to see how some people let the Vegas budget fly!

[@mikealbert5776]

I do like how you change it up and throw a "budget" review video in the mix. I really appreciate all the content you put out as it is.....however, I do like C Costello's comment below with doing a one budget day, mid-tier day, and no holds barred kind of day on 3-night stay. Good to see you back in Vegas!!

[@julianmouton3]

I think it would be cool to get both a “budget” video for the main Vegas properties and a contrasting “baller” video for those same properties. Which places have the biggest differences in experience based on how much coin you bring $$$$

[@stanwaxberg2857]

Before the West Wing remodel at MGM, it would have been the West Wing rooms versus The Mansion at the same location. It still may be.

[@attorneyrobert]

Just love this video, and your sense of humor. You're hilarious! More please.

[@keyana9796]

Our last two stays in the past 3 months were at Park MGM/Nomad. Loved the central location especially because we love to game at Aria. I agree Primrose is a MUST, we tried it for the first time in December and since we've been back about 4 times for breakfast. Bavette's on Valentines day this year was amazing as always, our server was super knowledgeable and passionate about what he was serving. However it's now our #2 steakhouse in Vegas under Oscar's. James, my boyfriend and I absolutely love your content, we watch every Vegas video you post even though we only stay at MGM properties. Thank you :)

[@minyu5612]

James I love your sense of humor. Thanks so much for this video ❤

[@RobertMiami305]

Dude, I follow all your videos but this one was particularly hysterical. You had me cracking up 😂. Thanks I thoroughly enjoyed this from beginning to end. You showed great Humor here. And yes my vote is for staying on a budget 👍🏼

[@MACMAMI]

I'm really loving this new format of yours where you oscillate between your more familiar "quarterbacking the experience" voice, and your narrator voice. The latter kind of reminds me of the tone of voice you hear on NPR's "Fresh Air" or "All Things Considered" in how contemplative and soothing it sounds and I think brings your latest content an exciting new wrinkle. 🙂 As for the question you posed at the end of this video, I say just go with the flow and accept whatever the end result of each attempt is whether it's over and under. Even if you don't always succeed in your challenge, I think videos like this can still be informative and inspire a good deal of critical faculty and imagination as to what one would do differently to try and stick the landing on a budget. Especially since you always say you eat for two and that even though Vegas rates are a frantic yo-yo, they could serve as a helpful yardstick as to what two people might expect to spend over the course of three days at that given hotel. 🙂

[@stanwaxberg2857]

You are spot on about how depressing the rooms and hallways are at Park. The location is great for a budget hotel (comps), but that brown carpet is depressing and disgusting. I'm a huge fan of Bavette's, but my 5 meals have been hit or miss. One time the Chicago cut ribeye was great and the other time average. Same with the burger. The steak fritters is a never again. Joe's is more consistent for me, but if Bevette's is on, it is better. Try the back room next time. It was closed on Super Bowl Sunday, but a Manger took me back and it looks way cool! On a side bar I stayed at NYNY at the last minute for the Super Bowl and was more than impressed with the remodeled rooms. Yeah, the bathrooms still are not the best, but the rest was spot one for a budget room refresh. Next time at Bavette's please try the cognac sazerac.

[@stanwaxberg2857]

@Chucky Gold I should clarify a little. The average Chicago cut ribeye is better than most steakhouse best cut. The difference in the two was the size, flavor, and texture. I sat next to a couple and recommended the Chicago cut and the guy said it was a top 5 steak he ever had. The steak fritters was consumed the night after having the Chicago cut. The first time I had the burger it was like I remember burgers years ago where you still had texture in the middle instead of the mush middle like most burgers have today. The second time the burger was fine, but the thick cut bacon was a little chewy and the bun fell apart resulting in fork eating. Bavette's is like steeping into a world that doesn't exist outside and the fact it is in The Park is even crazier.

[@mala3167]

Definitely stay with the budget videos. I like to copy the places that you go as $1000 is usually my budget for me and the lady friend. Great video as always!

[@david4883]

I’m with you, James. Comfy bed and great shower pressure doesn’t make up for the ugly blandness of almost the entire property. When my group and I were visiting we had dubbed the halls “murder hallways”. I just felt like they could have done more with decorating to give the place more of a personality and identity

[@GrayMan7070]

I like both, the frugal & the over the top James! Keep mixing it up.

