It wasn’t that long ago that we headed to the Palms hotel to check out their newest club – Apex Social Club. Now, I hate to admit it, but I wasn’t expecting a whole lot. Palms has never been at the top of my list for best places to party. And although I’ve known for a while that Palms is undergoing a renovation project estimated at $485 million, I didn’t think there was any chance that Apex would change my mind.
I stand corrected.
From the moment I stepped off the elevator onto the 55th floor, I was blown away. Apex Social Club fills a void that this town has been missing. This new rooftop party is classy, sexy, and modern all at the same time. And it instantly reminded me of LA.
Now if you’re wondering if Apex is anything like its predecessor (Ghostbar), it’s not. There are art sculptures in the millions of dollars and luxurious bottle service tables. And although impossible, even the view looks more impressive than before. But, most importantly, its unique design facilitates actual conversations between guests (hence the name “social club”).
Apex Social Club
What It’s Like
Apex Social Club is a small, high-end nightclub featuring top 40 and hip-hop music. You won’t just catch your typical DJ sets here though. You’ll hear sounds that they don’t play at any other club in Vegas.
And similar to Drai’s Nightclub, Apex will feature live performances too – including surprise visits (ahem Rick Ross) that the club may hint at on their social media accounts.
Now I know a lot of venues in town say they have the best view, but few places come close to Apex Social Club’s 360-degree panoramic view. In fact, if you only head here for the Instagram-worthy skyline, it’s well worth it. And, you can take in the scenery from both inside the club or outside on the patio.
Additionally, the DJ booth is situated in the middle of the club – so whether you’re on the outside patio or in the “main room” you’ll feel like you’re in the party. There’s no designated dance floor at Apex either which is pretty cool because you can dance anywhere you want.
Who Should Go
Bachelor Parties: On some weekends, Apex hires atmosphere models. I’m talking 80 to 100 gorgeous ladies. And these women aren’t just staying for their allotted time and then leaving. Many of them are enjoying the social club and the people they’re meeting so much that they’re around until closing.
Couples: The social club is a hot date night spot for couples. The view alone makes this place ultra-romantic.
Singles: Apex is an ideal venue for anyone who wants to meet and mingle with other people. Because of the way the club is designed, you’ll experience a unique vibe here with guests conversing with one another. And with so many beautiful people all in one room, you’ll forget all about swiping right.
Pre-gamers: Apex is set to thrive as one of the best pre-game spots in town (and by “pre-game” we mean drinking before you head out for your night of partying). It’s possible that “meeting at Apex” will become the norm for Vegas clubbers.
Alternate Club Seekers: The social club is one of the best alternatives to a mega-club. If you want to take a break from the traditional fist-pumping, party till you die scene, head to Apex instead. As a local, this is precisely where I’ll be spending some of my evenings. I like that the club features a more low-key vibe.
Property Specs
You’ll find the rooftop party on the 55th floor of the Palms hotel. The social club is modest in size at 8,000 SF overall with 4,500 SF on the outdoor balcony.
The central section of the patio forms the letter A (for Apex of course) and features glass railings offering guests an unobscured view of the city.
There’s also an extended bar at the front of the club inside the main room. And, if table service is more your speed, you can choose from 25 tables all of which are exceptionally located.
Apex Social Club Quick Facts
- Nights Open: TEMPORARILY CLOSED
- Hours: 10:00 pm – 4:00 am
- Bottle Service: $$ – $$$
- Music: Top 40 & hip-hop
- DJs/Performers: Duke Dumont, DJ Turbulence, Justin Credible, Ne-Yo, J. Cole, Rick Ross and more
- Special Events: Industry Night (Sunday) and surprise performances
Where Is Apex Social Club Located?
The entrance to Apex Social Club is on the casino level of the Palms hotel next to its newest restaurant, Scotch 80 Prime. (The address of the Palms hotel is 4321 W. Flamingo Road.)
All table reservations, general admission ticket holders, and guest list people will line up on the main floor. Once you’ve gone through security, you’ll be escorted into Apex’s elevator up to the 55th floor.
Apex Social Club Attire & Dress Code
Apex has the strictest dress code of any venue on the strip. In fact, their prohibited items list is humorous. I’m sure they put a few in for the shock factor, but I applaud what they did here. Although some may sound absurd, these restrictions are smart because you know Apex will always be keeping it classy.
Here’s what you can’t wear to Apex Social Club. I’ll let you figure out what you can.
“No singular item from the following is allowed in the venue: Ed Hardy, man buns, blue blazers with gold buttons, shirts or jackets with elbow pads, members only jackets, fake Gucci belts, fake Louis Vuitton belts, fake handbags, fake Rolex, jean shorts, tank tops, flip-flops, bandanas, jerseys, loafers with no socks, white loafers with white belts, baggy jeans, sagging jeans, bell-bottomed jeans, jean jackets, long t-shirts, sunglasses, blue blockers, ball caps, selfie sticks, selfie phone cases, crocs (with or without socks), “grills” or mouth bling, sports attire, jeggings, joggers, man capris, linen pants, ribbed shirts, work boots, flannel, deep V necks, backpacks, bling, cargo pants, overalls, Jordans, fake Jordans, Uggs, sleeveless shirts, slippers, bathrobes, fanny packs, gym shorts, beanies in summertime, Z Cavaricci’s, and long beards that require wax.”
