About Downtown Grand Hotel & Casino
Downtown Grand is a modern hotel-casino resort located at 206 N. 3rd Street in the heart of Downtown Las Vegas, adjacent to the Fremont Street Experience. It opened in October 2013 on the former site of the Lady Luck Casino (www.reviewjournal.com ) (historiclasvegasproject.com ). Today the property spans an entire block (known as “Downtown3rd”), featuring three connected towers (8-, 18- and 25-story) and a skybridge over 3rd Street (www.downtowngrand.com ). After a 2020 expansion, it offers over 1,100 guest rooms and suites (www.downtowngrand.com ). Its casino floor (about 25,000 sq ft) includes nearly 500 slot machines, table games, and a full-service sports book (recently rebranded under Caesars) (www.hotel-online.com ) (www.downtowngrand.com ). One of Downtown Grand’s signature features is the Citrus Grand Pool Deck – a 35,000+ sq ft rooftop pool and lounge area with an infinity pool, cabanas, fire pits and lawn seating (www.downtowngrand.com ). This urban resort blends contemporary architecture (sleek glass towers and a modern street-level entrance) with classic Las Vegas charm, making it a focal point in the ongoing revitalization of downtown Las Vegas. In fact, promotional materials note it as “a unique hospitality and entertainment destination right in the heart of revitalized downtown Las Vegas” (www.downtowngrand.com ). Its location blocks away from Fremont Street’s neon sign and museums helps define the local scene, offering downtown visitors a boutique-style Vegas experience (with amenities like award-winning Triple George Grill steakhouse and Pizza Rock pizzeria on-site) without the Strip crowds.
Events and Programming
Downtown Grand is best known for its lively, local-oriented entertainment rather than big-name headliners. The resort’s Fremont Room (a 2,500 sq ft showroom) hosts a steady schedule of comedy and variety shows. In fact, the Delirious Comedy Club operates there nearly every Thursday through Sunday, featuring Las Vegas and nationally known comedians (past acts have included Pauly Shore and local favorites) (www.downtowngrand.com ) (www.downtowngrand.com ). Tickets to comedy shows typically range from about $30 up to $60, with hotel guest discounts often available. Beyond comedy, smaller music acts and DJs perform in the on-site bars and lounges: for example, the Freedom Beat bar offers live music and open-mic nights, while the vintage-themed Mob Bar upstairs showcases jazz nights and dueling pianos on weekends. The resort also embraces seasonal pool and street events. In warm months the Citrus Grand Pool Deck (branded as PICNIC) hosts daytime pool parties and concerts; Downtown Grand even introduced a custom “Street Dice” outdoor craps game on 3rd Street as a nod to mob-era Vegas (www.vegas24seven.com ). Free block parties and live outdoor concerts occur on the privately owned 3rd Street plaza (Downtown3rd) – for instance, blues legend Jimmie Vaughan performed a free concert there in the past (www.vegas24seven.com ). Regular recurring events include Friday-night street festivals (with DJs and games), “Summer Comedy Club” nights every Thursday, and weekly dueling pianos or jazz sessions at the Mob Bar (www.vegas24seven.com ) (www.vegas24seven.com ). The venue also celebrates holidays and sports (e.g. Super Bowl tailgate parties, New Year’s Eve galas) with multi-day packages and themed entertainment. In short, the Downtown Grand’s programming emphasizes comedy acts, local music, pool parties and community events. Attendance runs the gamut from free admission (for some block parties and certain pool events) to moderately priced tickets (typically $10–$50 for concerts, $30–$65 for comedy), depending on the act and venue size.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for shows and events at Downtown Grand can be purchased through the hotel’s box office or official website (calling the box office or visiting at the Fremont Room is common for last-minute purchases). Major shows and holiday events often go on sale several weeks or months in advance, so it’s best to book early for popular dates. General admission events (like open-air concerts) may be free or walk-up, but seated shows (comedy nights, special concerts) sell out quickly on weekends. Prices vary by event type – comedy clubs typically charge per ticket ($30–$65), whereas many bar/lounge gigs and outdoor block parties may be free or include the cost in a drink package. Discounted room-and-show packages are sometimes offered (for example, a New Year’s Eve “penthouse package” has been advertised with show tickets included). When planning, check local listings and the Downtown Grand’s schedule about 1–2 months ahead; for faster-moving shows, join the mailing list or call ahead. In general, purchasing directly through Downtown Grand (rather than third-party sites) ensures you get the official price tiers and any presale deals.