[@anthonylagano2371]

Happy Friday Mr James ! That comment why did they choose Albania 🇦🇱 for the hallways cracked me up . Your humor is on point lol . I agree the hallways do give off a 1980s behind the Iron Curtain vibe . And I am not digging the room remodel either . I do like the Park MGM but not to stay there . Great content as always Sir 😎😎😎 PS …I love it when you don’t have a budget and set your money on fire 🔥.

[@raedair]

I'm here for all your vegas content. So much info. Keep it going.

[@julianmouton3]

This was probably your funniest review yet 😂 killed it

[@martintaylor10]

Great video, thank you. I go to Vegas often, so very aware of what things cost. But the fact that a bottle of water costs $7 or more, and that we just accept it, is outrageous. Charging $7 for water should be a crime. Someone should get their ass kicked at the very least.

[@AntLong110]

He needs a sidekick and that guy is me!

[@chilladventures1111]

James, throw your budget out the window! Enjoying your content and $10 words inserted in your videos. Greetings from Wisconsin yo.

[@leongraham1009]

Love these $1000 las Vegas trips, excellent content

[@beckyjackson7755]

I think a mix of both types of videos would be great. Fun to see you throw out the budget and see some incredible experiences and I like the budget videos too. Most people have a budget to follow so we can relate.

[@jackcampbell4465]

One of your best videos. I think it is your slower pacing, combined with your exceptional ability to detail, provide strong detail. 👍👍

[@ke6264]

I like these videos James, cant wait for the next hotel!

[@Its_the_Whole_Everything]

Thank you! Your the first person that actually came out and said they didn’t like the design of this hotel room! I used to love it when it was the Monte Carlo. What’s with the no dresser? I hate living out of my suitcase. Had to use the couch to put out my clothes. Also, I personally like having the front desk. At check in I would ask if I could be upgraded? Usually it would be free or a few extra bucks. Can’t do that with a kiosk. I would stop at CVS daily for water. Eataly over rated and over priced. ….Albania 😅

[@tovielu5461]

I like the Park MGM because of none smoke property, but when up to the hallway to your room. It looks very dull and spooky, the carpet looks like it been there for thousand year. The room looks ok, but very spooky outside the hallway.

[@BUCK_6-16]

Bro! F… the budget! Please do a part two and got to the Library & Best friend. 🍻

[@ashkonrigginsmag280]

Throw the budget out the window, lol of course within ur means, but I can worry about budgeting myself based on the prices you usually post with your meals. I more so value the variety of drinks and meals you give critiques on then how budget friendly it can be. Thanks as always!!

[@thewesternmind]

“Why did they choose Albania?” 🤣🤣. Vegas has gotten so expensive. I enjoy your “no holds barred” Vegas videos but these are great as well. Amazing job as always!

[@thelastlaugh40]

I'm still laughing about that comment about Albania. 😂. Brilliant line!

[@LattesAndLagersEdmonton]

Love your content. I’ve been a fan for years. Keep your budget concept/challenge. It adds an overarching element to your whole stay/video.

[@ElfstersRiflesandReloading]

The man of action. I'm jelly. Keep it up brother.

[@Jambr380]

I love the $1000 budget idea. Probably need to figure out a more streamline approach to hotel cost (weekend, season, pools, etc) to make it more ‘fair,’ but I still really like the concept and you have fresh Vegas content that is interesting to watch.

[@mu2768]

"Albania", that cracked me up.

[@dennisc6596]

Budget challenges are great....thanks for your terrific content.

[@followjeff]

Yes brother Coolist is back! I'm always looking forward to your Vegas videos!

[@MarquisMark44]

This was the first video of yours I have seen. After watching I immediately subscribed. I love the challenge concept and can't wait to watch the videos you have already done and the ones in the future. Thank you.

