The theme of the Mirage is that of a South Seas oasis dropped into the middle of the desert. As part of the tropical feel, Siegfried & Roy’s Secret Garden and Dolphin Habitat features tigers, panthers, leopards and bottlenose dolphins (which you can swim with for the right price). The Mirage’s tropical theme continues at the pool complex where verdant gardens mix with freeform lagoons and a cascading waterfall. The poolside chaises are functional, but during the busy season, you’ll be lucky to find an empty one. The “Bare” pool, where bikini tops are optional and an ID is required, is a more comfortable choice, if you’re not shy (and willing to pay). When booking, ask for a deluxe or Tower deluxe room, as these recently underwent a $110 million renovation and now feature pillow-top mattresses, down comforters and LCD TVs, not to mention impressive views of the mountains, the Strip or the pool.

The Mirage Amenities:

• 2,763 rooms. High-speed Internet access. Restaurant, bar. Fitness center. Pool. Spa. Business center.