My First Time at a Casino: What I Learned
This may sound unbelievable, but my first time at a casino lasted a total of 45 minutes (give or take a few mins), and I won over $8 grand on the first slot machine I played in Atlantic City.
Since it was my first time, when the lights and noises assaulted me and people began to crowd around the area, I panicked—my boyfriend was still parking the car. Call it beginner’s luck or a fluke, but I literally walked in, picked a machine, put in $10, and hit the jackpot. When my bf finally got there, I was being offered comped rooms, every amenity you could ask for, etc., and he clocked what was happening and promptly took over, saying “no thank you,” steering me toward the cash cage, and telling me he was going to get the car and we were leaving.
It was not his first time at a casino—he knew what had happened was pretty much unheard of and wanted me to get out of there with my windfall (we went on a shopping spree the next day, and I invested the other half). Although a nice story, it’s kind of anticlimactic, so I’m going to tell you about my second-first visit to a casino, which was a girl’s trip to Vegas and much more interesting!
On my official first visit to a casino, we went to Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas—not only was it a gambling education in spades, but it was also pretty hilarious at points. And lucky you, I’m going to share my experiences in the hopes of helping all first-timers get acclimated and hopefully not make the same un, not-so-smart decisions that I made.
The Excitement of Walking In
We walked into Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas, and it honestly felt like I’d just stepped into another world. Mostly because it was 100-plus degrees outside and inside. It felt like an industrial freezer due to the air conditioning, but we weren’t complaining.
The lobby is gorgeous, with exotic plants (huge Bonsai trees), ornamental wrought iron stair railings, and limestone marble flooring. It’s tasteful yet still loud, as the check-in desks are lit up with neon colors to remind you that although you’re in a luxury accommodation, it’s still Las Vegas!
I was more excited than nervous—after all, I’d already hit it big once in Atlantic City. More on that misplaced confidence later.
First Impressions of the Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas
After checking in and getting settled, we wanted to check out the action, and that meant hitting the casino floor. We were not disappointed—the huge, open layout is like a light show on steroids, paired with sounds that can be overstimulating. It was like being dropped into a sensory overload party.
The slot machines were the loudest—the card tables were calm, and the dealers looked spiffy and like they meant business.
The Feeling
I, of course, was like a kid in a candy store that had also knocked back three double espressos when I saw the slots—still high on my one-time windfall in AC. If I won that much there, can you imagine how much I could win in Vegas?? No nerves yet, because, well, I had no idea what I was doing my first time, and look how that turned out! I was so naive.
But there was camaraderie in the air—everyone seemed to be there for the exact same reason: to have a great time and maybe, just maybe, win it big.
Funny Observations
Let me tell you, Mandalay Bay takes decorations to a whole new level—and in a tasteful way. As if the usual glitz and glamour weren’t enough, our visit coincided with a cowboy convention, which I didn’t even know was a thing. Yes, you read that right—a cowboy convention, which is very much a thing.
Among the neon lights and casino floor games, there were HUGE lit-up cowboy hats and boots with spurs that swung back and forth. There were giant horse statues, cacti made completely out of twinkling lights, and a mechanical bull set up that was just begging for some brave soul to take a ride (more on that later; it’s impossible for white girls on copious amounts of tequila to say “no” to a mechanical bull). Yeehaw?
Colorful Characters
The people-watching was obviously amazing—everywhere I looked, there were cowboys strutting around with swagger who thought of themselves as John Wayne. We saw a few dudes who looked like they came straight from the set of a spaghetti western, complete with a handlebar mustache and spurs that jingle-jangled with every step. And then there were the kids. So, so many kids. I kept doing double-takes, thinking, “Isn’t this supposed to be an adult playground?” There were toddlers in cowboy boots, little ones darting between slot machines, and families treating the casino like it was Disneyland with blackjack tables. It was really bizarre and super entertaining.
Navigating the Casino Floor
Navigating the casino floor at Mandalay Bay, especially after a few cocktails, felt like being trapped in a kaleidoscope that was put into a maze and then shaken up like a snow globe. Everything looks the same, which is by design. They want you to be disoriented so that when you pass a new slot machine, your ADHD will get you to play, or you’ll simply want to sit down and rest because you are so lost.
