2023 Survey of Blackjack on the Southern Strip of Las Vegas

I love exploring the vibrant and lively Las Vegas Strip, especially the bustling southern end. This section is home to a plethora of renowned casinos, from Mandalay Bay all the way up to Aria, MGM Grand, and Tropicana. When it comes to blackjack, I must say that for low-limit players, the options on this part of the Strip are not the most favorable in terms of value. However, for those who enjoy higher-limit blackjack, they are in for a treat, as they will find some of the most exceptional games available. It's important to note that all the games listed below follow the rule of hitting soft 17, unless stated otherwise.

There are a total of eight casinos in this particular area, with MGM Resorts being the owner of seven out of the eight establishments. The remaining one is operated by Tropicana.

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Explore: Las Vegas Blackjack Survey Report 2024

The casino offers blackjack games on the South Las Vegas Strip.

During the busy hours, the minimum bets at the casino have a tendency to increase, often by a significant amount. However, in the slower hours, we have predicted that the minimum bet will be at its lowest. In the summer of 2024, we gathered the following information regarding the minimum bets offered at the casino. It is important to note that this information specifically applies to the slower hours, as the minimum bets can vary greatly during busier periods. Rest assured, we have taken into account the fluctuations that occur throughout the day to provide you with the most accurate predictions.

Top-notch blackjack experience on the southern part of the iconic Las Vegas Strip

During peak hours, the minimum bet for the best blackjack games in this particular area of the Strip can go as high as $500, although it typically ranges from $100 to $500. The casinos that offer these games, namely Aria, Mandalay Bay, MGM Grand, Park MGM, and Tropicana, have a total of four high-limit salons where players can indulge in their favorite card game. For those who prefer double-deck blackjack, these salons provide an ideal setting, as the games feature rules that allow players to double down both before and after splitting, with the dealer standing on all 17s. Additionally, if players opt for the six-deck version, they will find that the same casinos offer games that incorporate surrender and the ability to re-split aces, further enhancing the gaming experience.

Many casinos, particularly high-limit salons, saw a reduction in table game hours due to the impact of the pandemic. If your intention is to visit a casino for the purpose of playing a particular game, it would be wise to ensure beforehand that the pits or salons will be operational during your visit.

Aria

Aria blackjack tables

At Aria, you can find a variety of options when it comes to playing blackjack. There are five different blackjack games available for you to choose from. One of them is the casino's eight-deck blackjack, which offers a payout of 6:5 and has a minimum bet of $15 or $25. If you prefer a traditional 3:2 game, you will need to bet either $25 or $50, depending on the time of day. This particular game is played with six decks and allows you to double down before and after splitting, surrender if necessary, and even re-split aces. If you're looking for a more affordable option, you can try the video blackjack game, where the minimum bet is $5 and the payout is also 6:5.

In the realm of high-stakes gambling, you'll find a captivating game worth $100 or $200. This particular game adheres to a set of rules that include standing on all 17s. Moreover, there's another high-limit game that involves a double-deck setup and stands on all 17s. However, this game requires a higher minimum bet of $300. What sets this game apart is the allowance to double down both before and after splitting your cards. It adds an element of strategic complexity to the gameplay, enticing seasoned gamblers seeking a challenge.

Excalibur

At Excalibur, you'll find a variety of blackjack games to choose from. There are three options available, each with its own unique features. For those looking for a lower minimum bet, you can opt for one of the two 6:5 games, which only require a $15 wager. One of these games follows the standard eight-deck format, while the other is known as Free Bet Blackjack. If you're willing to spend a bit more, the third game at Excalibur is a 3:2 eight-deck table that requires either a $25 or $50 minimum bet. This table offers some additional advantages, such as the ability to double down before and after splitting, as well as the option to surrender and re-split aces. If you prefer a more laid-back experience, you can also try your luck at the video 6:5 blackjack, which offers a minimum bet of just $5.

Luxor

Luxor, a renowned casino, offers a variety of blackjack games to cater to different players and their preferences. Starting at a reasonable $15, players can indulge in the excitement of traditional 6:5 eight-deck blackjack or opt for the thrilling 6:5 Free Bet Blackjack. For those seeking a more elevated experience, Luxor presents a high-limit game with a minimum bet of $500, where players are rewarded with a 3:2 payout. This exclusive six-deck game adheres to standard double-down rules and also provides the options of surrendering and re-splitting aces, enhancing the strategic possibilities. However, it's important to note that the Luxor high-limit room operates exclusively during peak hours, ensuring an intimate and exclusive atmosphere for discerning players.

