It’s been said that Las Vegas has the most expensive 4-mile road in the country, and that it’s the city that never sleeps—on the west coast. The Strip is a living entity that never seems to rest, but humans do! We’ve put together a comprehensive list of the best places to stay on the Strip in Las Vegas so you can catch some sleep before heading back out into the action.
Pro Tip: Bookmark this post so you can circle back to it while you decide on a hotel. But if you’re looking for hotels without resort fees, check out our other article here. We’ve also put together a super helpful guide to current Las Vegas resort fees. Or you can use our recommendations for hotels that are off the Strip if that’s your jam.
The Best Places to Stay in Vegas on the Strip
It’s only 4.2 miles from beginning to end of the Strip, but there are so many hotels and things to do, that we had to narrow our list of the best places to stay in Las Vegas by three areas along Las Vegas Boulevard. You’ll find recommendations of places to eat, things to do, and why we like the vibe of each area so you can choose the best place for you.
North Strip
South Strip
Downtown
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North Strip
The north end of the Strip has been home to some of the original resorts built in the 1950s and 1960s, and many new developments have been planned as well. Las Vegas just welcomed the newest resort complex in the summer of 2021: Resorts World Las Vegas.
You’ll also find the biggest above-ground convention center in north Las Vegas, so if you’re traveling for business, you’ll probably be spending some time here. This part of the Strip is also home to SAHARA, Wynn Las Vegas, the Strat, Las Vegas Country Club, and more. Spring Mountain Road (which becomes Sands Avenue) is generally considered the split between the north and south end of the Strip.
Though it may not be the iconic end of the Strip, this north end has plenty of awesome hotels and attractions for visitors. Not to mention it’s sandwiched between the south end and downtown where you’ll find Fremont Street.
Why I Love the North Strip
- It’s a little less crazy busy than the south end of the Strip.
- The Las Vegas Convention center is within walking distance.
- The newest resort complex is here.
- Most of the thrilling roller coaster rides are on this end of the Strip.
Attractions Near the North Strip
- Adventuredome Theme Park
- Las Vegas Country Club
- The Strat thrill rides and SkyPod
- Fashion Show Mall
- Vegas Indoor Skydiving
- Broad Acres Flea Market
Best Restaurants on the North Strip
- Peppermill Las Vegas
- Edge Steakhouse (inside the Westgate)
- Luke’s Lobster
- Top of the World (inside the Stratosphere)
- Lakeside (inside the Wynn)
Best Hotels on the North Strip
Check out the list below for the best places to stay in Las Vegas on the north end of the Strip.
Wynn Las Vegas
$$$+ | 5 Star | Lush Golf Course | Tranquil Pools
Here at the Wynn Las Vegas, you can choose to stay at Encore Resort, the Wynn Tower Suites, or Wynn Las Vegas. Sink into the pillow-top beds after a long day on the golf course or after lounging at one of the two lavish pools. And when you’re ready for dinner, be sure to order off the seafood menus with fish flown in daily. And the Encore at Wynn has one of the hottest nightclubs in town.
Las Vegas Hilton Resorts World
$$+ | 3 Star | New Resort | Seven-Pool Complex | Digital Concierge
Swanky, luxurious, and high-tech, this new resort has a digital concierge, immersive LED technology, and a swoon-worthy pool. Three hotel brands share this property which means you have more options to choose from, including seven stunning pools to relax in.
SAHARA Las Vegas
$$ | 4 Star | Affordable Luxury | Rooftop Pool
The original 1952 Sahara hotel was torn down and this extravagantly modern hotel was rebuilt in 2014 in honor of its namesake. You can stay in a room with one of three motifs: glamorous, trendy, and modern. Take in the Vegas night life at the adults only rooftop pool or stay on the ground at the all ages pool.
Trump International Hotel Las Vegas
$$+ | 5 Star | Sophisticated | Family & Business | Pet Friendly
In the city of glam, the Trump International Hotel planted itself as a sparkling gold emblem of polished, refined decadence without over indulgence. This is a sophisticated, non-gaming, non-smoking luxury hotel, with an 11,000-square-foot spa and a Technogym that overlooks the stunning pool deck where you can reserve an air-conditioned cabana. Ask about their awesome pet service if you’re bringing your fur baby.
Looking for more Vegas content? Check out our guides for spending a weekend in Vegas, our favorite adventure activities, and how to get to the Grand Canyon or the Hoover Dam!
South Strip
Ostentatious is the name of the game in Vegas. The more flashy, gaudy, or luxurious, the better. The south end of the Strip has tons of hotel options, including some of the most iconic hotels in Vegas: New York–New York, Paris, the Bellagio, the Mirage, MGM, Aria, Cosmo, and much more. There is so much to do on this end of the Strip that you’ll need days to explore all that it has to offer.
The bright lights of the south Strip make it an exciting place to explore, take pictures, and find the best drinks and shows. It’s easy to get from one hotel to the next here—just keep walking along the sidewalk or use the monorail to travel longer distances without having to fight foot or road traffic. Keep reading to see our list of the best places to stay in Las Vegas, plus the attractions you don’t want to miss.