Games stretched endlessly in every direction, each one with its own theme and jackpot promises. My BFF and I found ourselves wandering through aisle upon aisle of leprechauns, Egyptian pharaohs, and superhero adventures, all while trying to get our bearings.
It wasn’t long before we realized we were utterly lost. We’re talking, “Where am I and how did I get here?” lost. At one point, we wondered if we were still at the Mandalay Bay. Every time we thought there was a familiar landmark, it turned out to be a different giant golden statue or another waterfall feature—they all looked the same. At one point, we ended up circling a bank of slot machines four times, convinced we had found a secret passage to Narnia. Spoiler alert: There was no wardrobe; we were just lost and possibly hallucinating.
Asking for Directions
After an hour, you have to admit that the casino floor has beaten you and accept defeat, unlike a dad who refuses to stop and ask for directions. We approached a friendly-looking staff member, hoping for a straightforward answer. LOL, our convo went something like this:
Me: “Excuse me, how do I get to the poker tables?”
Staff: “Sure thing! Take a left at the giant golden statue, then a right at the waterfall, keep straight until you see the cactus statue, and it’s just past the hang of Elvis impersonators.”This left us more confused than before, but determined, we tried our luck with another guest, which didn’t fare much better:
Me: “Do you know where the poker tables are?”
Patron: “Hmm, I think they’re near the giant neon cowboy boots…or was it the slot machine with the cartoon dog? I dunno, but good luck to y’all!”
Clearly, the Mandalay Bay casino floor was designed to keep you entertained and very disoriented. It was all part of the charm, and we eventually made it to the poker tables.
Understanding the Games
Ok, so I’ve only ever played slots, so the gaming floor was intimidating. Sticking to what I knew, my first expenditure was obviously on the spinning reels. They have every theme imaginable, from those classic fruit symbols to blockbuster movies. Each one blinked and beeped with “come and play me” lights and sounds.
Then there is the host of table games: blackjack, roulette, craps, poker, and baccarat, each one surrounded by groups of players and a few spectators.
As a first-timer, the sheer variety was super overwhelming. I wanted to try everything but didn’t know where to start with the table games, and the thought of trying to blend in with the regulars made me a little nauseous.
Trying to Look Like You Know What You’re Doing
The trick to fitting in is to fake it until you make it. Step one? Observe and imitate. Even though slots are pretty self-explanatory, I watched a woman play several rounds—she was pressing those buttons with speed and confidence, so I finally did the same. Just like in AC, I put in $10, crossed my fingers and toes, and made the rookie move of betting max credits on a single spin. I lost my first round faster than you can say “why would you do that?” I played a few more rounds at different machines before it hit me that I was not going to win it big at slots here in Vegas, I tucked my tail between my legs and went to join my friends at the blackjack table (I’d memorized the way).
Sipping on my tequila and soda, I watched as my friends and other players casually tossed their chips, nodded at the dealer, and made decisions with a flick of their wrists.
Then, I decided to get in on the action. When my turn came, I tried to mimic their moves. The dealer asked if I wanted to hit or stand, and I did my best to look like I had a clue and said, “Both?” before my BFF rescued me. There was a mix of awkward nods and hesitant chip placement that made me look like a dumb deer in headlights—and I decided blackjack was not for me.
But hey, everyone has to start somewhere, right? As we walked away from the table, my BFF was laughing so hard that tears were streaming down her face. “BOTH?” She was howling. Then we had to find the bathroom, which was another ordeal entirely.
My First Game: Slot Machines
Picking a slot machine may be a thing that’s researched for some gamblers, but not me! I don’t like homework, and with the sheer number of machines, you’d be researching for a whole month. But every slot machine was trying to get my attention like a hyperactive puppy. How did I choose? I went with a tried and true method of selection: familiarity. I saw the “Wheel of Fortune” machine and figured, why not play something I’ve watched on TV? Plus, the giant spinning wheel and the promise of a progressive jackpot and prizes didn’t hurt.
The Quirky Themes
The variety of themes was a real eye-opener—there were machines dedicated to every possible niche. Here are a few of the funniest and oddest ones that caught my eye:
- “Michael Jackson King of Pop”: Complete with moonwalking animations and hits like “Billie Jean” playing in the background.
