No-stroller rule a Wynn-win situation
Kids in casinos has been a hot topic in Las Vegas for some time, so much so that I'm going to address it on my next podcast and link to this blog post.
When controlled Bellagio, there was not only a "no-stroller" policy but a policy against children entering the building unless they were staying there or were with adults who were going to see a show or had a restaurant reservation.
The MGM ripped out its theme park and is building convention space and high-rise condos on the site.
Bottom line: Parents can't gamble with children in tow. Children are not allowed to loiter on a gaming floor. Families tend to NOT go eat at the high-end restaurants or go see the $100-per-ticket shows (another huge source of revenue for casino resorts now in Las Vegas).
A number of recent articles in the national press have highlighted children misbehaving in restaurants. No one wants to see and hear Junior's tantrum while they are dining. Nor do they want to be subjected to it while gambling or enjoying a $10 drink in a plush setting.
This is not about Las Vegas (or Wynn in particular) trying to set some obnoxious rules. This is simply a policy that reflects the wishes of the guests at Wynn Las Vegas.
- Ted Newkirk
Las Vegas, Nev.
February 20, 2006