Like fellow bloggers Points and Pixie Dust and Le Chic Geek, I absolutely love Vegas. There’s something alluring about escaping to a city that’s always sunny and filled with glitz and glam. Of course, Vegas is one of those cities where a “2-night-max” rule applies before you really start losing your mind, money, and dignity. Still, I always get giddy about the idea of dress-up time and grown-up fun.
Two years ago, Hyatt and M Life announced their new partnership, allowing members to receive reciprocal benefits. Being a Hyatt Diamond member at the time, I was over the moon when I was matched to M Life Platinum. Knowing I could maximize the benefits, further fueled my desire to travel to Vegas as frequently as I could before it expired.
While I traditionally travel to Vegas with Mr. Points Traveler or friends, last week we tried something unique: we brought the 2 lap babies. AND the in-laws. Fortunately, it ended up being an enjoyable experience for all; but am I racing to book another Vegas and kids combo anytime soon? I’ll let the jury decide on that one.
I attribute a lot of the “success” to the family trip to having the M Life Platinum status and I wanted to share some of the best “perks” that are not widely known.
Cut the Taxi Line
I cannot emphasize enough how huge this benefit is. If you’ve ever been to Vegas during a busy time, then you know that taxi line can be as long as a Disney ride, especially late at night. By flashing your M Life Platinum or Noir card at an M Life property (see below for a list), you’ll be able to skip the wait.
Nightclub Entry
Nightclubs are slowly not becoming “my thing” anymore because I hate lines, overly drunk people, and feeling like a sardine in a crowd, so usually I find it “worth it” to get a small group of friends together and buy bottle service just to have dedicated space if the price is right. One way to cut the line at clubs is to flash your M Life Platinum card to the host. This can be especially valuable at MGM’s new (and overrated IMHO), night club Hakkasan.
Skip the Buffet Line
Vegas and buffets – talk about a zoo. During peak times, lines can exceed an hour. “Ain’t Nobody Got Time For That”. Flash your card for expedited seating.
Check in at “Invited Guest” Line
Another Vegas zoo attraction is the hotel check-in lines, especially between noon and 3 pm. If you’re staying as a Platinum guest at an M Life property, you’re eligible to use to dedicated “Invited Guest” line.
15% Discount at Select Retail Shops
That $6 bottle of water at your local casino gift shop just got 15% cheaper when you flash your M Life card. M Life Platinum members receive a 15% discount at select retail shops when you show your card at the register. I may or may not have asked if this discount was applicable at the Chanel store at the Bellagio (of course not).
Free Entry to Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay
We just visited the Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay with my 19-month old son and he loved it! Admission is normally $18 per adult, but free for Platinum members and guests.
Free Entry to Siegfried & Roy’s Secret Garden and Dolphin Habitat at Mirage
While not exactly overly impressive, visiting the Secret Garden at the Mirage was a fun activity to do with the kids during the day. Admission is normally $19.95 per adult, but Platinum and Noir guests can get 10 complimentary tickets per year.
Skip the line at Shake Shack
Ok, so I obviously saved the best perk for last – cut the line at Shake Shack! While I always make sure to get my dose of In N Out while visiting the west coast, I’m partial to the east coast, and we have Shake Shack. The New York New York hotel recently opened up a strip-facing outdoor Shake Shack and lines were HUGE to say the least. It was not until I was half way in the door until I noticed there was an express line for M Life Platinum and Noir cardholders. Sweet perk indeed!
What are some of your favorite M Life Platinum benefits? Anything else I should take note of for next time? I’ve already booked my next Vegas trip today… ;)
I feel like what this blog post is saying is that we should have a girls BoardingArea trip to Vegas :D
YES! Tell me when and I’ll be there lol
If you are interested in a gondola ride or tickets to “50 Shades, the Parody,” I’d be glad to get you a discount next time you are in town. Always happy to help a points aficionado.
Thanks Ryan! Very kind of you. I’ll shoot you a message the next time I am in town.
Very timely post for me. I’m going to Vegas in a few weeks and have booked the Delano through Mlife. I”m also Platinum, but through a cruise line status match.
Did you find the Plat status helped for an upgrade at check-in? It says if available, but I’m not sure if I should make a point of asking. Also, for the taxi and buffet lines, did you just make your way to the front of everyone and show your card to the person at the front? I’m thinking this could be awkward, especially if the lines are as crowded as I recall them being.
HI Rene! Unfortunately I have asked for upgrades as a Platinum and was not given anything (even when I booked through AmEx FHR). I was offered a “buy up” option but that was hardly worth it. Vegas is funny with upgrades and it’s really a YMMV or “money speaks” case. Yes for taxi I just walked up and flashed it to the guy manning the line. 9/10 times it worked great. One time the guy assumed I was lost and looking for the luggage line (it’s because I look young and “not elite”). When he saw my card he apologized and put me in the next cab. Although it seems awkward, It’s pretty standard and all of hotel employees know to recognize.
I always rent a car in Vegas. I have really enjoyed the “next up” service at the valet. It comes in very handy at busy hotels like mgm grand.
As a legit m life platinum holder, gotta say that your review and tips are right on a greatly appreciated! Love the tips and look forward to reading more of your insights
Hello Angelina, I saw your blog and I find it amazing and really useful.
My name is Jorge and I’m from Mexico City, I am also a MLife platinum member.
Next week I’ll be traveling to vegas with some friends and I was wondering if there are any benefits at the pools?
One other pretty sweet benefit is admission to Moorea Beach club! Topless bathing and much nicer with no kids around.
Which night clubs are free entry with the platinum?
You also get 2 free tickets to the NYNY Roller coaster and entrance to the Bellagio museum.