Where to Stay in Las Vegas 🇺🇸: 6 Top Places & Best Hotels in Las Vegas

Las Vegas is full of surprises, and choosing where to stay can make your trip unforgettable. With so many different areas, it’s easy to find the perfect spot for your style and budget.

In this guide, I’ll show you the best places to stay in Las Vegas for every kind of traveler. Read on to discover which area matches your dream Vegas adventure and get tips to make your visit even better.

🏠 Best Hotels in Las Vegas

Quick guide to the best places to stay in Las Vegas 📋

1. Las Vegas Strip – Where to Stay in Las Vegas for First-Time Visitors

Location Benefits. The Strip puts you right in the heart of Vegas action, stretching 4.2 miles (6.8 km) along Las Vegas Boulevard. I’ve found that staying here means everything is walkable, from world-class casinos to entertainment venues. The monorail system connects major hotels, making transportation between properties effortless.

Entertainment Access. Walking the Strip feels like stepping into a movie set with iconic fountains, volcano shows, and street performers everywhere. The Bellagio Conservatory changes displays seasonally, while the Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas sign sits just 2 miles (3.2 km) south. Most shows and attractions are within walking distance of Strip hotels.

Dining Variety. Food options range from $12 fast-food joints to $150+ fine dining experiences per person. I’ve discovered amazing cheap eats like Tacos El Gordo and Secret Pizza hidden within casino food courts. Buffets typically cost $30-60 for dinner, while cocktails run $7-20 depending on the venue.

Meal Type Price Range (USD)
Fast Food $12-20
Mid-Range Restaurant $30-60
Fine Dining $150-1000+
Buffet Dinner $30-60
Cocktails $7-20

Transportation Hub. McCarran International Airport sits just 3.5 miles (5.6 km) from the Strip, making arrivals simple. The Deuce bus runs 24/7 between downtown and the Strip for budget travelers. Rideshare pickup zones are clearly marked at every major hotel, though traffic can slow things down during peak hours.

Shopping Paradise. The Strip houses everything from luxury boutiques at The Shops at Crystals to souvenir stores in every casino. Forum Shops at Caesars spans 636,000 square feet with over 160 stores. I recommend checking out the Grand Canal Shoppes for a unique Venice-themed shopping experience with gondola rides.

Best accommodation in Las Vegas Strip:

Luxury Hotels

  • Fontainebleau Las Vegas – This stunning 67-story tower offers 3,644 beautifully appointed rooms and suites with luxury amenities.
  • Bellagio – The property offers 17 restaurants, 5 outdoor pools, a 50-treatment room spa, and the famous Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Gardens.
  • Vdara Hotel & Spa at ARIA Las Vegas – This non-gaming, non-smoking resort offers all-suite accommodations with kitchenettes and dining areas.

Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels

  • Waldorf Astoria Las Vegas – This sophisticated non-smoking, non-gaming hotel offers 389 rooms and suites with floor-to-ceiling windows and large soaking tubs. The property features two pools, private cabanas, Tea Lounge on the 23rd floor, and a state-of-the-art fitness center.
  • ARIA Resort & Casino – This AAA Five Diamond resort features over 4,000 guest rooms with striking architecture and sustainable design.
  • Trump International Hotel Las Vegas – The property features floor-to-ceiling windows with Strip views, two on-site restaurants, and elegant penthouses.

Best Hostels

2. North Strip – Where to Stay in Las Vegas for Luxury Experience

Premium Location. The North Strip houses the most upscale resorts, stretching from the Wynn to the Sahara. I’ve noticed this area feels more refined and less crowded than central locations. The shopping here focuses on high-end brands, with fewer tourist traps and more sophisticated dining options.

Exclusive Amenities. These properties feature private pools, championship golf courses, and award-winning spas. The Wynn Golf Club offers 18 holes designed by Tom Fazio, while spa treatments start around $200. I recommend booking spa services in advance, especially during peak seasons when availability gets tight.

  • Private beach clubs with cabanas ($150-500/day)
  • Golf course access (greens fees $200-600)
  • Michelin-starred restaurants on-site
  • High-limit gaming areas with personal service

Upscale Dining Scene. North Strip restaurants consistently earn James Beard nominations and Michelin recognition. Dinner reservations at top establishments like Joël Robuchon require booking weeks ahead. I’ve found the wine programs here exceptional, with sommeliers offering tastings and pairings that justify the premium prices.