Apex Social Club Tickets
On most nights, the cover charge is between $25 – $35. Expect ticket prices to go higher on performance nights.
Guest List
Apex’s guest list rules are similar to most clubs in Las Vegas. Ladies receive complimentary admission on most nights and guys do too as long as you have at least an even ratio of women in your party. For instance, if you’re a group of three guys, then you’ll want to make sure you have at least three ladies in your party.
Apex Social Club Bottle Service
Table Map
Below you’ll find the table layout at Apex Social Club. There are 25 bottle service locations to choose from.
Table Service Options
One of the best things about Apex Social Club is the table locations. It doesn’t matter where you sit as almost all tables are excellent. For instance, if you get a table in Apex’s indoor room, you’ll be in the action. And if you get a table out on the patio, you’ll also be in the action. With Apex being a smaller club, you can count on the place being packed.
Best Location Tables
The best bottle service table locations are table numbers 23, 33, and 34. These tables surround the DJ booth. And although there’s no “dance floor” at Apex, they would be the equivalent of dance floor tables at the other clubs in town.
Lowest Priced Tables
You’ll find the lowest priced tables outside on the patio in the corners. Tables like 51 – 54 and 41 – 43 will usually provide a lower price point.
Bottle Service Cost
Like all clubs in Las Vegas, Apex Social Club quotes their bottle service prices regarding a minimum spend requirement. Currently, tables are starting at a $1,000 minimum and go up to $3,000. You can think of the table as being free in exchange for agreeing to spend a certain amount on bottle service. For example, if you booked a table for a $2,000 minimum, then you’d have $2,000 to spend on alcohol purchases.
All-In Cost
To calculate the total cost you’ll pay at Apex, add approximately 35% to the bottle service minimum. The 35% includes Apex’s venue fee, tax, and tip. For example, if you got a $1,000 minimum table, then the all-in cost will be roughly $1,350. The calculation is as follows: $1000 + .35 ($1,000) = $1,350. All clubs in Vegas charge approximately 35% on top of their bottle service prices.
Bottle Menu
Some clubs in Vegas charge considerably more for bottles than other clubs do. For example, the lowest priced vodka at EBC is $750 while at Daylight Pool Party it’s $475. We find that many of our clients like to check out the bottle menus at each club they’re considering to see just how far their money will go.
And good news – Apex Social Club has excellent values on bottles with prices starting at $425, so you’ll get a lot more for your money here as compared to other clubs in town.
What’s Cool About Apex Social Club
Bottle Service
At other clubs in Vegas, bottle service tables are more secluded. You’ll usually see some barrier like a wall or steps separating the general admission and guest list people from the bottle service patrons. Apex is different. The club is all one level, so the tables aren’t as separated. It’s also much easier to interact with other club-goers as they’re closer to the tables here. For example, you can easily talk to someone walking by your table and invite them to join you.
Cocktails
When you’re at a more traditional Las Vegas nightclub, you won’t get to try unique concoctions from the bar. A cranberry vodka is about as good as it gets. At Apex though, you’ll get to experience excellent signature cocktails from some of the best bartenders in the city.
Staff
There aren’t many newbies at Apex Social Club. You’ll find experienced VIP hosts and servers that know how to make your night fantastic.
Surprise Performances
When Intrigue Nightclub first opened, one of their ideas was to have surprise performances. And we understand why they wanted to do it – the concept certainly made Intrigue “intriguing.” However, as some of us know, these last-minute performance announcements didn’t last long.
Intrigue quickly did away with the notion upon realizing that club-goers liked to have a bit more notice than 10:30 pm.
Well, Apex has decided to try this concept again. They succeeded a few weeks ago with Rick Ross and gave somewhat of a heads up on their social media accounts.
Now I love the idea of not announcing guests. And I hope this concept works, but since Intrigue did away with it so quickly I’m just not sure if it has staying power. Like Intrigue found out, most people in Vegas want to plan their nights in advance and not take a chance on whether someone cool will show up or not. Time will tell. But, for now, you might be in for a treat if you decide to spend your evening at Apex Social Club.
The View
Nothing beats it. Forget spending money at the Linq’s High Roller and come here instead.
Conclusion
In our opinion, Apex Social Club is a big win if:
- You want to meet new people.
- You’re tired of the mega-clubs (or want to take a break for a night).
- You enjoy a lounge-type atmosphere.
- You appreciate a good view.
- You’re on a date.
- You want a classy night out.
- You like art sculptures.
- You’re a fan of signature cocktails.
- You appreciate moderately priced bottle service.
