Where to Stay in Las Vegas: 22 Hotels for 2026

When I was figuring out where to stay in Las Vegas in September 2012, on my second road trip to Sin City, I had just turned 20. In Nevada, that meant one thing: I wasn’t allowed to gamble in a casino or even have a drop of alcohol, since the age limit is 21.

Naively, I bought a beautiful dress and high heels, hoping the bouncers would let me in just to look around. My friends and I used to meet at the iconic Bellagio, and I was completely blown away by its size.

On my very first morning, though, I got stuck in the elevator. Without a valid room key, you simply can’t go anywhere. The experience confirmed my claustrophobia, but more importantly, it taught me that this city plays by an entirely different set of rules.

So, how do you avoid being misled by booking sites, spot hidden fees and find the right place to stay? Let’s take a look.

TL;DR

• Best stay without a casino or smoke: Choose the peaceful Four Seasons Hotel Las Vegas, or the more affordable Vdara Hotel & Spa.
• Best for families with kids: Mandalay Bay, with its huge pool complex and sandy beach, is an obvious winner.
• Best value on the Strip: Try Park MGM Las Vegas, which has a smoke-free casino, or Treasure Island, where parking is free.
• Pure luxury and elegance: If budget isn’t a concern, book Wynn Las Vegas or iconic Bellagio Hotel & Casino.
• Lowest-cost stay with a dose of nostalgia: Head to downtown and stay at El Cortez Hotel and Casino, which has some of the lowest fees.
• Hidden fees: Don’t assume the price you see on Booking.com is the final price. Resorts add mandatory resort fees and substantial taxes.

💡 Use this map to compare current availability — you can also see how much cheaper it is to stay a few stops from the centre.

🧭 The full destination guide: North America — guide and what to see

Which Area Should You Stay In?

Las Vegas may look like one city on a map, but it’s really five different worlds, each offering a very different kind of getaway. Before choosing a hotel, think about what you want from your trip and how often you’re happy to take a taxi. The famous Strip stretches for 6.8 km, and walking its full length in the desert heat is practically impossible.

Central Strip is ideal for your first visit. This is where you’ll find the biggest names, including Bellagio, Caesars Palace and The Venetian. It’s the most walkable area, so you can explore nearby attractions without relying on taxis. That prime location and constant buzz come at a price, though.

The South Strip is home to enormous resorts at reasonable prices, including Mandalay Bay, Luxor and Excalibur. You’ll find some of the best value for the size of resort, and you’ll be close to Allegiant Stadium and T-Mobile Arena. The downside is that the central Strip is a long way off, so you’ll need the monorail or Uber.

The North Strip is where you’ll find new arrivals and a quieter feel, with modern giants such as Resorts World, Fontainebleau and luxury favourite Wynn. These are some of the city’s most modern buildings, but there’s a major drawback known as the pedestrian gap: long stretches without sidewalks separate the resorts. The city is working to address this with the Vegas Loop underground transit system.

Downtown and Fremont Street are easier on your budget and serve up old-school Vegas atmosphere straight out of a vintage movie. Resorts such as Circa, Golden Nugget and El Cortez are considerably cheaper and charge lower resort fees, while their casinos tend to be smaller and more authentic. The Strip is about a 10–15-minute taxi ride away, so you’ll be a little removed from the biggest attractions.

Staying off the Strip means more peace and quiet, larger rooms and easy parking. Red Rock Casino in the relaxed neighbourhood of Summerlin is a great example. There’s one catch: without a car or regular taxi rides, you won’t get far, so this option is best for road-trippers and more experienced travellers.

When to Visit and When to Book

Your arrival date can double or even triple the price of a room — that’s no exaggeration. The day of the week can make a bigger difference than a hotel’s star rating. Weekends are always the most expensive, and the difference between Wednesday–Thursday and Saturday–Sunday at the same hotel can be dramatic. To save, book a Monday-to-Thursday stay; it’s one of the simplest ways to cut costs.

Spring and autumn are the most pleasant seasons to visit, with temperatures that make it easier to spend time outdoors. Summer in the Nevada desert is extremely hot and exhausting, which is why summer accommodation can often be much cheaper than in spring. In July and August, you’ll probably spend the day in air-conditioned corridors or cooling off in the pool.

