5 Las Vegas spots to show off your karaoke skills
They say “variety is the spice of life,” and in Las Vegas, the karaoke scene is extra seasoned. Whether you are new to the art of boldly scream-singing “Don’t Stop Believin’ ” to a room full of strangers, or you can rock a stage like Beyonce, Sin City has a venue for your performance.
DINO’S
Known for “getting Vegas drunk since 1962,” this local favorite has been around since then — and it shows. Thursdays through Saturdays, tens of people can be seen huddling around the worn black stage, pushing aside red tufted chairs to take in every smoke-surrounded performance. The wait to sing may make you antsy, but that anxiety will vanish as soon as it’s your turn to stare up at the lyrics to your chosen song on the TV monitor as you belt them out.
Location: 1516 Las Vegas Blvd. South
Hours: All day, everyday
J KARAOKE BAR
In the heart of Las Vegas’ Chinatown, this restaurant is introducing single-room karaoke. If you’re too shy to sing in front of random people, rent a small room and sing with, or to, your friends only. Each cabin, if you will, has pillows, tambourines and multiple screens for those who wish to sit instead of stand. Online reviewers tout the international selection of songs available to customers.
Location: 3899 Spring Mountain Road
Hours: 6 p.m. to 5 a.m. everyday except Wednesdays
THE BUNKHOUSE SALOON
In its prime downtown position across from the Llama Lot on Fremont Street, the Bunkhouse became a favorite for live music. It opened in 1953, but recently reopened with a new cast of characters at the helm. In the same space that bands such as The Killers and Built to Spill have performed, you can too. Take over the stage to show everyone your best rendition of “Mr. Brightside” every Monday night.
Location: 124 South 11th St.
Hours: 5 p.m. to 1 a.m. daily
ELLIS ISLAND CASINO
It’s been said that this off-Strip joint is the most-popular karaoke stage in Las Vegas. Judging by the line outside and jam-packed bar inside, there could be some validity to that statement. Seven days a week, locals, tourists and Elvis impersonators come together to classics and soon-to-be classics. Go for the affordable drinks and free show, stay for the state-of-the-art sound system and 10,000 song catalog.
Location: 4178 Koval Lane
Hours: All day, everyday
ARTIFICE
A staple in the Las Vegas Art District, this classy lounge with separate stage and table area just celebrated its third karaoke anniversary. On Wednesdays, you can shine on the stage, where poets, musicians and other local artists have stood, in front of a busy crowd. If you arrive when the party gets going, about 10 p.m., you’ll get to sing right away, but be prepared to wait come midnight. The selection includes songs of every genre.
Location: 1025 First St.
Hours: 5 p.m. to 2 a.m. Mondays through Fridays, 6 p.m. to 2 a.m. Saturdays and 8 p.m. to 1 a.m. Sundays
Contact Kimberly De La Cruz at kdelacruz@reviewjournal.com or 702-387-5244. Find her on Twitter: @KimberlyinLV