Why I Love the South Strip
- Wall-to-wall things to see and do
- Close proximity to other hotels
- Iconic city landscapes
- Restaurants galore
Attractions Near the South Strip
- The Mirage volcano
- Italian experience in the Grand Canal Shoppes and canal
- Bellagio fountains and conservatory
- High Roller Ferris wheel
- Mandalay Bay shark reef and pool complex
Best Restaurants on the South Strip
- Yardbird Southern Table and Bar (inside the Venetian hotel)
- House of Blues (inside Mandalay Bay)
- Gordon Ramsay Hell’s Kitchen (inside Caesar’s Palace)
- Off the Strip (inside the Linq hotel)
- Shake Shack
- Haiti Kitchen (The Cosmopolitan)
Best Hotels on the South Strip
We’ve put together our list of the best places to stay on the Strip in Las Vegas.
The Venetian Resort
$$$ | 5 Star | Some of the Largest Suites on the Strip | Live Gondola Rides
The suites in the Venetian are so indulgent you might never leave your room, and the hotel is so massive and full of incredible restaurants and shops that you might forget to leave the hotel and explore the Strip. As big as the hotel is, the pool is just as impressive so make sure to hit the deck for afternoon sunbathing.
New York-New York Las Vegas Hotel & Casino
$$ | 4 Star | Pet Friendly | Cool Pool and Roller Coaster
Step into the Big Apple on the west coast. You’ll get lost exploring shops and themed restaurants after sleeping in a comfy bed. When you’re ready for action, hop on the roller coaster before reserving a cabana at the pool.
The Bellagio Hotel & Casino
$$$ | 5 Star | Stunning Pool Deck | Best Attractions on Property
The Bellagio Fountains and conservatory are two of the most popular attractions on the Strip, so staying in this hotel will keep you close to the action. After wandering the extensive hotel and taking hundreds of pictures in their conservatory, relax by the pool that exudes Mediterranean vibes.
Horseshoe Las Vegas (formerly Bally’s)
$$ | 3 Star | Freshly Remodeled Rooms | Rare Deep-End Pool
Don’t overlook Horseshoe Las Vegas. With their recently remodeled rooms, massive casino, entertainment venues, and top chefs, you’ll be surprised at the value you get at Horseshoe Las Vegas. This hotel is perfectly located near all the action of the Strip, from the Bellagio fountains to the Paris Eiffel Tower. Jump into the deep end of the Blu Pool when you’re ready to relax.
Aria Resort & Casino
$$$+ | 5 Star | Decadent Indulgence
The Aria Resort & Casino sits nestled within a 10-minute walk of popular entertainment venues like the new T-Mobile stadium and the Park Theater. Of course, you’ll find so many things to do at the Aria that you may not want to venture far. Indulge in spas, pools, dining, and entertainment at a resort that continually wins 5-star awards.
The Cosmopolitan
$$$+ | 5 Star | Ultra Contemporary | Coolest Bar Ever | Luxe Pool
No hotel list in Vegas is complete without mentioning the Cosmo. It’s a super cool hotel that’s worthy of its 5 stars. The contemporary vibes make it feel even more luxurious whether you’re at the famous 3-tier Chandelier Bar or sunning yourself on the pool deck while watching a movie.
Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino
$$$ | 4 Star | Incredible Pool | Family Friendly
Mandalay Bay is a family-friendly Las Vegas hotel partly due to its calmer location at the south end of the busy Strip. But the big draw is the epic 11-acre pool area with sandy beaches, a huge wade-in tidal pool, and a lazy river. Plus, the rooms are gorgeous with natural tones blended with water and stone elements alongside floor-to-ceiling windows.
Planning your trip to Vegas? Check out the best museums to visit, top hotels with pools, best buffets to try, and hotels without resort fees!
Downtown Las Vegas
A trip to Las Vegas isn’t complete without checking out downtown. Even though the entire Strip feels like the epicenter of Las Vegas, there is an actual downtown area, and it’s where you’ll find the one-of-a-kind Fremont Street Experience. It’s over-the-top, just as expected in Vegas.
Under the dome of an immersive LED ceiling that puts out 600,000 watts of concert-worthy sound, you can explore casinos, shops, and living street art. And did we mention the world’s largest video screen is here? And the live music every evening?
If this sounds like your style, then make sure to stay at a hotel right here in downtown Las Vegas to stay as close to this bustling hub of fun as possible. As is the norm here in Vegas, you’ll likely forget to go anywhere else if you stay at a downtown Las Vegas hotel since there are a myriad of activities and places to eat—often at cheaper prices than the rest of the Strip.
Downtown Las Vegas is definitely worthy of its own category in our list of the best places to stay in Las Vegas. If you love it up here, check out our dedicated downtown hotels list.
