Forget popping in for some souvenirs and a postcard—exploring the Forum Shops may require a day of your attention or more!
Named after the centre of Ancient Roman life, the Forum follows a classical design, and is replete with elaborate columns and arches, two central piazzas (each with its own enormous, Romanesque fountain) and assorted classical statues. Nothing is missed out in this fantasy-shopping experience: even the ceiling is painted to resemble the sky.
Unlike most shopping malls, the Forum is a work of art in itself and it’s worth setting some time aside to appreciate the décor and facilities on show. From the spiral staircases that appear to be suspended in mid-air to a gigantic saltwater aquarium, it’s easy to wander around and window-shop here for hours.
With 160 shops catering to all tastes and budgets, from top-end labels like Dolce & Gabbana, Louis Vuitton and Christian Dior to mid-range brands like Nike, The Gap and Guess, the Forum is the perfect place for getting some serious retail therapy.
If you aren’t a shopaholic, or have already emptied your pockets in the casinos, then you’re in luck because some spectacular free entertainment is usually on offer here. In the building’s west wing, the Festival Fountain Show brings the Roman gods to life, complete with lasers, music and sound effects. Next to the Cheesecake Factory, you’ll find the Fall of Atlantis Show. Watch a frenzy of thunderous sound, animatronics and pyrotechnics in this re-enactment of the destruction of the mythical city of Atlantis—arrive early to make sure you get a front row seat.
When all that shopping gets too much, take advantage of the range of dining options available to recharge your batteries—including cafés, specialty food shops and restaurants, sushi bars, up-market seafood restaurants and steak houses. You’ll find trendy chains where you can get everything from a high-end burger to classic Italian fare. And there’s no shortage of dessert options either...
At the end of a packed day, head to the Forum’s Qua Baths and Spa for one of its indulgent Roman-themed treatments or pampering rituals.
The Forum shops are located at Caesars Palace, which is halfway down The Strip, next door to Bellagio. The monorail, public bus and mini-bus shuttles all stop here. Ask at your hotel reception for day rates on bus and monorail passes.
