Wynn/Encore and Venetian/Palazzo represent the premium end of the Las Vegas Strip. Both properties are architecturally stunning, offer luxury amenities, and charge premium prices. But for video poker players, neither is a good choice — and understanding why can save you money.
The Honest Assessment
Both Wynn and Venetian are designed for table game players and high-end slot players. Video poker is an afterthought at both properties. The pay tables are among the worst on the Strip, and the machine selection is limited.
If you're staying at either property for the hotel, restaurants, or shows, you might play a few hands of video poker at the bar. But nobody should choose Wynn or Venetian specifically for video poker.
Wynn/Encore
Video poker floor: Small. Wynn's gaming floor prioritizes baccarat, blackjack, and high-end slot machines. The video poker section has basic variants — Jacks or Better, maybe Bonus Poker — at tight pay tables.
Pay tables: Expect 7/5 or 8/5 Jacks or Better on the main floor. The house edge on video poker at Wynn is among the highest in Las Vegas.
Wynn Rewards: The loyalty program offers hotel, dining, and show benefits, but the earn rate for video poker is low relative to the cost of play.
When to play VP at Wynn: Only if you're already a Wynn customer for other reasons and want to play a few hands at the bar. Never as a destination for VP.
Venetian/Palazzo
Video poker floor: Larger than Wynn's (Venetian has one of the biggest casino floors in Las Vegas), but video poker is still a small fraction. Multi-game terminals are scattered across the floor.
Pay tables: Similar to Wynn — below average for the Strip, which is already below average for Las Vegas.
Venetian Rewards: A newer program that's building its comp structure. Less established than MGM Rewards or Caesars Rewards.
When to play VP at Venetian: Same as Wynn — only if you're already there for other reasons. The Venetian convention center brings a lot of business travelers who play casually, and the VP offerings are calibrated for that audience, not for serious players.
Where to Play Instead
If you're staying at Wynn or Venetian and want good video poker:
- Take a cab to South Point (15 minutes south). Full-pay 9/6 Jacks or Better, 10/7 Double Bonus, and Full Pay Deuces Wild.
- Try the Caesars properties across the street from Venetian (Harrah's, The LINQ, Flamingo). Their high-limit rooms occasionally have better pay tables.
- Visit The Orleans or Suncoast (Boyd Gaming, 10-15 minutes off-Strip). Competitive pay tables and strong comp value.
The round-trip cab fare ($20-30) to a locals casino is less than one hour of the extra house edge you'd pay at Wynn or Venetian.
The Premium Tier Summary
| Factor | Wynn/Encore | Venetian/Palazzo |
|---|---|---|
| VP pay tables | Poor | Poor |
| VP machine volume | Small | Medium |
| Hotel quality | Exceptional | Exceptional |
| Dining | Exceptional | Very Good |
| Best use case | Table games, luxury stay | Conventions, luxury stay |
| VP recommendation | Play elsewhere | Play elsewhere |
Both are outstanding resorts. Neither is a video poker destination.