Nostalgia for beloved television shows is big business.
For decades, networks and studios have relied on the staying power of beloved shows to capture audiences years or even decades after their original runs.
Reruns, syndication, streaming libraries, and reboots all thrive on viewers’ emotional connection to familiar titles. It's why classic sitcoms and dramas often resurface on multiple platforms, generating steady ad revenue and subscription value.
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Streaming services have really embraced this trend, using recognizable series as anchors to attract and retain subscribers in an increasingly competitive market. The success of shows like “The Office” on Netflix or “Law & Order” on Peacock has proven how nostalgia can increase viewing hours and grow platform loyalty.
Among the most popular shows in syndication? “Friends.”
Now, fans of all ages can try an immersive “Friends” experience and plop on the couch in a re-created Central Perk set, or explore Monica and Rachel's apartment.
“The Friends Experience: The One in Vegas” is now open
“The Friends Experience” has been a hit in London, Madrid, Chicago, and Rio, among many other cities, and now it's welcoming fans in Las Vegas.
Located in The District at MGM Grand (MGM) , adjacent to the Grand Garden Arena, this new attraction invites fans to step into the world of the beloved '90s sitcom.
In addition to the apartment and cafe sets, there's a wedding chapel from Ross and Rachel’s memorable nuptials and Phoebe’s taxi, which are exclusive to the Vegas location.
Related: Las Vegas Strip hit hard as visitors stay away from the city
Beyond the set re-creations, the experience offers behind-the-scenes content, original props, and costumes. A retail space features exclusive Las Vegas-themed merchandise, allowing visitors to take home a piece of the experience.
Since its opening on July 23, the attraction has received positive feedback from visitors. Fans have praised the attention to detail in the set re-creations and the opportunity to relive cherished moments from the series.
Social media platforms are abuzz with photos and videos of visitors engaging with the exhibits, further amplifying the attraction's reach.
On TikTok, fans of the show give the experience two thumbs up: “I’ve done pop ups before, this one was better than any other!,” wrote @stede1718.
“Went today it was beyond amazing,” @good_as_gold1 said.
“The Friends Experience”: a strategic move for MGM Grand
“The Friends Experience” aligns with MGM Grand's strategy to diversify its offerings. By incorporating non-gaming attractions, the resort aims to appeal to a broader audience, including families.
This move reflects a broader trend in Las Vegas, where traditional casinos are increasingly complemented by experiences that cater to a wide range of interests.
Related: Las Vegas Strip casino signs singer sensation for long residency
By adding attractions like “The Friends Experience,” Las Vegas is doubling down on its evolution from a gambling-centric city to a full-spectrum entertainment destination.
Visitors can now enjoy immersive pop culture, interactive art, live performances, and professional sports, in addition to the traditional Strip attractions.
These kinds of experiences blur the line between theater, cinema, and theme park — tapping into a growing appetite for Instagram-worthy, sensory-driven escapism.
Next month, “The Wizard of Oz” will open at The Sphere. And this is not just a typical rerelease of a classic film. It's a complete reimagining of one of the most iconic movies of all time — delivered with 360-degree visuals, vibrating floors, and wind effects.
Las Vegas has been hit with low visitor numbers over the last several months, but adding more family-friendly and non-gaming activities such as “Friends” and “Oz” just might get more people interested in visiting.
Tickets for “The Friends Experience” start at $39.
(The Arena Group will earn a commission if you book a trip.)
Make a free appointment with TheStreet’s Travel Agent Partner, Postcard Travel, or email Amy Post at amypost@postcardtravelplanning.com or call or text her at 386-383-2472.
