With so many options for Las Vegas hotels, choosing a place to stay can feel daunting. No need to worry! Wandering Why Traveler has gotten in touch with some incredible travel bloggers to get the low-down on where to stay and why (and maybe even why not). Scroll through to find the Las Vegas hotel that’s right for you!
The Venetian.
Contributor: Tegan + Alex/Why Not Walk Travel Guides
The Venetian is one of the most quintessential Las Vegas hotels. It’s right on the Strip, perfect as a jumping-off point to a Southwest road trip or as your home-base for a fantastic stay in Sin City. This hotel is ideal for any type of traveler – it has spacious rooms and suites with great sound-proofing, and an absolutely adorable shopping area that looks just like a mini-Venice. You can go for a gondola ride through the replica canal, walk over the Rialto Bridge, and do some window shopping in the Grand Canal Shoppes.
For those seeking more adults-only fun, The Venetian is also home to the TAO Nightclub, with a gorgeous infinity pool koi pond, as well as its daytime equivalent, TAO Beach, which hosts pool parties and other daytime activities. The personality and vibe of the Venetian, like much of the rest of the Strip, is definitely opulent and a bit over-the-top.
There are ample gambling and casino options, as well as several restaurants, serving French, Italian, BBQ, Mexican, and more– Bouchon in particular is amazing for breakfast, and Once for Peruvian-Japanese fusion.
The Blue Man Group performs regularly, and there are rotating shows frequently as well as many cocktail bars, karaoke venues, and beyond for fun all day (and all night) long.
WHAT WE LOVED ABOUT THIS LAS VEGAS HOTEL:
For us, the architecture was definitely a high point of our stay at the Venetian. All the replicas of Venetian architecture were so well-done and we really enjoyed exploring around, taking in their versions of the Palazzo Ducale, Piazza San Marco, and beyond.
WHAT WE DIDN’T:
While the public spaces were super impressive, we’d have to say the biggest disappointment was that the rooms were rather plain in comparison, and the stay didn’t include many perks, like free breakfast or drink vouchers.
NEW YORK, NEW YORK.
Contributor: Olivia, Girl with Blue Sails
New York New York is one of the top hotels in Las Vegas, Nevada. From its towering Statue of Liberty out front to its impressive rooftop roller coaster, it’s a hotel that can’t be missed when driving down the Vegas strip. With great dining, entertainment, and a casino that never sleeps, New York New York has something to offer to all its visitors.
With moderately priced rooms and great dining options, New York New York is a hotel that caters to couples, families, and groups of friends. The roller coaster and massive arcade are perfect for kids, and the great dining options are great for everyone, no matter the age. The hotel has options for different tastes as well, including the upscale Gallagher’s Steakhouse to the more casual Tom’s Urban Restaurant.
The rooms at New York New York are fantastic as well. One thing to watch out for are rooms too close to the rooftop rollercoaster. While rooms on high floors provide amazing views, rooms a bit too close to the coaster will leave hotel guests listening to the rumbling coaster late into the night. The professionalism and warm welcome of the staff, however, are absolutely amazing and the cleanliness of the rooms is fantastic.
What draws groups of friends to New York New York is the nightlife. The infamous Nine Fine Irishmen pub is the most popular night spot, serving live music and plenty of Guinness on tap. Also popular is the Bar at Times Square or Coyote Ugly. Whether its guests are visiting with family, a significant other, or a group of friends, New York New York has is sure to leave them wanting to return time and time again, just like its chaotic but lovable namesake of a city
WHAT I LOVED ABOUT THIS LAS VEGAS HOTEL:
What I loved about New York New York was the Nine Fine Irishmen Pub. It had great beer, great company, and an awesome live Irish band.
WHAT I DIDN’T:
What I didn’t like was having my room so close to the rooftop roller coaster, and being able to hear it into the night.
MANDALAY BAY.
Contributor: Karen/Are We There Yet Kids
If you’re looking for a luxury Las Vegas hotel then the Mandalay Bay is one of the best. Located right at the south end of the Strip, it’s close enough to walk to most of the action but far enough away from the craziness so you can completely relax. This hotel combines old style glamour with modern, clean design. It feels exclusive and opulent and very welcoming.
The hotel is absolutely huge with over 3,000 rooms, a convention center, 135,000 square feet of casino space, and four pools. If you’re visiting with kids as we did, they will love the pool area which includes a lazy river, wave pool, and an actual beach. It’s a great space to cool off from the Nevada sun with a cocktail or two!
