Las Vegas remains one of the most exciting travel destinations, offering something fresh no matter how many times you visit. With the addition of the Sphere, Vegas has become an even hotter spot for travelers across the U.S. But, choosing the right hotel is key to having the best experience! This guide offers in-depth tips for booking hotels, along with reviews of the top places to stay in Las Vegas.
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How to Choose a Las Vegas Hotel
When picking a hotel in Vegas, location is everything, aside from price. The best way to experience the energy of Las Vegas is by staying in the heart of the Strip, where dining, entertainment, and shopping are within walking distance.
Strip Layout
The Strip stretches from the Wynn and Encore in the north to Mandalay Bay and Four Seasons in the south, boasting over 30 iconic hotels. Keep in mind that the southern part of the Strip (beyond Aria, Vdara, and the Waldorf Astoria) can be quieter, so location is a crucial factor when choosing a hotel.
Shopping
Some hotels, like the Cosmopolitan, house shopping malls such as Crystals, where you’ll find a wide range of luxury brands. For a bigger shopping experience, head to the Fashion Show Mall near Wynn, a popular stop for guests in the northern Strip.
Dining
One of the must-do experiences in Vegas is indulging in the high-end buffets. Caesars Palace, Bellagio, and Wynn are renowned for their lavish spreads. A hidden gem is Aria’s buffet, which offers a clean, modern dining atmosphere. Vegas is also home to several Michelin-starred restaurants, giving you even more reasons to indulge.
Shows
Shows are a major attraction in Las Vegas. Whether you’re not into gambling, traveling with family, or just want to experience something different, shows are a great way to pass the time. Cirque du Soleil’s “O” Show at Bellagio and “KA” at MGM Grand are must-sees, along with David Copperfield’s magic show. The Sphere show is a newer, can’t-miss experience!
Las Vegas Hotel Booking Tips
Through Third-Party Travel Sites
The most familiar way to book a hotel is through third-party sites like Expedia, Priceline, Kayak, Booking.com, or Hotels.com. These platforms offer handy filters to sort hotels by price, rating, location, and more.
Pros: Convenient, and you can easily compare hotels across multiple platforms. Prices are usually competitive.
Cons: Free breakfast is rarely included unless specified, and even if you have hotel loyalty status, you typically won’t receive upgrades or perks.
Sites like Kayak and Priceline deserve a special mention. Kayak operates more as a price comparison tool, aggregating offers from various third-party platforms, making it a great one-stop shop for booking.
Priceline’s Express Deals offer steep discounts, but with a catch: you won’t know which hotel you’re booking until after you’ve paid. These non-refundable deals can be a fantastic bargain if you’re willing to take the risk.
Credit Card Portals
If you have a U.S. credit card, take advantage of hotel booking portals like Amex Fine Hotels and Resorts (FHR) and Chase Luxury Hotels and Resorts (LHR). While prices are comparable to third-party sites, these portals often come with perks like free breakfast, room upgrades, and late check-out.
- Amex FHR: Perks include daily breakfast for two, a $100 spa credit, and guaranteed 4 p.m. checkout.
- Chase LHR: Similar to FHR but with broader hotel options, including some that aren’t listed on Amex. For example, you may find hotels like Aria offering $100 food and beverage credits through Chase.
Las Vegas Hotel Reviews
Wynn Las Vegas & Wynn Encore
Wynn is a popular choice in Vegas, offering luxury while still feeling modern and new compared to older, iconic hotels. These twin towers offer rooms with stunning views, including the famous Sphere. A stay at Wynn guarantees a first-class experience with high-end dining, shopping, and entertainment right on-site.
Cosmopolitan
Opened in 2010, the Cosmopolitan remains one of the trendiest hotels on the Strip. Rooms with a Strip view offer a breathtaking panorama of the Vegas skyline, including a view of the Bellagio Fountains and the Sphere. The hotel also connects to several malls, making it perfect for shopping enthusiasts.
Aria
One of the newer hotels, Aria was built in 2009 and caters to a younger crowd. Its modern design, coupled with a massive casino floor and easy access to nearby shopping, makes it a top choice for those who want a more contemporary Vegas experience. Aria’s buffet is also a favorite for its variety and shorter wait times.
Vdara
Tucked behind Aria, Vdara is a quieter, non-casino hotel, making it perfect for families or those who prefer a peaceful stay. It shares amenities like the pool and spa with Aria, giving guests the best of both worlds.
Four Seasons
Located at the very southern end of the Strip, Four Seasons is a more secluded, zen-like option. While it lacks the glitz and glamour of central hotels, it offers an escape from the bustle of Vegas, with no casino and a peaceful atmosphere.
Bellagio
One of Vegas’s most iconic hotels, Bellagio remains a top choice for travelers looking to stay in the heart of the Strip. Known for its stunning fountain show and luxury interiors, Bellagio offers a quintessential Las Vegas experience with top-tier dining and entertainment.
