What Was the Grand Sierra Resort Before?

By Alice Nichols

The Grand Sierra Resort is a popular destination for travelers looking for a luxurious stay in Reno, Nevada. But what many people don’t know is that the resort wasn’t always the sprawling complex it is today. Let’s take a trip down memory lane and explore what the Grand Sierra Resort was before its transformation.

The Beginning

The Grand Sierra Resort, originally known as the MGM Grand Reno, first opened its doors in 1978. It was built to compete with other casinos in the area and quickly became a popular destination for both locals and tourists.

The Expansion

In 1989, the MGM Grand Reno underwent a massive expansion project to add more hotel rooms and amenities. The expansion included the addition of a 27-story hotel tower with over 1,000 rooms, as well as several restaurants, bars, and lounges.

The Rebranding

In 2006, the MGM Grand Reno was sold to new owners who rebranded it as the Grand Sierra Resort and Casino. The new owners invested even more money into renovating and expanding the property, adding a state-of-the-art theater, a spa and fitness center, an outdoor pool area with cabanas and fire pits, and even an indoor go-kart track.

The Present Day

Today’s Grand Sierra Resort boasts over 2,000 rooms across two hotel towers, multiple restaurants offering everything from casual dining to fine cuisine, an expansive casino floor with slot machines and table games galore, and plenty of entertainment options like concerts and comedy shows.

  • Fun Fact: The Grand Sierra Resort was used as a filming location for several movies including “The Cooler” starring William H. Macy.
  • Another Fun Fact: The indoor go-kart track at the resort is one of only three in the entire country!
  • One More Fun Fact: The resort’s pool area features a 50-foot tall rock climbing wall in addition to the cabanas and fire pits.

The Takeaway

Although the Grand Sierra Resort has undergone many changes over the years, it remains a popular destination for travelers looking for a luxurious stay in Reno. Whether you’re interested in gambling, fine dining, or just lounging by the pool, there’s something for everyone at this iconic resort.