Finding a place to stay in Las Vegas can feel overwhelming. In this guide, we provide an overview of each area and recommend hotels suited to your stay.
By: Paul Healy | Last Updated:
Las Vegas has an estimated 150,000 hotel rooms. That sounds like great news until you actually start trying to book one.
The price difference can be staggering. The same stretch of road can take you from a $50-a-night room to a $500-a-night suite — often in the same hotel.
The Strip, the main thoroughfare, is just 4.2 miles long, yet even within that short stretch, the neighbourhoods feel surprisingly different from each other. Where you base yourself has a real impact on the type of trip you’ll have.
We’ve been to Las Vegas several times. What we’ve tried to do here is cut through the noise and give a clear breakdown of each area, with hotels organised by price point — so you can find what suits your budget without having to trawl through hundreds of listings.
We’ve also called out the best options for specific types of trip: family holidays, romantic breaks, and first-timers who want to be in the thick of it.
How to Decide Where to Stay in Las Vegas?
Although The Strip is only 4.2 miles long, it’s important to think about where you want to base yourself in Las Vegas and what type of stay you are looking for.
Based on our experience, there are three main considerations:
- Hotel Facilities – The first consideration is the type of hotel you’re looking for. Do you want something packed with facilities, including pools, restaurants, and a casino? Or will you be spending most of your time exploring outside your hotel?
- Location – Different parts of Las Vegas have a different feel. The Central Strip is the most visually stunning, with grand hotels and the main tourist attractions. But other areas have their own drawcards, including activities for kids or great local nightlife.
- Budget – Big resort-style hotels come with a hefty price tag, but there are still some bargains to be had. However, reducing the budget generally means moving further away from the central strip or selecting a hotel with fewer amenities.
We’ve split this guide into 5 different areas to help you decide where to stay. Each includes top-end, mid-range, and budget hotel recommendations.
Tips for Booking Your Las Vegas Accommodation
Before deciding where to stay in Las Vegas, it’s worth bearing a few things in mind.
Las Vegas Resort Fees – All Las Vegas hotels charge a resort fee that must be paid directly to the hotel at checkout. Both Hotels.com and Booking.com include the resort fee in the advertised price; however, it’s excluded from the initial payment you make online. Resort fees are charged per room, per night and exclude taxes.
Be flexible on dates – It’s generally cheaper to stay in Las Vegas outside weekends and public holidays.
Check performance dates – If there is a show you really want to see, make sure it is on during your visit.
Book early – Popular sporting events, shows, and restaurants (particularly ones run by celebrities) can book out well in advance.
Check the weather – Las Vegas is in the middle of the desert, so if you plan on doing outdoor activities (except lazing by the pool) it’s a good idea to know what sort of temperatures to expect for the time of year you plant visit.
Know what’s going on – Las Vegas is the home of big conferences, which often push up the prices of hotels. Try to avoid large conferences if possible.
Age limits – Hotels will only allow guests under 21 to stay with a parent or guardian, and gambling and drinking are only permitted for those aged 21 and above.
Map: Las Vegas Regions
The map below shows the hotels across the 5 different Las Vegas areas. Each area can be explored on foot, but getting between them requires a taxi, bus, or monorail.
Most of the time, this is not a problem, but on weekend evenings, taxi and bus rides can be slow.
Click on the top right corner to open our map in your Google Maps app. Click the star next to the title to save it to your Google account.
Where to Stay in Las Vegas – Style
Best for First-Timers
If it’s your first time in Las Vegas, there’s really only one answer: the Central Strip.
Staying here puts you within walking distance of the most iconic hotels, the most impressive architecture, and the highest concentration of restaurants, shows, and nightlife.
The Bellagio fountains, the canals of the Venetian, the Eiffel Tower at Paris — these are the images people associate with Vegas, and they’re all within a short stroll of each other.
Yes, it costs more. But for a first visit, the convenience and atmosphere more than justify it. You’ll spend less time and money on taxis, and more time soaking up the city.
Our top picks for first-timers are The LINQ (budget), Paris (mid-range), and The Venetian (luxury).
Best for Families
Las Vegas has a reputation as an adults-only playground, but there’s actually plenty for families — you just need to choose your base carefully.
The Southern Strip is the best location for families, with several hotels specifically designed with younger guests in mind.
