A certain number of special terms and tips apply to nightclubbing, particularly in Las Vegas. First, call ahead, or have the concierge desk call for you, to find out what the situation is for reservations, seating at tables, hours, shows or specific live entertainment acts. Each club tries to outdo the other to attract large crowds, and if successful at it, there may be a long wait in line somewhere.

Cover Charge

The "cover" is really a ticket for entry. It’s usually charged on the way in, rather than being added to the bill later. Some clubs even call them "General Admission," which is a more truthful term. Sometimes a person with a local ID will be able to enter for free, particularly if she’s female. Men often pay more than women. The charges usually go up on weekends and for special events.

Front-of-the-Line Pass

Even if there’s no cover, the cost of admission will be bound up in the "Front-of-the-Line" pass or "Front-Line" pass. By paying extra and obtaining such a pass, one’s name magically appears on a list at the admissions point, and one is ushered into the club without having to wait in line. This is a good thing, as the capacity of the club is limited, and the line only moves as spaces are given up by people leaving. In the summa-ries that follow, just the straight cover charge is given, unless there is no cover, meaning that it’s pretty much front-line pass to get in or not at all. The figure reported is for Saturday night, male. Remember that the cover is lower on other nights or for other genders, and can be higher if there’s a special party or event.

Reservations

Having a front-line pass to get in, or waiting in line and paying the cover, does not guarantee a place to sit. The bars and lounges have stools or bar tables on a first-come basis, but sit-down tables or booths are subject to prior reservation only (unless it’s really late). Tables and booths are frequently reserved for groups of 4 or more, so it may make sense to make up a group of 4 before going out. (Many clubs do not admit groups of men in packs of four (or six), so try to be a mixed group.) Bottle Service. The catch on reserving and occupying a booth or table (or chaise lounge, sofa, or even bed, depending on where you are) is that bottle service is almost always required. Put differently, there is no separate cocktail service at the tables. The waiters will bring a bottle of alcohol of some sort, glasses, mixers, and ice. The table must order at least one bottle, and the prices are often in the $300 range or higher. Frequently the club offers packages, including front-line passes, a table, bottle service of various levels, and some other inducement, like a discount for something else. Vodka is usually the cheapest bottle option, and Scotch or fancy brands of rum, gin or tequila can cause the price to go up a lot.

VIP Lounges and Perks

Just as there is an expensive way to get in and a less expensive way to get in, there is also a yet more expensive way to enjoy the club. The VIP areas are especially reserved for people with "know-who" or for celebrities and local magnates. But the concierge can arrange this for a well-heeled stranger, using just a little economic "know-how." These cabanas or booths or enclosures permit private enjoyment of the dance and party area without having to put up with the rest of the crowd. Often these areas have dedicated bars and waiters, and some even are sound proofed, so the occupants can even change the music feed if they feel like it. Most are arranged so that the lower classes can’t see in to identify who it is.

Hours

In the summaries that follow, a convention has been employed. The days of the week are indicated by first initials, with Su for Sunday and Th for Thursday. The hours should be presumed to be from an opening in the pm to a closing in the am unless otherwise indicated. A closing of "X" indicates that the place closes when the last customer leaves, presumably around dawn, but not necessarily.

Attire

Virtually every place worth visiting nixes torn clothing, bathing suits, cut-offs, flip-flops, tank tops, athletic clothes, baggy pants, baseball hats, and anything really dirty. Many places are OK with anything else, like shorts or a tee shirt. A few places don’t allow shorts, and want the shirt to have a collar. Yet others want fancy attire or fashionable, "night club" attire. A couple of places would like coats and ties, cocktail dresses or evening gowns. The attire code is thus: 1=anything goes. 2=anything goes other than flip flops, t-shirts, athletic wear, hooded shirts, cut-offs, baggy jeans or baseball caps. 3=casual (shorts and jeans OK if neat and clean) 4=fashionable; 5=fancy (coat and tie, cocktail or evening dress).

Pool Parties

A couple of the night clubs associated with hotels are tangent to pool areas, and plan events that take advantage of the pool. These are not listed in the summaries below, but do add an additional dimension to Las Vegas night life in the earlier part of the evening. Concierge desks are a good source of information on when these events are scheduled, what the entertainment will be, and the cost. Like night clubs in general, pool party events are best managed through the process of making a reservation well in advance. (Examples are Bare at Mirage; Palms Pool; Rehab at the Hard Rock Pool; Tao Beach at Venetian; Venus Pool Party at Caesars Palace; VooDoo Beach at Rio.)

Special Live Performance

Most nightclubs use DJ’s to program and present the music for the listening and dancing pleasure of the guests. On weekends and special occasions, live music will be booked in. A few venues present specific live acts with regularity. The night-clubber will want to ask in advance, either to be sure to be there for the live act, or perhaps to avoid the act to time an arrival when things will be less crowded. The days of a sit-down music or comedy act at a nightclub are past. Those shows exist in Las Vegas, of course, but in venues specially designed for them. These are showrooms, which have a stage and often have "cabaret-style" table arrangements. Modern day nightclubs are basically for drinking and dancing.