Transportation Considerations. Walking to central Strip attractions takes 15-20 minutes, though the monorail connects to key properties. Taxi rides to downtown Las Vegas cost $25-35, while airport transfers run $20-30. The area stays quieter at night, making it perfect for travelers seeking luxury without constant noise.

Best hotels in North Strip:

Luxury Hotels

  • SAHARA Las Vegas – Stylish 4-star hotel with a lively casino, spa, three outdoor pools, and five restaurants including Bazaar Meat by José Andrés. Located just 1.8 miles from the Strip, it offers a range of room types and is popular for family stays.
  • Lucky Getaway LV – High-end private villa featuring premium furnishings, a spacious layout, and a unique Las Vegas residential vibe.
  • A Beautiful House with Hot Tub, Grill & Games! – Upscale vacation home with a private hot tub, grill, and entertainment options, perfect for groups seeking comfort and fun.

Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels

Best Hostels

3. Central Strip – Where to Stay in Las Vegas for Entertainment

Entertainment Hub. This stretch between Flamingo and Harrah’s puts you steps from the biggest shows and attractions. I’ve watched everything from Cirque du Soleil to headliner concerts without leaving this area. The High Roller observation wheel offers 360-degree city views from 550 feet above ground.

Show Ticket Pricing. Popular performances require advance booking, especially weekend shows that sell out quickly. I suggest checking multiple venues for similar acts, as prices vary significantly between properties.

Show Type Price Range (USD) Best Booking Time
Cirque du Soleil $89-350 2-4 weeks ahead
Headliner Concerts $125-800 Day of release
Magic Shows $45-150 1 week ahead
Comedy Acts $35-120 3-5 days ahead

Casino Action. The gaming floors here buzz with energy around the clock, featuring everything from penny slots to high-stakes poker. I’ve observed that table minimums stay lower during weekday afternoons. Sports betting areas show games on massive screens, creating an electric atmosphere during major events.

Nightlife Central. World-famous DJs perform at venues like XS and Hakkasan, with cover charges ranging from $30-100 depending on the artist. I recommend arriving before 11 PM to avoid long lines and higher prices. Rooftop bars offer stunning Strip views, though expect to pay $15-25 per cocktail.

Best hotels in Central Strip:

Luxury Hotels

  • The Palazzo at The Venetian – Elegant all-suite luxury in the heart of the Strip, featuring spacious rooms, upscale shopping, and a renowned selection of restaurants and entertainment.
  • NoMad Las Vegas – Boutique luxury with European style, a rooftop pool, and refined dining, offering a tranquil retreat just steps from the Strip’s excitement.
  • Park MGM Las Vegas – Modern, eco-friendly, and smoke-free hotel in the heart of the Strip, featuring a lively casino, three pools, and top dining like Eataly and NoMad Library. Enjoy easy access to T-Mobile Arena and a vibrant nightlife with venues like On The Record speakeasy nightclub.

Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels

Best Hostels

  • The STRAT Hotel, Casino & Tower – Budget-friendly rooms, iconic tower views, and easy access to both the Strip and downtown, perfect for travelers looking for value and excitement.
  • Sin City Hostel – Social hostel with free breakfast, a welcoming vibe, and a location close to the Strip’s main attractions and nightlife.
  • Harrah's Las Vegas Hotel & Casino – Friendly staff, clean dorms, and a relaxed atmosphere in a central location, ideal for backpackers and solo travelers.

4. South Strip – Where to Stay in Las Vegas for Budget-Conscious Travelers

Value Positioning. Hotels here offer Strip access without premium pricing, making them perfect for budget travelers. I’ve found room rates typically run 30-50% lower than northern properties. The area includes iconic landmarks like the Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas sign and Mandalay Bay’s shark reef aquarium.

Affordable Dining Options. Food courts and casual restaurants dominate this area, with many meals under $20 per person. I particularly enjoy the variety at New York-New York’s food court and the authentic Mexican food at nearby local spots.

  • In-N-Out Burger locations within 2 miles
  • Food court meals averaging $12-18
  • Happy hour specials at casino bars (4-7 PM)
  • 24-hour coffee shops with $8-12 breakfast deals

Budget Entertainment. Free attractions include the Bellagio fountains (visible from multiple South Strip locations) and various street performers. The Luxor’s pyramid architecture creates unique photo opportunities, while the Excalibur offers affordable tournament-style gaming. I suggest walking north during evening hours when the Strip comes alive with lights and energy.

