As a long-term resident of Las Vegas, I’ve had the pleasure of experiencing the city’s diverse culinary landscape. Among the numerous dining options, the Circus Buffet at Circus Circus Hotel & Casino stands out for its family-friendly atmosphere and affordability. This article provides an in-depth look at the Circus Buffet, its offerings, pricing, and nearby attractions to help you make the most of your visit.
Overview of Circus Buffet
Located within the iconic Circus Circus Hotel & Casino on the northern end of the Las Vegas Strip, the Circus Buffet has been a staple for visitors seeking a casual dining experience. Known for its budget-friendly prices and variety of dishes, it caters primarily to families and travelers looking for value.
Location and Ambiance
- Address: 2880 Las Vegas Blvd S, Las Vegas, NV 89109
- Setting: The buffet features a casual and unpretentious atmosphere, aligning with the family-oriented theme of Circus Circus
- Décor: While not extravagant, the décor is functional, providing a comfortable dining environment suitable for guests of all ages
- Capacity: The buffet can accommodate large groups, making it ideal for families and parties
- Vibe: Relaxed, kid-friendly, and bustling during peak hours
Operating Hours and Pricing
- Brunch: Available on weekends, from 7:00 AM – 2:00 PM
- Dinner: Served Friday through Sunday, from 4:30 PM – 10:00 PM
- Pricing: Approximately $25 per person for both brunch and dinner
- Children’s Pricing: Discounts are often available for children under 10 years old
- Availability: Reservations are not required, but arriving early is recommended to avoid long lines
Culinary Offerings
The Circus Buffet provides a range of dishes designed to appeal to both adults and children. While it may not boast the extensive selections of some of the more upscale Las Vegas buffets, it offers a satisfying variety for its price point.
Brunch Selections
- Breakfast Staples: Waffles, pancakes, scrambled eggs, sausage, and bacon
- Hot Items: Biscuits and gravy, French toast, and hash browns
- Lighter Options: Fresh fruit, yogurt, and assorted cereals
- Pastries: Muffins, croissants, and Danishes
- Beverages: Coffee, tea, milk, and a self-serve soda fountain
Dinner Selections
- Entrees: Carved meats, rotisserie chicken, and pasta
- Seafood: Fried shrimp and grilled fish (availability may vary)
- Kid-Friendly Choices: Macaroni and cheese, chicken tenders, and mini corn dogs
- Salad Bar: Mixed greens, pasta salad, and a variety of toppings and dressings
- Side Dishes: Mashed potatoes, rice, steamed vegetables, and rolls
Dessert and Beverages
- Desserts: Cakes, pies, soft-serve ice cream, cookies, and brownies
- Beverages: Complimentary coffee, tea, and fountain drinks
- Ice Cream Station: Customizable soft-serve with various toppings
- Sweet Treats: Jello cups and pudding
- Sugar-Free Options: A small selection of sugar-free pastries and desserts
Circus Buffet Food Stations
The Circus Buffet at Circus Circus does have food stations, though they are simpler and less elaborate than those found in high-end Las Vegas buffets. The layout is designed to be straightforward and functional, catering to families and budget-conscious diners.
Food stations typically include:
Carving Station
- Freshly carved meats such as roast beef, turkey, and ham
- Served with gravy and traditional sides like mashed potatoes and stuffing
- Rotating meat selections depending on the day and meal service
- Often a popular stop during dinner service
- Staff on hand to slice meats to order
Salad Bar
- Mixed greens, pasta salads, and potato salad
- Toppings like cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, olives, and croutons
- Assorted dressings (ranch, Italian, Caesar, etc.)
