The Mirage is more inviting than in its chaotic past, thanks to a design switch from heavy tropics to a more soothing Asian wood accents. But it's still twisting and meandering, and the relatively low ceiling is still a medium claustrophobic issue. This remains one of our favorite places to gamble. Facilities include a plush European-style salon privé for high rollers at baccarat, blackjack, and roulette; an elegant dining room serves catered meals to gamblers there. Slot and table players can join the MGM MIRAGE Players Club and work toward bonus points for cash rebates, special room rates, complimentary meals and/or show tickets, and other benefits. The elaborate race and sports book offers theater stereo sound and a movie theater-size screen. It's one of the most pleasant and popular casinos in town, so it's crowded more often than not.