Back in the early 1990s the mega resort concept was still brand new, and developers didn’t have an accurate handle on what the city’s personality really was and what feelings its resorts should evoke. 

It was the start of something new and it was at this time Steve Wynn started to develop a follow-up to his massively successful Mirage. Originally conceived to appeal to a broader family audience when it debuted in 1993 at a cost of $450 million, Treasure Island has gone through a massive re-branding effort during the last few years. The casino resort has successfully shed its overtly family friendly image for a more sophisticated and sexy persona.

At TI, the resort has everything on site, so for those not wanting to leave the property, there are plenty of ways to eat, drink, play and relax for days. It’s also connected to Mirage via tram. TI’s “elegant Caribbean hideaway” theme has been toned down significantly, successfully shedding its Pirates of the Caribbean like heritage in favor of a more modern flavor. Don’t get me wrong, there are still plenty of dark rich woods and island flairs throughout, giving TI a definitive sense of place, but its no longer an in your face approach to design.

Suites are currently being renovated while Deluxe Rooms will get a complete overhaul set to start before the year is out.

The only element of the resort that hasn’t really changed is Mystère, which debuted in December 1993 and kick started the Las Vegas Cirque du Soleil entertainment revolution. Now ubiquitous, when this show debuted it was an entirely new concept for The Strip.  Mystère features 72 performers in an acrobatic show filled with miraculous feats of strength and agility set to a New Age soundtrack. Its premise – a tale of two babies who explore a world filled with strange creatures – is really just a loose way of holding the show’s myriad components together.

The centerpiece of the resort’s entertainment is Sirens of TI, a reconceived version of the old swashbuckling adventure that features a seafaring battle between two tall ships. Originally developed as a way to lure tourists into the resort with some free entertainment, the show – while definitely edgier – is still OK for younger ones. Combining stunts, pyrotechnics and a host of scantily clad “sirens,” the show runs several times a night weather permitting.  Tip: The show is cancelled frequently due to high winds. If you client must see this attraction recommend they try to see the show earlier in the trip.

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Social House is a great place to enjoy sushi, sake and some great outdoor dining with views of The Strip. Tip: Make reservations 30 minutes before the Sirens of TI show for unobstructed views. If not eating sushi, suggest these highlights from the Pan Asian menu including Citrus Peel Miso Marinated Cod and Snake River Farms’ Kobe Beef-Three Ways: Carpaccio, Tataki and Tartar. 

Also try Isla Mexican Kitchen and Tequila Bar. There are likely more tequilas here than your client’s ever seen in one place and the food is light and tasty. Signature items include Grilled Mexican Spiced Chicken Breast with Corn Dumplings and Pico de Gallo and Crispy Red Snapper with Cactus Salad and Citrus Epazote Vinaigrette. Francesco’s is and upscale Italian eatery with an open kitchen. There are fresh pastas, antipasti and Mediterranean-style seafood while The Steak House features top cuts of beef and fresh seafood.

The mega-resort features a tropical pool with private cabanas as well as a lounge area and TI’s Party Tub – an oversized hot tub that accommodates up to 50 people. Its spa, Wet, is a full service facility offering a variety of treatments and services. While Wet closes at 8 p.m. Sunday through Wednesday, its open until 10 p.m. Thursday through Saturday. Suggest your clients get a late evening massage followed by dinner and a visit to Tangerine. 

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