The Grand Sierra is huge. A huge number of rooms. A HUGE amount of retail & convention space. A very large slot floor with lots of table games. A HUGE sportsbook and a nice theater. Several nice bars & clubs. The buffet is what buffets should be, and there's a few Charlie Palmer restaurants for fine dining. Watch out for non-remodeled rooms and expensive resort fees.
Vibe
They pull in a mix of everybody--travelers, locals, a younger crowd for the clubs, folks looking for a fancy dinner. It has the range, so enjoy.
Comfort & Safety
The GSR is a huge building, so it has lots of space. You'll be walking a lot inside. Totally safe, any time day or night. There's lots of comfy chairs and sofas around the main floor.
Located right in the middle of the action on the Grand Sierra Resort casino floor is the Center Bar. Our swanky casino bar allows you to play games right at the bar while enjoying a refreshing cocktail or beer. With these drinks, you're sure to get a winner! RIM at Grand Sierra Resort, Reno: See 243 unbiased reviews of RIM at Grand Sierra Resort, rated 4 of 5 on Tripadvisor and ranked #44 of 929 restaurants in Reno. Grand Sierra Resort and Casino is a lavish hotel that offers the very best of dining, entertainment, and recreational activities. Guests can first relax in one of many grand hotel rooms that Grand Sierra has to offer. Grand Sierra Resort and Casino is a bright and contemporary all-in-one destination conveniently located right next to the Truckee River and between the Reno-Tahoe International Airport and downtown Reno. It has the largest casino floor in Reno and Northern Nevada with loads of table games, poker and keno lounges, sports booking, and slots. The Grand Buffet, Reno: See 462 unbiased reviews of The Grand Buffet, rated 4 of 5 on Tripadvisor and ranked #53 of 929 restaurants in Reno.
Grand Sierra Reno Gaming
The Grand Sierra Reno has a large slot floor, a large number of table games, and a huge sportsbook. The games are fair, and we've won a few times here. The main gaming floor has a very tall ceiling, with the tables running lengthwise down the middle.
Slot Machines (Review: A)
GSR has a good selection of newer slots. The floor is well-spaced out, and there's good video poker. We've found ourselves playing 9-6 video poker here while waiting for friends or dinner or whatnot. There's a good mix of slots, including traditional reels, lots of video poker, newer games, and lots of the state-wide progressives, including Monopoly and a few others. Drinks are served fast and cold. (be sure to tip your drink girl!)
Table Games (Review: B+)
The Table Games area at the Grand Sierra is large and impressively laid out. Don't let the table count fool you, it feels much larger and most of the tables are open. Everything is spread out well, so you don't have to worry about being crowded in next to someone. It can get full on the weekends, which makes finding a $5 table a little harder. Friendly dealers for the beginners, as well as good rules for the more serious blackjack player.
Sportsbook (Review: B-)
The GSR sportsbook is HUGE. Its as big as an auditorium, with huge projection TVs way up on the wall. The ticket writers can be sloppy, so be sure to read your ticket the moment he hands it to you. Also, on a busy day, the lines can get a little long. The lines are set by Lucky's Sportsbook out of Vegas. Its a great place to go watch a game you've got a big line on (Probably one of the best places to watch in Reno, give it an A- for viewing!). They'll mostly take half-points, but sometimes they won't.
Keno (Review: B-)
The Grand Sierra has a 15-seat small keno area wedged between the Poker Room at the Grand Theater Lobby. There are three small screens behind the desk, and the seating is fairly tight. Fortunately, Keno is a game that can be played any place in the Casino.
Grand Sierra Reno Dining
Cassava online casino. The Grand Sierra has some of the fanciest restaurants in town, from Charlie Palmer's, to a traditional casino buffet, and several other smaller choices. Something for everyone in every price range can be found here.
Charlie Palmer Steak (Fine Dining, $$$$, B-)
Going to a high-end steakhouse with the Charlie Palmer name comes with high expectations. Unfortunately, our experience didn't live up to this expectation. We've been to other Charlie Palmer restaurants and have thought them to be exceptional.
Briscola (Fine Dining, $$$$, C+)
Briscola opened in July 2009. It's a high-end Italian restaurant operated by Charlie Palmer, who also runs Charlie Palmer Steak, and Fin Fish at the Grand Sierra. Their website bills Briscola as 'A family style, Italian eatery, Chef Palmer's menu includes Italian favorites at affordable family prices', a description that couldn't be less accurate. Prices were anything but affordable, and the environment was no where near family friendly. With spotty service and mostly average food, we won't be going back soon.
Charlie Palmer Fin Fish (Fine Dining, $$$$, No Grade)
Cafe Sierra (Casual Dining, $$, C)
Cafe Sierra is the Grand Sierra's 24-hour coffee shop, seating over 200 people and having a wide variety of items on their menu. It delivers a fine, but not memorable, experience.