All blackjack tables at Luxor require the dealer to hit soft 17. Additionally, there is a $5 video blackjack option available near the cage, with a payout ratio of 6:5.

Mandalay Bay

At Mandalay Bay, you'll find a variety of blackjack games to suit your preferences. You can choose to play the 6:5 games, available for both standard eight-deck and Free Bet Blackjack, for a minimum bet of $15. If you're looking for a higher stakes game, there's a six-deck table with a $50 minimum bet that follows the 3:2 payout ratio. This table also offers standard double-down rules, along with the options to surrender and re-split aces. For those who prefer a stand-on-all-17 game with the same rules, there's an option with a $100 minimum bet. Additionally, if you're in the mood for a double-deck game, there's a $100 minimum bet table that stands on all 17s and allows doubling down both before and after splitting. If you're interested in video blackjack, you can start playing with a minimum bet of $3, but please note that the payout for this game is 6:5.

MGM Grand

At the MGM Grand, players can find a total of five blackjack games. To enjoy a game that adheres to the rule of standing on all 17's, one must head over to the high-limit tables. Among these options, there is a double-deck table where players are required to place a minimum bet of $500. What makes this game enticing is the opportunity to double down before or after splitting. Furthermore, at the six-deck table with a minimum bet of $300, players have the additional choices of surrendering or re-splitting aces. If one prefers a more affordable option, there is a $50 blackjack game available on the casino floor, which follows the same rules as the previous ones but hits on soft 17. Additionally, there are two other variations: $25 blackjack with a payout ratio of 6:5, and 6:5 Free Bet. Lastly, for those who enjoy video blackjack, there is a 6:5 version with a minimum bet of $5.

New York-New York

I love playing blackjack at New York-New York! They offer different options for players to choose from. Whether you prefer Free Bet Blackjack or a standard eight-deck game, they have you covered. The minimum bet for blackjack starts at $15, which is quite reasonable. If you're willing to go a little higher, a $25 minimum bet will give you an exciting eight-deck game with additional perks. Not only does it pay 3:2, but you also get the chance to double down before and after splitting, as well as the option to surrender and re-split aces. It's great to have these choices and opportunities to enhance my blackjack experience!

In the realm of high-limit tables at a price tag of $100, one has the opportunity to engage in an exhilarating game of blackjack. This particular table, boasting six decks, follows a set of rules that add an extra layer of excitement to the game. However, for those seeking a more intimate experience, there is an alternative option available. At the same high-limit level, a double-deck table awaits, with a minimum bet of $100. Here, players are granted the liberty to double down both before and after splitting their cards. Interestingly, all blackjack games at New York-New York, including those in the high-limit section, implement the rule of hitting soft 17. For those who prefer a more casual setting, the stadium and video blackjack options offer a more relaxed environment, with a minimum bet of just $5.

New York-New York High limit tables

Park MGM

I frequented the Park MGM, where I found an assortment of blackjack games to choose from. There are a total of five games available, each with its own minimum betting requirement. The first option is an eight-deck game, which starts at $15 and allows players to double-down both before and after splitting. The payout for this game is 6:5. Another option is the Free Bet Blackjack, also priced at $15, with a 6:5 payout. Moving up to a $25 minimum bet, players can enjoy a six-deck game with a 3:2 payout. This particular game offers additional features such as surrender and re-splitting aces. These blackjack tables can be found right in front of the high-limit salon, adding an air of exclusivity to the gaming experience.

I love hitting the casino floor and indulging in some thrilling card games. One of my favorite options is the $100 3:2 games, which come in two variations: double-deck and six-deck. With the double-deck game, I have the incredible opportunity to double down before and after splitting, while the six-deck game takes it up a notch by adding surrender and re-split aces. The best part is that both of these high-limit games follow the rule of standing on a soft 17, which adds an exciting twist to the gameplay. And let's not forget about video blackjack, where the payout is set at 6:5. This option is perfect for those who prefer a lower starting point, as it begins at just $5. So whether it's the classic allure of the double-deck games or the convenience of video blackjack, there's something for everyone to enjoy at the casino!

