Casino loyalty programs are no longer just about free slot play or discounted buffets. Today, they operate much like airline and hotel rewards programs—offering elite status tiers, travel perks, credit card benefits, and even international vacation opportunities. Two names dominate this space in the United States: Caesars Rewards and MGM Rewards.
If you gamble, stay, dine, or travel with either brand, choosing the right rewards program can significantly impact how much value you get back. This in-depth comparison breaks down Caesars Rewards vs. MGM Rewards across earning potential, elite perks, geographic reach, credit cards, and partner benefits—so you can decide which program fits your lifestyle and travel habits best.
Quick Overview: Caesars Rewards vs. MGM Rewards
| Feature | Caesars Rewards | MGM Rewards |
|---|---|---|
| Number of Properties | 50+ locations across 17 U.S. states + international | Dozens of properties, mostly Vegas-centric |
| Best For | Nationwide access & elite perks | Higher earning value & credit card benefits |
| Point Value | Up to 1¢ (often less depending on redemption) | 1¢ per point consistently |
| Elite Status Strength | Strong mid- to top-tier perks | Strong earning acceleration |
| Credit Card Advantage | Moderate | Strong (status + tier credits) |
Program Reach: Where Can You Earn and Redeem?
Winner: Caesars Rewards
Location matters more than many people realize. A rewards program is only valuable if you can actually use it.
Caesars Rewards Coverage
Caesars Rewards stands out for its wide geographic footprint. Members can earn and redeem rewards at more than 50 destinations across 17 U.S. states, including major markets like:
- Las Vegas
- Atlantic City
- New Orleans
- Reno
- Lake Tahoe
Internationally, Caesars also offers properties and perks tied to Canada and Dubai, making it surprisingly global for a casino brand.
MGM Rewards Coverage
MGM Rewards is heavily concentrated in Las Vegas, where it dominates the Strip with iconic resorts like Bellagio, Aria, MGM Grand, and Mandalay Bay. Outside Vegas, MGM has a smaller footprint across select U.S. states and limited international presence (notably Macau).
Earning Rewards: Which Program Gives More Back?
Winner: MGM Rewards
Earning efficiency is where MGM Rewards pulls ahead.
MGM Rewards Earning Structure
- 1 point per $1 spent on hotels and dining
- Points are consistently worth 1 cent each
- Slot and video poker play also earns Slot Dollars, adding extra value
- Gambling earnings are based on time played, average bet, and game type
This makes MGM Rewards straightforward and predictable—especially for non-gaming spend.
Caesars Rewards Earning Structure
- Slots: 1 Reward Credit per $5 played
- Video poker: 1 Reward Credit per $10 played
- Hotel and dining: 1 Reward Credit per $1 spent
While Caesars points can be worth up to 1 cent each, many popular redemptions—like free play—cut that value in half. In practice, hotel and dining spend often returns closer to 0.5%, not 1%.
Elite Status Perks: Who Treats Loyal Players Better?
Winner: Caesars Rewards
Both programs offer tiered elite status with perks like waived resort fees, priority lines, and discounts. However, Caesars shines at the mid- and upper-tier levels.
Comparable Tier Example:
- MGM Gold
- Caesars Diamond
Both offer:
- Resort fee waivers
- Complimentary celebration dinner
- Priority check-in and dining lines
- Free parking and valet (select locations)
Where Caesars Pulls Ahead
Caesars Diamond adds:
- Guaranteed room availability with 72-hour notice
- Access to VIP Laurel Lounges
- Deeper retail discounts
- Complimentary international stays (including Dubai)
- Annual online sports betting credits (where legal)
MGM Gold offers better room upgrade potential, but upgrades are not guaranteed.
Credit Cards: Which One Supercharges Your Status Faster?
Winner: MGM Rewards
Both brands offer co-branded credit cards, but MGM’s card provides a major strategic advantage.
MGM Rewards Mastercard
- Automatic Pearl status
- Earns tier credits toward higher elite levels
- Rewards spending beyond casino visits
Caesars Rewards Visa
- Higher in-property earning rate
- No elite status included
- No tier credits from card spend
Partner Benefits & Travel Perks
Winner: Caesars Rewards
Both programs partner with cruise lines and resorts, but Caesars offers broader and more tangible benefits.
Caesars Rewards Partners
- Norwegian Cruise Line discounts (10%–30%)
- Complimentary stays at Atlantis Bahamas
- Free nights at Caesars Dubai
- Exclusive Seven Stars cruise perks
MGM Rewards Partners
- Royal Caribbean & Celebrity Cruises
- Free cruises for Platinum and NOIR members
- Strong cruise benefits—but fewer total partners
Final Verdict: Caesars Rewards vs. MGM Rewards
This matchup ends in a practical tie, but the right program depends on how and where you play.
Choose MGM Rewards if:
- You primarily visit Las Vegas
- You want higher earning value on spending
- You plan to use a credit card to earn elite status
- You prefer simple, consistent point valuations
Choose Caesars Rewards if:
- You live outside Las Vegas
- You want stronger elite perks
- You value guaranteed benefits and free stays
- You want access to more U.S. locations
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thought
Neither program is objectively “better” for everyone. The best choice depends on your location, travel habits, and how you earn rewards. If you play strategically, both Caesars Rewards and MGM Rewards can deliver substantial value well beyond the casino floor.
