More than Shopping: How to Spend the Perfect Day in the Heart of Caesars Palace

If anyone were to ask me where to experience the true spirit of Las Vegas—not in a casino, not at a show, but in one single location—I would without hesitation point to The Forum Shops at Caesars Palace. This 675,000-square-foot retail destination is much more than just rows of stores. It is a theatrical performance where luxury brands meet ancient Roman grandeur, and every corner serves as a reminder that you are at the epicenter of illusion.

When I first walked through the 48-foot Roman arch at the entrance, I was overwhelmed by the feeling of stepping into an alternate reality. Marble columns, statues of gods, and ceiling frescoes create an atmosphere that is difficult to put into words. It was right here, amidst this diversity, that I realized: The Forum Shops is not just a place for shopping, but a complete cultural experience.

Atmosphere and Architectural Wonders

“The Eternal Sunset”: The Magic of the Artificial Sky

One of the most famous features of The Forum Shops is the ceiling that mimics the sky. When I first stepped inside, I was struck by how seamlessly the lighting changes: from bright daylight to a soft sunset, and then to twilight. This is not just a decoration—it is a true illusion of walking outdoors during the “golden hour,” when the light is particularly beautiful.

The secret lies in the fact that the light shifts throughout the day, creating the effect of a natural cycle. As I walk past fountains and columns, it feels as though time has stopped, and I am somewhere in ancient Rome. This atmosphere adds magic even to an ordinary shopping trip.

The Fountain of the Gods: The Heart of an Ancient Empire

Located in the center of the mall is the magnificent Fountain of the Gods—a sculptural composition that captures the spirit of an ancient empire. Standing by this fountain, I am surrounded by statues of gods that appear to come to life. The fountain is adorned with cascading water, and its sheer scale is impressive: it is a true work of art that recalls the greatness of Rome.

The Fountain of the Gods is not merely a decorative element. It is a place to pause, enjoy the beauty, and feel part of something larger. There are always crowds around the fountain taking photos, admiring the water, and discussing the beauty of the sculptures.

Fall of Atlantis: A Show You Can’t Miss

If you find yourself at The Forum Shops, be sure to catch the Fall of Atlantis show. This is a free animatronic performance that takes place hourly from 12:00 PM to 8:00 PM (Thursday through Monday; the show is dark on Tuesday and Wednesday).

When I first saw this show, I was amazed by its technical complexity. Over 400 moving parts bring the statues of gods to life: King Atlas and his children engage in an epic battle, accompanied by fire and water effects. Fourteen LED screens play the visuals, while 40 surround-sound speakers create the impression that you are at the center of the action. The sound is so powerful it vibrates in your chest as the gods express their wrath.

The show lasts 11 minutes, and every second is filled with drama and spectacle. A crowd always gathers around the fountain, so I recommend arriving early to snag a good spot.

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Classics and Futurism: Spiral Escalators

One of the most unusual details of The Forum Shops is the spiral escalators created by Mitsubishi Electric. There are very few of these escalators in the world, and here, in the three-story annex with an entrance directly on Las Vegas Boulevard, they look especially striking.

As I ascend these escalators, I am surrounded by arched ceilings with fresh frescoes, marble column arches, and the feeling that I am in some futuristic palace. This blend of antiquity and modernity creates a unique atmosphere that is hard to find in other malls.

Seasonal Installations: Dragons and Other Surprises

The Forum Shops constantly updates its installations to remain relevant and engaging for visitors. One of the most impressive examples is the massive Red Dragon figure installed for the Lunar New Year. This installation symbolizes respect for different cultures and adds a unique flavor to the mall.

Additionally, you can find other seasonal decorations throughout The Forum Shops that change based on holidays and events. This makes every visit unique, as you never know what new installation you might see next.

LED Screen: A Modern Accent

In 2017, a massive LED screen measuring 85 feet high and 41 feet wide was installed near the entrance on the Las Vegas Boulevard side. This screen plays vibrant videos, advertisements, and animations, catching the eye of passersby. Whenever I walk past this screen, I am always struck by its scale and image quality—it is a true symbol of modern Las Vegas.

I have to admit, I didn’t manage to capture a perfect photo of this LED screen. The constant motion of the visuals, the intense brightness, and the surrounding lighting made it surprisingly difficult to photograph properly. So please excuse the imperfect shot — sometimes the energy of Las Vegas is simply too dynamic to freeze in a single frame. In reality, the screen looks even more impressive than any photo can convey.

Gastronomic Stops

An Italian Dinner at Carmine’s

After a few hours of wandering through The Forum Shops, it’s time to refuel, and I always choose Carmine’s Italian Restaurant. This old-school Italian-style eatery offers classic red-sauce dishes served family-style. The atmosphere here is cozy, and the interior is reminiscent of an authentic Italian trattoria.