The rooms at Mandalay Bay are absolutely stunning, with huge comfy beds, deep bath tubs, and everything you’ll need to relax after a busy day exploring.
Mandalay Bay is home to several attractions including the Shark Reef Aquarium and The Michael Jackson One Show by Cirque du Soleil. You’ll also find The House of Blues Concert Hall which showcases some amazing live bands and the wonderful Shoppes at Mandalay Bay Place where you can pick up everything you need for your stay in Vegas.
Mandalay Bay Hotel is a beautiful place to stay in Vegas, ideal for family travelers but also for couples looking for an extravagant stay right on the Strip.
WHAT I LOVED ABOUT THIS LAS VEGAS HOTEL:
There are plenty of restaurants dotted around the hotel, covering everything from high-end cuisine to a cheap and cheerful food court. Lupo by Wolfgang Puck, the celebrity chef’s first Italian restaurant, is a particular favorite.
WHAT I DIDN’T:
The only downside of staying at this hotel is its location. For some it will feel a little too far from the busiest part of the strip – unlike the MGM, Paris, or the Venetian. But this can also be considered a pro point. It’s super close to the famous Welcome to Las Vegas sign and still easy to get to from the Excalibur tram system.
Paris Las Vegas.
Contributor: Stephanie, Bey of Travel
The four star Paris Las Vegas Hotel & Casino opened in 1999 and is the eye-catcher of the city! It is completely constructed in a French style with Parisian features. Normally I’m not a fan of replicating a unique national monument. But, this is one for the books. The replica of the Eiffel Tower will immediately catch your eye when you arrive. The tower is over 540 feet (165 meters) high and is fully illuminated at night. Two legs of the tower are madly located in the lobby and if you want, you can even go to the top of the tower via an elevator. You’ll also find an imitation of the Place de la Concorde and the Arc de Triomphe. The ceilings in the hotel are beautifully painted – you will feel like a true Parisian during your fancy stay!
The hotel is perfect for families, newlyweds, or friends… You won’t get bored for a minute. The hotel has 11 restaurants and 5 bars, in picturesque French style. And of course, the most important aspect of a LasVegas hotel – you will find more than 86,000 square feet (8,000 square meters) devoted to casinos and theaters. In this hotel you will be short of eyes to see everything and short of days to do everything. Every day there is a different program with different shows and events. The hotel also has an indoor shopping center, a swimming pool, a fitness center, and a large “Parisian” spa to fully relax. Paris Las Vegas Hotel & Casino is the perfect hotel to enjoy a weekend getaway or a family vacation.
WHAT I LOVED ABOUT THIS LAS VEGAS HOTEL:
I loved the general atmosphere of the hotel. There is so much to do, it’s like Disneyland for adults!
WHAT I DIDN’T:
The negative side is that drinks and meals at the pool were quite expensive….
MGM Grand Hotel.
Contributor: Cortney, Tin Can Living
We entered the lobby of the MGM Grand Hotel and Casino on the Las Vegas Strip. It was beautiful and alive. The music, the people, the dings and rings of the slot machines filled the air with excitement. There were smiling faces every direction you looked. Young faces, old faces, kids, families, and newlyweds. Every type of group that you could imagine were within our range and they all looked to be celebrating. What a great way to start a short vacation.
The accommodations were spacious and clean. After settling in, we decided to have dinner. The sheer amount of food options were dizzying. You could have steak, fish, and pizza. There was a food court if you wanted grab and go. There were even dessert options and many of the restaurants boasted top chefs!! We chose to eat at Morimoto’s. We had the most fantastic sushi and sake. It was mouthwatering.
I don’t think that anyone could ever get bored in Vegas. The MGM is located in a fantastic part of the Strip. It is within walking distance of the best restaurants, casinos, shopping, and people watching. However, if you don’t feel like stepping outside of the doors, you don’t have to go anywhere. The MGM has everything. They have a Top Golf, a pool and spa, top comedy shows, dance shows, adult entertainment, and gambling, oh my!! They even have dance clubs if you can find the energy after engaging in all of the other activities.
If you decide to sleep while visiting Vegas, the rooms are comfortable and quiet. It makes for a nice rest stop before starting the fun all over again. The room service is 24 hours. There is nothing better than waking up to coffee. The morning brunch buffet at Buffet Americana is fantastic! See you at the MGM!! It doesn’t get any better!!