- “Gremlins”: Yes, you could gamble with Gizmo, and occasionally, a mischievous gremlin would pop up to either help or hinder your chances.
- “Buffalo Diamond”: Featuring majestic buffaloes adorned with sparkling gems, it was like an animal kingdom meets Las Vegas extravaganza.
- “Sharknado”: Because nothing says jackpot like spinning tornadoes filled with sharks.
- “Game of Thrones”: Dragons, thrones, and the Iron Bank all made for an epic slot experience.
- “Friends”: Yes, the TV show. Spin the reels with Rachel, Ross, and the gang, hoping for a jackpot big enough to pay for all those Central Perk coffees.
Each machine had its own flair, making it not just a game of chance but a mini-themed adventure. Picking a slot machine wasn’t just about finding a game to play; it was about choosing which world you wanted to get lost in, even if just for a few spins.
Playing the Game
So, there I was, perched on the edge of the cracked leather seat in front of the “Wheel of Fortune” slot machine, ready to make my mark. But wait—how do I actually play this thing? There were so many buttons with cryptic symbols, levers that looked like they belonged on an old-timey train, and flashing lights that seemed to shout, “Press me! No, press me!” It felt like trying to crack a secret code with no decoder ring. After a few hesitant taps and a brief moment of panic where I thought I’d broken the machine, I managed to get it spinning. Turns out, it’s mostly about pressing the big, shiny button and hoping for the best. Who knew? Not me!
The Excitement of Winning
Just when I was starting to think I had absolutely no shot at winning a cent, it happened—the glorious, unexpected sound of a win. Lights flashed, the machine played a happy lil tune, and I saw the magic numbers appear: I’d won $25! Okay, so it wasn’t exactly a life-changing sum or anything, but at that moment, it felt like I’d hit the jackpot. I hopped up and did a little victory dance and felt like the queen of the casino.
The Inevitable Loss
Of course, I danced too soon, as my small victory was short-lived. Feeling emboldened by my $25 windfall, I kept playing, convinced that my luck had finally turned. The machine that had been my ally only moments ago turned into a voracious coin-eating monster. Within 25 minutes, my initial win, along with $300 of my own money, had vanished *poof* into the digital ether. It was like watching my dreams of riches get swallowed whole, one spin at a time. But that’s the casino life—sometimes you win, sometimes you lose, and sometimes you lose a lot really fast.
Trying the Tables: A Lesson in Strategy
The slots had turned on me, so I was done with those for now—it was time to try my luck on the table games (but not Blackjack; I’d already humiliated myself with the “Both?” incident.
There was roulette with its iconic spinning wheel, poker with its competitive edge and math (no thank you), craps with its high-energy atmosphere, and baccarat, the game of choice for Bond, James Bond 007 himself. Poker and blackjack were out, so that left baccarat, craps, and roulette.
1- Picking a Game
After some careful consideration, I decided to try my luck at roulette—the spinning wheel and the straightforward betting options felt way less intimidating than the others. Roulette seemed like a safer entry point into the world of table games, with its simple rules and the fun of watching the ball dance around the wheel.
2- Learning the Rules
Tentatively taking a seat at the roulette table, I was nervous and confused. The dealer, a patient, and friendly woman, noticed my hesitation and offered a quick rundown of the game. “Place your chips on the number or color you think the ball will land on,” she explained, smiling reassuringly. She also went over the different types of bets—straight-up, split, street, and the ever-popular red or black—making the game seem easier.
At one point, I asked if I could bet on multiple numbers at once. The dealer laughed (not in a mean way) and said, “You can, but spread your bets wisely. Don’t put all your chips in one basket.” Her patience with me made the learning process enjoyable rather than intimidating—being mocked by a dealer would certainly take away from the experience.
3- Fellow Players
The other players at the table were a mix of experienced gamblers and curious newcomers like me—one older man, who seemed like he’d been playing roulette forever, offered some sage advice: “Stick to red or black if you’re just starting. The odds are better.” Another player, a young woman with a mountain of chips, added, “Just have fun with it. Don’t stress too much about the strategy.” Their friendly tips helped calm my nerves and made me feel part of a friendly table.