Watch out for major convention dates, too. Las Vegas hosts a lot of them, and when a major event is on at the Las Vegas Convention Center, Strip resorts quickly raise their prices across the city — sometimes by as much as three times. Check the events calendar in advance so you don’t accidentally end up paying a fortune for an ordinary room.

Remember that you must be 21 to gamble or drink alcohol. Under-21s can’t enter casino gaming areas, even to watch; at most, they can walk through designated carpeted paths. This is important if you’re travelling with teenagers, as many activities will be off-limits and they’ll need to spend more time by the pool or shopping.

Where to Stay in Las Vegas: 22 Best Hotels and Resorts

Choosing a place to stay here takes some research, because the price shown on Booking.com isn’t what you’ll ultimately pay. Most resorts charge a mandatory daily resort fee, and you’ll also need to add Clark County’s 13.38% lodging tax. A $50 fee can quickly turn into nearly $60, payable at the front desk.

Also beware of misleading distances on the famous Strip, which stretches for 6.8 km. What looks like a building just across the road on a map can be a half-hour walk in scorching heat in real life. It can take 10–15 minutes just to get from your taxi drop-off to your room, winding through sprawling corridors, so keep that in mind when planning dinner.

1. Bellagio Hotel & Casino

Bellagio Hotel & Casino sits at the heart of the central Strip and is one of the city’s best-rated large resorts. Guests love its distinctive atmosphere, spacious, clean rooms with comfortable beds and attentive staff. It’s not just about the famous dancing fountains on the man-made lake: visitors also rave about the indoor botanical garden and its floral displays, the luxurious spa and outdoor pools. You can walk straight from the hotel to other galleries, and there are plenty of excellent restaurants, although the smaller cafés can get crowded. The resort is bustling around the clock, so expect a steady stream of visitors.

Security is tight: the elevator won’t move without a valid room key, so keep it in your pocket even when heading out for your morning coffee. The rooms are first-rate, but the price reflects that. On top of your room rate, there’s a mandatory $55 resort fee per night, plus 13.38% local tax. That works out to roughly $62 a day in extra charges. If you arrive by car, self-parking costs around $20–25 per day, while valet parking costs several dozen dollars more.

💡 Tip: For a romantic stay, ask for a room overlooking the fountains. Guests say the view is worth the extra cost, and you may find yourself glued to the window in the evening — although some warn that these rooms can be noisier.

2. Caesars Palace

The iconic Caesars Palace, which you may recognise from The Hangover, is all grand Roman-inspired columns and statues. Guests particularly like the clean, spacious rooms; some have beautiful views of the famous Bellagio fountains. Right in the heart of the central Strip, it puts the main attractions within easy walking distance. Don’t miss the enormous Forum Shops, where a painted ceiling creates the illusion of a blue sky dotted with clouds. Guests also praise the helpful staff and the lively Omnia nightclub.

The complex is enormous, so even getting from reception to the pool takes a while as you weave past the slot machines. Like most luxury icons in this neighbourhood, it charges a mandatory resort fee of $55 per night. With the 13.38% local tax, expect to pay more than $62 a day. If you arrive by car, self-parking costs around $20–25 a day, and you may pay a little more on weekends.

💡 Tip: Set aside time to explore the outdoor Garden of the Gods pool complex. Guests consider these some of the most beautiful pools in the city, and you’ll feel as if you’ve stepped into an ancient Roman bath.

3. The Venetian Las Vegas

Opulent The Venetian Las Vegas is one of the city’s best-rated hotels, transporting you to romantic Italian streets as soon as you walk in. Its standout feature is the indoor canals, where gondoliers in striped shirts serenade you as they row. Guests love the enormous, clean suites, comfortable beds and beautiful bathrooms with vanity tables. The staff are friendly, and there’s a covered walkway connecting the hotel directly to The Sphere; some rooms have a view of it, too.

I think this resort is perfect if you want to relax and have plenty of space. Its arcades also have excellent Italian restaurants, with something to satisfy even dedicated vegetarians. The resort fee is $55 per night, or over $62 with tax, and parking costs extra. The complex, connected to its sister property, The Palazzo, is so vast you can walk for miles without stepping outside, so bring comfortable shoes. There’s also a bus stop and a Walgreens pharmacy outside.