Seating and Layout
Downtown Grand’s entertainment spaces are relatively intimate. The Fremont Room (sometimes called the Spare Room Showroom) seats about 160 guests in banquet-style rows (www.downtowngrand.com ). The best seats there are center-stage on the floor; front-center rows offer the clearest view and most direct sound, while side or rear seats remain fully engaged thanks to the room’s small scale and good acoustics. For general-admission events by the pool or on 3rd Street, attendees can stand or lounge on the grass lawn area facing a raised stage (open-air setups by sunset). In those outdoor concerts or pool parties, front-center positioning (near the cabanas or stage) provides the best experience, though the entire deck area has relatively even visibility of a stage. Several VIP options exist, such as private cabanas around the pool deck (www.downtowngrand.com ) or reserved tables up front in the Fremont Room. Other on-property bars (Art Bar, Furnace Bar, Mob Bar) have mix of high-top tables and stools; these are typically unreserved seating on a first-come basis, and vision isn’t usually obstructed in the compact bar lounges. Avoid seating in the far back corners or under overhangs that might partially obscure artwork or performers. Note that the Fremont Room has draped walls and a sound system suitable for comedy and acoustic sets, but it is not a large concert hall – acts rarely use full concert lighting/fog setups. Overall, Downtown Grand venues favor a close-up, social atmosphere rather than stadium-style separation.
Getting There and Parking
Downtown Grand is located in Las Vegas’ historic downtown core, just a one-block walk north of the Fremont Street Experience. The street address is 206 N. 3rd St., at the corner of 3rd and Stewart/Ogden. If driving, the resort has its own parking garage with a 24/7 attendant (www.downtowngrand.com ). Hotel guests enjoy complimentary self-parking; other visitors can self-park for a fee or valet park. (Parking is often validated for $25 in casino play or at on-site dining outlets (www.downtowngrand.com ).) Valet rates are typically around $20 for overnight guests, $25 for non-guests (www.downtowngrand.com ). Nearby public lots include Container Park (118 S. 7th St., ~$3/hr, max 5 hours) and Neonopolis garage (first hour free, then ~$8 up to 24 hours) if the on-site garage fills up. For public transit, the RTC Deuce and SDX bus lines run along Fremont Street one block south, with stops at Fremont & 3rd/4th (a short walk). Las Vegas’s free Downtown Loop shuttle and other routes also service nearby stops on Ogden Avenue (just south of the hotel). Rideshare (Uber/Lyft) drop-offs and pickups are typically along Ogden or on 3rd Street in front of the hotel. The area is very walkable, so many guests simply walk from other downtown casinos and attractions. Nearby, the Bonneville Transit Center and various RTC bus stops provide easy access back to the Strip or the Clark County government campus via Routes 109/119.
Inside the Venue
Upon entering Downtown Grand, expect a sleek, neighborhood-casual Vegas vibe. Security is standard (ID checks at casino entrance, occasional bag runs for big events). The décor is modern-retro: bars feature bold murals and neon art, and the casino is bright and cheery. The Fremont Room shows are accessed from a street-level entrance; machine-gun slots and sports jerseys might line the casino floors nearby. Restroom facilities are on the casino level and accessible by short hallway (signage is clear). There is no coat check for casual soft-seating shows (coats can be draped on seats or kept with you). Food and drink service is readily available: aside from the main restaurants, the “Lucky’s” hot dog stand (next to the main casino entry) serves quick bites around the clock. The onsite Commissary Latin Kitchen (by Richard Sandoval) provides cafeteria-style meals and coffee from morning till evening. Full-service bars (Freedom Beat Bar, Art Bar, Furnace Bar, Terrace Saloon, etc.) are sprinkled throughout – you can order cocktails and many have their own light snack menus. The rooftop pool deck has a swim-up bar and cabana service during pool hours. Guests can expect free Wi-Fi throughout the property (www.downtowngrand.com ), and phone signal is generally strong (both major carriers work well inside). In general, the atmosphere is laid-back (casual dress is fine for shows) and guests dress resort-casually during the day and tasty-casually at night. During shows, staff will light up seating sections, and house lights dim before performances or DJs start. The vibe is very much downtown Las Vegas – fun, a bit edgy, and people-friendly.
