Where to watch the NCAA Tournament

A sampling of some of the best places in town to experience the NCAA Tournament:

LVH — Most people know about the great sports book, and in-the-know locals are most likely aware of the great “Football Central” party in the theater each Sunday during the NFL season. That atmosphere is replicated during the tournament in the 1,500-seat, smoke-free theater. Giant HD screens provide a great view of all the games, and satellite betting stations give everyone a chance to stay in action all day. Food and drink specials are available, and prizes will be given away throughout the weekend. Doors open at 8 a.m. today through Saturday and 8:30 a.m. Sunday.

THE MIRAGE — There is one huge reason to include a stop in The Mirage sports book on your NCAA viewing odyssey in Las Vegas. The property just installed an 85-foot-by-19-foot crystal-clear video screen that is the biggest on the Strip and probably the state. It has to be seen to believed, but if you plan on hanging around to watch games, get there early. Even though you probably could see the screen from Pahrump, you’ll probably want to try to snag one of the seats a bit closer to the book.

BORN AND RAISED — The Southwest valley bar has quickly become the most popular place to watch UNLV games, and the 160-inch projection screen certainly will be put to use while the Rebels are in action. Drink specials during the tournament include $2 Coors Light and $4 Blue Moon drafts, plus $16 for a 100-ounce Coors Light beer tower. Probably not the best option for Cal fans.

GOLDEN NUGGET — Downtown is a great place for any event, and the Golden Nugget is often the best bet. Several giant HD screens will be set up in “The Grand,” just off the casino floor. The added bonus is that if there are any lulls in the action, you can simply step outside onto the Fremont Street Experience and see the world’s largest bracket update on the canopy overhead. The experience is also the home of Downtown Hoopstown, with displays and interactive basketball exhibits to set the mood.

LARRY FLYNT’S HUSTLER CLUB — Hey, it’s Vegas right? For a truly authentic March Madness experience, what trip would be complete without some quality adult entertainment. If the early games aren’t going too well for you, or if they’re going REALLY well, make this your stop for the evening games. Doors open at 4 p.m., just in time for the UNLV game, and Happy Hour runs until 6, with complimentary vodka and Miller Lite. Then, drinks are buy-one-get-one until 9 p.m. There’s not as many screens as most of the other spots, but will you really care?

STRATOSPHERE — The casino will be hosting a viewing party in the newly remodeled theater featuring nine huge screens and food and drink specials throughout the day, including $5 pitchers of Bud and Bud Light. If the itch strikes you while you’re watching the games, there also will be blackjack tables in the room.

SOUTH POINT — All of the lounges in the casino will be showing the games, and what better place to grab lunch than the West Coast’s only Steak ‘n Shake. The South Point is the ideal spot for a moderate-sized group and those who want to stay a bit more low-key while still enjoying the frenzied opening weekend craziness. A large banquet room upstairs has big round tables and remote betting stations. The event features great food and drink specials, plus daily free-throw contests.

ADAM HILL/LAS VEGAS REVIEW-JOURNAL