WHAT I LOVED ABOUT THIS LAS VEGAS HOTEL:
The location!
WHAT I DIDN’T:
The pool was a bit overcrowded.
The Bellagio.
Contributor: Debbie, World Adventurists
The Bellagio hotel is one of the most iconic of the Las Vegas hotels. The Bellagio’s lobby is also one of the most Instagrammable locations in Vegas. The massive installation of Dale Chihuly blown-glass flowers all over the ceiling is mind-blowing. Pair that with the conservatory with out-of-this-world floral displays that change with each season, and it feels like walking through a magical garden. More than two dozen horticulturists maintain the elaborate displays. Another great attraction at the hotel is the Bellagio fountains. The 200-foot-tall fountains are choreographed to music.
The Bellagio is an upscale hotel that is always clean and classy. You will sleep well in their higher-end rooms and suites. It is best for partiers and those who are not afraid to spend a little more. The Bellagio is known for its nightlife and day parties.
The Bellagio has a very romantic personality, from the spectacular fountain show to romantic restaurants, to spa services that are inspired by the gorgeous conservatory and nature. Walking around The Bellagio, you are sure to feel the love in the air!
The most popular ticketed attractions at the hotel are “O” by Cirque du Soleil, and the Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art. There are many exciting experiences beyond the Las Vegas Strip too.
The elegant Italian eatery Lago is wonderful. If you are not looking to go all-out, the Buffet of Bellagio, in particular, is one of the best places to enjoy a special dining experience, at a more affordable price.
WHAT I LOVED ABOUT THIS LAS VEGAS HOTEL:
The floral displays are our favorite part of the hotel, as well as the VIP option. You can feel like a celebrity when you stay in a large suite with a spectacular view of the fountains and have VIP access.
WHAT I DIDN’T:
We dislike that The Bellagio is always crowded, day and night, because of its iconic status. The lobby and conservatory are crowded with good reason, but it does trickle out into the casino and other common areas.
Harrah’s Hotel and Casino.
Contributor: Alanna, Periodic Adventures
Harrah’s is a great hotel option for a budget-friendly Vegas trip. Located in a prime location in the middle of the Strip, Harrah’s has great restaurants, fun entertainment, and easy access to all the best highlights of the Las Vegas Strip.
Rooms in Harrah’s will run you $25 per night on the cheapest nights and up to $110 on busy weekends or holidays. You can also often find deals on Groupon as well. While the prices might make you think that the rooms are not modernized, you’d be surprised. Rooms are spacious with great views and comfortable beds!
Of course, Harrah’s has great entertainment! Besides the casino, there are great shows like Menopause the Musical and a super funny magic show called the Mac King Comedy Show. Plus, there are headliners with Las Vegas residencies at Harrah’s like The Righteous Brothers and Donny Osmond. Shows are very affordable! For example, the Mac King Comedy show only costs $35 and up.
There are free entertainment options as well, the main one being the Piano Bar, which is a dueling piano show and bar with a relaxed, mature vibe. It’s a really fun experience where each pianist takes turns playing songs requested by the audience in competition for the audience’s praise.
Harrah’s has a wide range of restaurant options like Ruth’s Chris Steak House, a high-end sit down experience with stellar views! Be sure to tell them if you’re celebrating an occasion as they’ll decorate your table, include free desert, or print custom menus! Toby Keith’s I Love This Bar & Grill is another fun restaurant with Southern fare.
WHAT I LOVED ABOUT THIS LAS VEGAS HOTEL:
I love Harrah’s because of its perfect location with easy access to The Bellagio, Paris, Venetian, The Mirage, and Caesars Palace, all of which have amazing things to do, plus the in-hotel entertainment is really fun!
WHAT I DIDN’T:
There’s nothing I dislike about Harrah’s, so I highly recommend staying here!
Caesars Palace.
Contributor: Sarah, Roadmaps and Restaurants
Looking to stay in one of the most iconic hotels in the heart of the Las Vegas strip? Look no further than Caesars Palace! Caesars offers something for everyone, from the spacious casino to the dozens of bars, restaurants, and shops spread out throughout the expansive complex. There are also multiple pools to either relax by or gamble at! The complex embodies ancient Rome, playing off of the architecture and key historical figures and places. Their concert and show venue is even modeled after the Roman Colosseum.
