10 Best Downtown Vegas Hotels
Take a step back in time at the 10 best Downtown Vegas hotels. From old-school charm to modern nostalgia.
We may earn a small commission if you purchase through our links.
Downtown Vegas is not just a spot on the map–it’s a throwback experience to the neon glitz that made Sin City famous. And where you choose to crash after a night of reveling under the electric sky can make (or break) your Vegas story.
In this blog, I highlight the 10 best Downtown Vegas hotels based on my experience. From retro casinos brimming with old-school Vegas to modern cathedrals that elevate the city. Play your cards right and you’ll find a winning hand on your next trip to Downtown Vegas.
Best Downtown Vegas Hotels (Updated 2024)
If you want to stay where the neon lights shimmer and the sound of slot machines fill the air, Downtown Vegas is your spot. From modern luxury and nostalgia at Circa, to the Golden Nugget’s renowned elegance and high-quality amenities, and the iconic Plaza, encapsulating the historic essence of downtown, this list will help you find the best Downtown Vegas hotel for your vacation.
1. Circa Las Vegas
Circa is the king of Downtown Vegas hotels, hands down. With Stadium Swim, the sportsbook, Legacy Club, and Barry’s Downtown Prime, this place just knocks it out of the park. But the real winner for me is 8 East; I’m practically a fixture there. Sure, your wallet feels the pinch more than at other spots downtown, but trust me, it’s worth every penny. Just a heads up, if you snag a poolside room, you’ll be listening to Fremont Street’s buzz way past your bedtime.
2. Golden Nugget Las Vegas
Before Circa showed up and changed the game in 2020, Golden Nugget was the king of Downtown Vegas. It’s got some pretty amazing restaurants where you can chow down on everything from steak to sushi, and there’s always some kind of live music or show to catch. But, let’s be real, the place has seen better days. Walking through, you can’t help but notice it’s a bit worn at the edges and, man, does it get crowded. Still, for a taste of old-school Vegas charm, it’s got its moments.
3. Plaza Hotel & Casino
Plaza is like that old dog learning new tricks. They spruced up the rooms, making them pretty cozy. The rooftop pool? Fantastic, like an oasis in the desert. The outdoor Carousel Bar is where you’ll find me chilling, the best spot downtown, for sure. And The Sand Dollar, with its free live music, keeps the vibes going all night. Sure, the casino floor’s got wrinkles and shows its age, but Plaza’s fighting to stay cool. They’re mixing the old Vegas charm with new vibes pretty well.
4. Downtown Grand Hotel & Casino
If you’re hitting downtown Vegas but your pockets aren’t deep, Downtown Grand is where you want to crash. This place gets it right with prices that won’t make your wallet cry and a rooftop pool that’s an oasis. Plus, it’s just one block from the madness, so you can actually sleep without the endless buzz of Fremont Street in your ears. It’s the smart choice for anyone looking to save some cash without missing out on the good stuff. In a town that never sleeps, the Downtown Grand is like finding a hidden treasure.
5. the D Las Vegas
The D is where the party’s at in Downtown Vegas, no question. It’s the heart of Fremont Street’s wild nights. You can’t miss out on the fun here; it’s loud, always buzzing, and throws you right into the Vegas vibe. But, honestly, if peace and quiet are what you’re after, The D isn’t for you. That energy from Fremont Street? It sticks around, keeping you awake when you’re trying to catch some sleep. But if you’re here to experience Vegas in full gear, The D’s your spot.
6. Fremont Hotel & Casino
Fremont Hotel is getting a facelift, and man, does it show on the new casino floor – it’s stunning. It’s the place to be for cheap eats, drinks, and a bit of gambling. Forget about fancy shows or luxury suites; they don’t have that. What they lack in glam, they make up for in location and spirit. If you’re aiming for a budget-friendly trip to Vegas, this spot’s a winner. Just don’t expect to be wowed by anything extravagant.
7. Four Queens Hotel & Casino
Four Queens stands out in Downtown Vegas because it doesn’t stick you with extra resort fees, making it a great choice if you’re watching your spending. It punches way above its weight, offering neat spots like Hugo’s Cellar, which is a must for dinner, and Chicago Brewing, a cool place to chill with a cigar and beer. Every time I’m there, it’s a good time, though you’ve gotta be ready for loud rooms, especially in the south tower. And man, does it get packed on weekends. Still, it’s a solid pick for a Vegas vacation.
8. El Cortez Hotel & Casino
El Cortez is like stepping into a time machine, right in the heart of Fremont East. This vintage hotel and casino may not have all the fancy stuff, but man, it’s got character. It’s all about gambling here, which makes it a pretty fun spot. It’s a bit far from the loud and crazy Fremont Experience, but that also means you get some peace and quiet. Don’t expect too many bells and whistles; El Cortez plays it straight – a no-nonsense, old school vibe. If you’re into that, this is your place.
9. California Hotel & Casino
The Cal gives you the Hawaiian spirit without leaving Vegas. It’s tucked just a block away from the Fremont Street craziness, so you can actually catch some Zs in a quiet room. It’s no fancy spot, but it’s got this easy-going vibe that’s hard to beat. Apart from gambling, there’s not too much going on right there. But hey, the best of downtown’s just steps away; Circa’s pool and Plaza’s bars are yours to crash.
10. Main Street Station Casino, Brewery & Hotel
Main Street Station is getting a huge makeover. It’s not loud like the others, which I dig. The place has this old-school casino floor that’s cooler than anywhere else; it’s like stepping back in time. And get this – they’ve got the Berlin Wall in the men’s bathroom, so yeah, you can literally pee on history. Triple 7 Brewery is the star here with killer food and beers. But, it’s a bummer they’ve only got two places to eat. Still, for a mix of quiet, quirky, and cool, Main Street Station nails it.
Summary
Circa, my friends, is where you want to hang your hat in Downtown Vegas. In the neon maze of Downtown Vegas and Fremont Street, Circa standouts as the best hotel. It’s a fresh take on old-school Vegas charm. If you want the best Downtown Vegas hotel – stay at Circa.