- Cold vegetable options such as coleslaw and marinated mushrooms
- Pre-made salads for convenience
Hot Entree Station
- Pasta dishes like spaghetti, lasagna, or macaroni and cheese
- Rotisserie chicken, fried fish, and meatloaf
- Seasonal vegetables and potato dishes
- Rice and beans or other simple comfort foods
- Rotating entrees during brunch and dinner services
Kids’ Station
- Chicken tenders, mini corn dogs, and French fries
- Cheese pizza and sliders
- Simple vegetables like baby carrots or peas
- Pancakes, waffles, and breakfast sausages during brunch
- Easy-to-serve foods for younger guests
Dessert Station
- Cakes, pies, cookies, and brownies
- Soft-serve ice cream machine with toppings like sprinkles and chocolate syrup
- Jello cups, pudding, and fruit cocktail
- A selection of sugar-free desserts
- Seasonal dessert items, such as holiday-themed treats
Beverage Station
- Self-serve soda fountains offering soft drinks like Coke, Sprite, and lemonade
- Hot coffee, tea, and hot chocolate
- Milk and juice during breakfast and brunch
- Water dispensers with lemon slices
- Free refills on all beverages
The food stations are set up to allow guests to serve themselves, creating a relaxed and casual buffet experience. While the Circus Buffet doesn’t offer as many gourmet options as some competitors, its stations provide variety and cater to a wide range of tastes, making it a reliable choice for families and large groups.
Comparison to Other Las Vegas Buffets
Las Vegas is known for its extensive buffet offerings, ranging from affordable family-friendly spots to luxurious, gourmet experiences. The Circus Buffet sits comfortably in the budget-friendly category, catering primarily to families and casual diners. Here’s how it compares to other buffets on the Strip:
Budget-Friendly Buffets
Similar in price and atmosphere to Circus Buffet. Offers basic comfort food and family-friendly options.
- Larger variety than Circus Buffet but lacks the themed entertainment that Circus Circus provides.
- Known for casual fare like fried chicken, pasta, and dessert bars.
Luxor Buffet (The Buffet at Luxor)
Affordable and slightly more upscale than Circus Buffet with themed food nights.
- Larger seating area and wider variety, but less focused on kid-friendly entertainment.
- Offers international cuisine options like Mexican, Asian, and Italian alongside American dishes.
Mid-tier buffet offering more variety than Circus Buffet at a slightly higher price point.
- Includes live omelet and carving stations, which Circus Buffet lacks.
- Family-friendly but caters more to adults and larger groups.
Luxury Buffets
Bacchanal Buffet (Caesars Palace)
One of the most extravagant buffets in Las Vegas, featuring live cooking stations and gourmet offerings.
- Much higher price point, but the variety and quality of food far surpass Circus Buffet.
- Ideal for foodies or visitors seeking a high-end dining experience.
Wicked Spoon (The Cosmopolitan)
Renowned for unique presentation and upscale dishes.
- Features small-plate servings and extensive live stations, making it more refined than Circus Buffet.
- Better suited for adults or couples rather than families with young children.
High-end buffet with beautiful décor, offering gourmet dishes, seafood, and premium desserts.
- Family-friendly but significantly more expensive than Circus Buffet.
- Emphasis on quality and ambiance rather than affordability.
Best for Families
Circus Buffet (Circus Circus)
One of the most affordable and family-focused buffets on the Strip.
- Ideal for those visiting with children, thanks to the Adventuredome and circus acts next door.
- Food quality is basic, but the overall experience is tailored for convenience and entertainment.
The Buffet at Excalibur
Also family-friendly with themed medieval décor, appealing to kids.
- A similar price point to Circus Buffet, with a larger seating area and slightly broader menu.
- Located in another family-oriented resort with attractions geared towards children.
Tips for First-Time Visitors
Visiting the Circus Buffet for the first time can be a fun and affordable experience if you know how to navigate it. Here are some practical tips to ensure you get the best out of your visit:
Best Times to Visit
- Early Brunch (Before 9 AM) – Beat the crowds by arriving early, especially on weekends.
- Late Brunch Transition – Arrive around 1 PM to enjoy brunch selections that may begin transitioning to dinner.
- Dinner Rush – Arrive right at 4:30 PM for dinner service to avoid peak-hour lines.
- Weekdays – Less crowded compared to weekends, offering a more relaxed experience.
- Holiday Considerations – Expect longer wait times during holidays and peak tourist seasons.
