The initial weekend of March Madness in Las Vegas is exceptional. It’s not merely another weekend of college basketball. It transcends being just four successive days of uninterrupted college basketball games available for legal betting.
The games commence as soon as guests rise and continue until evening parties begin. While watching and betting on all the games is enjoyable, the weekend offers much more than just basketball.
Besides the basketball games, the initial weekend of March Madness coincides with Spring Break for numerous colleges across the nation. This year, the same weekend also coincides with St. Patrick’s Day.
Las Vegas is experiencing one of its busiest weekends of the year. The city is brimming with visitors who are savouring the splendid weather, lively parties, and college basketball games in the sportsbook.
Watching games during 1st weekend of March Madness
Viewing the NCAA basketball tournament has become more complex than it was in the past. Basketball enthusiasts and bettors can no longer effortlessly secure a spot in a sportsbook or bar. While the mix of visitors contributes to an amazing Las Vegas experience, it also presents some hurdles for college basketball followers and bettors.
Watching college basketball in most Vegas sportsbooks can still be done for free. However, you’ll need to get there early (prior to the first game’s tip-off) to secure a seat.
It might not always be possible due to some sportsbooks, such as the CG Technologies sportsbook at The Venetian, that reserve seats for their high-rolling gamblers. Other sportsbooks like Caesars Palace offer seats for sale, provided you’re willing to pay the associated fees. To find out about available comps or if points can be used to secure a seat, consult with a host or players club.
It’s not a new concept to pay for viewing the initial weekend games of March Madness. For over five years, establishments such as casinos, bars, and restaurants have been hosting watch parties for March Madness. These gatherings can range from basic setups with a single chair and TV screens, to more elaborate events featuring casino gaming, a variety of traditional and video games, a fully stocked bar, and more. Some venues even provide private ‘Man Caves’ equipped with multiple TVs, games, and a dedicated food and drink service for groups.
The rising popularity of viewing parties over the years has led to an increase in prices. What initially cost $25 for a day of budget-friendly beer and a seat to watch the games, has now transformed into a near $500 weekend per person for several parties.
Given that daily rates this year frequently exceed $100, several parties only run from Thursday, March 15 to Saturday, March 17. However, it’s worth noting that many tourists depart on Sunday and wouldn’t need to pay full fare for a party on the final day of the weekend. Visitors will have to make their own arrangements to watch the games on Sunday, March 18.
Finding a March Madness party
The Facebook group ‘March Madness In Las Vegas’ is an excellent tool for locating where to watch the games during the inaugural weekend of March Madness. Several group members have experienced the major weekend in Las Vegas and share valuable advice and details on maximizing the enjoyment of the weekend. Plus, they’re generally up for some friendly banter.
Parties during March Madness on the Vegas Strip can be fantastic, but they can also be somewhat costly.
Hops and Hoops at the Cosmopolitan has been one of the most favored parties to watch the NCAA Tournament. The Belmont ballroom transforms into a basketball-lover’s paradise, featuring twelve 22’x13′ HD projection screens, an on-site sports book from CG Technologies, a hardwood court with a regulation-sized basketball hoop, and bar games such as Golden Tee. The price for a three-day pass, which includes an open bar, is $475. While it’s an exceptional party, the cost may be steep for some.
The best values in Las Vegas are often found off the Vegas Strip
Hoops Central, located in the International Theater within the Westgate, offers one of the most ideal viewing experiences for March Madness. The theater is equipped with 1,500 seats, typically occupied by sports bettors. While general seating operates on a first-come, first-served basis, this year they are introducing a reserved seating option for $25 per day, inclusive of one beer.
The second-floor ballroom at South Point hosts a free viewing party. It offers ample seating on a first-come, first-served basis, without any reservations. The room is equipped with several large projection screens, betting stations, and some of the most competitive lines in Las Vegas. They also offer drink specials, including beer buckets for $16, and food is available.
A free party is also hosted at El Cortez in downtown Las Vegas. With ample general admission seats, the Fiesta Room is quite spacious. For hoops fans and bettors on a tight budget, they offer $3 hot dogs and Budweiser. The sportsbook of El Cortez is managed by Station Casinos.