Transportation Savings. The South Strip connects easily to the airport via monorail and bus routes, keeping transfer costs minimal. Walking distances to central attractions range from 0.5-1.5 miles (0.8-2.4 km). The Deuce bus provides $6 all-day passes, making it economical for multiple trips between hotel areas.

Best hotels in South Strip:

Luxury Hotels

Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels

Best Hostels

5. Downtown Las Vegas – Where to Stay in Las Vegas for Authentic Experience

Local Vibes. Downtown Las Vegas feels totally different from the Strip—more local, more historic, and less polished. I love walking under the Fremont Street Experience canopy, where you’ll find live music, neon lights, and street performers every night. The area is packed with classic casinos, quirky museums, and vintage shops.

  • Fremont Street Experience: 24/7 light shows and free concerts
  • Mob Museum: 300 Stewart Ave, open 9am–9pm, tickets from $29 (USD/EUR)
  • Neon Museum: 770 Las Vegas Blvd N, open 2pm–10pm, tickets from $20

Food Scene. I always find something unique to eat here. The Container Park serves up everything from BBQ to vegan tacos, and Therapy on Fremont Street offers creative small plates for $10–$18. For dessert, I recommend Donut Bar (124 S 6th St), open 7am–1pm, with donuts starting at $3.

Place Specialty Price (USD)
Therapy Small plates $10–$18
Donut Bar Donuts $3–$5
Heart Attack Grill Burgers $12–$25

Getting Around. Downtown is compact, so you can walk almost everywhere. The free Downtown Loop shuttle stops at all the main attractions. If you want to head to the Strip, the Deuce bus runs every 15 minutes and costs $6 for a 2-hour pass.

Best hotels in Downtown:

Luxury Hotels

Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels

  • Downtown Grand Hotel & Casino – Stylish, affordable hotel with a rooftop pool, casino, and easy access to Fremont Street nightlife.
  • SpringHill Suites Las Vegas Convention Center – Stylish all-suite hotel just two blocks from the Strip with spacious rooms, complimentary breakfast, rooftop pool with Strip views, and no resort fee. Perfect for business and leisure with free Wi-Fi, a fitness center, and on-site restaurant and bar.
  • The D Las Vegas – Fun, energetic hotel and casino with modern rooms, vintage gaming, and live entertainment steps from Fremont Street.

Best Hostels

  • Hotel Apache – Historic boutique hotel with retro charm, comfortable rooms, and a friendly vibe right in the heart of downtown.
  • Oasis at Gold Spike – Trendy, social hotel-hostel hybrid with a pool, games, and frequent events, perfect for meeting fellow travelers.
  • Golden Gate Hotel & Casino – Vintage Vegas experience with compact rooms, classic casino action, and a lively bar scene just off Fremont Street.

6. Off Strip Las Vegas – Where to Stay in Las Vegas for Families

Family Activities. Off Strip areas are quieter and often more affordable, making them perfect for families. I like visiting Springs Preserve (333 S Valley View Blvd), which has gardens, museums, and trails—tickets are $19.95 for adults, $9.95 for kids. Adventuredome at Circus Circus (2880 S Las Vegas Blvd) offers indoor rides and games, with all-day passes from $40.

  • Springs Preserve: open 9am–4pm, closed Mondays
  • Adventuredome: open 10am–6pm weekdays, 10am–12am weekends
  • Discovery Children’s Museum: 360 Promenade Pl, open 10am–5pm, tickets $16.50

Dining with Kids. Many off-strip restaurants cater to families. I recommend Metro Pizza (1395 E Tropicana Ave), where a large pizza costs about $22 and kids’ meals are under $8. There are also plenty of fast-casual spots with healthy options.

Restaurant Kid-Friendly Menu Price Range (USD)
Metro Pizza Yes $8–$22
SkinnyFATS Yes $10–$16
Shake Shack Yes $7–$15

Practical Tips. Parking is usually free or much cheaper than on the Strip. Attractions are less crowded, and you’ll find more parks and playgrounds nearby. Most family-friendly spots are within 10–15 minutes’ drive of the Strip, so you’re never far from the action.