Choice of Music

The spectrum of musical taste has widened in the last 25 years or so – so much so that some people may not understand some of the terms used to describe the mu-sic. The summaries indicate the predominant taste of the DJ or management of the club, but with the obvious caveat that almost any sort of music is capable of slipping into the queue at any particular time.

The "Ultra Lounge" Phenomenon

In the 1930’s, after prohibition was repealed, a "lounge" was a bar with upholstery on the seats and a "night club" was a place one went in black tie for a swank dinner, drinks, after dinner entertainment, and dancing. They were pretty much vastly different things. In Las Vegas, lounges have become increasingly bigger and fancier, with wondrous sound systems, whilst night clubs have increasingly moved from evening clothes to dance fashion, and from live acts to DJ music. They are beginning to look a lot like each other. Gradually, in Las Vegas parlance, a "lounge," especially one in the newer, "mega-resorts," is an elegant and stylish place to spend some time drinking, conversing and perhaps listening to some recorded music. A "club" is the same thing, only much bigger, open until much later, and capable of live acts for part of the night. Some lounges have grown and have added a dance pole or a go-go stand or two, as well as live acts from time to time. These are sometimes now referred to as "ultra lounges," meaning bigger and more like a nightclub than a mere lounge, but not quite over the bar to be a full-grown nightclub. Sometimes a resort with a nightclub might want to create a second late-night option for its guests, and rather than have two nightclubs, it designates the newcomer as an "ultra lounge." The listing below includes a couple of this genre, if they have the tell-tale late night music and dance format.

The following is a nearly exhaustive list of 44 different Las Vegas night clubs (in alphabetical order), subject to the proviso, of course, that in Las Vegas something new is always on the way in and something old is always making an exit. A couple of the entries are so new that some information is not yet available, and so a "tba" has been inserted.

List of Las Vegas Nightclubs, Bars & Discos

Asia

3667 Las Vegas Boulevard South (Planet Hollywood at the Miracle Mile Shops), Las Vegas, Nevada 89109
702 794 2582
http://www.asianightclublv.com
$$$ (cover $20)
Hours: W, F & Sa 11-5
Size: 800
Formality: 4
Music: DJ -- top 40/rock/house
This club is a restaurant that becomes a luxurious and sensual nightclub three days a week. Asia has several different lounges, a dance floor, skyboxes and VIP booths. Decor includes candles and silk pillows with elaborate woodwork. There is a stage by the dance floor for live shows. Age range: 30's and up. Valet parking is available.

The Bank

3600 Las Vegas Boulevard South (Bellagio), Las Vegas, Nevada 89109
702 693 8300
http://www.lightgroup.com/nightlife/the-bank-nightclub-las-vegas
$$$$$
Hours: Th-Su 10:30-4.
Size: 800 (8,000 square feet)
Formality: 4-5
Music: Varies according to clientele and DJ's
The Light Group closed its Las Vegas version of its New York venue,

Light

, which was housed at the Bellagio. In its place they have established "The Bank Nightclub," which is promoted as Las Vegas' premiere, status, nocturnal venue. Everything about The Bank suggests money: the crystal stacked foyer leads to a black and gold-themed club room designed for top-shelf entertaining with two full service bars and the latest in lighting, sound and video electronics. Layered VIP booths surround the dance floor, which is glass-enclosed and raised slightly above the lowest tier of booths. European bottle service is, of course, the rule at the tables.

Blush

3131 Las Vegas Boulevard South (The Wynn), Las Vegas, Nevada 89109
702 770 3633
www.wynnlasvegas.com/entertainment/
$$$$$ (cover $30)
Size: Small
Hours: T, Th-Sa 10-4
Formality: 5
Music: DJ -rock/hip-hop/house)
Blush is a "boutique" nightclub, with the fanciest of dance floors and appointments. Even without paying for a table and the bottle service that comes with it, patrons feel very upscale and important when they enter this exclusive venue. Prices are upscale, too, of course. The music is not so loud as to rule out conversation. There is a patio, and a chance for fresh air. The place is not frenetic, but lively. Age is 30's and up.

Body English

4455 Paradise Road (Hard Rock Hotel & Casino), Las Vegas, Nevada 89109
702 693-4000
http://www.bodyenglish.com/
$$$$ (cover $30 men, $20 women)
Hours: F-Su 10:30-4
Formality; 3-4
Music: DJ -rock/hip-hop/house
Body English is an elegant venue, with many very good deals. Local women never pay a cover. On Sundays, local men don't either. Women arriving before midnight on Fridays drink champagne all night for free. The crowd is young, stylish and often very local. While it is surely hip, it's not snooty like so many other clubs on the Strip. It's more down to earth. Still, the bottle service and VIP rooms are pricy, as in the other places. The vibe is sexy, with a bit of big-city tough thrown in - leather furniture, fancy lighting, the works.