4- Winning and Losing
Amazingly, my first few spins went well. I placed modest bets on red, and each time the ball landed in a red pocket, I felt a high of excitement. My chips started to stack up, and I began to think I had a knack for this game. The dealer nodded approvingly, and the other players smiled at my beginner’s luck. It was an amazing feeling, making me feel like I was on top of the world and a real gambler.
5- The Reality Check
But as quickly as my luck had come, it was yanked away. Remembering the lesson I’d learned from the slot machines, I was a little more cautious this time. I didn’t go overboard with my bets, but the ball seemed determined to land everywhere except where I’d placed my chips. Within a short span (don’t ask me how long; I’d stopped trying to keep track of time by this point), my winnings evaporated, and I ended up losing $150. It wasn’t the $300 from my slot machine fiasco, but it still hurt my feelings and my wallet.
The same older gentleman who had given me advice earlier kindly patted me on the arm and said, “That’s how it goes, kid. The house always wins.” And he is right. Despite the losses, I walked away from the table with an appreciation for the game, and I honestly had a great time playing—it will be my go-to game from now on (goodbye, slots).
The Entertainment and Amenities
Yes, we were there for the casino, but there were also so many things to do and see beyond the gambling! During our trip to Mandalay Bay, we took in some live entertainment—we saw “Michael Jackson ONE” by Cirque du Soleil. This spectacular show celebrated the King of Pop with a mix of dance, acrobatics, and special effects. The performances of iconic songs like “Thriller” and “Smooth Criminal” left us in awe, and the incredible LED costumes and synchronized routines were absolutely mesmerizing.
We also got the chance to see Carlos Santana’s residency at the House of Blues. His legendary guitar skills and dynamic stage presence made for a truly unforgettable evening. Santana’s blend of rock and Latin music in an intimate setting at the venue added to the magic of the performance.
Mandalay Bay also has its Concerts on the Beach series, which we didn’t see, but you can see live music while lounging by the beach. Acts like Lee Brice, Cole Swindell, and Sublime with Rome were there during our trip. There’s literally something for everyone, including their musical tastes!
Dining Options
The dining options at Mandalay Bay are not too shabby! We did the buffet, which offered an incredible variety of dishes from around the world. From fresh seafood and sushi to a carving station with all kinds of meats, it was a food lover’s paradise. The dessert section, with its decadent cakes and pastries, was the cherry on top (pun intended).
For a themed dining experience, we hit the House of Blues Restaurant. The Southern-inspired menu has mouthwatering and spicy dishes like Voodoo Shrimp and Jambalaya. The lively atmosphere and live music performances complemented the delicious food perfectly, making it a great dining experience.
Unique Attractions
The Mandalay Bay casino isn’t just gambling and shows; it offers some truly unique attractions, and one of them is why we chose that resort. There is a man-made beach. We repeat, a man-made beach with real sand and a massive wave pool; it feels like a mini tropical getaway right in the middle of the Vegas desert. It’s an expansive 11-acre water park where you can ride the waves in the wave pool, drift along the Lazy River, or relax in the tranquil lagoon. For those looking for some shade, there are cabanas, and when hunger strikes, you can refuel at the Beach Bar and Grill or enjoy a refreshing cocktail at one of the three bars. A word of advice: Wear sunscreen with a high SPF and drink one glass of water for every cocktail.
Another reason we picked Mandalay (well, why I rallied for it) is The Shark Reef Aquarium. It’s an immersive experience into the world of marine life— spanning over 90,000 square feet, it is home to more than 2,000 animals and over 100 species, including sharks, rays, and reptiles.
One of the best things is the Shark Tunnel, where you can walk through a transparent tunnel surrounded by sharks and other sea creatures swimming above and around you. This gives visitors an unparalleled 360-degree view of these magnificent (and terrifying) animals in a setting that mimics their natural habitat.
We also did the Touch Pool, which lets guests get up close and personal with different marine creatures. You can gently touch rays, horseshoe crabs, and other species, making it an educational experience. There are also exhibits with terrestrial creatures like the Komodo Dragon (no thank you) and the Golden Crocodile, which is one of the coolest things I’ve ever seen!
Lessons Learned
One of the most important lessons we learned during our casino girls’ trip getaway was the necessity of setting a budget. Gambling can be a lot of fun, but it’s super easy to get carried away. We quickly found out that you cannot spend more than you can afford to lose! Before hitting the casino floor, we each decided on a fixed amount of money we were willing to spend and lose. This helped us manage our expectations and keep the experience fun rather than stressful or possibly miserable.
