Walking into a casino is walking into a getaway world: no clocks, free drinks and plenty of security to help you feel safe. Harrah's, on the Las Vegas Strip, is a pulsating casino. It offers 87,700 square feet of gaming space, 80 game tables and more than 1,300 slot machines to keep you busy during your visit. Whether you arrive to gamble, enjoy the entertainment, play golf or hang out at a lounge, Harrah's has it all.

In 1937, Bill Harrah opened a bingo parlor in Reno, Nev. During the next 30 years, he continued to purchase clubs. By 1972, Harrah's was listed on the American Stock Exchange, and by 1973, it was the first casino listed on the New York Stock Exchange. In 1980, Holiday Inn Inc. bought Harrah's. Holiday Inn continued to acquire other casinos and expand the original Harrah's. In 1990, the stockholders transferred Harrah's to The Promus Cos. In 1995, all Harrah's assets were renamed as Harrah's Entertainment Inc. Harrah's continued to grow, with more casinos opening throughout the world. Harrah's, whose New Orleans location was damaged during Hurricane Katrina, continues to succeed under TPG Capital and Apollo Global Management.

Harrah's Casino in Las Vegas offers slot machines starting at 1-cent denominations and going up to $500. Table games include blackjack and craps with free daily instructions. Baccarat is also available, which is easy to learn. For a worldwide popular game, roulette is available. The Poker Room has 10 tables. Games include Texas Hold 'Em, Seven Card Stud and Omaha. Texas Hold 'Em tournaments are scheduled as well. The Poker Room is open 24 hours a day. It's nonsmoking and offers food service.

Besides the traditional table games, Harrah's offers Caribbean Stud Poker, which is a simple poker game that allows you to make side bets. Pai Gow Poker allows you to use one joker as an ace for an exciting game. With Let It Ride, you don't play against other players. For something different, you can try sports betting. There are big screen TVs as well as two 100-inch projection screens for major events. Keno is available at the Keno Parlor 24 hours a day. Keno is a game of chance using number combinations. You can also play it in your hotel room or the cafes.

If you are looking to gamble with fewer crowds and better table deals, try to make it into the casino during the morning and early afternoon. You can usually find lower minimum bets at the tables. Most gaming lessons are in the morning, as well. If you need a break from the casino, consider the spa, which offers massages, facials, a salon and a health club. The pool is Olympic-size and you can order meal service. Consider renting your own cabana, which includes a refrigerator, TV and a fruit basket. Check out the buffets, too. They offer a wide variety of food. There is also an 18-hole golf course and shopping in specialty shops, if you do not mind paying for higher-end items.

Harrah's offers special packages if you wish to stay for an extended period or for one night. The Stay Late Night package offers free drinks and breakfast for $69. Other packages include two nights, two seats for a show and two buffets for $105. Hot Deals are special rates. Some are as low as $45 a night.