Why I Love Downtown Las Vegas
- Tons of shopping, pools, casinos, and more
- Dazzling lights and sounds to keep you going all night long
- Loose slots and cheap drinks
- Live entertainment every night
Attractions Near Downtown Las Vegas
- Two zip line attractions that fly through Fremont Street
- Neon Museum that houses all the original Las Vegas neon signs
- Viva Vision Light Show under the Promenade
- Largest sportsbook screen in the world
- Million dollar photo booth
- The Mob Museum
Best Restaurants in Downtown Las Vegas
- Old Soul (limited hours)
- La Sandwhicherie
- Pizza Rock
- Andiamo Steakhouse
- Chart House
- Le Thai
Best Hotels in Downtown Las Vegas
Don’t miss these best places to stay in downtown Las Vegas!
Circa Resort & Casino
$$$ | 4 Star | Adults Only | Stadium Swimming Pools
Circa keeps a party atmosphere going 24/7 with their adults-only policy, and it’s paid off since couples enjoy the suites, pool, and the world’s largest sportsbook screen. The pools and pool deck are located below the outdoor video screen for the ultimate over-the-top experience.
Golden Nugget Las Vegas Hotel
$$ | 4 Star | Shark Tank Pool | AAA 4 Diamond Award
Few hotels can boast a year-over-year award for maintaining a luxurious atmosphere, but the Golden Nugget has done so since 1977. For a surprisingly affordable price, stay in this gaudy hotel that’s filled with original Las Vegas charm mixed with updated trends. Be sure to swim around the shark tank in the pool.
The D Las Vegas
$$ | 3 Star | Fresh, Hip Vibes
The D is sleek, modern, trendy and brimming with fun vibes to keep you going all day and night. It’s also known as Las Vegas’s tallest hotel which gives it one of the best vantage points of the Fremont Street light show. If gambling is your thing, they’re known to have some of the loosest slots. Winners all around here at The D.
Downtown Grand Hotel & Casino
$$ | 3 Star | Massive Pool Deck
Formerly the Lady Luck, the Downtown Grand Hotel has fast made a name for an authentic Las Vegas experience at a great value. It’s a massive 300,000 square foot complex that’s still growing, but already includes the largest pool deck in downtown Las Vegas.
Just there stayed at the Venetian. Very gorgeous and wide open. I was drawn into the artwork.
That’s awesome! I’m blown away at how incredible that hotel is every time I’m on the Strip. So glad you enjoyed your stay there!
Any “best hotel” list that does not include; Wynn, Aria, or Cosmo loses all credit. If those are your “favorites”, fine, but they are most definitely not best. And to include Circus Circus buffet as a best restaurant on ANY list is embarrassing. Decent job on downtown lists, but absolutely clueless about the “Strip”.
Haha – point taken!
It is so difficult to just pick one place Vegas is turning over all the time it’s just a fabulous fun adult village.. I have been coming to Vegas for a really long time and absolutely is I’m so excited about seeing something new because there is always something new I go at least one to two times a year there is no place like Las Vegas ????
Hi, thanks for sharing this amazing blog. This blog is really interesting and informative.
We went to Vagus for 4th July (our 30th wedding anniversary) & we stayed @ the Fremont… I loved walking under the sky LED lights! too cool to NOT mention, lots of wild actors & preformers! When they stay what goes on there, stays there, ( unless you take pictures!!
Hi thanks for sharing this amazing blog post. It is really informative and well written. I am waiting for your next blog post.
If Resorts world is the featured new hotel, why only 3 stars? I would think 5 stars
You need to include Resort fees who has and who don’t
On Fremont street at the 4 Queens casino, a top level entertainer in their show room is the magic & comedy show starring MIKE HAMMER. A laugh a minute, a show that really lifts your spirit. Upon completion; the next musical show at the same venue has discounted tickets. HAMMER TIME is a can’t miss fun entertaining show for frequent visitor to Downtown Vegas or the first time tourist!!!.
My wife and I love the Golden Nugget, we stay in Rush tower with a view. Of the Strip. We mainly just hang on Fremont live music, and of course the Fremont Experience is always awesome. Great food and it’s not as expensive as the big strip
How about a list of all resort fees, North, South & Fremont St.?
We just put together a helpful list of current Las Vegas resort fees for many popular hotels in this article! Check it out!
We stay at the MGM and Park MGM when we are in town and we love it.. we found a soul food spot the last time we were there that was amazing they delivered to the strip. Kays Kitchen Vegas
MGM has some awesome properties for sure. Sounds like we’ll have to try out Kays!
I prefer the Vdara over Aria. It’s non-smoking and doesn’t have a casino, but easy access Aria and Bellagio.
Vdara is another excellent choice! We included that one on our luxury hotels list!
What would you recommend to do and where to stay for a family who will have a few people under 21 also is there any clubs that 18 year olds can go to
There’s lots for families to do in Las Vegas. Head to the Neon Museum, explore the Conservatory at Bellagio, hang out at Mandalay Bay Beach, or book a show like Blue Man Group or an illusionist. Use our list of the top things to do in Vegas or on Fremont Street for even more ideas! And you do have to be at least 21 to enter the clubs. Hope you enjoy your trip!