Cherry

11011 W. Charleston Boulevard (Red Rock Casino, Resort & Spa), Las Vegas, Nevada 89135
702 797 7777
http://www.redrocklasvegas.com/entertainment/cherry_nightclub.php
$$$
Size: 200
Hours: F-Sa, 10-X
Formality: 3
Music: DJ variable.
Cherry is a red-themed club where lots of young singles like to go. The crowd tends to 20's and 30's. Cherry cultivates its "hot and trendy" reputation with the area's best-known DJ's and lots of touches of elegance and luxury like the outdoor pool area. On Sundays the club is closed, but there is still a pool party to go to. European-style sun bathing is encouraged.

Christian Audigier The Nightclub

3377 Las Vegas Boulevard South, Las Vegas, Nevada 89109
(702) 894-7450
http://www.treasureisland.com/pages/ent_christianaudigier.asp
Hours: Thursday through Sunday, 10-4
Size: 500
$$$ (Cover $30 men, $20 women, hotel guests free)
Formality: 3 (enforced)
Music: Eclectic mix from Rock 'n' Roll to progressive house.
In the space formerly occupied by Tangerine, Christian Audigier The Nightclub is TI's entry in Las Vegas' modern trend away from theme locales and into the hip, modern, sophisticated world of glitzy nightlife. The well-known designer has teamed up with the Pure Management Group to render a nightspot focused on modern, elegant fashion, with a musical emphasis on mainstream rock, VIP tables surround the center dance floor. Outside, an elegant terrace deck awaits for a break from the fast-moving life inside. The lines can get very long, so it is best to plan an early arrival if you can.

Club Tequila

2400 N. Rancho Drive (Fiesta Rancho in North Las Vegas), Las Vegas, NV 89130
702 638 3771
http://www.clubtequilalv.com/
$$ (cover $10)
Size: 875
Hours: Th-Su, 8-X
Formality 3
Music: DJ -Latino, reggae, hip-hop, R&B; live R&B on Th & S, live Reggae on F, live Latino band on Su.
Club Tequila is a vibrant nightspot in North Las Vegas, with a southwestern décor and Tex-Mex vibe. The music is not country, though. It's a mix of Latino, caribe and traditional R&B, with live music on weekends. The club has a full kitchen for those who come with their appetites. Doors open at 8 pm. Check the web site for special events and promotional rates.

Coyote Ugly

3790 S. Las Vegas Boulevard (New York New York), Las Vegas, NV 89109
702 492 3960
http://www.coyoteuglysaloon.com/vegas/
$$$ (cover $10, front of line, $20)
Size: 200
Hours: M-Su 9-4. Bar opens at 6.
Formality: 3 (and no caps)
Music: Juke Box - classic and contempo rock e.g., Metallica, Aerosmith, AC/DC
Coyote Ugly cultivates a frat party atmosphere and caters to a young crowd. It is an attempt to replicate the well-known original Coyote Ugly in New York. The décor is "old saloon" in the South or Southwest. Female bartenders dance on the bar. The club serves only shots and beer. There is a daiquiri bar outside. The great benefits of Coyote Ugly are first, there is no typical Las Vegas pretentiousness -nothing is elegant, luxurious or fancy, and second, the emphasis is on relaxation and fun. This is a great place to come to unwind, for so long as you are OK with shots and beer!

Drai's After Hours

3595 Las Vegas Boulevard South (Bill's Gamblin' Hall and Saloon), Las Vegas, Nevada 89109
702 737 7801
http://www.drais.net/
$$$$ (cover $30)
Size: 500
Hours: W-Su, 12-X
Formality: 3
Music: DJ -deep house/trance
Drai's is known for its great dance floor and active party vibe starting around midnight and continuing until well after sunrise. Drai's is below ground in Bill's Gamblin' Hall and Saloon. The lounge area is comfortable, with leather furniture with library books and modern art for décor.

House of Blues Foundation Room

3950 Las Vegas Boulevard South (Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino), Las Vegas, Nevada 89119
702 492 3960
http://www.hob.com/venues/clubvenues/lasvegas/foundationroom.asp
$$$$ (cover & front-of-line pass $30)
Size: 800
Hours: M only 11-5
Formality: 4
Music: house/hip-hop, fusion, retro dance
The Foundation Room is the venue for the House of Blues, a private club with locations in several cities. In Las Vegas, it opens to the public on Mondays. The event is called "Godspeed," a multi-room and genre music party at the top of the Mandalay Bay Resort, 43 floors up above the Strip. The crowd tends to be 30's and up. The decor is, not surprisingly, elegant, with dark woods and fabrics, accented with

objets d'art

from the Himalayas. Leather sofas surround a large fire place. In each of several rooms a DJ will be playing a different form of music so that guests can have their choice. The views from the club are said to be among the finest Las Vegas can offer.