Navigating the Buffet
- Start at the carving station to get freshly sliced meats before they become busy.
- Make multiple trips for small portions to sample a variety of dishes without overfilling your plate.
- Skip the busiest stations at the start and return to them later when crowds thin out.
- Plan dessert toward the end to ensure you leave room for sweet treats.
- Use the beverage station early to avoid lines during peak dining times.
Maximizing Value
- Visit during brunch hours to enjoy both breakfast and lunch options.
- Time your visit to overlap with brunch and dinner transitions to sample a wider range of foods.
- Take your time dining – there’s no time limit, so enjoy a leisurely meal.
- Look for online coupons or hotel packages that include buffet discounts.
- Combine your buffet visit with Adventuredome or midway passes for added entertainment value.
Avoiding Pitfalls
- Don’t arrive too late – popular items may run out or be less fresh toward the end of service.
- Avoid peak hours unless you’re comfortable with long lines and crowds.
- Manage expectations – Circus Buffet is casual and affordable but not gourmet.
- Stay patient during weekends, as it can get crowded with families.
- Remember, tipping your server is appreciated even at self-serve buffets.
Nearby Attractions and Activities
Circus Circus Hotel & Casino is not just about dining; it offers a variety of entertainment options suitable for visitors of all ages.
Adventuredome Theme Park
- Description: A 5-acre indoor amusement park with 25 rides and attractions
- Thrill Rides: Canyon Blaster (roller coaster), El Loco, and Disk’O
- Family Rides: Bumper cars, swinging ship, and Ferris wheel
- Games: Midway games and arcade zones
- Pricing: All-day ride passes cost $60 for individuals over 48 inches, $30 for those under 48 inches
Free Circus Acts
- Description: Live circus performances featuring acrobats, jugglers, and clowns
- Schedule: Shows run every half-hour from 11:30 AM to late evening
- Location: Midway Stage, adjacent to the Adventuredome
- Admission: Free for all guests
- Variety: Rotating lineup of performers throughout the day
Casino at Circus Circus
- Description: A full-service casino with table games, slots, and sports betting
- Slot Machines: Over 1,400 slot machines with varying limits
- Table Games: Blackjack, roulette, craps, and poker
- Race & Sportsbook: Large viewing area for sports betting enthusiasts
- Atmosphere: Casual and lively, catering to both seasoned players and beginners
Exploring the Surrounding Area
Beyond the offerings within Circus Circus, the surrounding area provides additional attractions and dining options to enhance your visit.
Nearby Dining Options
- Tacos El Gordo: Famous for authentic street tacos and known for their adobada (spicy pork) tacos
- The Capital Grille: Fine dining steakhouse located in Fashion Show Mall, just 1 mile south
- Peppermill Las Vegas: Iconic diner and lounge known for oversized portions and unique cocktails
- Resorts World Dining: Upscale restaurants like FUHU, Famous Foods Street Eats, and Kusa Nori
- Gilley’s BBQ: Western-themed restaurant featuring live country music and mechanical bull riding
Attractions Within Walking Distance
- The STRAT Hotel, Casino & Tower: Located 1 mile north, featuring observation decks, thrill rides, and dining with panoramic views
- Resorts World Las Vegas: Just under a mile south, offering a luxury experience with retail and entertainment options
- The Venetian: Gondola rides, luxury shopping, and entertainment venues 1.5 miles south
- Fashion Show Mall: Large shopping destination with high-end retail stores and casual dining
- Madame Tussauds Las Vegas: Wax museum featuring lifelike celebrity figures, located at The Venetian
How to Make the Most of Your Day
Circus Circus and its buffet can easily fit into a fun-packed day on the northern end of the Strip. Here’s a suggested itinerary for a balanced day of entertainment, dining, and exploration.