Nearby Amenities
Just steps away, Downtown Grand offers quick access to a variety of downtown dining and nightlife. On the same block (Downtown3rd) you’ll find Pizza Rock (award-winning pizza), Triple George Grill (steakhouse), and the famous Hogs & Heifers Saloon (no-cover biker bar). Also adjacent are Stewart + Ogden Bistro and Lobby Bar (classic steakhouse/bar combo). One block south on Stewart, the revitalized Fremont East District has bars and restaurants like Atomic Liquors, Commonwealth, and Tonopah Brewing. Fremont Street itself (one block south) offers buffets, sports bars, and casinos (Golden Gate, The D, Golden Nugget) all within a 5-minute walk. For pre-show meals, locals often recommend Capo’s Speakeasy (Italian comfort food) and Le Thai (for spicy comfort noodle soup) just a few blocks away. A grocery store is a short drive north if needed. If you’re staying overnight, the Downtown Grand connects you easily to other downtown hotels (El Cortez, Fremont Hotel, Golden Gate) within a couple of blocks. Late at night, Fremont Street’s crowd and neon feel is part of the attraction – it’s safe to explore on foot, and walking routes are plentiful. For late-night drinks after an event, the Steintimes building (three bars under one roof) is two blocks away on 2nd Street. Transportation runs until late: in addition to rideshare, taxis queue on heard, and the Deuce bus runs 24/7 (though less frequently at 3–4am).
What Makes This Venue Special
Downtown Grand stands out as a symbol of the modern downtown Las Vegas renaissance. It combined clean, contemporary architecture with the city’s gritty “Main Street” character – the glass towers and skybridge feel like a breath of fresh air amid the vintage casinos. The resort embraces Vegas’s mob-and-ragtime roots through its design and events (e.g. the 1920s-style Distrikt Cocktail Bar and the street dice game). It also filled a long-vacant lot (the old Lady Luck) with new energy: when it opened in 2013 after a major renovation, the hotel signaled that Downtown was once again growing (www.casino.org ). Its rooftop Citrus Grand Pool Deck is one of the largest unique urban pools in downtown Vegas, offering sunset views of the Fremont Street skyline. Famous neighbor attractions (Mob Museum, Neon Museum) and an on-site museum package highlight its connection to local history. Culturally, Downtown Grand hosts many community-friendly events (block parties, charity promo nights, gaming tournaments) that keep a neighborhood feel. For performers and visitors, the venue is a nod to Vegas’s past (the location’s casino history dates to 1964 (www.casino.org )) while still offering modern comfort and style. Many artists appreciate its intimate vibe and friendly crowds, and audiences love the relaxed downtown atmosphere – it’s “Vegas at a human scale,” mixing top-tier restaurants (Triple George, Pizza Rock) with casual bars and a casino. In short, Downtown Grand matters to Las Vegas as a showcase of local style and value entertainment, distinct from the mega-resorts on the Strip.
Visitor Tips and Information
Downtown Grand aims to be guest-friendly, but here are a few tips to streamline your visit. The resort is fully ADA-compliant: elevators connect all floors and there are wheelchair-accessible rooms (with roll-in showers) and seating areas. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the property (www.downtowngrand.com ). Guests under 21 may enter the casino floor only when accompanied by an adult, but be aware that many shows (especially on weekends or later nights) enforce a 21+ age limit (ID required). Dress code is casual – no formal attire is needed – but pool days demand swimwear or cover-ups on the deck. Bag checks are minimal for most events, but large backpacks/coolers are discouraged, and photography (especially photo/video recording) is usually prohibited during shows. Tip generously at tables and for drink service. Arrive early on busy nights: doors for shows may open 30–60 minutes before start time. One common mistake is underestimating downtown traffic during big events, so plan extra time for parking. If attending a pool party, remember it’s a ticketed event (day passes or cabanas) and have sunscreen ready for daytime. For casino promotions, bring your loyalty card or register for “Grand Rewards” to earn free-play and dining offers. Finally, feel free to ask staff about the resort’s history and local scene – many employees are known to share insider tips on where to eat, what’s happening downtown, or how to maximize casino rewards. Enjoy the vintage-modern charm of Downtown Grand, and you’ll see why locals say “you don’t have to go to the Strip to experience Vegas fun.”
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I purchase tickets for shows at Downtown Grand?
Tickets can be bought directly at Downtown Grand’s box office or on its official website. For comedy or special events, it’s best to reserve in advance through the hotel’s box office or by phone. Some events (like street parties or pool concerts) are free or walk-up. Major shows and holiday parties typically sell tickets weeks to months ahead, so plan early.
What is the seating capacity of the Fremont Room showroom?
The Fremont Room (sometimes called the Spare Room Showroom) is about 2,500 sq ft and seats up to 166 guests (www.downtowngrand.com ). It has banquet-style chairs and tables. For best views, choose center-front seats; side or corner seats are still close enough to the stage for good sound and sightlines.
Are shows general admission or reserved seating?
