MGM Vegas All-Inclusive Package: Real Value?

What’s the deal? For many years, Las Vegas operated without the necessity of traditional all-inclusive packages because it relied on a highly effective casino cross-subsidy system. In this model, inexpensive buffets, heavily discounted room rates, and complimentary beverages on the casino floor were

What’s the deal?

For many years, Las Vegas operated without the necessity of traditional all-inclusive packages because it relied on a highly effective casino cross-subsidy system. In this model, inexpensive buffets, heavily discounted room rates, and complimentary beverages on the casino floor were subsidized directly by gambling losses, allowing even those who did not gamble to enjoy remarkably low prices on various amenities and services.

However, this longstanding approach has gradually diminished over time. Nowadays, complimentary rooms and free perks are far more selectively distributed, primarily benefiting loyal players who frequent the casinos. Expenses that were once negligible have steadily increased across the board. Resort fees, for instance, frequently exceed $50 per night at many properties. Parking, which used to be complimentary for all guests, has transitioned to a paid service at most locations. Additionally, a significant number of buffets permanently shuttered their doors following the pandemic disruptions.

This week, MGM Resorts made headlines by unveiling what they are promoting as an innovative “all-inclusive” resort experience tailored for Las Vegas visitors. Priced starting at $330 plus applicable taxes for a two-night stay accommodating two guests at either the Luxor Hotel & Casino or the Excalibur Hotel & Casino, this offering functions more accurately as a comprehensive vacation bundle rather than a conventional all-inclusive setup. Nevertheless, it presents potentially substantial value for savvy travelers who fully utilize every component included in the package.

Beginning on March 25, 2026, eligible guests will have the opportunity to reserve a two-night accommodation at either Luxor or Excalibur. This package seamlessly bundles together hotel stays, all associated resort fees, three meals daily for each guest, tickets to two entertainment shows, two rides on the thrilling Big Apple Coaster located at New York-New York, and self-parking privileges. The booking window opens for travel dates commencing from April 6 onward, with the added flexibility of no blackout dates restricting availability.

Reservations for this special package must be made directly through MGM’s official channels, and it is not available via third-party online travel agencies or through Marriott’s booking platforms, despite Marriott’s existing partnership with MGM properties.

Is this a good deal?

At first glance, the package appears to offer extraordinary value, especially when breaking down the individual component costs during off-peak periods, such as a typical weekday in March. To illustrate the potential savings, consider the following estimated a la carte pricing for each element included in the bundle on an off-peak night:

• A two-night stay at Luxor or Excalibur with double occupancy, inclusive of all resort fees: approximately $135.
• Three meals per day per guest, encompassing breakfast, lunch, and dinner options: around $400 total.
• One beer or wine serving per meal, amounting to 12 drinks over the stay: valued at about $170.
• Two tickets to a selected MGM Resorts show per stay: ranging from $80 to $150 depending on the performance.
• Two rides on the Big Apple Coaster at New York-New York: $50.
• Self-parking for one vehicle across any MGM Resorts Las Vegas property for two nights: $40.

When tallying these up, the total estimated a la carte cost falls between $875 and $945, excluding gratuities. In stark contrast, the package starts at just $330 plus tax and gratuity. These meals are redeemable at a curated selection of MGM Resorts restaurants spanning properties like Luxor, Excalibur, MGM Grand, Mandalay Bay, and New York-New York. The pricing methodology draws from the lowest available rates listed directly on the MGM Resorts website.

This calculation translates to approximately 65% savings compared to purchasing everything separately. That said, the true worth of the package predominantly depends on the dining inclusions, which introduces some complexity to the “all-inclusive” concept. The dining credits apply exclusively to casual dining venues featuring “dedicated” menus that are somewhat restricted in scope, along with a limit of one beer or wine per person per meal.

The roster of participating restaurants includes the following options at each property:

• Excalibur: TAP Sports Bar and The Buffet at Excalibur.
• Luxor: Diablo’s Cantina, Pyramid Café, Public House, and Backstage Deli.
• New York-New York: Tom’s Watch Bar.
• Mandalay Bay: Noodle Shop.
• MGM Grand: MGM Grand Buffet and TAP Sports Bar.

Notably absent from this list are the properties’ premier dining establishments, such as the acclaimed Joël Robuchon at MGM Grand or the upscale Hakkasan Restaurant, which cater to more gourmet tastes and experiences.

Similarly, the entertainment selections are confined to more affordable shows, including performances like Blue Man Group and Carrot Top, where tickets on off-peak nights generally range from $40 to $60 per seat. High-end productions, such as those from Cirque du Soleil, fall outside the scope of this package’s inclusions.

When it makes sense (and when it doesn’t)

For travelers who actively dine at the designated venues, the package delivers clear savings on food expenses alone, often making it a financially advantageous choice. When factoring in the value of the shows, parking privileges, and coaster rides, it stands out as one of the rare authentic bargains available directly on the Las Vegas Strip.

Mike Neubecker, the president and chief operating officer overseeing MGM Grand, Mandalay Bay, New York-New York, Luxor, and Excalibur, emphasized this intent by stating, “We’re trying to give a value-driven experience. When putting this together, we asked, 'how do we create a package that’s at an incredibly reasonable price?'” This approach underscores MGM’s strategy to deliver accessible luxury without compromising on core vacation elements.

That being noted, realizing the full value of this deal presupposes certain conditions: you must have a vehicle requiring parking, intend to consume the included alcoholic beverages, and plan to attend the provided shows. If any of these elements do not align with your itinerary, you might end up paying for unused inclusions, effectively reducing the overall value proposition. Furthermore, the restricted dining vouchers could prevent access to some of the nation’s most exceptional culinary destinations on the Strip. For those preferring a visit to a Gordon Ramsay establishment or indulging in premium sushi, the package’s limitations might result in forfeited value.

Additionally, participants are required to stay specifically at Luxor or Excalibur, which rank among MGM’s more economical hotel options and are not typically regarded as the premier accommodations in Las Vegas. Neubecker explained that MGM deliberately excluded fine dining venues and anchored the package to these budget-oriented hotels precisely to maintain the aggressively low pricing structure.

Even with these constraints, the underlying mathematics remains quite favorable. For example, if you forgo the $40 parking credit or opt to skip an included meal in exchange for a $7 treat from the Hello Kitty Cafe, you would likely still emerge with net savings. Beyond the quantifiable discounts, the convenience of prepaying for a bundled set of essentials can significantly simplify vacation budgeting. In an environment like Las Vegas where overspending is all too easy, such a structured package might represent the ultimate win by helping to control expenditures and enhance financial predictability throughout your trip.