💡 Tip: Standard rooms here are much larger than average for the central Strip. If it’s full, try Egyptian-themed Luxor Hotel & Casino closer to the airport. Guests love the comfortable beds, though some find the self-service check-in slow.

4. The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas

The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas is one of the most stylish addresses on the central Strip. Its darker, elegant design is likely to appeal to younger adults looking for high-end nightlife and famous clubs rather than a traditional resort atmosphere. Guests love the clean rooms, soft beds and handy fridges. The real highlight, though, is the outdoor terraces overlooking the Bellagio fountains. Being able to open a window and step onto a balcony is a rare treat in Vegas — elsewhere, you might pay twice as much for it. Visitors also rave about the food, especially the Wicked Spoon buffet.

There’s plenty to keep you entertained, especially in summer, when lively day parties take place at the three beautiful outdoor pools. Check-in can test your patience, though, and you may have to wait in line. Add the $55 pre-tax resort fee to your room rate; with tax, it comes to around $62 per night. If you arrive by car, the large underground garage costs around $20 a day. A modern guidance system makes finding a space fairly easy. The location is excellent, too, with plenty of nearby attractions within walking distance.

💡 Tip: Seek out Secret Pizza, a hidden spot with no sign. It’s tucked away in an unassuming hallway on the third floor and serves fantastic cheesy slices, including meat-free options.

5. ARIA Resort & Casino

Modern ARIA Resort & Casino stands out for its glass architecture, a refreshing change from the Strip’s traditional themed buildings. Huge windows let natural light flood its airy interiors. You may even notice the lovely fragrance as soon as you walk in. Guests praise the spacious rooms with great city views, the gym and the exceptionally helpful staff. The three pools are beautiful, but get there early — umbrellas can be scarce. You don’t even need to leave the resort for food or shopping, with plenty of restaurants and Crystals, a mall packed with boutiques from Prada to Louis Vuitton.

Expect a $55 daily resort fee, which comes to more than $62 per night with Clark County tax. Self-parking costs $20–25. The central location is so convenient that you may not need a taxi; there’s also a free tram. On hot days, the indoor walkway connecting ARIA to neighbouring Vdara is especially welcome. Some guests occasionally mention humidity in their rooms, but most leave delighted, praising the peaceful, spacious corridors.

💡 Tip: The rooms are smart, with curtains and lights controlled by a tablet — which can be a little confusing in the middle of the night. If it’s full, next-door Bellagio Hotel & Casino is a classic, loved for its views of the dancing fountains.

6. Wynn and Encore Las Vegas

The gleaming sister resorts Wynn and Encore Las Vegas are among the North Strip’s best-rated hotels, delivering the real thing when it comes to luxury. Guests rave about the spectacular floral displays, which change regularly, as well as the impeccable service and beautiful, clean pools. Encore is all about spacious suites, with tablet controls and views of the famous Sphere. If you love over-the-top design, you’ll probably be in your element. There’s even an 18-hole golf course — an extraordinary sight in the middle of the desert.

Bring a generous budget: meals at the restaurants can add up, and the mandatory $55 nightly resort fee comes to around $62 with tax. Valet parking costs $40 per day. Some guests mention unnecessarily long lines at the breakfast buffet, despite plenty of seating. The resort’s location at the north end also means you’ll probably need a taxi to reach the action farther south.

💡 Tip: If you like a sweet breakfast, head to Tableau, a casual dining restaurant inside Wynn. It’s known for excellent breakfast and brunch, with lovely pool views.

7. Fontainebleau Las Vegas

The unmissable Fontainebleau Las Vegas, with its striking blue tower, brings a fresh Miami-style luxury feel to the North Strip. As one of the newest resorts in town, everything is pristine, and elegant touches are everywhere. Guests particularly like the spacious, modern rooms, fabulous bathtubs and wonderful views. Friendly staff and attention to detail make a strong impression, with fresh roses often mentioned as a lovely touch. The pool is gorgeous and, according to guests, never feels too crowded. It’s among the city’s most expensive hotels, so expect a mandatory $55 resort fee per night, plus around 13% in taxes.

The location may be a drawback: the North Strip still has a pedestrian gap, and it’s not ideal for walking to other attractions. You’ll rely fairly often on Uber, the nearby Deuce bus or the Vegas Loop underground system currently being built. The resort is known for its excellent restaurants, but many guests point out that food and drinks are very expensive.