[@johnwbutton]

Park MGM is probably my favorite property to visit - though shame the rooms look so bad (and weaker on the pool complex), so I've never bothered actually staying there. Would love to see you do a NoMad review one of these days to see if that fixes the biggest issues. I think the budget videos are helpful but wouldn't mind seeing some more focus on comps and how you compare the comps system amongst the major ecosystems (MGM, Caesars, Wynn, Resorts World, Grazie) since I feel a lot of the videos around it are very vague and usually could use a bit better presentation/editing. You also don't gamble much so would give a good sense of what experience-focused travelers can achieve.

[@NatashaEstrada]

Yeah I made the mistake of taking a comp there for a weekend because I love the rest of the hotel but hated the room. It's just a box with a bed and a shower.

[@androooritter]

Good to get both perspectives, but the videos with no budget are more extravagant and entertaining 😉

[@chads4556]

Budget vids are great! It's good to see that you can still stay, eat, and drink well in Vegas without spending like Congress.

[@Parker-Green]

Great video! I have the same opinion as you on breakfast, and agreed that Primrose looked like it would be worth it to give it a try at some point!

[@lionessheart2652]

The reviews always on point.

[@yiswhy3934]

I like all of your content. If you operate within a budget or you set your cash on fire, it's all enjoyable for me. That said, ball the F out... It's cool AF! 😎 Great work!

[@angelabush9766]

YES 🤑Mr. James SET THAT 💵 ON 🔥😀😀

[@Whatalife36]

Love the budget concept most people that go are on a budget so makes sense to see what they can do with a certain amount of money. Great work

[@DRCOBRA50]

I think a balance of both concepts is good.

[@podunkcitizen2562]

I stayed there 4 nights for less but I cheated. I was comped for 3 nights , fourth night was only $10 in April, 22. Total bill after comps $190. But if you include what I lost gambling, it was over $1,000. My big meal was $120 on filet mignon at Ruth Chris. I went to Best Friend and thought, eh?

[@todddavis9426]

I do like your budget videos. Keep them coming

[@barbmclean6408]

I like all your videos James! All budget levels is fun to see. Keep up the great work.

[@jerryw7359]

Park MGM is just another example of MGM management ruining a good hotel. It was much better when it was the Monte Carlo. The rebranding and redesign was supposed to make it a much more upscale offering so they could charge much higher prices. Unfortunately, they ruined the place. As you mentioned, the rooms, the hallways and the overall décor is beyond depressing. In addition to being depressing the design of the rooms is completely nonfunctional. Eataly is just an oversized food court where everything is grossly overpriced. Charging $10 for a slice of terrible pizza is a crime. Overall, the hotel is a big joke.

[@johnmcgowan2617]

love the budget aspect of your reviews u made a good piont of value over price for what u can get in vegas was staying at park mgm wish i know about nomad burger also there is a channel called everyburger in vegas asked on his site to do a burger revieiw with u

[@lil_KimFL]

Definitely enjoy these budget videos! It helps me plan my trips and gives me the mindset to either stay in budget or having an opportunity to splurge when I can. 😊 so thank you

[@Steve-vl9ed]

Throw the money out the window, you’re in Vegas; we all do, or are forced to do. I go back to the Monte Carlo days of the property, and never was a big fan although I have stayed there. The value of the property went way up based upon it being right on top of T-Mobile and the opening of Eataly. If you are coming to town for an event at the Arena, this is the place to stay

[@princessbt6844]

I really like the budget videos. I had never seen one of your vids before and this one got me to sub. Now off to watch the Paris one. I would love to see Vegas for a week, budget or not. That's how long I take my kid for and always in August. It was sooooooo pricey in 2022 😲

[@sandrabaskette3116]

Hey James, great video as always! I like the ‘set your money on 🔥’ videos😄

[@chriswilks4060]

Agreed!! Been to Vegas 30 times over last 25 years, all the steakhouses. bavettes was by far the worst! Rushed in, sat, drinks came right away (Good!) Steak came in much less time than it takes to cook...hmmm. Steaks are cooked and staged and shipped out cafeteria style - take it to the bank. was the steak good - yes, NOT $80 good. dinner for two $400.... there are 20 better places

[@gregnersesyan306]

First time watching your video. Awesome job; and I subscribed

[@Coolist]

Welcome aboard! 🙌

[@wayneh8767]

Hey James, I hear you on the room. It has elements that are nice but allot of it makes you say, "did they forget to furnish this room? And whats with the after thought wire chase on the walls? James on a budget!? Its like holding back the wild with a rope, let it go! No budget my friend, and the smoke free is good. Your totally right about Primrose, good place!