It varies by event. Indoor shows in the Fremont Room usually have reserved seating (tickets are for specific seats), while many bar/lounge acts and outdoor pool/park concerts are general admission. If seated, the ticket or box office will indicate assigned row and seat. For open-area events, arrive early to grab a good spot.
What price range can I expect for Downtown Grand events?
Most outdoor community events are free. Concerts and lounge shows can be $10–$30. Comedy shows typically run about $30–$65 per ticket (often with discounts for hotel guests). Pool parties or special package events might charge $20–$50. Always check the specific event’s details; sometimes room packages include show tickets.
Is parking available at Downtown Grand and how much does it cost?
Yes. The resort has its own parking garage. Hotel guests park free (www.downtowngrand.com ); non-guests self-park (a fee applies). The garage is validated (free) if you earn 25 points or spend $25 on property (www.downtowngrand.com ). Valet is $20 overnight for guests, $25 for others (www.downtowngrand.com ). Nearby alternatives include paid lots at Container Park (~$3/hr) and Neonopolis (first hour free, then $8 max).
How can I reach Downtown Grand by public transit?
Downtown Grand is easily reached by the RTC bus system. The Las Vegas Deuce and SDX runs along Fremont Street (stop at Fremont & 3rd/4th, ~2 blocks south). The free Downtown Loop shuttle also stops near the hotel. There are frequently other downtown bus routes on Ogden Avenue, one block south of the casino. From those stops, it’s a short walk north on 3rd Street to the hotel. Monorail does not serve Downtown Grand directly – a taxi or bus from the Convention Center/Monorail is an option if coming from the Strip.
Where is the rideshare or taxi pick-up/drop-off area?
Rideshares and taxis can drop off at the hotel’s main entrance on N. 3rd Street or along Ogden Avenue just outside the casino entrance. The valet porte-cochère is on 3rd Street (look for the Downtown Grand sign) if you prefer valet. For pickups, ask your driver to meet you on 3rd Street near Stewart or on Ogden Avenue next to the front door; those are the usual pickup zones for Grand guests.
Is Downtown Grand wheelchair accessible?
Yes. Downtown Grand is fully ADA-compliant. There are elevators to all floors and wheelchair-accessible hotel rooms (with roll-in showers, grab bars) and seating. Public restrooms have handicapped stalls. The Fremont Room and other show venues offer accessible seating (ask a staff member). Curb cuts and ramps connect the garage and entrances. If you have particular accessibility needs, the hotel’s front desk is very responsive in making arrangements.
Can I bring children to Downtown Grand events?
Children are welcome on the street-level and pool deck areas (including family-friendly events), but note that the casino floor and most bar lounges are 21+ areas. Evening shows in the Fremont Room typically enforce a 21-and-over policy (check event details in advance). If you bring minors, keep them on the street side or pool deck before 9pm, and away from gaming. The casino allows minors only when accompanied by an adult (off the gaming floor). Pool deck events and daytime concerts may be all-ages, but after dark the vibe and setting are mostly adult-oriented.
What is the dress code at Downtown Grand?
Mostly casual. For daytime gaming and events, guests wear casual or resort casual (jeans, shorts, T-shirts are fine). No formal dress is required. Pool deck events require swimwear or pool-party attire by the pool. Swimsuits shouldn’t be worn down on the casino floor or lounge areas; cover-ups and casual attire are needed if you leave the pool deck. For evening shows/bars, neat casual (nice jeans or slacks and a shirt) is encouraged. Flip-flops are allowed in the pool area; just note some restaurants or bars may ask for closed-toe shoes if very formal. There is no strict dress code, but avoid overtly disallowed attire (e.g. gang-related clothing, overly revealing costumes, or heavy boots at lounges). If uncertain, dress one notch nicer than streetwear.
What items am I not allowed to bring into Downtown Grand?
Prohibited items include weapons of any kind, illegal substances, outside alcohol or food (unless medical), and large coolers or rolling luggage. Bags are subject to search especially if attending a private event. Recording equipment is generally not allowed during shows (phones for pictures are okay, but no flash or video recording). Service animals are welcome. The usual casino rules apply: electronic cigarettes/vaping is often banned, and smoking (tobacco) is only allowed in designated smoking areas.
Are cameras or video recording allowed at events?
Personal snapshots with smartphones are generally okay, but professional cameras and video recording are disallowed unless specifically permitted by the artist/management. Flash photography is usually banned during performances. The camera policy will be noted on the ticket or at the door. If you want to capture memories, best to rely on cell phone photos—just be discreet and always follow venue instructions on photography.
