Ahhh, Las Vegas—the neon-lit heart of the Mojave Desert and the entertainment capital of the world. The Las Vegas Strip is loud, glamorous, over-the-top, and endlessly fascinating. With dozens of iconic hotels and casinos lining just over four miles of road, deciding where to stay, gamble, dine, or explore can feel overwhelming.
The truth? You’ll likely visit many more resorts than you actually sleep in—and that’s part of the magic. Each Strip property has its own personality, vibe, and strengths. Whether you’re chasing luxury, nightlife, family fun, food, or loose slots, there’s a hotel-casino that fits your style.
Below is a look at several standout Las Vegas Strip hotels (in alphabetical order), what makes each unique, and why they’re worth your time.
A Brief History of The Strip
Before the bright lights and mega-resorts, the Las Vegas Strip was nothing more than open Mojave Desert in the 1940s. Visionary developers recognized the opportunity created by the steady flow of motorists traveling between Southern California and the rest of the country. Their goal was simple: build something so bold and entertaining that travelers couldn’t resist stopping.
Inspired in part by Hollywood’s Sunset Strip, Las Vegas began creating immersive, themed resorts unlike anything else in the world. Today, the Strip welcomes more than 40 million visitors annually, evolving constantly while still honoring its roots as a place built on spectacle, reinvention, and indulgence.
Not a gambler? No worries. There are thousands of things to get into without leaving it to Lady Luck — here are our suggestions.
Table of Contents
Bellagio (1998)
Bellagio remains one of the most beloved resorts on the Strip, and for good reason. Inspired by European villages, it combines elegance, comfort, and spectacle in a way few hotels can match. The rooms are spacious, often surprisingly affordable, and the entire resort carries that signature “Bellagio scent” that longtime visitors instantly recognize.
Inside, the Conservatory & Botanical Gardens offer the best free attraction in Las Vegas, transforming seasonally with jaw-dropping floral displays. Outside, the famous dancing fountains never get old. Add Cirque du Soleil’s “O,” high-end dining, luxury shopping, and the stunning Dale Chihuly glass ceiling in the lobby—and it’s no surprise this is where I’ve spotted the most celebrities over the years.
Caesar’s Palace (1966)
Caesar’s Palace is one of the most recognizable names on the Strip, and after spending several nights here, I can confidently say it delivers on location, dining, and atmosphere. Once thought to be losing ground, Caesars has experienced a resurgence, reclaiming its place as a central Strip favorite with refreshed rooms, solid rates, and nonstop energy.
The resort is home to the expansive Forum Shops, Gordon Ramsay’s Hell’s Kitchen, Nobu, and countless other dining and shopping options. Its Roman-inspired architecture is iconic, and pedestrian bridges connect Caesars directly to Bellagio, Flamingo, and The Cromwell—making it an excellent base for exploring the Strip on foot.
Are you looking for affordable dining options? We have a few in this Cheap Meals in Las Vegas post, though keep in mind cheaper in Las Vegas may still be greater than other vacation destinations.
Cosmopolitan (2010)
The Cosmopolitan is bold, original, and unapologetically cool. It’s a favorite among millennials and design lovers, offering a vibrant atmosphere that feels distinctly modern compared to more traditional Strip resorts.
From the secret pizza speakeasy to the glittering Chandelier Bar and Marquee Nightclub, this hotel knows how to have fun. Rooms are sleek and contemporary, and many feature private balconies overlooking the Strip or Bellagio fountains—a true rarity in Las Vegas.
If nightlife, art, and people-watching top your list, The Cosmopolitan delivers in every way.
The Flamingo (1946)
The Flamingo is a true Las Vegas legend and one of the Strip’s oldest operating resorts. Bright pink, playful, and affordable, it’s also conveniently located on the Las Vegas Monorail.
The 15-acre Caribbean-style pool complex is a major draw, along with the free Wildlife Habitat featuring live flamingos. The casino has a unique slot selection that many players swear pays well, making this a nostalgic yet practical Strip stay.
Luxor (1993)
When the Luxor debuted, it was one of the coolest buildings ever constructed—a 30-story pyramid with slanted windows and inclinators traveling at dramatic angles. Even today, its massive Sphinx and Egyptian theme make it one of the most recognizable structures on the Strip.