[@Bluboy30]

No budget, throw that out the door! That's how I do it when I'm in Vegas. Lol!

[@jasonloyd3250]

It's also Vegas' only non-smoking property. I have stayed numerous times, but usually comped. I enjoyed my Bavette's experience and the Blueberry Deep dish pancakes at Primrose were a treat. Still haven't tried Best Friends yet, but I'm a fan of Chef Roy Choy.

[@stellalopez1616]

Nice choice with the Twista Mobstability jam

[@annhenriques3520]

I like both types of reviews, a $1,000 budget can be a challenge at many Las Vegas hotels. That weekend Park MGM rate was high: my guess is there was a Golden Knights home game that weekend and either Bruno Mars or Usher was performing on site, that really drives room rates up. For me, it’s easy to stay there on a $1,000 budget. I eat breakfast and dinner, with a dessert thrown in around mid afternoon or later at night. I usually don’t go to pricier restaurants, so a combination of Primrose, La La Noodles, Crack Shack and Eataly, plus reasonably priced options next door at NY-NY, all make sticking to a budget relatively easy. Plus, the CVS store just outside the hotel is great for stocking up on water and snacks. On my last trip I tried the Raising Canes that opened up across the street near the ABC Store, that is addictive and cheap!

[@Coolist]

That's a solid budget strategy for Park. And yea, there was a VGK game that night ✨

[@greatnose4food]

Love your to the point video about Park MGM, it’s exactly what I like to hear before I plan a long overdue trip to Las Vegas. Thank you Mr. Coolist!

[@justintime4408]

I appreciate the challenges. While I appreciate seeing you ball out, I think most of us do not spend lavishly in Vegas. Sure, we might splurge every once and while, but most people have a budget in mind. I would like to see how extreme this can go. Like do the budget hotels with an even smaller budget. I personally would like to see this done with comps. Ive heard of people spending a week or more in Vegas for little or nothing.

[@adzisme]

I would alter the rule on comps; I spend one night downtown, because its a vibe and an experience I’ve learned to appreciate. I stay at MGM properties because I’m comped at a couple of the budget properties, and I’m fine with that.

[@juliannehealy3139]

Fun video! Park MGM room definitely not worth that price I’d love budget challenge videos I switch up my trips some I splurge some are budget next trip Taylor Swift concerts and Wraparound at Cosmopolitan I will need a budget trip after that 😂

[@beachbumsailordude]

If you are going to do the budget deal you should be doing it midweek. I've been to VEGAS 5 times and all were Sunday - Friday because weekends are too expensive for a lot of people including myself. I do like both styles of video thou. I like to see how it is to spurge, living vicariously through you, and then the budget one is more of a reality check. BTW when you start going to Denny's then I'll really know you are on a budget. LOL!

[@butcho7492]

I live here- Bavette's is my new favorite steakhouse. Food is fantastic and the bartenders rock. These scampi is out of this world. You should talk to the GM- she is great.

[@Hauler24]

I love when you throw the budget out cause in Vegas the budget is non existent anyway, however; I also love seeing you try to make $1,000 work as not everyone has the big budget to throw around in Vegas. Sad to hear about Park MGM as the non smoking is so key, but it is what it is. Can't wait to see the next one my friend and wishing you all the best! 😃

[@2011blueman]

I really like everything about Park MGM except the rooms. Eataly is my favorite food court in Vegas. The casino is my favorite to play in because it's smoke free and comfortable.

[@youngkreisler]

Yup, Bavette's menu is indeed getting a little stale. But their dry aged bone in ribeye and chocolate cream pie are still the best.

[@camvworld5674]

Set on Fire!

[@jayreazy1]

I like the budget and the Andre nickatina beat at the end

[@suvommitro2172]

Live your vlog you tell it like it is. Budget idea is ok, but I liked when you balled out just keep the price break down so we can know What things cost and what we are in for.