ghostbar

4321 West Flamingo Road (Palms Casino Hotel), Las Vegas, Nevada 89103
702 942 6832
http://www.n9negroup.com/#/ghostbar/main/
$$$$ (Cover $30, includes "front-line")
Hours: Daily 8-X
Size: 325
Formality: 3-4
Music: DJ - oldies, rock, hip-hop, mash-up, '80s, progressive house
"ghostbar" is, properly speaking, an "ultra-lounge." It is operated by the N9ne Group, which also runs Moon, Rain and Playboy Club. One $75 pass can be acquired for all four venues. The setting is the top floor of the Palms Casino Hotel -the 55th. Ghostbar has 6,000 square feet of luxurious space, including an outdoor, glass-floored patio with exceptional views of the city and the night sky. The crowd is mainly 20's and 30's, very upscale. Bottle service is a good idea. Ghostbar is recommended for those interested in conversation and company, as the temptation is to sit and enjoy the view rather than get up to dance. Groups of more than 4 men not allowed.

iBar

3700 West Flamingo Road (Rio All-Suite Las Vegas), Las Vegas, Nevada 89103
702 777 6869
http://www.riolasvegas.com/casinos/rio/casino-entertainment/i-bar-rio-detail-detail.shtml
$$$
Hours: Daily 10-2 (3 on weekends); bar opens at 4:00 pm
Size: 250
Formality: 2
Music: Music: Swing, R&B, Soul, Techno (no DJ's)
iBar stands for "Ipanema" -the classic beach on Rio's ocean front. This ultra-lounge has incorporated "Microsoft Surface" in its tables, a touch-screen table that lets you order drinks, watch videos and flirt with people at other tables. Try the signature cocktails -all of them -and catch the beautiful girls from Ipanema who are the servers and bartenders. iBar is close to the casino at the Rio, but also attracts the dance crowd as well. There is no cover, but a number of "front-of-line" promotions are offered. They include the Voo-Doo Lounge (also at the Rio) and add other service options.

Ivan Kane's Forty Deuce

3930 Las Vegas Boulevard South (Mandalay Bay Hotel Casino), Las Vegas, Nevada 89119
702 492 3960
http://www.fortydeuce.com/
$$$$ (cover/front-of-line: $20)
Hours: W-Su, 10:00-dawn. After hours begins at 3 am
Size: 275 (4350 square feet)
Formality: 4
Music: Live or DJ: Dance Music, all kinds
This nightclub is supposed to have a "speakeasy" flavor, and succeeds. The dancing girls are reminiscent of the old days of Las Vegas -- burlesque and strip tease, which is very sexy and seductive, but with no nudity. The Champagne Suzy Boutique sells sexy clothing and accessories. In between shows, a DJ fires up the sound system, and dancing goes on 'til daylight or even later. Various "packages" of service are available, including discounts at the boutique. This very hip nightspot is a favorite for couples and singles of both genders.

JET

3400 Las Vegas Boulevard South (the Mirage), Las Vegas, Nevada 89109
702 492 3960
http://www.mirage.com/nightlife/jet.aspx
$$$$ (cover $30)
Hours: F, Sa, M 10:30-4
Size: 1500 (15,000 square feet)
Formality: 4
Music: DJ-- rock/hip-hop/dance; house and eclectic mix in other rooms
Jet is a full-size night club operated by the "Light Group" in the Mirage. Contemporary in design with very high tech lighting and laser shows, the club provides different rooms for patrons, according to their musical tastes. Three separate rooms in this multi-level club provide separate music, bars and dance floors. The main space offers rock, hip-hop and popular dance. House and "eclectic mix" (80s to rock) are in the other rooms. A total of four bars provide the cocktails. European bottle service is also available throughout.

Krave

3663 Las Vegas Boulevard South (Planet Hollywood at Miracle Mile), Las Vegas, Nevada 89109
702 836 0830
http://www.kravelasvegas.com/main.html
$$$ (cover $20; locals free)
Hours: Tu-Su, 11-6
Size: 1500
Formality: 2
Music: varies according to the theme for the night and the DJ
Known as a gay and lesbian alternative club, Krave is also straight-friendly. Is at once a club, a lounge and theater (Harmon Theater). Krave puts on different themes on different nights and is the late-night venue of choice for gay locals and visitors alike. Saturday nights are the most active with "Everything You Desire" -a weekly show of talented DJ's and other performers (together with "Candy Bar -- for Girls who like Girls"). The place is filled with sensuality, dancing, karaoke, live performances, and lots of conversation over drinks.

Late Night at the House of Blues

3950 Las Vegas Boulevard South (Mandalay Bay Hotel Casino), Las Vegas, Nevada 89119
702 492 3960
http://www.mandalaybay.com/dining/houseofbluesnightlife.aspx
$$$ (cover $0-15)
Hours: Daily 10-X
Size: 1000
Formality: 2
Music: Highly Variable, depending on the evening.
The House of Blues Music Hall is next to the House of Blues Restaurant in Mandalay Bay. Late nights, after any other scheduled events, the place turns into a night club featuring all different kinds of music. blues, Latino, acoustic, rock, rap, jazz, reggae, and so on. Mondays and Wednesdays host live blues; "Alternative Tuesdays" provide a mix; Acoustic Strip is on for Thursdays, and "Purple Reign" Prince Tribute is scheduled for Sundays. Fridays and Saturdays is the most active, of course, with lots of oldies on Friday and solid blues on Saturdays.