Tropicana

To the left of the cage, you'll find a video blackjack game with a minimum bet of $3 that pays out 6:5. Tropicana offers a variety of blackjack games, but the one with the best odds requires a minimum bet of $25 for a 3:2 payout, depending on the time of day. This particular game is played with a double-deck, allowing players to double down before and after splitting, as well as re-splitting aces. If you're looking for a higher-stakes game, there's a high-limit option with a six-deck that stands on all 17s. This game also offers the option to surrender. However, it's important to note that the high-limit game is only available upon request. For those who prefer the other blackjack games, they typically pay out 6:5 and have a minimum bet of $15.

Experience different types of blackjack games on the South Las Vegas Strip.

Double deck games

The South Strip offers a unique opportunity for players with its 3:2 double deck games that allow for double down both before and after splitting.

Stand on soft 17

$100 minimum
  • Mandalay Bay
  • Park MGM
$300 minimum
  • Aria
$500 minimum
  • MGM Grand

Hits soft 17

$25 minimum
  • Tropicana
$100 minimum
  • New York-New York*

operating exclusively during the busiest times

Games where the dealer stands on soft 17 and uses a six-deck shoe.

These particular 3:2 six-deck matches have the rule of hitting soft 17 and offer the option for players to double down both before and after splitting. Additionally, players can choose to surrender if desired. Moreover, re-splitting aces is also allowed in these games.

$100 minimum
  • Aria
  • Mandalay Bay
  • Park MGM
  • Tropicana*
$300 minimum
  • MGM Grand

Exclusively available during the busiest hours of operation.

Games where the dealer must hit soft 17, played with either six or eight decks.

These specific 3:2 games with six and eight decks hit a soft 17 and grant players the opportunity to double down both before and after splitting.

Splitting aces and utilizing the surrender option for each split hand.

$25 minimum
  • New York-New York
  • Park MGM
$50 minimum
  • Aria
  • Excalibur
  • Mandalay Bay
  • MGM Grand
$500 minimum
  • Luxor*

*available exclusively during busy periods or by prior arrangement

Splitting aces is not possible. Surrender option is not provided.

$25 minimum
  • Tropicana*

Blackjack games with decks of six and eight, using a 6:5 payout ratio.

All eight casinos on the southern part of the Strip offer shoe games with a 6:5 payout on blackjack.

  • Excalibur – $15
  • Luxor – $15
  • Mandalay Bay – $15
  • New York-New York – $15
  • Park MGM – $15
  • Tropicana – $15
  • Aria – $15 or $25
  • MGM Grand – $25

At all eight casinos located on the southern part of the Strip, there were electronic blackjack games that offered a 6:5 payout for blackjack.

  • Mandalay Bay – $3
  • Tropicana – $3
  • Aria – $5
  • Excalibur – $5
  • Luxor – $5
  • MGM Grand – $5
  • New York-New York – $5
  • Park MGM – $5

Free Bet Blackjack 6:5

Las Vegas is renowned for its diverse range of blackjack variants, but none captivates players quite like Free Bet Blackjack. With its widespread popularity, it has become the top choice among gamblers on the bustling Vegas Strip. The allure of this game lies in its enticing odds, with a slight edge favoring the house. The traditional 3:2 game boasts a house edge of approximately 1%, ensuring a fair and balanced playing field. However, for those seeking a slightly riskier adventure, the 6:5 games provide a house edge of around 2.4%. It's important to note that all Free Bet Blackjack tables on the renowned Las Vegas Strip adhere to the 6:5 payout structure, cementing their commitment to providing an immersive and exhilarating gaming experience for all enthusiasts.

As a player, I am delighted to discover that I am entitled to a complimentary double down when my hand totals 9, 10, or 11. Furthermore, I am pleased to note that any pairs that do not add up to a value of 10 can be split without incurring any additional cost. However, it is important to bear in mind that in this particular game, the dealer achieves a push when they obtain a hand totaling 22.

$15 minimum

  • Excalibur
  • Luxor
  • Mandalay Bay
  • MGM Grand
  • New York-New York
  • Park MGM

$15 or 25 minimum

  • Aria

In 2020, MGM Resorts made the decision to remove Blackjack Switch from all its Las Vegas casinos, resulting in the unavailability of this game on a specific section of the Las Vegas Strip.

William Stevens provided the most recent update on August 26, 2024.