[@paulobartolomeu4187]

Throw the Budget out the window, James! Much for much more fun that way lol

[@quinnrivera5075]

Stayed there in the Nightingale Suite for 5 nights. At $126 a night with no resort fee because I got MGM gold status (for the time being) I thought it was very reasonable. It was cheaper than a suite in the Luxor. And in a great location. Eataly was very cool. Trams to Bellagio , close to NY NY. Quick Uber or Lyft or bus to Fremont. I think it’s a pretty solid option. Machines were tight. But I hit a quick $434 on a $2 dragon link machine that helped (a little bit) to offset my losses. I’d go back to Park MGM tomorrow. I’ve definitely spent more for less.

[@Bcelos182]

Love this series, but I think you should not include room cost. Room rates change daily, and are always a rip off on the weekend, regardless of where you stay. You paid $20 a night at Paris, but if that was a weekend night you are paying over $250 a night, easily. Also, NO ONE should pay full room mates, there are so many deals (AAA booking, My Vegas, gamble at local casinos for comps etc.) I get great comps at Nomad and I am a low baller to the extreme, love staying there, but would never pay full price there.

[@andysorensen1737]

Absolutely, and even amongst hotels on the same dates they can vary wildly. I’m going out in June during the week and it’s cheaper for me to stay in a Wynn Suite than an entry level room at MGM Grand. You can not only guess where I’m staying, but also let than stat sink in.

[@tuhitukare8672]

Jimmy got jokes!🤣

[@drquinnmedicinewoman7786]

i like knotty jokes!

[@bradkorteway4672]

Love your Vegas videos man. I like the budget videos

[@garystevens6735]

Great content James! Definitively a mix between budgeted and non-budgeted is my preference although its always fun to live vicariously through your non-budgeted adventures.

[@tysonhuanh4641]

set your money on FIRE james! but $1000 is kind of low budget point maybe move it up to $1500 since the hotel room is eating up most of your budget. anyways always enjoy watching your videos!

[@BabYBrain8]

I love that subtle netflix diss.

[@B2BRestaurantReviews]

I think the no budget is better. That way you can show us more of the cuisine, cocktails and activities. The thoroughness that you show the properties is why I like your channel!

[@anthonybercaw857]

James chuck the budgets out the window and show us EVERYTHING the property has to offer. Love your stuff!

[@anthonybercaw857]

@writemeonnicegramcoolist_1 let’s go!

[@h.m.mucklefutz2482]

Thanks for the review! I enjoyed the challenge aspect, but I also enjoy the non-budget videos. They all showcase different venues and options. Nothing wrong with traveling on a budget - we did it for many years, but I feel like it used to be easier with cheaper meal deals everywhere. Food has really gone up, but so has the number of very good restaurants. Vegas really has something for everyone! (I like both types of videos by the way.)

[@chavez34cm]

All of it is great content brother. No one is going it better! 👊🏼🦅

[@Coolist]

CC in the house?? Yooooo! 🙌🤙

[@chavez34cm]

@@Coolist yoooooo! Man glad you’re doing well. Waiting on the swag in Vegas content now….👊🏼

[@ericscott3997]

Damn, sorry to hear that Bavette's was a huge let down for you on this trip. My Wife & I were just at MGM Park around Thanksgiving and we explicitly went to Bavette's our first night there to celebrate our anniversary. I took you advise from a previous video where you really sung high praise for Bavette's. All I can say is, it hit on every cylinder the night we were there and had one of the better dinners in Vegas (and top 10 lifetime) Always love Park, especially the No smoking policy. Hope your next visit at Park treats you better. Thank you James, as always for these great posts!

[@boatingcharlie1]

The budget is interesting to watch as well as the money on fire approach. Both are equally fun to watch from Indiana. That food looks amazing and gives me ideas for my next Las Vegas trip. Thanks for sharing!

[@logancall7875]

Bro I love your videos you so amazing keep up the grind!

[@Spot_Wright]

"For the hallways, why did they choose Albania?" Stop it right now 🤣that sent me.

[@TheGoldeagle99]

The Nomad Library, Nomad Bar looks like a spot that I'd enjoy. Is there a dress code to get in there? The way you described that Nomad burger though.......😆😆....sounds delicious 😋😋😋.

[@grecianandy]

Still blows my mind that bavettes don't sell Bavette steak. Such a good/underrated cut