Sticking to It
Now, sticking to our budgets was another challenge entirely, especially with a group of strong-willed women who have been hitting the sauce. In the heat of the moment, with the excitement of potential winnings, it was tempting to dip into more funds. To combat this, we came up with a humorous (to some of us) yet effective strategy: we confiscated each other’s debit and ATM cards. This way, we couldn’t impulsively withdraw more cash. It turned into a bit of a game in itself—every time one of us tried to sneak a card back, the others would intervene. Occasionally, this led to some crying and harsh words, but it kept us mainly within our budget, and we had no hard feelings the next morning.
The Social Aspect
One of the best things about our trip was the social aspect—casinos and their surrounding bars and clubs are heaving with people, all looking to have a good time. And if you are a woman, you already know that the best place to make new friends is the bathroom. Seriously, there’s something about the ladies’ room in a bar or club that turns it into a social hub, and that goes double for Vegas. Casual conversations turned into new vacation friendships—we hung out throughout our trip and got some great makeup tips as well. It was a nice reminder of the communal spirit that Vegas can foster, where strangers become besties, at least for a few hours.
People-watching
People-watching in a casino is its own pastime—we probably spent hours observing the variety of casino-goers and their behaviors. There were the high rollers, placing huge bets at the tables, the excited tourists trying their luck at the slots, and the regulars who seemed to know all the tricks of the trade. And then there were the cowboys—that was as entertaining as any live show and rivaled the Cirque du Soleil performance.
The Importance of Taking Breaks
Amid the excitement of gambling and the lack of clocks or sense of time, it’s really easy to lose track of it and go overboard. We learned the hard way that taking breaks is a must—gambling for long periods without a break can lead to fatigue and poor decision-making. One particularly memorable lesson came when one of us (ahem, Sophie) decided to gamble after spending too much time in the sun. The result? A sunburned, cranky gambler who eventually came around to the fact that it’s best to avoid the tables when you’re not at your best. Taking regular breaks helped us stay refreshed and not cranky.
Exploring the Casino
Mandalay Bay has so much more than just gambling, and we made it a point to explore the non-gambling activities. We loved lounging by the man-made beach with its wave pool and Lazy River, which was a perfect way to relax and recharge. The Shark Reef Aquarium was another highlight, offering a fascinating glimpse into the underwater world. These breaks not only provided a welcome respite from the gaming tables but also leveled up our overall experience, proving that there’s plenty of fun to be had without spending a dollar on gambling.
Final Thoughts
We had an incredible trip to Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas—truly one of my better getaways! The excitement of the casino, the nightlife, and the different attractions all made for an unforgettable vacation. Of course, losing some money was a downside, but it was all part of the experience. We left feeling great, albeit a bit lighter in the wallet, and on our next visit? Well, we’ll have a few better strategies in mind to manage our bankroll better.
Looking back, there are a few things we’d do differently.
- For one, we would be more mindful of our alcohol consumption. While it’s fun to indulge a bit, it’s easy to go overboard, and that can cloud your judgment and lead to some not-so-great decisions at the tables.
- We’d also stress the importance of sticking to a budget more strictly and taking more frequent breaks to avoid burnout.
- We’d probably spend even more time exploring the non-gambling attractions that Mandalay Bay has, as they were some of the best moments of our trip.
For first-timers, these tips can make the difference between a good experience and a great one.
Despite some messy behavior on our part and the casino being overrun with cowboys, the fun of our trip was undeniable. The casino games, the friendships formed in the ladies’ rooms, and the extras and amenities of Mandalay Bay made it an adventure that was worth every penny. Whether it was my first roulette win or the jokes still made at my “Both?” Blackjack blunder: every moment added to our Vegas experience.
If you’ve never been to a casino or are considering a trip to Las Vegas, we wholeheartedly encourage you to give it a try. The experience is about so much more than just gambling; it’s about the atmosphere, the people, and the fun you’ll have along the way.
If you have your own first-time stories or tips, tell us about them—we are all ears! Every adventure is different, and yours could inspire someone else to take that leap and experience the excitement of Las Vegas.
