If you’re not sure where to stay in Las Vegas, and you feel that the Strip is too busy or expensive, consider a downtown Las Vegas hotel.
Sin City may be known for its glittery Vegas Strip, but the downtown area is an exciting place to gamble, dine, shop, and more. This historic center was the original gambling mecca before the Strip, and today it’s an urban hub full of cultural centers, event spaces, and thrilling attractions. Plus, getting around is easy since most of the attractions are within walking distance and there is a free Downtown Loop shuttle if you need it.
Here, you can see some of the oldest casinos in Las Vegas, many reflecting the Neoclassical and Art Deco styles that were popular during the Old Vegas era. While staying at one of these downtown Las Vegas hotels, be sure to take advantage of all there is to see, from the Fremont Street Experience and Downtown Container Park to cool sites like the Mob Museum and Neon Museum. There are many things to do in downtown Las Vegas!
In summary, these are the 10 best hotels in downtown Las Vegas:
- Golden Nugget
- The D Las Vegas
- El Cortez Hotel & Casino
- Downtown Grand Hotel & Casino
- Four Queens
- Oasis at Gold Spike
- California Hotel & Casino
- Fremont Hotel
- Golden Gate Casino Hotel
- Plaza Hotel
Keep reading to learn more about these resorts, then check out my map of hotels in downtown Las Vegas to help you plan your trip.
1. Golden Nugget, one of the best downtown Las Vegas hotels
First, the Golden Nugget is among the best hotels in old Downtown Las Vegas, and one of the oldest. Dating back to 1946, the Nugget was the inspiration behind the hit TV show The Casino, and it has appeared in over a dozen movies, television shows, and video games.
As one of the best hotels in Las Vegas, the Golden Nugget has the luxurious amenities guests want, such as a spa, sauna, and spacious accommodations with elegant furnishings and decor. There are rooms and suites in each of the four towers, all featuring large bathrooms, comfortable beds, and fresh bathrobes.
1. Golden Nugget, one of the best downtown Las Vegas hotels
The property encompasses two aquariums, one of which is the famous Shark Tank. Located in the outdoor pool area, it includes a waterslide through the glass shark habitat. The rest of the pool complex is made of three levels with grottoes and jacuzzis, so it’s one of the most popular places in the resort.
Another main attraction is the Golden Nugget Casino, a 38,000ft² space with slot tournaments, table games, video poker, and much more. I also recommend stopping to look at the Hand of Faith, the world’s largest gold nugget on display, weighing in at over 60 lbs.
Plus, when you stay in one of these downtown Las Vegas hotel rooms, you’ll have easy access to some of the most exciting things to do in downtown Las Vegas, like visiting the Fremont Street Experience.
2. The D Las Vegas, a beautiful downtown Las Vegas hotel
Located on East Fremont Street, The D Las Vegas is part of the Fremont Street Experience promenade. As one of Las Vegas’ best downtown hotels, The D is full of high-end amenities like luxury guest rooms and suites, a dinner theater, and live entertainment every night. Plus, it’s less than a 10-minute walk to Downtown Container Park, the Mob Museum, and several other downtown Las Vegas attractions.
The hotel has a luck of the Irish theme, so if you’re feeling lucky, head to the two-story casino to play at over 1,000 slots, nearly two dozen table games, and participate in the world’s largest Keno board. The casino was made to reflect old-time Vegas, so it has a vintage feel that stands out from other hotels in downtown Las Vegas, NV.
2. The D Las Vegas, a beautiful downtown Las Vegas hotel
As one of the coolest boutique hotels in Las Vegas, the accommodations at The D feature contemporary decor, luxury linens, and large windows so you can see the action on the promenade below. Enjoy the resort’s on-site fitness center, indulge in an in-room massage, or check out one of the restaurants or bars. The D is home to Longbar, Nevada’s longest bar, and the D Bar, an outdoor bar at the Fremont Street Experience.
Guests at The D also get access to Circa Resort’s Stadium Pool next door, which includes six pools, dozens of daybeds, and a 143-foot TV screen.
3. El Cortez Hotel & Casino, a cheap hotel in downtown Las Vegas
Also, on East Fremont Street is El Cortez Hotel & Casino, a small downtown Las Vegas hotel. Conveniently located, it’s within walking distance of several popular attractions, restaurants, and entertainment venues, and just a block away from the Fremont Street Experience.
As one of the oldest casino-hotels in Sin City, El Cortez is on the National Register of Historic Places and has long been known for its quiet rooms and classic casino. Its vintage appeal is reflected in its original 1940s neon sign and Western theme. That said, it also boasts updated facilities and great rates, so if you’re looking for a cheap hotel in downtown Las Vegas, check this one out.
3. El Cortez Hotel & Casino, a cheap hotel in downtown Las Vegas
Choose from a variety of renovated rooms with Spanish Colonial Revival architecture and luxurious amenities. Along with its collection of guest rooms, El Cortez offers cabana suites and the famed Jackie Gaughan Suite, the former penthouse residence of casino owner Jackie Gaughan and his wife.
