Las Vegas Sun

Once described as "popular elegance" by former owner Steve Wynn, The Monte Carlo Resort and Casino opened on the Las Vegas Strip on June 21, 1996 and blended European class with American glamor.

It was designed after the Place du Casino in Monte Carlo and built by Mirage Resorts and Circus Circus Enterprises as a joint venture at a cost of $344 million. MGM Mirage currently owns and operates the resort.

The interior features marble floors, chandelier domes and neoclassical arches. The resort has 3,002 hotel rooms, including 256 suites which consist of Monaco Suites, Spa Suites, Diamond Suites and Penthouse Suites.

Monte Carlo's 102,197-square foot casino has 1,650 slots, 75 gaming tables and 15 poker tables. The sports book is 3,910 square feet.

Magician Lance Burton performs inside the Lance Burton Theater Tuesday through Saturday. Burton's show is the main attraction at the Monte Carlo.

Its Monte Carlo Brew Pub was once the only micro-brewery on the Strip but stopped brewing in December 2006. In September 2007, a Mexican-themed bar and restaurant called Diablo's Cantina opened facing the Strip, slightly changing the exterior of the resort. Diablo's Cantina features a 27-foot "She-Devil."

Brand Steakhouse, Andre's French Restaurant, Dragon Noodle and Market City Caffe are other dining options the Monte Carlo has to offer. In addition, there is also a casual cafe, buffet and food court.

The Monte Carlo has a wedding chapel within the resort with a variety of different wedding and floral packages.