Round Table Pizza (Casual Dining, $, C)
Chain Pizza. Don't expect much, and they'll deliver. Oddly enough, we've been there more than once.
Johnny Rockets (Casual Dining, $, C-)
Johnny Rockets tries to be In and Out--and doesn't succeed. Go to In and Out instead, unless you're at the GSR. In which case, go to the Buffet instead. It is an below-average burger at an above-average price.
The Lodge Buffet (REMODELED) (Buffets, $$, B-)
The Lodge Buffet is your stereotypical Casino Buffet--lots of food, good variety, temping desserts, and way more than you can eat. As of February 2011, they have discontinued the $7.77 local's price, and prices now range between $12 and $18 for a meal. Monaco grand casino dress code. The Lodge Buffet was closed and remodeled into The Grand Buffet.
2nd Street Express (Snacks, $, B-)
The 2nd Street Express is a small deli and grill located on the main floor. It's fine for a quick sandwich on the go, but don't expect more than fast-food service or presentation (i.e. none!). But, the sandwich was fast and good.
Starbuck's Coffee (Snacks, $, No Grade)
Yet another Starbucks.
Port of Subs (Snacks, $, No Grade)
Chain sub shop.
Grand Sierra Reno Hotel
There are many service and amenities at the GSR, including lots of shops, a movie theater for second-run movies, and a large showroom. Some rooms are basic, and some of the remodeled suites are very nice. We still have a hard time accepting the $10 'resort fee' that the Grand Sierra charges.
Pool (Amenities, Review: A-)
The outdoor pool at the Grand Sierra its large and has lots of neat features. There's a sand play area, sand volleyball, a poolside grill and bar. At night the pool area converts to 'The Beach' nightclub. Definitely one of the better places to hang out poolside during the Summer!
Spa and Salon (Amenities, Review: B-)
There is a small Spa located near the pool at the Grand Sierra. They have massage, wraps, waxing, as well as in-room massage. Be aware of the 24-hour cancellation policy.
Arcade, Fun Center, Activities (Amenities, Review: A+)
There are tons of activities at the GSR for older kids, including bowling, bungee, a large arcade, go-karts, mini golf, indoor golf range, and outdoor golf range. No, really, a bungee/swing thing!
Fitness Center (Amenities, Review: B)
There is a fitness center available only to hotel guests, featuring free weights, cardio equipment, climbing wall, sauna, and more.
RV Parking (Amenities, Review: A+)
The Grand Sierra has excellent RV parking and is easily access from the highway. The Park include 178 sites, full hookups & laundry, electrical service, back-in and pull-through spots, showers & restrooms. They also allow RV guests full access to Hotel services.
Wedding Chapel (Amenities, Review: A-)
There is a nice wedding chapel at the Grand Sierra, and their large ballrooms can accommodate receptions of any size, from small to very large. They staff can coordinate flowers, photography, and catering as well as other details.
Business Center (Amenities, Review: B)
The business center at the Grand Sierra can help with basic needs, as well as internet access and printing boarding passes. Available only to hotel guests, it is open on the weekends and to 9pm during the weekdays.
Meetings and Conferences (Amenities, Review: B)
200,000 square feet of meeting space and 45 breakout rooms makes the Grand Sierra one of the largest (if not the largest) place for meetings and conventions. The facility can accommodate very large groups and has a very good layout. Put them on your shopping list for your next convention.
Gift Shop (Amenities, Review: B-)
The Grand Sierra does have a small gift shop for logo items, small gifts, and miscellaneous toiletries.
Retail Shopping (Amenities, Review: A+)
There are 15 additional stores located throughout the Grand Sierra, mostly downstairs. There's stuff here ranging from clothing to athletic equipment (including ski rental), as well as an ice creamery and more!
Movie Theater (Amenities, Review: B+)
The Grand Sierra has a small theater that shows both box-office and indy flix. Seating is only $3 per person for all shows, and there is a snack bar adjacent to the theater.
Cabaret (Amenities, Review: A-)
The Grand Sierra has three entertainment venues. The Grand Theatre for shows, a lounge for live bands, and DJs and more out at the Beach nightclub. Lots of big music acts come to the Grand Theatre year round, although we do miss the outdoor concert series.
Airport Shuttle (Services, Review: A)
The Grand Sierra shuttle runs every 30 minutes from 5am to 11:30pm. Its a very short ride since the GSR is so close to the airport, too.
Concierge/Bell Desk (Services, Review: B+)
The Grand Sierra Adventure desk can help put you in touch with many of the fun outdoor things to do in the greater area.