💡 Tip: Choose this resort if you’re after something fresh and love flawless modern design. It’s the kind of place where the carpets still feel new and you can enjoy beautiful luxury without millions of tourists around you.

8. Four Seasons Hotel Las Vegas

Four Seasons Hotel Las Vegas is one of the city’s best-rated hotels and, in my view, truly one of a kind. It occupies the top floors of the neighbouring Mandalay Bay complex but operates as a separate world, with its own entrance that Mandalay Bay guests can’t access. Guests love the peace and quiet: there’s no casino, no flashing slot machines and no cigarette smoke. The staff are fantastic, the rooms are enormous and the beds incredibly comfortable; thoughtful touches include a white noise machine to help you sleep. The generous breakfast buffet, including excellent omelettes, is a highlight. Afterwards, you can unwind by the hotel’s private pool or head to the larger pools at Mandalay Bay.

This level of peace comes at a price. In addition to the room rate, expect a $55 pre-tax resort fee. Valet parking is the only option, and it costs extra. The hotel sits at the far southern end of the Strip, so you’ll probably need a taxi to reach the main attractions in the centre. Still, if you want a break from the Vegas madness in a warm, clean setting, it’s worth it.

💡 Tip: This is a dream stay if you want top-tier luxury close by, while keeping the city’s noisy, smoky chaos at a comfortable distance — ideally viewed from your quiet room.

9. Waldorf Astoria Las Vegas

Waldorf Astoria Las Vegas, formerly the Mandarin Oriental, stands out because it has no casino. The air smells fresh rather than smoky — a rare find on the busy Strip. Guests praise the exceptionally quiet, spacious rooms, comfortable beds, separate bathtubs and fantastic views. Despite its 47 floors, the hotel has an intimate feel, thanks in part to the lovely staff. Relax at one of its three beautiful pools or the luxurious spa, or dine at its acclaimed French restaurant. It’s ideal for couples who want entertainment close by but prefer to sleep in complete quiet.

The heart of the action is just a few steps away, and you can easily walk to ARIA, The Cosmopolitan or T-Mobile Arena. A handy CVS is right next door for essentials. The room rate comes with a $55 nightly fee plus tax. Valet parking is the only option, adding to the bill. Standards are high, but some well-travelled guests say the hotel doesn’t quite match the Waldorf brand’s global reputation, and small details such as missed towel changes can occasionally disappoint.

💡 Tip: Make time for afternoon tea in the lounge upstairs. The menu is excellent, and the views across the Strip are spectacular.

10. Vdara Hotel & Spa

Vdara Hotel & Spa is part of what’s sometimes called the “quiet trio” of luxury hotels. It has no casino and is entirely smoke-free — and it’s by far the most affordable of the three. Guests love the spacious suites, all of which have a small kitchenette, making it easy to prepare breakfast or heat up a meal. Many rooms offer wonderful views of the Bellagio fountains or the glowing Sphere. It’s a great option if you want to enjoy the city, then retreat in the evening to the small rooftop pool in this distinctive curved building.

There’s still a $55 resort fee, or more than $62 with tax. One small catch: you have to leave your car in the large ARIA garage and walk a little way. Otherwise, the location is excellent and puts you close to everything. Some guests report slow room service and delays when requesting missing items. If it’s full, try opulent The Venetian Las Vegas, with its huge bathrooms, indoor gondola canals and direct access to The Sphere.

💡 Tip: Indoor walkways connect the building to Bellagio, so you can reach the heart of the action in just a few minutes — without leaving the air conditioning.

11. Mandalay Bay

If you’re heading to Vegas with kids, Mandalay Bay could be just the place. Its biggest draw is an enormous 11-acre pool complex. Think wave pool, lazy river and a real sandy beach where little travellers can play for hours. When they’ve had enough of the water, take them to the large aquarium, home to sharks, sea turtles and rays. Adults appreciate the clean, spacious rooms, comfortable beds and choice of restaurants. Even the casino is said to smell of vanilla, with less of the cigarette smoke you’ll find elsewhere.