Best hotels in Off Strip:

Luxury Hotels

  • The Venetian® Resort Las Vegas – Opulent all-suite resort with grand Italian-inspired architecture, luxury shopping, and world-class dining right on the central Strip.
  • Encore at Wynn Las Vegas – Sophisticated suites, upscale restaurants, and vibrant nightlife with access to Wynn’s renowned casino and spa.
  • Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino – Modern celebrity-themed hotel with spacious rooms, a lively casino, and direct access to the Miracle Mile Shops.

Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels

  • Westgate Las Vegas Resort and Casino – Comfortable rooms, a classic Vegas casino, and a monorail stop for easy access to the Strip’s top attractions.
  • Paris Las Vegas Hotel & Casino – Charming Parisian-themed hotel with a replica Eiffel Tower, diverse dining, and a central location on the Strip.
  • Horseshoe Las Vegas – Affordable mid-range hotel with spacious rooms, a lively casino, and direct access to the heart of the Strip.

Best Hostels

  • The LINQ Hotel and Casino – Trendy, social hotel with modern rooms, a vibrant atmosphere, and easy access to the High Roller and LINQ Promenade.
  • Luxor Hotel and Casino – Iconic pyramid-shaped hotel offering a massive casino, four pools, live entertainment, and a full-service spa. Choose from a variety of restaurants and enjoy unique attractions like the Esports Arena and world-class shows.
  • Virgin Hotels Las Vegas, Curio Collection by Hilton – Lifestyle-focused hotel just off the Strip with over 1,500 stylish rooms, 12 restaurants, a vibrant casino, and an exclusive spa. Guests enjoy three towers with unique room layouts, enhanced Hilton CleanStay protocols, and a lively pool oasis.

FAQ

What is the difference between a Vegas hotel and a Las Vegas hotel?

A Vegas hotel usually refers to any accommodation in the city, while a Las Vegas hotel often means a property on or near the Strip with casino and resort features. Both offer a wide range of amenities, but Strip hotels tend to be larger and more luxurious.

Which hotel in Las Vegas has the best casino experience?

Many travelers consider the MGM Grand and the Venetian as top choices for a lively Vegas casino, with hundreds of table games and slot machines. These resorts also offer sports betting, poker rooms, and entertainment options for all guests.

What are the best places to stay in Las Vegas for first-timers?

The best places to stay in Vegas for new visitors are usually hotels on the Strip, like Bellagio, Wynn Las Vegas, and Mandalay Bay. These locations are close to attractions, restaurants, and nightlife, making the Vegas experience easy to enjoy.

Does the Bellagio have a spa and nightclub?

Yes, Bellagio features a full-service spa and several nightclubs and lounges. Guests can book massages, facials, and enjoy the vibrant nightlife without leaving the resort.

What is included in the resort fee at most Vegas hotels on the Strip?

A typical resort fee covers Wi-Fi, fitness center access, pool use, and sometimes local calls. The fee is usually charged per night and can range from $30 to $50 at the best Las Vegas hotels.

Is the Wynn Las Vegas a good hotel on the Strip?

Wynn Las Vegas is one of the best hotels in Las Vegas, known for its luxury, fine dining, and non-gaming spaces. It is located near the end of the Strip and offers a quieter, upscale atmosphere.

Can I stay at Four Seasons Hotel Las Vegas without visiting a casino?

Yes, Four Seasons Hotel Las Vegas is a    non-gaming hotel, but it is connected to Mandalay Bay’s casino resort for those who want to try gaming. This makes it a peaceful place to stay in Las Vegas with easy access to casino action.

What are the top places to stay in Vegas for families?

Families often choose resorts like Green Valley Ranch Resort or hotels off the Strip for more space and quieter surroundings. These properties offer pools, kid-friendly dining, and easy access to Nevada attractions.

How much does it cost per night at the best Las Vegas hotels?

Prices per night vary, but top hotels like Waldorf Astoria Las Vegas, Wynn Las Vegas, and Four Seasons Hotel Las Vegas often start from $400 and can go much higher for suites. Budget options and mid-range hotels in Vegas are also available for less.

What is special about staying on Fremont Street in Las Vegas?

Staying on Fremont Street puts you close to classic Vegas casinos, live music, and the famous Fremont Street Experience light show. It’s a great place to stay in Las Vegas for those who want a lively, historic atmosphere.

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