Excalibur is one of the best-value family options on the Strip, with daily live performances, pyrotechnics, a fun pool deck, and an arcade.
New York New York has an on-site roller coaster and buzzy American-style dining.
For an unforgettable pool-based holiday, Mandalay Bay has a sprawling beach complex with a wave pool that kids absolutely love.
On the Northern Strip, Circus Circus is the classic family choice — the Adventure Dome theme park, free circus acts, and a pool with a 50-foot slide keep children entertained for hours.
Off the Strip, the Club Wyndham Grand Desert offers spacious two-bedroom suites with full kitchens, a children’s pool, and a kids’ club, making it an excellent base for families seeking more space and a quieter environment.
Best for Couples
Las Vegas is one of the great romantic city-break destinations.
For pure romance, The Venetian is hard to beat. Every room is a suite, the decor is opulent, and the gondola rides through the indoor canals are genuinely charming.
The Bellagio is another top choice. The fountain views from Strip-facing rooms are spectacular, and the hotel’s art gallery and upscale dining options make it a refined, indulgent stay.
For luxury without the casino atmosphere, the Waldorf Astoria is the standout choice. It’s one of the few casino-free hotels on the Strip, with a fantastic Sky Bar and panoramic views.
NoMad Las Vegas offers a similar vibe — intimate, stylish, and a world away from the sensory overload of the bigger resorts.
On a tighter budget, Paris Las Vegas consistently delivers on romance — the Eiffel Tower setting, the French-themed dining, and the recently refreshed rooms make a trip feel special without breaking the bank.
Where to Stay in Las Vegas – Regions
The Central Strip
The central Las Vegas Strip is the heart of the city. This is where the grandest and most imposing hotels are located, and many of the best things to do in Las Vegas are nearby.
The central Strip broadly runs between the intersection of East Desert Inn Road and East Flamingo Road, covering the Wynn Hotel down to Planet Hollywood. It includes the Eiffel Tower at Paris, the fountains at Bellagio, the shops in Caesar’s Palace, and the canals of the Venetian.
This is where to stay in Las Vegas if you want the best of the action on your doorstep.
Up Side
Being in the heart of the city means you can walk straight out of your room and explore central Vegas – an area that’s always buzzing with energy.
For the most popular shopping, restaurants, and nightlife, the central strip is where it’s at. The area also has some of the best hotels in Vegas.
Down Side
Being in the most popular section of the strip means it’s often busy and crowded. Hotel costs are generally higher; however, a couple of older hotels are often well priced.
Top End Options
Wynn Las Vegas ($$$$$) – A luxurious resort packed with amenities, including an 18-hole golf course, designer boutique shops and an oasis swimming pool. The guest rooms are a masterclass in style and comfort, powered by the latest tech.
The Venetian ($$$$) – Huge array of designer shops, several top-end restaurants and a 5-acre pool and garden. Each room is a suite, making The Venetian one of the most romantic stays in Las Vegas.
The Bellagio ($$$$) – The beautifully decorated star of the Oceans 11 movie has well-equipped spacious rooms with sumptuous decor. There’s an art gallery, 5 pools and a host of elegant restaurants.
Mid-Range Options
Paris ($$$) – Paris delivers an immersive experience with cobblestone arcades, a world-renowned spa, and recently updated rooms in regal aesthetics. Off-season, Paris can be exceptional value.
Caesars ($$$ entry rooms) – One of the grandest hotels on the Strip, but you can pick up a reasonably priced stay because they have a large selection of smaller rooms.
Budget Hotels
Flamingos ($$) – A massive casino floor, a 15-acre pool, and a hotel bursting with character, Flamingos is a great budget choice. Their Go or Fab rooms can be excellent value.
Treasure Island ($$) – A whimsical, deserted island feel, family-friendly restaurants, an Avengers immersive experience and a whopping shopping mall. The large, well-equipped rooms are often well-priced.
Planet Hollywood ($$$) – Contemporary features and a party atmosphere, with celebrity restaurants, plenty of shopping and outdoor hot tubs that overlook the Strip.
The LINQ ($$) – Great value accommodation in the heart of the action. The good-sized rooms have all the amenities you need, and the resort has multiple bars, celebrity restaurants, upscale shopping, and The High Roller – a 550-foot Ferris wheel.
Southern Strip
The southern Las Vegas Strip extends from Planet Hollywood to Mandalay Bay.