The hotel also includes a gym, salon, and a few on-site restaurants, including the 24-hour Siegel’s 1941. The casino features classic table games and slots, and the second floor contains the NV Spa, where you can get professional reflexology and body treatments.
Overall, El Cortez is a great value hotel with the perfect location close to downtown Las Vegas’ top attractions, so it’s worth checking out.
4. Downtown Grand Hotel & Casino, the best place to stay in downtown Las Vegas
For those looking for highly-rated accommodations in this exciting area, one of the best hotels in downtown Las Vegas is the Downtown Grand Hotel & Casino.
Located on North 3rd Street, the hotel is just a short walk to the Fremont Street Experience and the Mob Museum, and the North Premium Outlets are about 2 miles away. Guests regularly come to this resort for the nice view, great location, and friendly, comfortable environment. The Downtown Grand is a classy, boutique hotel that maintains that Old Las Vegas charm that visitors love.
4. Downtown Grand Hotel & Casino, the best place to stay in downtown Las Vegas
With modern amenities, clean rooms, renovated premium suites, and seven on-site bars and restaurants, this hotel has everything guests need for a cozy stay. The Downtown Grand also has pet-friendly rooms as well as “Virtual Experience” rooms, which are one-of-a-kind Vegas accommodations that feature contemporary artists’ works in augmented reality.
Las Vegas’ Downtown Grand Hotel is also known for its Citrus Grand Pool Deck, the largest in the entire downtown district. The rooftop pool, which is one of the best pools in Las Vegas, is like a huge pool party. Guests have access to the entire area, which includes an infinity pool, special event space, food and drinks, backyard games, cabanas, and daybeds.
Finally, if you want some classic Vegas entertainment, the Downtown Grand is home to a beautiful casino with slots, table games, and sportsbook betting, as well as a hilarious comedy club with a rotating line-up of performers.
5. Four Queens, one of the best downtown Las Vegas hotel rooms
Four Queens is one of the best hotels in old downtown Las Vegas. While it’s further off the main Strip, Four Queens is in the perfect location if you want to be close to the top downtown entertainment. This Las Vegas hotel with no resort fees makes up one of the corners of the Fremont Street Experience, so it’s a great deal.
The resort has been around since 1966, making it a downtown Vegas mainstay. It’s next to the Downtown Las Vegas Events Center, Golden Nugget Resort, and Binion’s Gambling Hall, which is the Four Queens’ sister property.
5. Four Queens, one of the best downtown Las Vegas hotel rooms
The Four Queens Resort is one of the best hotels to stay in downtown Las Vegas if you’re on a budget but still want all the amenities you need for a comfortable night. The hotel has on-site parking, nightly entertainment, and a full casino with roulette, blackjack, poker, craps, slots, a Keno Lounge, sportsbook betting, and more.
There is also a decent selection of premium rooms and larger suites, most with views of the city or the Nevada mountains. While the resort is right next to the top downtown attractions, you can catch a magic show or comedy performance at the hotel, or enjoy several restaurants, including the popular breakfast spot, Magnolia’s Veranda.
Guests at the Four Queens Resort can use the pool on Binion’s 25th floor, which offers sweeping views of the Las Vegas Valley. After an evening exploring the downtown district, you’ll easily find your way back to the cozy hotel thanks to its famous sparkling façade.
6. Oasis at Gold Spike, another great hotel in Las Vegas’ old downtown
About a block away, you’ll find the Oasis at Gold Spike, a chic urban hotel on Las Vegas Boulevard, just north of the Strip. This trendy hotel is small and comfortable, with just 130 rooms, but it offers all the amenities and attractions you need.
The Oasis is one of the best downtown Las Vegas hotels with free parking. It also has bike rentals available and it’s just a 5-minute walk from the Fremont Street Experience and Downtown Container Park, where you can find even more shopping, gaming, and entertainment options.
6. Oasis at Gold Spike, another great hotel in Las Vegas’ old downtown
One of the coolest things about this downtown Las Vegas hotel is its unique decor that blends retro design and contemporary elements. The attention to detail in the guest rooms and poolside suites is impressive, with quirky bookends, repurposed coffee tables, and funky artwork.
The Oasis is one of the top downtown Las Vegas hotel deals, but if you want to splash out, consider the penthouse suite, which has three bedrooms, a rooftop terrace, a full kitchen, and a pool table. Or, stay in the Sugar Shack, a tiny home in the resort’s courtyard. Running partly on solar power, the accommodation has a loft bed, bathroom, kitchenette, and a front yard fire pit.
Finally, the boutique hotel has a lovely pool with a waterfall, an on-site grill, and a 24-hour gym. Also, be sure to visit the 24-hour Gold Spike Bar, a fun, carnival-themed venue with craft beers, party games, and live DJs.
7. California Hotel & Casino, the top downtown Las Vegas hotel rooms
Another downtown Las Vegas hotel near Fremont Street is the California Hotel & Casino. The Cal opened in 1975 and is known for its lush Hawaiian theme. This affordable Vegas resort brings a bit of the aloha spirit to Sin City by reflecting the hospitality and flavors of the islands.