The resort is at the far southern end of the Strip, and it’s so massive that getting from reception to the pool can feel like a short hike. Add the mandatory resort fee, which comes to just under $57 per night including tax, and, if needed, self-parking at $20–25 a day. Check-in lines can get long, too. To reach the centre of the action, take a taxi or hop on the free tram connecting the resort with its neighbouring sister properties, Luxor and Excalibur.

💡 Tip: The location is a little out of the way, and walking to the busier central Strip can wear you out quickly. The tram or a taxi is well worth considering.

12. New York-New York Hotel & Casino

You can spot New York-New York Hotel & Casino from a distance: its façade features giant replicas of New York skyscrapers, the Statue of Liberty and the Brooklyn Bridge. Guests praise the clean, spacious rooms and comfortable beds — just what you need after a day exploring the Strip. Compared with Mandalay Bay, it’s much more conveniently located at a busy intersection near MGM Grand, so the main attractions are closer. Kids love the place, especially the red roller coaster that winds through the building and outside.

Keep in mind that the coaster is very loud, and the casino can be noisy and smoky. Guests also report that the air conditioning sometimes struggles in summer and some rooms don’t have a fridge. Still, accommodation is often very reasonably priced. Just add the $45 daily resort fee, which comes to a little over $51 per night after tax. If you arrive by car, parking costs around $18–23 a day — fairly reasonable by Vegas standards.

💡 Tip: Downstairs, you’ll find charming streets styled after old Manhattan, where you can get a good-value slice of classic cheese pizza. A little farther on, stop by the fun Hershey’s Chocolate World, too.

13. MGM Grand

Emerald-green MGM Grand is enormous, even by Vegas standards. With a huge food court catering to every budget, comedy clubs and a massive casino, you could easily spend your whole stay without leaving the building. The biggest draw is the six-acre pool complex, complete with a lazy river where you can float around on an inner tube all afternoon — a brilliant option for families. Guests also praise the very spacious, modern rooms and friendly staff.

The resort hosts world-famous boxers and major concerts, so weekends can get incredibly crowded. If you don’t enjoy crowds, it may not be for you. Its huge capacity helps keep basic room rates affordable, but you’ll need to add a mandatory $50 resort fee per night plus 13% local tax. Even getting from reception to the elevator can take a while. Luckily, the paid Las Vegas Monorail stops right outside and runs farther north.

💡 Tip: Parking here can be a challenge. Self-parking costs around $20–25 per day, and more on weekends. When you check in, ask to have the parking added to your room key to make things easier.

14. Park MGM Las Vegas

Park MGM Las Vegas is something of a rarity: it’s the only large resort on the Strip with a completely smoke-free casino. If cigarette smoke bothers you but you don’t want to pay for a pricey casino-free hotel, you’ll probably love it. Guests praise the friendly staff, comfortable beds and excellent location at the start of the central Strip, next to the huge T-Mobile Arena. Bellagio is about a 10-minute walk away, saving you taxi fares. After a major renovation and a name change from Monte Carlo, the hotel now has a clean, bright design, three outdoor pools and an interesting Haus of Gaga exhibition.

Although the rooms have been updated, some of the furnishings still feel a little dated. Guests occasionally complain about noisy air conditioning, low shower pressure or a small gym. Room rates are often good, but a mandatory $50 nightly fee adds about $57 a day after tax. If you arrive by car, garage parking costs around $20.

💡 Tip: You’ll find Eataly, an excellent Italian marketplace, near reception. Pick up fresh pasta and meat-free specialities from across Italy — guests love the huge selection.

15. Treasure Island – TI Las Vegas

Treasure Island – TI Las Vegas is on the northern part of the Strip, directly across from luxurious The Venetian. Its biggest selling point is completely free self-parking. If you’re travelling by car on a road trip, that can save you a lot on otherwise expensive garages. Guests appreciate the overall value, the handy CVS next door for snacks and the refreshing pool after a hot day in town. The building is also home to Mystère, a fantastic Cirque du Soleil show, and tickets are easy to find.

The décor is a little dated and the pirate theme has faded, but the rooms are spacious and the beds comfortable. Traffic noise can reach even the higher floors, and if breakfast is included, expect something simple — coffee, an egg and a pastry. The hotel charges a mandatory $49.95 pre-tax resort fee. Despite a few drawbacks, it’s easy to walk from here to many attractions, and the friendly staff are happy to help.

