Grand Sierra Resort, Reno

History of Grand Sierra Resort

Originally opened as the MGM Grand in 1978 at a then staggering cost of $131 Million bucks. It was the largest hotel in the world (for about 2 months). The MGM Grand folded up shop and became a Ballys, then eventually the Reno Hilton in 1986. Caesars sold the Hilton in May 2005 and with the sale comes another name change - it will soon be called Grand Sierra Resort. They plan on re-constructing (to the tune of $1.5Bajillion Dollars) look like a Lake Tahoe style Ski Lodge with a lake and an indoor waterpark (uh... right).

How are the rooms at Grand Sierra Resort?

The Reno Hilton was once the largest hotel in the world, expect top of the line circa-1978. Its' been upgraded since then, but the building itself is a little (smidgen) longer in the tooth than what you'd expect in Vegas. It's still nice, fancy and superconvenient to the airport.

What restaurants are at Grand Sierra Resort?

Generically named joints: The Steakhouse (Steaks and Chops) Andiamo (Italian) and Asiana (Pan Asian food) all good stuff, nothing out of this world, but still really good quality eats. On the casual side, the Reno Hilton offers a Lindy's Cafe, The Lodge Buffet, Chevy's chain mexican food, a generic coffee joint (Java Coast) a Subway type of joint (but better) and a friggin Round Table Pizza. When will the joints realize that we DON'T want to eat at the same joints that are available in our hometowns. Jeebus Tapdancing Christmas.

The Grand Sierra Resort recently announced that Ashton Kutcher, husband of Demi Moo will be opening a Reno version of his Los Angeles Based eatery Dolce when the Grand Sierra resort is finally opened.

Where is Grand Sierra Resort Located?

In central Reno, south east of downtown, east of the Peppermill/Atlantis just north of the Reno Airport. There isn't much around here gaming wise other than the Reno Hilton itself, island in the river.

Exclusive Tips for Grand Sierra Resort:

The Reno Hilton offers a coupla pub/bar/nightclub options including the Garage Night Club (with live music and a cigar humidor room), The Aspen Lounge piano bar, The Pylon bar (which features Barron Hilton's airplane collection suspended from the ceiling) and the Escalator Bar where you can get tipped while the wife and kids walk about the Reno Hilton's mall. Thats convenience!

TD Self Photograph