The best part about Carmine’s is the Happy Hour, which runs Monday through Thursday from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM at the bar. During this time, you can order appetizers and drinks at reduced prices. For example, Eggplant Rollatini (fried eggplant stuffed with four kinds of cheese) is $8, Spinach-Artichoke Dip (spinach and artichokes in a cheese sauce) is $10, and Fried Calamari is $14. Drinks are also available: house wine is $8, and cocktails are $10.

I recommend trying the Meatball Sliders for $10—homemade meatballs with melted mozzarella on mini buns. It’s the perfect quick bite while shopping.

Celebrity Food Hall: A Quick Bite in Baroque Interiors

If you’re looking for a quick snack, visit the Celebrity Food Hall located within Caesars Palace. This food court is open 24/7 (though some stalls have specific hours), and you can find dishes for every taste. The atmosphere is incredible: the Baroque ceiling with frescoes reminds you of a palace, while the variety of cuisines is impressive.

Some of the most popular spots include:

• Bobby’s Burgers By Bobby Flay (Open Sun–Thu 7:00 AM–2:00 AM, Fri–Sat 7:00 AM–4:00 AM): The famous Crunchburger for $13.49, featuring beef, potato chips, and signature sauce.
• Chicken Guy! (Open daily 11:00 AM–2:00 AM): Fresh chicken tenders for $13.99 with 22 signature sauces.
• Tortazo By Rick Bayless (Open from 11:00 AM): Mexican sandwiches, like the Crispy Chicken Milanesa for $17.99.
• Mokbar By Esther Choi (Open Sun–Thu 11:00 AM–12:00 AM, Fri–Sat 11:00 AM–2:00 AM): Korean cuisine, with popular dumplings in soup for $11.99.
• Buddy V’s Pizzeria (Open Sun–Thu 7:00 AM–2:00 AM, Fri–Sat 7:00 AM–4:00 AM): Pizza from the “Cake Boss” Buddy Valastro, with a classic pepperoni for $59.99 (group portion).
• Starbucks (Open daily 5:00 AM–10:00 PM): Coffee and snacks, with a basic Americano for $4.75.

The Celebrity Food Hall is the perfect place to sample different world cuisines without spending much time.

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Battle of the Malls: The Forum Shops vs. Miracle Mile Shops

Las Vegas offers plenty of shopping options, but the two most popular malls are The Forum Shops at Caesars Palace and Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood. I’ve visited both, and each has its own advantages.

Luxury vs. Affordability

The Forum Shops focuses on high-end brands that create an aura of true luxury and individuality. Here, you can find iconic labels such as:

• Gucci – A synonym for Italian glamour and modern classics. The boutique impresses with a luxurious interior of marble, mirrors, and gold accents. On the shelves: iconic double “G” bags, accessories, modern apparel, and luxury footwear.

• Versace – True Italian extravagance that never fails to impress. The store is decorated with signature graphic motifs and gold, often showcasing bold looks and recognizable prints in its windows.

• Fendi – A brand that blends classics with innovation. Especially striking are their iconic Baguette and Peekaboo bags. At The Forum Shops, the Fendi boutique stands out with a facade styled like an ancient temple.

• Prada — an Italian brand for those who appreciate minimalism, intellectual fashion, and an avant-garde approach to design. The Prada flagship store at The Forum Shops impresses with its architecture featuring geometric patterns and eye-catching window displays that naturally draw attention. Here, you’ll find the latest collections of accessories, apparel, footwear, handbags, as well as limited-edition designer pieces.

• Tiffany & Co. — a legend of American jewelry craftsmanship and a true symbol of style. The boutique, designed in its signature turquoise hue, is a genuine oasis of elegance and romance. Here, you’ll be welcomed by iconic jewelry collections, luxurious engagement rings, and handcrafted accessories. A gift presented in a Tiffany & Co. box is always an exceptional gesture, symbolizing celebration and refined taste.
• Philipp Plein — an oasis for those who love extravagance and bold self-expression. The Philipp Plein boutique is instantly recognizable for its striking art installations (including a crystal skull), mirrored surfaces, and lavish décor. Inside, you’ll discover clothing that blends street style with luxury, along with footwear and accessories adorned with crystals and daring prints.

• Jaeger-LeCoultre — a Swiss watchmaking House with nearly two centuries of history. The boutique captivates with its understated luxury and modern showcases displaying iconic models such as the Reverso and Master collections, highly valued by collectors around the world. This is a place where you can not only purchase an exclusive timepiece but also experience the true atmosphere of Haute Horlogerie.

If you are looking for something unique and prestigious, these brands will make your shopping trip unforgettable. However, if your budget is tight, there are more accessible options: H&M (the largest in the US), Banana Republic, AllSaints, ALO and Diesel.

Miracle Mile Shops, by contrast, is oriented toward the mass market. It features H&M, Urban Outfitters, Victoria’s Secret, Foot Locker, and other popular brands. Prices are lower here, and the selection is broader for those seeking affordable fashion.

Theming and Design

The Forum Shops is all about Roman grandeur: marble fountains, columns, statues of gods, and fresh frescoes. Walking through here, I feel like I’m part of history.