Laundry Service (Services, Review: B+)
There is laundry service available for guests. Call them for specific pricing, especially for dry-cleaning items.
On-Property Car Rental (Services, Review: A-)
The Grand Sierra is the only casino we know of that has cars physically on-site for rental. We believe the other casinos have rental desks, but bring your car in from the airport rental lot. It might save you a few minutes if you're in a hurry.
Room Service (Services, Review: C+)
We know they have room service, but can't find much information about it.
Front Desk (Services, Review: B)
The large and long front desk at the Grand Sierra is located behind the main entrance on the main casino floor.
Standard Rooms (Room Descriptions, Review: C-)
We've been in several of the Grand Sierra unremodeled rooms. They're fine, but they're starting to wear and aren't very fancy. Its an okay basic room, but really that's it. We've heard they have some remodeled rooms without being suites, but have never seen one. If you want something nice, you'll want to upgrade to a suite.
Suites (Room Descriptions, Review: B+)
The Grand Sierra has a 15-seat small keno area wedged between the Poker Room at the Grand Theater Lobby. There are three small screens behind the desk, and the seating is fairly tight. Fortunately, Keno is a game that can be played any place in the Casino.
Grand Sierra Reno Dining
Cassava online casino. The Grand Sierra has some of the fanciest restaurants in town, from Charlie Palmer's, to a traditional casino buffet, and several other smaller choices. Something for everyone in every price range can be found here.
Charlie Palmer Steak (Fine Dining, $$$$, B-)
Going to a high-end steakhouse with the Charlie Palmer name comes with high expectations. Unfortunately, our experience didn't live up to this expectation. We've been to other Charlie Palmer restaurants and have thought them to be exceptional.
Briscola (Fine Dining, $$$$, C+)
Briscola opened in July 2009. It's a high-end Italian restaurant operated by Charlie Palmer, who also runs Charlie Palmer Steak, and Fin Fish at the Grand Sierra. Their website bills Briscola as 'A family style, Italian eatery, Chef Palmer's menu includes Italian favorites at affordable family prices', a description that couldn't be less accurate. Prices were anything but affordable, and the environment was no where near family friendly. With spotty service and mostly average food, we won't be going back soon.
Charlie Palmer Fin Fish (Fine Dining, $$$$, No Grade)
Cafe Sierra (Casual Dining, $$, C)
Cafe Sierra is the Grand Sierra's 24-hour coffee shop, seating over 200 people and having a wide variety of items on their menu. It delivers a fine, but not memorable, experience.
Round Table Pizza (Casual Dining, $, C)
Chain Pizza. Don't expect much, and they'll deliver. Oddly enough, we've been there more than once.
Johnny Rockets (Casual Dining, $, C-)
Johnny Rockets tries to be In and Out--and doesn't succeed. Go to In and Out instead, unless you're at the GSR. In which case, go to the Buffet instead. It is an below-average burger at an above-average price.
The Lodge Buffet (REMODELED) (Buffets, $$, B-)
The Lodge Buffet is your stereotypical Casino Buffet--lots of food, good variety, temping desserts, and way more than you can eat. As of February 2011, they have discontinued the $7.77 local's price, and prices now range between $12 and $18 for a meal. Monaco grand casino dress code. The Lodge Buffet was closed and remodeled into The Grand Buffet.
2nd Street Express (Snacks, $, B-)
The 2nd Street Express is a small deli and grill located on the main floor. It's fine for a quick sandwich on the go, but don't expect more than fast-food service or presentation (i.e. none!). But, the sandwich was fast and good.
Starbuck's Coffee (Snacks, $, No Grade)
Yet another Starbucks.
Port of Subs (Snacks, $, No Grade)
Chain sub shop.
Grand Sierra Reno Hotel
There are many service and amenities at the GSR, including lots of shops, a movie theater for second-run movies, and a large showroom. Some rooms are basic, and some of the remodeled suites are very nice. We still have a hard time accepting the $10 'resort fee' that the Grand Sierra charges.
Pool (Amenities, Review: A-)
The outdoor pool at the Grand Sierra its large and has lots of neat features. There's a sand play area, sand volleyball, a poolside grill and bar. At night the pool area converts to 'The Beach' nightclub. Definitely one of the better places to hang out poolside during the Summer!
Spa and Salon (Amenities, Review: B-)
There is a small Spa located near the pool at the Grand Sierra. They have massage, wraps, waxing, as well as in-room massage. Be aware of the 24-hour cancellation policy.
Arcade, Fun Center, Activities (Amenities, Review: A+)
There are tons of activities at the GSR for older kids, including bowling, bungee, a large arcade, go-karts, mini golf, indoor golf range, and outdoor golf range. No, really, a bungee/swing thing!
