APRIL

19

Mary J. Blige and Jay Z: The "Heart of the City Tour" marks rap star Jay Z's first arena performances since his 2004 retirement. $83, $132 and $210. 8 p.m., MGM Grand Garden Arena. www.ticketmaster.com

MAY

3

Billy Crystal: Actor, writer, comedian and film producer brings his stand- up comedy to Las Vegas for one night only. 8 p.m., MGM Grand Garden Arena. $210 and $105.

23

Police: Billboard Magazine's "Top Selling Tour of 2007" returns to Las Vegas. 8 p.m., Grand Garden Arena. $78, $131 and $262.

JUNE-JULY

World Series of Poker: Action is at the Rio Hotel and Casino, home to the most famous poker tournament in the world, the highlight being the $10,000 buy-in no-limit Texas Hold 'Em tournament. Applications to play are accepted at any time with a $10,000 buy-in. Or, players can enter the gruelling satellite games, which take place in the monthlong run-up to the tournament. These cost a couple of hundred dollars to enter and can gain players access to the championship tournament if they win. www.worldseriesofpoker.com.

ONGOING: When the neon gets to be too much, head to the Dolphin Habitat at the Mirage. Atlantic bottlenose dolphins are raised and nurtured in the habitat, and visitors get to see, study and play with them. Considered among the best and most successful dolphin habitats in the world, the habitat adjoins the Secret Garden, home to some of the world's most exotic animals: Royal White Tigers of Nevada, White Lions of Timbavati, Bengal tigers (tawny and white), an Asian elephant and the rare snow leopard. The garden is landscaped with swimming pools, fountains and simulated mountain terrain.10 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily, The Mirage, $15, $10 ages 13 and younger.