💡 Tip: The building may have seen better days, but free parking and a central location make this one of the best-value choices for travellers with a car. At check-in, head straight to the front desk; the self-service kiosks can be unreliable.

16. Best Western Plus Casino Royale – Center Strip

A little gem right in the heart of the action, Best Western Plus Casino Royale – Center Strip is tucked between the giants The Venetian and Harrah’s. Guests love that it’s one of the few hotels with no resort fee, so you pay the price shown at booking plus standard tax. Parking is free, too — a real rarity on the Strip. The rooms are more like a standard roadside motel, and the building isn’t much to look at from outside, but inside you’ll find friendly staff, clean rooms and a quiet atmosphere. A fridge and coffee maker in each room are another bonus, helping you avoid overpriced morning coffee.

This is a good fit if you want to explore the city rather than spend your stay among grand fountains and luxury spas. There’s a small outdoor pool and a 24-hour gym, but the buzz is mostly in the casino, which offers remarkably cheap drinks. Some guests mention people asking for spare change, and the welcome gaming promotions can be confusing. The low-rise building has one advantage: no long waits for the elevator, so you can head out into the lively streets soon after waking up.

💡 Tip: If you plan to spend your days out exploring and just need a comfortable bed for the night, put the money you save on hotel fees towards better experiences or tickets to a famous show.

17. Luxor Hotel & Casino

Luxor Hotel & Casino is the unmistakable black pyramid at the southern end of the Strip, shining a powerful beam into the sky each night. Egyptian-inspired design continues throughout, with a large sphinx welcoming you at the entrance. Guests praise the spacious, clean rooms, comfortable beds and excellent shower pressure. It’s one of the cheapest large resorts, making it a good choice if you’re on a tight budget but still want a classic Vegas experience. The resort fee is $45 per night, or about $51 with tax — among the lowest in the city.

Unusual slanted elevators, known as inclinators, take you to the rooms in the main pyramid. There isn’t much natural light inside, so the corridors can feel a little dark. Parking costs extra, at around $18 per day. It’s a fair way from the central Strip, but a free tram connects the hotel with neighbouring Excalibur and Mandalay Bay. Guests say the self-service check-in kiosks can be unreliable. On the plus side, there are plenty of restaurants on-site and the hotel is easy to reach from the airport.

💡 Tip: When booking, ask about renovated rooms in the neighbouring towers. Rooms inside the pyramid can be quite dark and have seen better days.

18. Excalibur Hotel & Casino

From the outside, Excalibur Hotel & Casino looks like a giant fairytale castle with colourful turrets. It’s one of the cheapest resorts on the South Strip. Travellers praise the clean rooms, comfortable beds and surprisingly friendly staff. There’s a wide choice of affordable food in the buffets and food courts, helping you save on meals as well. The resort has four lovely pools, a welcome treat after a day of walking in the summer heat. Its location opposite New York-New York is a good starting point for walks north, and you can also hop on the tram to get between nearby resorts.

There is a trade-off: the furnishings have seen better days, check-in can drag on and guests often mention a smoky casino. Add the mandatory $45 resort fee, and expect self-parking to cost around $18 per night. Parking during big events can be stressful, but overall it’s a reasonable compromise if you need an affordable base.

💡 Tip: Staying in this castle makes sense if you’re on a tight budget and just need a basic bed and shower within walking distance of the lively Strip.

19. Circa Resort & Casino

Now we’re heading to old downtown, where Circa Resort & Casino rules the roost. One important rule: guests must be 21 or older. Entry checks are strict, but that means a peaceful atmosphere without kids or teenagers. Guests praise the spacious, clean rooms, excellent shower pressure and exceptionally helpful staff. The big attraction is Stadium Swim, a pool amphitheatre with giant screens showing live sports. The pools are heated all year round, so you can take a dip even in winter.

This modern touch of luxury comes at a price: the resort fee is $50 per night, comparable to the big Strip hotels. A ride to the famous 6.8-km boulevard takes about 15 minutes by Uber or taxi. The food is excellent, particularly at the Asian restaurant 8 East and Barry’s Steakhouse. One small warning: guests say the wooden bed frames are easy to stub your toes on. If you arrive by car, the modern Garage Mahal is a striking place to park.