While online reviews can be mixed, the Luxor remains busy with gamblers, hotel guests, and shoppers who appreciate its affordability and iconic design. Connected via indoor walkways to Mandalay Bay and Excalibur, it’s especially attractive for MGM Rewards members—you can often score multiple comped nights here compared to just one elsewhere.
Mandalay Bay (1999)
Located at the southern end of the Strip, Mandalay Bay feels like a destination unto itself. While it’s a bit removed from central Strip chaos, it remains highly desirable thanks to its impressive amenities, relaxed layout, and standout dining and entertainment options.
The resort is best known for its massive pool complex, complete with a wave pool and lazy river—arguably one of the best in Las Vegas. Add in the Shark Reef Aquarium, House of Blues, and more than 3,200 rooms, and Mandalay Bay becomes an ideal choice for travelers who want space, sunshine, and a resort-style experience.
MGM Grand (1993)
The MGM Grand holds a special place in my heart—it’s where I fell in love with Las Vegas decades ago. While the Wizard of Oz attraction is long gone, the energy, scale, and entertainment value remain strong. This is one my favorite place to play slots on the Strip.
As one of the largest hotels in the world, MGM Grand offers something for everyone: a lively casino floor, excellent spa, massive pool complex with lazy river, and top-tier entertainment, including Cirque du Soleil’s KÀ, Brad Garrett’s Comedy Club, and Hakkasan. It’s also one of the most family-friendly Strip resorts, making it ideal for multi-generational trips.
New York–New York (1997)
New York–New York is a hit with families and anyone who loves immersive theming. Designed to resemble the NYC skyline, it features replica skyscrapers, the Big Apple Roller Coaster, and lively streetscape energy.
Inside, you’ll find affordable, filling food options like Nine Fine Irishmen, Il Fornaio, and Shake Shack. The arcade is a favorite for kids (and grandparents), making this one of the most approachable, fun, and budget-friendly Strip hotels for all ages.
Resorts World Las Vegas (2021)
Resorts World Las Vegas is one of the newest additions to the Strip, bringing a modern, global feel that sets it apart. Anchored by Hilton, this massive property impresses with approachable dining options, striking art installations, and thoughtful design touches throughout the resort.
One of its biggest highlights is Famous Foods Street Eats, widely considered one of the best food halls in Las Vegas. From fine dining to casual bites, there’s something for every appetite. Add in Zouk Nightclub, Gatsby’s Cocktail Lounge, excellent pet-friendly amenities, and some surprisingly loose slots, and Resorts World quickly becomes a favorite for both first-timers and seasoned Vegas visitors.
The Venetian & The Palazzo (1999)
The Venetian is one of my favorite places to stay and gamble in Las Vegas. With over 7,000 rooms, it’s the largest hotel in the city, yet it manages to feel elegant and cohesive throughout.
Italian-themed suites feature sunken living rooms, marble bathrooms, and impressive views. The indoor and outdoor gondola rides, Grand Canal Shoppes, excellent coffee spots, and a wide range of restaurants make it feel like a self-contained luxury city. Bonus: it’s the closest Strip resort to The Sphere.
The Wynn (2005)
Wynn Las Vegas is the definition of refined luxury. From the moment you walk in, floral displays, polished service, and beautifully designed spaces set the tone. The casino floor feels elevated yet approachable, and the slot machines and table games are top-notch.
The Wynn demographic tends to skew a bit more mature, which I appreciate. Add in designer shopping, tech-forward rooms, the Encore sister property with its own vibe, and the only golf course directly on the Strip—and you have one of the most complete luxury experiences in Las Vegas. The Forbes Five-Star spas alone are reason enough to visit.
Final Thoughts: Which Strip Hotel Is Right for You?
The beauty of Las Vegas is that no two Strip hotels feel the same. Whether you’re drawn to classic glamour, modern design, family-friendly resorts, or nightlife hotspots, the Strip has an option tailored just for you.
My advice? Choose one hotel to stay in—and then explore as many others as you can. Some are perfect for sleeping, others for dining, others just to wander through and admire. That’s the magic of the Las Vegas Strip: it’s not just where you stay—it’s how you experience it.
Do you have a favorite Las Vegas Strip hotel?
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