LAX

3900 Las Vegas Boulevard South (Luxor Las Vegas), Las Vegas, Nevada 89119
702 492 3960
http://www.laxthenightclub.com/
$$$$ (Male front-of-line: $60)
Hours: W-Sa, 10-4.
Size: 1100 (26,000 square feet)
Formality: 4
Music: Varies by night. Check the website.
LAX is one of the more recent, modern, high-tech nightspots, operated by Pure Management (who also built and operate

Pure

at Caesars Palace). LAX has a sister club in Los Angeles, which explains its name, better than just imagining it is some play on "Luxor." The local entertainment scene considers LAX to be one of the strip's hottest nightclubs, and

Strip

Magazine evidently thinks so, too, conferring several awards on it. The entrance to the club, like its website, is gothic. The Noir Bar is the first feature you encounter, and then into the main club floors, two of them. The color scheme is red and black with dim lights and gothic accents. The upper floor looks down into the action below, so the club keeps a sensation of unity, even with the two levels.

Lucky Strike Lanes

3700 W. Flamingo Road (Rio All-Suites Hotel), Las Vegas, Nevada 89103
702 777 7800
http://www.bowlluckystrike.com/
$$
Hours: Daily 9-3
Size: 299
Formality: 3-4 (after 9)
Music: Music: DJ on weekends; Juke box. Rock 'n' roll classics & top 40.
It is not exactly a nightclub, but after nine at night, the Lucky Strike Lanes in the Rio convert into an ultra-lounge atmosphere with ten lanes of bowling as well as cocktails, music and food. The entertainment portion is operated by Pure Management. Oversized couches and the great sound system help create the nightspot feeling, even as you try o knock over pins. Bar food and pizza and sandwiches are also available. This is a Vegas nightlife experience unlike any other.

Mix Lounge

3950 Las Vegas Boulevard South (Mandalay Bay Casino Hotel), Las Vegas, Nevada 89119
702 632 7777
http://www.mandalaybay.com/dining/mixlounge.aspx
$$$$ (cover $25; Nevada Ladies free)
Hours: Daily 5-X, cover after 10
Size: 400
Formality: 3
Music: top 40, hip hop and house from the 90's and today.
At the top of THEhotel, sixty-four floors up, the in-crowd finds Mix, the lounge. An indoor-outdoor venue, you can settle down at a patio table and enjoy European bottle service and the most commanding view of Sin City that can be had anywhere. A menu of light food is served until 11. Music starts at 10. The setting, the contemporary décor, Alain Ducasse's creative menu, the sophisticated cocktails and the talent of celebrity DJ's all add together to make Mix a favorite choice for tourists and locals alike.

Moon

4321 West Flamingo Road (Palms Casino Hotel), Las Vegas, Nevada 89103
702 942 6832
http://www.n9negroup.com/#/moon/main/
$$$$ (cover/front-of-line $40)
Hours: T,Th-Su 10:30-X
Size: 499
Formality: 4
Music: Music: Mash-ups, rock, hip-hop
Moon is a very contempo "ultra-lounge" -- cool and urbane, based on an outer space theme. Located at the top of the Palms Casino on the 53rd floor of "Fantasy Tower," the views from the club are magnificent. The interior space is as elegant as the outside is impressive. Moon boasts the very latest technology in sound and lighting, and the dance floor is always very active. Moon was built by N9NE, who also operates Rain, ghostbar and the Playboy Club. One $75 pass gives admission to all four clubs.

ND's

3700 West Flamingo Road (the Rio), Las Vegas, Nevada 89103
702 339-4939
http://www.riovegasnights.com
Hours: Wednesday-Saturday, 10-X
Size: 1,000
$$$$ (Cover $40 -- includes front line)
Formality: 4
Music: A mix of rock, Hip-hop & house.
NS's was inaugurated in the space formerly occupied by Prince and Club Rio. The most notable feature is the dance floor, round, set in a round environment with tiers of red alligator leather booths and tables encircling it. The dance floor can sink to a floor below, to be set for show, and then rise to as high as ten feet above floor level for the entertainment. Table service is special. The reservation system works well, and each table has as many as three dedicated staff persons.

Poetry

3500 Las Vegas Boulevard South (Forum Shops at Caesars Palace), Las Vegas, Nevada 89109
702 369 4998
http://www.poetrynightclub.com/index2.html
$$$$ ($30 cover (male, Saturday), $50 front-of-line)
Hours: Th-Sa 10-4
Size: 700 (8,000 square feet)
Formality: 4
Music: Two music venues: mainly hip-hop, R&B, reggae.
This relatively new club has supplanted OPM, which formerly occupied this space above the Chinois Restaurant and overlooking the Forum Shops at Caesars Palace. Quotes from a whole range of English-language poets cover the place, from walls to napkins. The "Poe" in "Poetry" can be found in the gothic touches in the décor, reminiscent of Edgar Allen's moods. Video screens are all over. Lots is happening all at once, all of the time -- dancing, conversation in the "Hall of Trees," and partying in the VIP areas. The club is operated by the same management as OPM was, but the Asian theme is gone. Free champagne for ladies on Thursday nights until midnight. Two private balconies are available, overlooking the shops -the "Rockstar Room" (occupancy 40) and the "Red Room" (occupancy 100).

