Technology is moving faster than ever. The place sports bettors see this most often in Las Vegas casinos is the sportsbook. Many Las Vegas casino operators are doing their best to keep up with the newest TV technology. That’s a good thing for sports fans and bettors because there’s not much better than a beautiful new sportsbook.
In 2017 we saw a slew of renovations, upgrades, and even new sportsbooks. With the year coming to an end it’s a good time to look back at some of the best new sportsbook experiences in Las Vegas. We can also use this time to start thinking about where you might want to watch the Super Bowl and March Madness.
Wynn Las Vegas
Wynn Las Vegas is a luxury casino resort and that can be seen in the overhaul of the sportsbook. They did more than just update the viewing screens. This was a top-down makeover that also expanded the size. The new sportsbook is even larger and has great screens, ample seating, reserved seats, and a view from the new bar and restaurant Charlie’s Bar and Grill.
For more information, read and watch: Newly-renovated Wynn Las Vegas sportsbook combines excitement, technology and - of course - luxury
Encore
Until this year, Encore didn’t have a sportsbook. Previously, sports bettors would have to walk next door to Wynn to place wagers or use the players club desk or a small window in the poker room. The new sportsbook isn’t the massive beauty that you’ll see next door at Wynn. The new book is smaller but appropriately sized for the property. There is seating for about 50 people and new large TV’s, phone chargers, and a standing room area.
Rampart
This casino is off the radar for most people that aren’t locals. However, the new sportsbook at the Rampart should be a place to consider watching and wagering on games if you’re in Summerlin. The screens are bright and crisp. The new sportsbook is very large and has plenty of seats including couches.
Lines are provided by the South Point, so you know you’re going to have some of the best betting options. Video poker players might enjoy sitting at the bar in the back. It’s one of the few sportsbook bars with full pay odds.
Hooters
The new sportsbook is different than a traditional sportsbook. The space combines a bar and a book. In addition to a sports betting desk, there are bar games like billiards and beer pong. There’s ample seating with couches and cocktail tables.
Cheap drinks make this a real option if you’re looking for an affordable casino near the action of the Vegas Strip (Hooters is next to Tropicana and across from MGM Grand). Unfortunately, Hooters recently dumped all playable blackjack for 6:5 payouts at best. You'll receive even money for blackjack in the $1 game.
The Cromwell
When Bill’s Gambling Hall was closed to make way for The Cromwell the sportsbook was removed. The casino has only been open a few years but received a small makeover this year. The Cromwell gambling odds were improved and gaming areas were shuffled around.
The new sportsbook works perfectly for this boutique hotel. This isn’t a jaw-dropping sportsbook experience, but it's a good fit for The Cromwell. This is one of the best casinos to gamble at on the Vegas Strip and it's nice to have a place to sit and watch the games if you need a break from the tables.
Suncoast
TBH, this wasn’t much of a renovation. The Suncoast just swapped out old TVs for new TVs. The pictures are better but the experience is the same. Not every sportsbook upgrade has to be massive. Maintenance like this is important for smaller sportsbooks. At least we can see a crisp picture when watching the games.
There have been plenty of sportsbook renovations in the past couple of years. Last year saw approximately 10 new or upgraded sportsbooks - this year we saw at least six. There will be more in 2018 as technology continues to get better and expectations grow for how we watch games in the casino. When the calendar hits 2018, there should be more news about sportsbook renovations taking place after the Super Bowl or March Madness.
A look back at Las Vegas sportsbook renovations in 2017
The new sportsbook at the Wynn is larger and has great screens, ample seating, reserved seats, and a view from the new bar and restaurant Charlie’s Bar and Grill.