Morning – Buffet and Adventuredome
- Start with brunch at the Circus Buffet to fuel up for the day
- Visit Adventuredome for thrilling rides and family-friendly attractions
- Explore the Midway and enjoy arcade games and carnival-style booths
- Watch a free circus act during the afternoon for entertainment
- Take a break by strolling through the casino or nearby shopping areas
Afternoon – Nearby Attractions
- Head to The STRAT for breathtaking views from the SkyPod observation deck
- Visit Resorts World for luxury shopping or fine dining experiences
- Walk to Fashion Show Mall for a blend of shopping and casual eateries
- Check out The Venetian for gondola rides and upscale attractions
- Return to Circus Circus for more midway games or another buffet session
Evening – Dinner and Entertainment
- Enjoy dinner at Circus Buffet or another nearby dining spot
- Test your luck at the Circus Circus casino or visit the sports book
- Catch a late-night circus act before winding down for the evening
- Explore nearby bars for cocktails and live music
- Relax at Adventuredome if staying late, as rides often operate into the evening
Family-Friendly Focus
One of the main draws of Circus Circus is its appeal to families. Unlike many other resorts in Las Vegas, which primarily target adults, Circus Circus places an emphasis on providing entertainment and dining options for all ages.
Why Families Choose Circus Circus
- Affordability – Circus Buffet is one of the most budget-friendly dining options on the Strip, making it ideal for large families
- Kid-Friendly Attractions – Adventuredome and free circus acts provide hours of entertainment without additional costs
- Convenience – Dining, entertainment, and lodging are all located under one roof, minimizing travel between activities
- Accessibility – The buffet and attractions are easily accessible for strollers and wheelchairs
- Laid-Back Atmosphere – Unlike luxury resorts, Circus Circus has a relaxed vibe where children are welcomed
Tips for Families
- Arrive early – For brunch and dinner to avoid long lines, especially on weekends and holidays
- Stroller-friendly – Bring a stroller for younger children, as Adventuredome and the Midway require a lot of walking
- Plan breaks – Schedule downtime between Adventuredome rides and Midway games to avoid overstimulation
- Utilize discounts – Check for promotions or bundled packages that include buffet access and Adventuredome passes
- Pack essentials – Bring snacks, sunscreen, and refillable water bottles, as the buffet may not always meet snack cravings throughout the day
Is the Circus Buffet Worth It?
The Circus Buffet isn’t known for luxury, but for families or visitors looking for a simple, filling meal at an affordable price, it delivers solid value. While it may not compare to the extravagant spreads found at Bacchanal Buffet or Wynn Buffet, it holds its place as a convenient and cost-effective option.
Pros
- Affordable – Among the least expensive buffets on the Strip, perfect for visitors on a budget
- Variety – Decent food selection that caters to both adults and children
- Family-Focused – Kid-friendly dishes and entertainment options right next to the buffet
- Convenient Location – Located within Circus Circus, allowing easy access to the Adventuredome and midway games
- Casual Atmosphere – No need to dress up, making it easy for families with young children
Cons
- Limited Gourmet Options – Fewer upscale dishes compared to other high-end buffets in Las Vegas
- Décor and Ambiance – Simple and functional, lacking the luxury experience of higher-end Strip buffets
- Crowds – Peak times can get very busy, resulting in long wait times for seating
- Food Quality – While decent, the buffet may not satisfy those seeking gourmet dining experiences
- Inconsistent Selection – Some menu items may rotate, and popular dishes can run out quickly during busy hours
Wrapping Up Your Circus Buffet Experience
For visitors looking for a fun, family-friendly experience without breaking the bank, the Circus Buffet at Circus Circus offers a solid option. Its affordability, convenience, and proximity to entertainment make it an appealing choice for families and budget-conscious travelers. While it may not rival the luxury buffets that Las Vegas is famous for, it serves its purpose well – providing a satisfying meal in a relaxed and welcoming environment.
Circus Circus remains one of the few resorts on the Strip where children can be entertained for hours, making it a must-visit for families. Whether you’re planning a day at Adventuredome or simply stopping by for the buffet, you’re sure to leave with full bellies and smiles.
If you plan to stay in the area, consider making a day of it by exploring nearby attractions like The STRAT, Resorts World, or Fashion Show Mall. The Circus Buffet is just one piece of the puzzle in crafting a memorable Las Vegas experience for the whole family.