Playboy Club Las Vegas

4321 West Flamingo Road (Palms Casino Hotel), Las Vegas, Nevada 89103
702 942 6832
http://www.n9negroup.com/#/playboy/main/
$$$$ (cover/front-of-line $40)
Hours: Daily, 8-X
Size: 499
Formality: 4
Music: Varies with evening and DJ
The N9NE Group, which also manages Rain, ghostbar and Moon, have created the return of an old institution, but no membership is required. The traditional features -- bunnies, drinks and swank surroundings -are complemented by some innovations. One is the indoor-outdoor feel of the club, 52 stories above the street, looking out towards the Strip. Another is the gambling pit where blackjack and other casino tables are in full swing. The installations are also renowned for their incredible crystal chandeliers. Large video screens display archival images from

Playboy.

Polly Esther's

2000 Las Vegas Boulevard South (Stratosphere Las Vegas), Las Vegas, Nevada 89104
702 889 1980
http://www.pollyestherslv.com/
$$$ (cover varies)
Hours: W-Su, 10-X.
Size: 1300 (26,000 square feet)
Formality: 2
Music: Varies by club room: 70's, 80's, 90's or now.
Polly Esther's is a great place to start for the club novice, as there is nothing pretentious or snooty about it. In reality, it is four different clubs, each celebrating its own decade of music. Patrons are encouraged to dress for their favorite decade. The four sub-venues are named "Nerva-Ana," "Suite 2000," "Culture Club," and "Polly Ether's." Usually the lines are short, and the covers are low. A stage is provided for the occasional live act. The décor of the rooms has been carefully assembled from memorabilia including a DeLorean and OJ's white bronco.

Privdé Nightclub

3667 Las Vegas Boulevard South (Planet Hollywood), Las Vegas, Nevada 89109
702 523-6002
Hours: Friday through Monday 10-X.
Size: 1,000
$$$ ($30 cover for men, $20 for women)
Formality: 3
Music: hip-hop, house, mash-ups, top 40.
Privdé is operated by the Opium Group -- well-known in South Florida. The club, which is one level up from the casino floor, seeks to attract an eclectic crowd. Club seating is open, that is, bottle service not required to be able to sit down. Bartenders are all good-looking women. The patrons enjoy themselves, dancing on the dance floor, the chairs -- even the tables. No special areas are reserved for VIP's. Management considers every customer to be a VIP. Several ample bars are placed strategically about the nightspot. In "the Living Room" guests can choose from 16 bottle service areas comfortably furnished with sofas and coffee tables. As an unusual addition to the Las Vegas club scene, Privdée has become very popular, so be sure to come early or be prepared for a line to get in.

Pure

3570 Las Vegas Boulevard South (Caesars Palace, next to Sports Book), Las Vegas, Nevada 89109
702 731-7873
http://www.purethenightclub.com/
$$$$ (cover $20, front-of-line $60)
Hours: T, F-Su, 10-4.
Size: 2000+
Formality: 4
Music: Three rooms. DJ choice: mainly hip-hop, house, rock
Pure is known as the nightspot most popular with entertainment celebrities and sports figures. The main area has three bars and a dance floor. Bed seating circles around the outside. Pure not only has a VIP area, but also the "Red Room," a special hideaway. There is a terrace with cabanas and yet another dance floor. Dancing goes on everywhere in this "mega-club" -even on the furniture.

Pussycat Dolls Lounge

3570 Las Vegas Boulevard South (Caesars Palace, next to Pure), Las Vegas, Nevada 89109
702 731-7873
http://www.pcdlounge.com/
$$$ (cover varies)
Hours: T-Sa, 8-4. (Shows from 10:30 on, every half hour)
Size: 350
Formality: 3
Music: Rock/80's
This venue is really a modern and considerably more sultry version of the 1930's style burlesque clubs. Shows are presented by Hollywood's Pussycat Dolls, known for naughty song and dance routines. Operated by Pure Management Group.

RainLas Vegas

4321 West Flamingo Road (Palms Casino Hotel), Las Vegas, Nevada 89103
702 942 6632
http://www.n9negroup.com/#/rain/main/
$$$$ (cover may vary, front-of-line $30)
Hours: F-Sa, 11-5
Size: 1800 (25,000 square feet)
Formality: 4
Music: dance, oldies, hip-hop, rock, house, deep house, techno
The décor of Rain makes it stand out from other nightclubs, as it is ultra-modern with lots of special effects like fog and colored lighting along mirrored mosaic hallways. This large, multi-level venue starts on the main casino floor of the Palms Casino Hotel. There is a stage, and a private bar-VIP room for exclusive parties. The decorations and furnishings are in terrazzo, glass, metal and bamboo in brilliant, contrasting colors. The sound system surrounds and encompasses the patrons. One $75 pass will admit you to Rain, ghostbar, Moon, and
Playboy Club.