Caesars is home to Omnia, one of the most popular night nightclubs on the Las Vegas strip. Headliners and resident artists often include big name musicians and DJs like Calvin Harris, Steve Aoki, Zedd, and Tiesto. There are also many dining options ranging from the Roman food court for quick bites to upscale restaurants like NOBU and Gordon Ramsay’s Hell’s Kitchen. Make sure to visit the Bacchanal Buffet for the best all-you-can-eat buffet featuring hundreds of daily offerings. Don’t forget to enjoy a drink at the Spanish Steps, an upbeat open-air bar located at the front of the Caesars complex.
The Forum Shops at Caesars Palace draw crowds as many flock to go shopping at the specialty shops that often feature only-in-Vegas exclusive items. There are also restaurants and bars within the shops as well as multiple fountains including the Fall of Atlantis fountain show.
WHAT I LOVED ABOUT THIS LAS VEGAS HOTEL:
Don’t miss Absinthe, the adult-only unforgettable and wildly popular variety show that is offered Wednesday-Sunday at The Spiegeltent at Caesars Palace’s Roman Plaza. The show is said to not be for the faint of heart and is a mix of acrobatics, burlesque, and hysterical comedy.
WHAT I DIDN’T:
The only downside to Caesars is that it can often be very crowded due to its popularity so make sure you make reservations if you are interested in any of the entertainment or restaurant options!
The Linq.
Contributor: Jessica, Uprooted Traveler
The Linq Hotel and Casino is a budget-friendly option in the center of the Las Vegas Strip, offering modern vibes, multiple on-site dining options, and an unbeatable location for the price. The standard rooms here are a bit on the small side, so this option is probably best for travelers, from families to bachelorette parties, who expect to spend most of their time exploring the wonderfully weird world of Vegas, rather than primarily hanging out in the hotel room. That being said, the hotel has plenty of great amenities, from the pool, which hosts multiple pool parties each week complete with beer pong competitions to more family-friendly activities, like nightly magic shows.
Beyond the hotel itself, the Linq Promenade, an outdoor corridor connected to the hotel, is not to be missed. Featuring unique shops, from tattoo parlors to candy bars clad with gummy-bear chandeliers, to attractions for thrill-seekers, like a zip-line that catapults revelers 1,080 feet above the Strip, the Promenade has something for everyone. Feeling hungry? Not to worry – the Linq has some stellar food options, like the beloved Hash House A Go Go for stick-to-your-ribs brunch options or Flour and Barley for mouth-watering brick-oven pizza.
WHAT I LOVED ABOUT THIS LAS VEGAS HOTEL:
I stayed here for my friend’s bachelorette party and one of our first activities was taking a trip in the High Roller, the world’s tallest observation wheel located in the Linq Promenade. Soaring 550 feet above the Strip, the High Roller offers panoramic views of some of the most iconic sites of Vegas, from the Eiffel Tower of Paris to the Bellagio Fountains. Grab a drink from the bar before you embark on the wheel and marvel at the fantastic views of the Strip below!
WHAT I DIDN’T:
Like many hotels in Vegas, if you aren’t paying a premium for a room with a view, you’re probably going to have a lackluster one. When we stayed, the view from our room was basically a courtyard of other rooms and an industrial-looking roof. Not quite the same views the guys in “The Hangover” got of Vegas!
Wyndham Desert Blue.
Contributor: Corritta, It’s a Family Thing
One of the best places to stay in Las Vegas with kids is the Wyndham Desert Blue. It is one of my favorite hotels for families because it is away from the smoke and noise of the Strip, but close enough to enjoy everything.
When you walk into the Wyndham Desert Blue, you are instantly greeted by bright light, smiling faces, and unlike other Vegas hotels, mostly quiet. There aren’t crowds of people, smoke, or loud slot machines.
What makes this the perfect place for families is that it isn’t actually a hotel, it’s a timeshare. You don’t get a room, you get a condo/apartment-style suite. Each suite has an unbelievable tub, full kitchen, washer/dryer, separate bedrooms, and spacious living room. If you are traveling with kids, this is the perfect place for some privacy. There are two bedrooms, so the kids can sleep in a separate room, while parents enjoy some alone time.
The good news is, you don’t have to be an owner to stay here. You can book a room with cash, without having to buy anything or attend a presentation. Plus, the outside amenities are awesome. There is a pool, splash pad, fire pit, Jacuzzi, and games. You can relax outside while the kids run around and enjoy everything this timeshare has to offer.