The Cal may be a simple and budget-friendly resort, but it offers plenty of convenience and comfort. All of the colorful rooms are clean, cozy, and have free Wi-Fi. Just be aware that, like several other nearby hotels, the resort is not 100% smoke-free; there are smoking and non-smoking rooms.
7. California Hotel & Casino, the top downtown Las Vegas hotel rooms
Even so, staying in one of these classy rooms is a great value for the money, and you’ll be close to all of the excitement of downtown Vegas. Plus, The Cal is one of the top hotels near Las Vegas airport and has a transfer service available for guests.
If you’re looking for a cheap hotel in downtown Las Vegas, keep the California Hotel at the top of your list. Not only will you be close to all the action on Fremont Street, but you can take advantage of the resort’s on-site amenities and attractions like the rooftop pool and fitness center. The Cal’s renovated 85,000ft² casino is popular among craps players and is full of slots, gaming tables, Keno, and a sports lounge. There are also several dining options, including California Noodle House, Redwood Steakhouse, and Holo Holo Bar, which serves delicious Hawaiian-themed cocktails.
8. Fremont Hotel, another popular downtown hotel in Las Vegas
Of course, the Fremont Hotel is a downtown Las Vegas hotel on Fremont Street that you must check out. It’s close to a variety of restaurants, bars, and other downtown attractions, so it’s no wonder why it’s one of the most popular resorts in the area.
Opened in 1956, the hotel is part of the Fremont Street Experience, along with Four Queens, the Golden Nugget, and Binion’s Gambling Hall. There is no denying the Fremont Hotel’s flashy entrance sign and its role as a historical downtown venue.
8. Fremont Hotel, another popular downtown hotel in Las Vegas
Besides, you can expect a great deal and low rates when you stay at this resort, even during busy times of the year. The Fremont Hotel is within walking distance of all kinds of dining options, but if you don’t want to leave the resort, you can find casual restaurants and a cocktail bar on the premises. There is also a casino with 24 table games, live Keno, sports betting, progressive jackpots, and more.
Also, guests at the Fremont Hotel can access the rooftop pool at The Cal, an incredible pool complex that I mentioned earlier. The Fremont also has efficiently designed rooms with lots of natural light and soothing earth tones, as well as free in-room Wi-Fi. After a restful night’s sleep, you can set up an airport transfer from the hotel.
9. Golden Gate Casino Hotel, the best cheap hotel in downtown Las Vegas
Another old downtown Las Vegas hotel that you might like is the Golden Gate Casino Hotel. Owing to an over 100-year history, the resort has a vintage feel with decor inspired by 1930s San Francisco. It’s also the oldest and smallest hotel within the Fremont Street Experience, but it doesn’t skimp on comfort and conveniences. After a thrilling evening exploring the attractions, including the famous Vegas Vic neon sign next door, the resort is a cozy place to rest for the night.
The Golden Gate is also one of the best cheap hotels in downtown Las Vegas and offers complimentary private parking and guest access to its sister property, The D. Guests can go over there to use the gym or pool, and they also get access to Stadium Swim at Circa Resort, which I mentioned earlier.
9. Golden Gate Casino Hotel, the best cheap hotel in downtown Las Vegas
The rooms, suites, and penthouses at Golden Gate are decorated in a chic Art Deco style, providing a fun yet relaxing atmosphere. Plus, the rates are great, so you can treat yourself to an in-room massage or a visit to the on-site casino, which has slots, table games like blackjack and poker, and the resort’s signature Dancing Dealers.
While you’ll be within walking distance of all the entertainment and dining venues at the Fremont Street Experience, it’s also worth grabbing a cocktail at the Golden Gate’s OneBar or Bar Prohibition!
10. Plaza Hotel, another top hotel in downtown Las Vegas, NV
Finally, the Plaza Hotel is another top hotel in downtown Las Vegas, NV that I recommend. You can’t miss the burst of color emanating from this property on Main Street. Three 21-story murals adorn the outer walls, and while the resort has been renovated over the years, it maintains its old-school charm.
The Plaza Hotel has been serving guests for 50 years with a selection of restaurants, clean rooms at great rates, and an 80,000ft² casino with various table games, slots, Keno, sports betting, and the only bingo room in downtown Vegas.
10. Plaza Hotel, another top hotel in downtown Las Vegas, NV
The hotel has everything that guests need, which is a bonus given its proximity to all the downtown attractions. And while you’re close to lots of exciting areas like the Fremont Street Experience, the resort is far enough away to give you some peace and quiet.
Enjoy complimentary parking and in-room Wi-Fi, access to the fitness center, shops, and a rooftop pool and hot tub with pickleball courts. The Plaza Hotel in downtown Las Vegas also has a classic event space and showroom, where you can find the best stand-up comedians.
I hope this list of the best hotels in downtown Las Vegas helps you plan your visit. This district is an awesome area with all kinds of bars, cafes, event centers, and attractions, so staying in a downtown Las Vegas hotel is the most convenient way to experience it all!
To make it easier to plan your trip, I’m sharing my map of hotels in downtown Las Vegas.
If you have any other questions about hotels in downtown Las Vegas or Fremont Street, feel free to leave me a comment below so I can get back to you. Safe travels!