💡 Tip: Head to the top floor for a drink at Legacy Club. The panoramic view over the glittering city and surrounding Nevada desert is spectacular and not to be missed.

20. Golden Nugget Las Vegas

Golden Nugget Las Vegas is right on famous Fremont Street and still has a charming old-school feel. Compared with the polished Strip, the atmosphere here is more relaxed, wilder and much louder, with everything feeling a little more tightly packed. Many guests come for the unique pool, The Tank, where a transparent waterslide passes straight through a huge aquarium filled with live sharks. There are also plenty of good restaurants, a well-kept casino and helpful staff.

Expect a $46 resort fee on top of your room rate, which is fairly typical for downtown. Parking costs extra, but is often a little cheaper than at the city’s huge resort complexes. The biggest drawback is the noise from the street, which can go on late into the night, along with occasional maintenance issues in older parts of the hotel. If you’re a light sleeper, ask for a room in a quieter building. Guests particularly like the spacious, renovated rooms in Rush Tower.

💡 Tip: Fremont Street Experience, a covered pedestrian promenade, starts right outside the hotel. Don’t miss it in the evening, when enormous light shows fill the canopy overhead.

21. El Cortez Hotel and Casino

If you’re after retro Vegas, El Cortez Hotel and Casino will transport you straight back to the 1940s. It’s an authentic place, steeped in the nostalgia of old gangster films and the era when the mob ruled the city, with period carpets and interiors to match. Guests appreciate the friendly staff and classic casino atmosphere, with fair rules at the gaming tables. Renovated rooms have clean wooden floors, another welcome touch. I think it’s a great base for backpackers and travellers on a tighter budget.

The original historic building does have its quirks. Rooms are tiny, you may need to climb a few steps to reach the shower, and there’s no pool. Guests also mention street noise and firm beds, so earplugs could come in handy. On the plus side, the resort fee is the lowest in town: just $34 per night including tax. The hotel is on a quieter edge of busy Fremont Street, and parking costs very little — sometimes nothing at all.

💡 Tip: Don’t come here expecting gleaming modern luxury; choose it for an authentic taste of nostalgia. Nearby restaurants and bars offer food and drinks at reasonable prices, which will make your wallet happy.

22. Red Rock Casino Resort and Spa

Red Rock Casino Resort and Spa is far from the busy Strip, in the quieter, affluent neighbourhood of Summerlin. It’s a great choice if you have a rental car and want to escape the crowds. Guests love the views of nearby Red Rock Canyon, especially from mountain-facing rooms — they say it’s worth paying a little extra for one. There’s a wonderful spa and a huge pool area with plenty of loungers and a large bar, though families mean you can expect plenty of kids around the water. The sprawling, palm-filled complex has its own cinema, bowling alley and a wide choice of food, including a quick-service food court.

You won’t have to worry about complicated parking or long breakfast queues, but without a car, getting to the Strip is difficult and taxi rides will quickly add up. Rooms are spacious and clean, and the staff are incredibly friendly. Fees are similar to those at the better central resorts, so expect a standard resort fee of around $50 per night.

💡 Tip: The area around the resort has some excellent Indian and Thai restaurants, where you can enjoy a good meal in a relaxed setting for much less than in the noisy, crowded centre.

How to Choose the Right Hotel

When choosing where to stay, start by adding the resort fee from our table to the price on Booking.com, then remember the 13.38% tax. Only then will you see the true cost — and it may change your mind, because a hotel that looks cheap at first can end up costing more than a more luxurious one.

If you’re travelling with kids, look for hotels with large pools, such as Mandalay Bay or New York-New York. Just remember that children aren’t allowed in gaming areas. For couples looking for romance and a quieter stay, casino-free hotels such as Four Seasons or Vdara are ideal, with no slot-machine noise to disturb you.

If you’ve rented a car, calculate your parking costs carefully: $25–40 a day can make a serious dent in your budget. In that case, Treasure Island and its free parking are a real treasure. If you don’t have a car, stick to the central Strip so you won’t have to pay for taxis all the time.

Where to Go Next

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• Death Valley National Park
• Where to Stay in New York City
• ESTA for the USA: How to Apply

Frequently Asked Questions

Planning a trip to Sin City can take some figuring out, especially since things work a little differently here than in the rest of the United States. To make things easier, I’ve answered some of the questions I hear from you most often.