Although not as fancy as the Central Strip, it still packs a punch with several high-end hotels geared towards adults.
It also has plenty of family-friendly action. New York, New York has a roller coaster, Excalibur relives a King Arthur theme and Mandalay Bay has a huge pool complex, a shark reef, and regular sporting events.
The Pinball Museum is a great alternative to Las Vegas’s regular attractions.
Up Side
There are plenty of themed hotels in the southern part of the Vegas Strip with activities to keep the kids entertained. Many of the casinos have cheaper games than you’ll find on the central strip.
Down Side
It’s around a 45-minute walk, or a taxi ride, to go to the Central Strip, which you’ll want to explore for at least some of your stay in Las Vegas.
Top-End Options
Waldorf Astoria ($$$$$) – One of the few hotels without a casino, this ultra-stylish property is a calm oasis right in the centre of the Strip. The Sky Bar, sprawling pool deck and several rooms all offer panoramic views of Las Vegas.
Four Seasons ($$$$$) – A stylish property in a slightly hidden location on the southern end of the Strip. The rooms are elegantly decorated with wood panelling, marble finishes and plenty of facilities.
The Signature ($$$$) – A swanky stay with breathtaking views over the Strip. Each room features top-quality amenities, including jetted tubs and luxury linens. The nearby Monorail Station can whisk you up to Paris in 13 minutes.
NoMad Las Vegas ($$$$) – Classic glamour meets the spirit of Vegas in an understated residential-style hotel. Instead of a lavish lobby, the stylish registration room is a taste of things to come.
Mid-Price Hotels
New York New York ($$$) – faithful replicas of famous NYC landmarks, several American-style restaurants. and an on-site roller coaster. The Spa at the MGM Grand is available for New York, New York Guests.
Mandalay Bay ($$$$) – Asian-inspired resort vibes with a shark aquarium, a huge beach with a wave pool and a wellness centre. The rooms are vibrantly decorated with floor-to-ceiling windows offering a panoramic view of the Strip.
The Park MGM ($$$) – A gimmick-free hotel with classic design features, tasteful interiors and unpretentious yet classy rooms. The lobby has a garden theme with an impressive tree root sculpture.
Budget Options
Tropicana ($$) – A bright, breezy hotel with spacious, comfortable rooms that are often great value. All the amenities you need, including a spa, health club, 2 pools, a casino and plenty of nightlife.
The Luxor ($$) – The rooms are a little dated, but the pyramid shape of the building gives them a cool loft-style vibe. It’s also one of the best-value hotels in Las Vegas.
Excalibur ($) – A cheery hotel with daily performances, pyrotechnics, and whimsical architecture. Facilities include 9 restaurants, a fun year-round pool deck, a fitness centre and a huge casino.
Northern Strip
The northern section of the Las Vegas Strip doesn’t have the buzz of the central and southern areas, but it’s quieter and more relaxing.
As the strip continues to march northwards, several new hotel resorts have appeared in this part of town.
There are outlet shopping malls in the area, as well as the Area15 Immersive entertainment venue and the thrill-seeking rides at the top of the Strat.
Up Side
This is the least expensive part of the Strip, and the casino floors are generally quieter. The minimum bets at the casinos are lower, so if you’re new to gambling, it’s the best area to have a go in a friendly environment.
Down Side
Although the hotels have plenty of facilities, they tend to lack some of the buzzing Vegas atmosphere. They are also spread further apart from each other, and it’s a 3-mile taxi ride into the central strip.
Top & MID-Range Options
Conrad Las Vegas ($$$$) – Ultra-swish rooms with high-tech conveniences, including wireless charging, smart TVs, and digital entry. High-quality dining, a large casino floor and big-ticket shows such as Celine Dion and Katy Perry.
Hilton Grand Vacations ($$$) – Traditional poolside holiday with whirlpool tubs, a fitness center and a relaxing spa. There are plenty of on-site restaurants, so you’ll rarely need to leave.
Budget Options
Circus, Circus ($) – A great choice in Las Vegas for a family-friendly vacation. The star attractions are the Adventure Dome with thrill rides, gaming arcades, and free circus performances. There’s also a pool with a 50-foot slide.
The STRAT ($$) – One of the best low-cost accommodation options in Las Vegas with plenty of facilities and entertainment for the whole family. The Skypod Bar offers the best views of Las Vegas with 3 high-altitude roller coasters to test the nerves. The casino floor is one of the friendliest in town.