Miracle Mile Shops offers a modern “urban-cool” style with neon energy. The interior is more dynamic, focusing on youth and activity. The mall is laid out in a 1.2-mile circle, making the walk a true trek.

Show Effects

The Forum Shops offers Fall of Atlantis—an epic animatronic show with fire, water, and sound effects. It’s a free 11-minute performance that captivates audiences with the legend of Atlantis.

Miracle Mile Shops counters with its famous Rainstorm Show—an indoor rainstorm complete with thunder and lightning. The show occurs every half-hour from 10:30 AM to 10:30 PM, creating the impression of a real storm inside. I stood under this “rain” (without actually getting wet) and felt the sounds and light effects bring the mall to life.

Layout

The Forum Shops is a spacious multi-level gallery that is easy to navigate. Most stores are open:

• Sunday through Thursday from 10:00 AM to 11:00 PM
• Friday/Saturday from 10:00 AM to midnight.

Miracle Mile Shops is a 1.2-mile circular walk. Hours of operation:

• Sunday–Thursday 10:00 AM–9:00 PM
• Friday–Saturday 10:00 AM–10:00 PM

If you enjoy long walks and want to see as many stores as possible, this is the ideal choice.

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Shopping Tips: How to Score the Best Deals

Hunting for Discounts

The Forum Shops offers seasonal sales, especially in mid-range stores. For instance, AllSaints frequently holds sales with discounts up to 60% + an extra 20% off. I always keep an eye out for these offers, as it’s a chance to buy high-quality items at an accessible price.

Additionally, many stores offer discounts to loyalty program members. If you plan on making major purchases, it’s worth signing up for your favorite brands’ newsletters.

Choosing by Budget

If your budget is limited but you want to experience the atmosphere of The Forum Shops, I recommend simply strolling through the mall to enjoy the architecture and free shows. For actual shopping, you might prefer Miracle Mile Shops, where prices are lower and the selection is wider.

If you are ready to splurge on luxury brands, The Forum Shops is your destination. You can find exclusive models and limited collections here.

Windows into the Future: Gentle Monster

Be sure to visit Gentle Monster—the South Korean eyewear brand store that opened in August 2024 on the second floor of The Forum Shops. This is the brand’s first and only store in Las Vegas, and it impresses not just with eyewear, but with art.

Near the entrance is the kinetic installation Giant Head Trio—three massive robotic heads created by Gentle Monster’s in-house lab. They move, change facial expressions, and create a futuristic art atmosphere. The installation sparks reflection on the future of human-robotic interaction.

Even if you don’t plan on buying glasses, Gentle Monster is worth visiting as a free contemporary art gallery. The store is open Sunday through Thursday from 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM, and Friday/Saturday from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM.

Exterior and the Architectural Grandeur of Caesars Palace

The Forum Shops is just one part of the massive Caesars Palace complex, which is an architectural landmark in its own right. As I approach the hotel, I am greeted by classic balustrades, a grand columned entrance, and statues reminiscent of ancient Rome.

The hotel facades are executed in a Neoclassical style, emphasizing symmetry and majesty. Even if you aren’t staying at Caesars Palace, it’s worth walking around the building to admire its exterior. The view is particularly stunning in the evening when the lighting highlights every architectural detail.

How Expedia Helps Save on Your Stay at Caesars Palace

If you’re planning a trip to Las Vegas and want to stay at Caesars Palace, Expedia is a great way to save on your booking. The service is currently offering an Annual Vacation Sale, where members can save up to 40% on select hotels and homes.

How does it work? Sign up or log into your Expedia account, join the One Key program, and get access to exclusive discounts. While booking, look for rooms marked with a “Member Price” tag—these prices are only for program participants.

Additionally, One Key allows you to earn points on every booking, which can be used for future travel. It’s the perfect way to save money, especially if you plan several trips a year.

Caesars Palace is one of the most famous hotels in Las Vegas, and staying here allows you to enjoy all the location’s perks: The Forum Shops is located right inside the hotel, so you won’t have to go far for shopping or dinner.

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Conclusion

The Forum Shops at Caesars Palace is more than just a mall. It is a place where architecture, art, gastronomy, and shopping merge into one unique experience. Whether you are looking for luxury brands, impressive shows, or the atmosphere of ancient Rome, this is the place for you. If your budget is more modest, check out Miracle Mile Shops for lower prices and a wider selection.

Every day spent at The Forum Shops leaves an unforgettable impression. I recommend setting aside at least a few hours to stroll through the mall, see Fall of Atlantis, eat at Carmine’s, and admire the architecture. And if you plan to stay at Caesars Palace, don’t forget to take advantage of the Expedia Annual Vacation Sale to save up to 40% on your stay.

The Forum Shops is a place I return to again and again, as every visit reveals something new. It’s not just shopping—it’s a journey into a world of illusions where luxury becomes a part of everyday life.