Fitness Center (Amenities, Review: B)
There is a fitness center available only to hotel guests, featuring free weights, cardio equipment, climbing wall, sauna, and more.
RV Parking (Amenities, Review: A+)
The Grand Sierra has excellent RV parking and is easily access from the highway. The Park include 178 sites, full hookups & laundry, electrical service, back-in and pull-through spots, showers & restrooms. They also allow RV guests full access to Hotel services.
Wedding Chapel (Amenities, Review: A-)
There is a nice wedding chapel at the Grand Sierra, and their large ballrooms can accommodate receptions of any size, from small to very large. They staff can coordinate flowers, photography, and catering as well as other details.
Business Center (Amenities, Review: B)
The business center at the Grand Sierra can help with basic needs, as well as internet access and printing boarding passes. Available only to hotel guests, it is open on the weekends and to 9pm during the weekdays.
Meetings and Conferences (Amenities, Review: B)
200,000 square feet of meeting space and 45 breakout rooms makes the Grand Sierra one of the largest (if not the largest) place for meetings and conventions. The facility can accommodate very large groups and has a very good layout. Put them on your shopping list for your next convention.
Gift Shop (Amenities, Review: B-)
The Grand Sierra does have a small gift shop for logo items, small gifts, and miscellaneous toiletries.
Retail Shopping (Amenities, Review: A+)
There are 15 additional stores located throughout the Grand Sierra, mostly downstairs. There's stuff here ranging from clothing to athletic equipment (including ski rental), as well as an ice creamery and more!
Movie Theater (Amenities, Review: B+)
The Grand Sierra has a small theater that shows both box-office and indy flix. Seating is only $3 per person for all shows, and there is a snack bar adjacent to the theater.
Cabaret (Amenities, Review: A-)
The Grand Sierra has three entertainment venues. The Grand Theatre for shows, a lounge for live bands, and DJs and more out at the Beach nightclub. Lots of big music acts come to the Grand Theatre year round, although we do miss the outdoor concert series.
Airport Shuttle (Services, Review: A)
The Grand Sierra shuttle runs every 30 minutes from 5am to 11:30pm. Its a very short ride since the GSR is so close to the airport, too.
Concierge/Bell Desk (Services, Review: B+)
The Grand Sierra Adventure desk can help put you in touch with many of the fun outdoor things to do in the greater area.
Laundry Service (Services, Review: B+)
There is laundry service available for guests. Call them for specific pricing, especially for dry-cleaning items.
On-Property Car Rental (Services, Review: A-)
The Grand Sierra is the only casino we know of that has cars physically on-site for rental. We believe the other casinos have rental desks, but bring your car in from the airport rental lot. It might save you a few minutes if you're in a hurry.
Room Service (Services, Review: C+)
We know they have room service, but can't find much information about it.
Front Desk (Services, Review: B)
The large and long front desk at the Grand Sierra is located behind the main entrance on the main casino floor.
Standard Rooms (Room Descriptions, Review: C-)
We've been in several of the Grand Sierra unremodeled rooms. They're fine, but they're starting to wear and aren't very fancy. Its an okay basic room, but really that's it. We've heard they have some remodeled rooms without being suites, but have never seen one. If you want something nice, you'll want to upgrade to a suite.
Suites (Room Descriptions, Review: B+)
The Grand Sierra has a lot of suites, and they're pretty nice. The 'Summit at the Grand Sierra' suites are really plush and comfortable. The smaller 'Grand Suites' are pretty reasonable for a big step up, but the larger rooms can get expensive.
Internet Service (Room Features, Review: A)
Complimentary wireless internet access. The way it should be! Of course, they do have that pesky $10 'resort fee'.
In-Room Refridgerator (Room Features, Review: B)
All the suites have fridges in them, not the standard guest rooms.
In-Room Coffee Maker (Room Features, Review: B)
None of the regular rooms we've seen have a coffee maker, but the suite we stayed in did.
Late Checkout (Room Features, Review: B)
Call the front desk as soon as you know you may need a late checkout. They can only accommodate if the room isn't booked, which is true with most places. Standard checkout time is 11am.
Resort Fees (Room Features, Review: F)
The Grand Sierra charges a $30 resort fee. $26.50 Resort Fee, $3.45 Resort Fee Tax. There's a $2.00 Tourism fee, too. As of March 2018.
Cancellation Policies (Room Features, Review: B-)
Cancellation window is 48 hours, except for Hot August Nights, where that switches to 2 weeks!
Grand Sierra Casino Dining Hall
Pet Friendly Rooms (Room Features, Review: F)
Grand Sierra Casino Dining Reservations
Pets WERE allowed a the Grand Sierra. As of May 1st 2016, pets are no longer allowed.
