Las Vegas Specials & Casino Trip Reports

back from my trip and wanted to make a short trip report.
Drove in from CA and swung by Red Rock Canyon on my way in. It was worth the time. Nature always has a way to wow you.
then we drove up to Ballys where we had our reservations. I slipped the guy a twenty between my cc and license as I asked if he had a complimentary upgrade. He said he could put me in a newly remodeled room on the 24th floor of the North tower. I went with it. I was satisfied. Largest hotel room that wasn't a suite that I have ever had. Nice marble bath that satisfied my wife. I don't know what I would have received w/o the twenty, maybe the same, but I was satisfied.
Slots were a little tight everywhere although I eventually came out ahead. Left winning less than $100.00 but that beats losing as I am not a big gambler. I won that in Ballys on a quarter slot machine.
Went to Ellis Island my first night. Good atmosphere but definitely not polished. My wife and I both had the special on the steak for $4.95. I didn't go back and reorder. Enjoyed my time there but the steak was as tuff as any I've ever eaten. Not complaining, just explaining as I couldn't expect it to be great at that price.
The new 'duece' buses make getting up and down the strip easy. Far better deal than the monorail. All day pass (24 hours)for $5.00 per person. As of now, they were clean, comfortable and the drivers joked a lot.
Ate one night at outback on the strip to keep from overpaying for a buffet. It was good and a usual outback meal. My last night I went to Tropicana's Garden Cafe on someone recommendation. Had a first class steak and meal at a reasonable price. Only problem I had was finding the restaurant in the casino/hotel.
We did a lot of walking around (thru the new PH) which was ok but similar to the old.
Vegas always amazes me with the size of everything and the oppulence.
Wish I had more to report, but that about covers it on a short trip.