Revolution (The Beatles Revolution Lounge)

3400 Las Vegas Boulevard South (Mirage), Las Vegas, Nevada
702 692 8383
http://www.thebeatlesrevolutionlounge.com/
$$$ (cover may vary, but they keep it low)
Hours: Daily except Tuesday, 10-4. Abbey Road Bar opens at noon.
Size: 400
Formality: 3-4
Music: progressive, British pop, 80's, others, depending on the night
"Revolution" is not a large club, but it creates a feeling of spaciousness. Patrons are not walking on top of each other. The table tops use the innovative touch screen technology that lets you draw with your fingers, to have the result projected on screens. At Revolution, each night of the week has a slightly different vibe, music-wise, including live acts, mash-ups, indie tracks, and, naturally, British invasion.

Risqudé de Paris

3655 Las Vegas Boulevard South (Paris Las Vegas), Las Vegas, Nevada 89109.
702 946 4589
http://www.parislasvegas.com/casinos/paris-las-vegas/casino-misc/risque-de-paris-detail.html
$$$$ (cover/front-of-line $30)
Hours: F-Sa, 10:30-X
Size: 800
Formality: 3
Music: hip-hop/top 40; Fridays also Latin, Saturdays also mash-ups, rock, 80's & 90's
Risqudécor is an "ultra lounge" right above the Ah-Sin Restaurant in Paris Las Vegas. It is a welcoming and friendly dance venue, with an active dance floor and talented DJ's. Risqudé also has great views of Bellagio's fountains next door as well as Paris Las Vegas' own entry fountains. Five private balconies provide VIP service. Tables are reserved for bottle service. Sofas and couches line the room. Come to "La Revolucion" -Friday night's hot Latin party.

Rockhouse Bar and Nightclub

3535 Las Vegas Boulevard South (Imperial Palace), Las Vegas, Nevada 89109.
702 731-9683
http://www.imperialpalace.com/casinos/imperial-palace/casino-misc/rockhouse-bar-detail.html
Hours: Daily, 10-4
Size: 300
$$ ($10 cover from 10-12, $20 after)
Formality: 3
Music: Rock/top 40
Rockhouse has a mechanical bull, go-go dancers in a bird cage, sexy waitresses, and a daiquiri bar. It's a classic Vegas venue. Economical by comparison to others, be prepared to have a few shots, do some flirting and dance into the wee-smalls.

rumjungle

3950 Las Vegas Boulevard South (Mandalay Bay), Las Vegas, Nevada 89119
702 632-7408
www.mandalayplace.com/dining/rumjunglelounge.aspx
Hours: 11-2 (until 3 on Thursday and until 4 on Friday and Saturday)
Size: 800
$$$ (Cover $20, free to restaurant patrons)
Formality: 3+ (Upscale club wear. If jeans are worn, jacket is required)
Music: R&B, mash-ups, house, funk, top 40, hip-hop, techno, international rhythm, Latino
rumjungle is a hip, upscale club with a tropical jungle theme at Mandalay Bay, accented by a fiery wall of water at the entrance. The restaurant serves until 10. Afterwards, there's a club menu. Over 150 different kinds of rum are served. Wednesdays are 80's night, Thursdays Reggae, and Fridays remixed videos with rock, hip-hop, R&B and mash-ups. Go early, as the line gets very long later on.

Seamless

4740 Arville Street, Las Vegas, Nevada 89103
702 227-5200
http://www.seamlessclub.com.
Hours: Daily, 24 hours.
Size: 10,000 sq.ft.
$$$ ($20 cover, lower at off-hours)
Formality: 2
Music: Top 40, house, rock & trance.
Seamless is a "Gentlemen's Club" (11am-4) and an "Afterhours Club" (4am-11am). The layout is that of an "ultra-lounge" with three full bars. Seamless is a fusion of an adult bar in daylight hours and the classy club late night. In "Gentlemen's" mode, you will find topless dancers, strip shows, offers of lap dances, etc. "Afterhours" mode is less steamy, more for dancing. This club has lots of the latest technology in lights, sound systems and flat screens for videos. To find it, go about 6 blocks west of I-15, just off West Tropicana.

Stoney's Rockin' Country

9151 Las Vegas Boulevard South, Las Vegas, Nevada 89109
702 435-2855
www.stoneysrockincountry.com
Hours: daily 7-5
Size: 2000
$$
Formality: 2 (Country attire encouraged)
Music: Country and Western and a little bit Rock 'n' Roll
The dance floor of Stoney's Rockin' Country is enormous, and there are always lots of couples out there doing their two-steps and swings, their waltzes and triple steps, mixed in with some rock 'n' roll and periodic line dances. Mechanical bull rides are available. This is Vegas' premier country bar and dance hall. To get there, go way south on the Strip. It is a few hundred yards north of the South Point Hotel.