WHAT I LOVED ABOUT THIS LAS VEGAS HOTEL:
Since the location is off of the Strip, there is a convenient shuttle that runs every 20 minutes. When you check in, you will receive the drop-off and pick-up times. The reason we love this place is the full kitchen. We like to get groceries (there is a shuttle to the grocery store too), and cook many of our meals to save money, which is great for large families.
WHAT I DIDN’T:
It would be nice if there was a restaurant inside the timeshare, but given it is not a hotel we understand. Overall, this is one of the best places to stay in Las Vegas with kids.
Bally’s
Contributor: Sydney, A World In Reach
If you’re visiting Las Vegas on a budget but want to stay in the middle of the action on the Strip, then Bally’s Las Vegas is the perfect hotel for you. Bally’s doesn’t have all the fanfare of some of the other hotels on the strip. But, the hotel is perfectly located with recently renovated rooms and an excellent casino.
The best part about this hotel? Bally’s is extremely affordable, and rooms can be found for as low as $19 per night plus resort fee. The cheap rates and excellent location makes Bally’s the perfect hotel for budget travelers or college students visiting the city for a 21st birthday trip or spring break.
Bally’s hosts several different shows at their Jubilee Theatre, including Paranormal: Mind-Reading Magic, Potted Potter (a Harry Potter parody show), and Extravaganza – The Vegas Spectacular. The hotel is home to some of Las Vegas’ best restaurants including Nobu Las Vegas and BLT Steak. Bally’s is also home to unique attractions such as Real Bodies, a fascinating look into the form and function of the human body. After a night out on the town, spend a day relaxing in the Blu Pool at Bally’s. You’re also a short walk away from the connected Paris Las Vegas hotel, home to many more restaurants and shows.
Bally’s is located in the center of the Las Vegas Strip, adjacent to Paris Las Vegas and across the street from the Bellagio and Caesars Palace. The hotel is within walking distance of many of the Strip’s top attractions. If you’re traveling a bit further afield, there is a Las Vegas Monorail station located at the hotel, making it very easy to get to the opposite sides of the Strip.
WHAT I LOVED ABOUT THIS LAS VEGAS HOTEL:
Overall, I loved how affordable the rooms were at Bally’s, especially given the hotel’s excellent location.
WHAT I DIDN’T:
One (slight) downfall was that the hotel doesn’t have as many restaurant choices as some of the other hotels on the Strip. I’d still happily stay at Bally’s again though, especially for the price!
The Four Seasons.
Contributor: Katie, La Jolla Mom
Four Seasons Hotel Las Vegas is one of the best hotels on the Strip for those looking for a quieter respite. It’s non-gaming and non-smoking, which appeals to families though all luxury traveler types tend to stay here, and it does feel like an oasis in a busy city. It’s located on floors 35-39 of Mandalay Bay, though has its own lobby and entrance. In fact, one of the perks is that Four Seasons guests have complimentary access to the Mandalay Bay wave pool, swimming pools, and lazy river in addition to the hotel’s own luxe pool area with cabanas (that is only accessible to Four Seasons guests).
Rooms were renovated to a chic old Hollywood glamor style a few years ago. Many rooms offer views of the mountains, stadium, or the Strip. Families tend to choose the Executive Suites because of their usually-reasonable pricing for a luxury hotel and extra space because the living room fully separates from the bedroom. The food is also excellent. You can get fresh breakfast donuts at Veranda, poolside craft cocktails and light bites, or a decadent filet mignon at Charlie Palmer Steak. Although, caving up with room service served with the usual Four Seasons flair always works too.
Another highlight includes the full-service Forbes Four-Star spa which also has couple’s treatment rooms. Recover from a long night out with cupping or a relaxation treatment that changes with the seasons. Guests should also take advantage of the concierge desk for the usual sightseeing tips. Plus, you can sometimes score hard-to-get tickets and reservations.
Four Seasons is located on the very south end of the Strip. It’s easy to ride the tram from Mandalay Bay to Excalibur and walk to other places like Bellagio or Linq. If headed to the attractions further north, you may want to consider taking the house car or an Uber.
WHAT I LOVED ABOUT THIS LAS VEGAS HOTEL:
I love stepping away from the casinos and higher energy on the Strip into quieter luxury. The food and service are also excellent.
WHAT I DIDN’T:
There’s nothing to dislike! But be aware, it’s on the south end of the Strip. It would not be a fit for people who prioritize being in the center of things.
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