Sahara ($) – A great budget option with easy access to the monorail. The resort-style pools have bookable cabanas so you can relax and unwind in peace. With 5 restaurants and 6 bars, there are plenty of dining choices.
Fremont Area
Fremont is the centre of Downtown Las Vegas, just north of the Strip. As the original Las Vegas, Fremont has vintage casinos, old-school neon signs, and the most authentic nightlife in Vegas.
Containing the roots of the city, Fremont has remained the heart and soul of Las Vegas as development proceeded southward.
The 5-block pedestrian area of the Fremont Experience contains some of the best non-gambling activities in Vegas. Every night, free live music kicks off under the world’s largest digital light display, and you can still find cheap drinks and affordable hotels.
Up Side
Fremont has excellent nightlife, which doesn’t need to cost a lot, live music on the street and much cheaper hotels. The casinos have retained the old-school Las Vegas feel.
Down Side
Fremont is 5 miles from the main Strip, so you’ll need to get a taxi if you want to visit any of the central Strip casinos or go to a show. It can also be lively so it’s not a part of Vegas where you’d come to unwind and relax.
Mid-Range & Budget Options
Circa Resort & Casino ($$$) – A mid-priced resort with a host of big features, including the world’s largest sports bar, a huge pool with a whopping 60-foot TV screen, and a loud, upbeat casino floor.
The Downtown Grand ($$) – An affordable hotel just a few minutes from Fremont Street. Relax on the chic pool deck or unwind in one of their casual bars. The rooms have modern amenities in clean, luxurious designs.
Golden Nugget ($$$) – A few minutes from the heart of the Fremont area. There are 9 restaurants, 2 Starbucks, a waterslide that passes through a shark tank, and an adult-only pool called the Hideout.
Off the Strip
Staying off the strip allows you to save some money on accommodation in Las Vegas, diverting those funds into other activities.
If you’ve been to Vegas before and you know your way around, this might be a good option.
However, if it’s your first time in Vegas, staying off the strip is a bit like seeing your favourite headliner act and sitting in the very back row. Yes, you’re there, but it’s not quite the experience you want.
Up Side
The primary benefit of staying off the Strip in Las Vegas is cost. Most resorts and hotels will be much cheaper and quieter. You may also find amenities such as free off-street parking, kitchenettes, or common laundry facilities at many hotels.
Down Side
To get into the strip or to the downtown area where most of the nightlife takes place, you’ll need to get a taxi, which can chew up time and money.
Mid-Range Options
Club Wyndham – Everything you need for a desert vacation, including outdoor pools with cabanas, hot tubs, and poolside bars. Rooms come with a fridge and microwave, and some have kitchenettes. There is no casino on-site.
Club Wyndham Grand Desert – Family-friendly stay with a kids’ club, a children’s pool area, and plenty of activities to keep them occupied. One- or two-bedroom suites are fully equipped with kitchens, washers and dryers, and large bedrooms.
Desert Paradise Resort – Relaxed Vegas fun, just 2 miles from the strip. The family pool with a jacuzzi is open until midnight, and there is a 24-hour fitness centre. 1 or 2-bedroom suites with full kitchens, dishwashers, and laundry facilities.
What to Do?
Once you’ve sorted your hotel, the next step is working out what to do with your time.
Our guide to the best things to do in Las Vegas covers everything from the iconic Strip experiences to the stuff most visitors miss, and it’s a good place to start if you’re building an itinerary.
One thing worth flagging: Las Vegas makes an excellent base for day trips into the surrounding desert, and the Grand Canyon is the obvious choice.
If you’re planning a visit, our guides to the best Grand Canyon viewpoints and the top South Rim hikes will help you make the most of the trip.
More USA Guides
- Our 2-week Arizona & Utah road trip itinerary covers 6 National Parks.
- See the best viewpoints at the Grand Canyon and try our favourite South Rim hikes.
- See the buttes and mesas captured in so many films with our guide to Monument Valley.
- Enjoy the under-visited Canyonlands National Park and spend a day in Arches National Park.
- Experience the amazing slot canyons in Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument.
- See all the beautiful hoodoos of Bryce Canyon National Park.
- Try our favourite things to do in Las Vegas, including a few less-visited attractions.
- Book your stay with our guide to the best places to stay in Las Vegas.
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