Studio 54 Las Vegas

3799 Las Vegas Boulevard South (MGE Grand), Las Vegas, Nevada 89109
702 891-1111
www.mgmgrand.com/nightlife/studio-54.aspx
Hours: Daily except Monday, 10-X
Size: 2022
$$$$ ($40 front line, $30 Wed. & Thurs.)
Formality: 3
Music: disco, techno, hip-hop, top 40, house).
This elegant nightspot is based on New York's storied club of the same name. Studio 54 offers a very large dance floor, with several go-go dancers (male and female) scattered throughout. Confetti and trapeze artists add to the party atmosphere. Several bars on both floors. Expect to spot an entertainer or sports celebrity, as this is a favorite place for the rich and renowned, though the crowd is very diverse. Arrive early. Lines can be long.

Tabu

3799 Las Vegas Boulevard South (MGM Grand), Las Vegas, Nevada 89109
702 XXX-XXXX
http://www.mgmgrand.com/nightlife/tabu-ultra-lounge.aspx
Hours: Daily except Tuesday: 10-X
Size:348
$$$$ (Front line on weekends: $50)
Formality: 3+
Music: The whole legacy of traditional lounge songs, mainstream pop.
Tabu was the first famous "ultra lounge." It offers two separate bars and a several private areas for VIP treatment, champagne and chat. Not big by nightclub standards, Tabu creates a feeling of intimacy. The bartenders are statuesque young women. The ambiance is urbane and sofistiqué. High-tech and elegant, luxury appointments. One of the city's best sound systems.

Tao

3377 Las Vegas Boulevard South (Venetian), Las Vegas, Nevada 89109.
(702) 385-8588
Hours: Daily except Monday, 10:30-5:30
Size: 2500
$$$$+ (Cover $30. Front line pass $100 for couples on weekends)
Formality: 5 (enforced)
Music: House, hip-hop, R&B.
Modeled after New York's Tao, a combination of Back East in the U.S. and Out East in the Orient. Restaurant, ultra lounge and nightclub. A favorite and successful late-night spot of locals and visitors alike. Tao offers some beautiful displays and arrangements, particularly with Buddhas and candles. The large restaurant and lounge below is just the beginning. Go up the stairs to the club itself. You find Tao at the Grand Canal Shoppes. The poolside version of the nightspot is called "Tao Beach."

Tryst

3131 Las Vegas Boulevard South (Wynn Las Vegas), Las Vegas, Nevada 89109 702 770-3375
http://www.trystlasvegas.com
Hours: Daily except Monday: 10-4
Size: 1300
$$$$ (Cover $30 for men $20 for women)
Formality: 4+
Music: Varies by night. Includes top 40, 80's rock, hip-hop, mash-ups, house.
Since June of 2006, Tryst has been setting standards for Las Vegas nightlife. The ten-story waterfall creates Tryst's first and perhaps most memorable impression. But there is much, much more to the location. Go out on the large terrace that overlooks the lake at the Wynn. Admire the marble appointments, the red velvet and the huge and beautiful dance floor. Visit the champagne room. Naturally, VIP and bottle service of several different kinds are offered. Tryst is really a very appropriate refuge from the outside world into an ambiance of luxury, relaxation and good fun.

VooDoo Lounge

3700 West Flamingo Road (the Rio), Las Vegas, Nevada 89103
702 777-6875
http://www.riovegasnights.com
Hours: Daily, 9:30-X (restaurant opens at 7, club opens at 10 on weekends)
Size: 750
$$$$ (Cover $40 -- includes front line)
Formality: 4
Music: DJ -- top 40, hip-hop, general dance rhythms.
The VooDoo Lounge is the 51st floor of the Rio, and is surrounded by sensational views of the city. The VooDoo Restaurant is on the floor below. Outdoors on the terrace, enjoy the marvelous Las Vegas nights and views of the famous skyline. Inside, the music sets the beat for a pulsating nightlife that goes to the early morning hours. Go-go dancers tirelessly inspire the rest of you to get on your feet and dance. The VooDoo Lounge also books live acts from time to time.

Wasted Space

4455 Paradise Road (Hard Rock), Las Vegas, Nevada 89169
702 693-4040
http://www.hartswastedspace.com
Hours: Daily except Monday, 8-4
Size: 400
$$$ (max cover $25)
Formality: 3 (rock-outlandish-but-stylish is OK)
Music: Rock and rock mash-ups with DJ's. Frequent live acts.
Wasted space has space for 17 tables and a lounge that functions around the clock. The theme, of course, is rock 'n' roll, the loud, rougher side. Specialty drinks including the now well-known "heart attack" (Jaeger, Jameson's, cranberry and Red Bull). See the large wall of historical artifacts from the real world of rock 'n' roll -- a Hard Rock trademark. The environment is dim and dark, which attracts its share of celebrities.