Downtown Las Vegas offers a vibrant alternative to the glitzy Strip, with historic casinos, the spectacular Fremont Street Experience, and a growing collection of impressive hotels. Whether you’re seeking luxury accommodations or budget-friendly options, Downtown’s unique charm and central location make it an excellent base for exploring Las Vegas. I’ve personally visited and evaluated the top properties to bring you this comprehensive guide to the best hotels in Downtown Las Vegas for every type of traveler.
Why Choose Downtown Las Vegas Over The Strip?
Many visitors default to staying on the famous Las Vegas Strip, but Downtown offers compelling advantages that make it worth considering. As a frequent Vegas traveler, I’ve found Downtown’s walkable layout, lower prices, and authentic Vegas atmosphere incredibly appealing.
Downtown Las Vegas Advantages
- More affordable hotel rates and lower resort fees
- Walking distance to multiple casinos and attractions
- Free nightly light shows at Fremont Street Experience
- Better gambling odds and lower table minimums
- More intimate, historic Vegas atmosphere
- Emerging arts district and local dining scene
Downtown Las Vegas Considerations
- Smaller hotel rooms compared to Strip properties
- Fewer luxury amenities at most properties
- Limited pool scenes (with some exceptions)
- Noisier environment, especially near Fremont Street
- Transportation needed to visit Strip attractions
- Some areas outside tourist zones require caution
Local Tip: Downtown Las Vegas hotels typically charge resort fees, but they’re generally $10-20 lower per night than comparable Strip properties. This can save you $70-140 on a week-long stay!
Best Luxury Hotels in Downtown Las Vegas
Downtown Las Vegas has evolved beyond its budget-friendly reputation, now offering several upscale properties that rival Strip resorts. These luxury hotels combine modern amenities with Downtown’s unique character.
1. Circa Resort & Casino – Adults Only
Opened in 2020, Circa is Downtown’s newest luxury property and the first adults-only resort in Las Vegas. The 777-room tower features upscale rooms with stunning city views, a world-class sportsbook, and the spectacular Stadium Swim pool complex with a massive video screen. Its prime location on Fremont Street puts you in the heart of Downtown’s action.
Key Features: Stadium Swim year-round heated pool complex, world’s largest sportsbook, Garage Mahal (high-tech parking garage), Legacy Club rooftop lounge, multiple restaurants including Barry’s Downtown Prime steakhouse.
Price Range: Luxury ($150-$400+/night)
2. Golden Nugget Hotel & Casino
The Golden Nugget stands as Downtown’s original luxury destination, featuring 2,400+ recently renovated rooms across four towers. The property’s crown jewel is The Tank – a stunning pool complex featuring a 200,000-gallon shark aquarium with a three-story waterslide that passes through it. Located in the heart of Fremont Street, it offers upscale accommodations with modern amenities.
Key Features: The Tank pool with shark aquarium, Spa and salon, multiple dining options including Vic & Anthony’s Steakhouse, Rush Lounge, elegant casino floor with table games and slots.
Price Range: Luxury ($89-$250+/night)
3. The D Las Vegas
The D Las Vegas offers a modern, high-energy experience in a prime Fremont Street location. Following a complete renovation, the property features contemporary rooms with sleek designs and premium bedding. The two-level casino offers both modern games and vintage slots, while the hotel’s rooftop pool provides a relaxing escape with city views.
Key Features: Longbar (Nevada’s longest bar), two-level casino, rooftop pool, Andiamo Steakhouse, D Grill, premium rooms with city views, free Fremont Street Experience shows.
Price Range: Mid-Range ($49-$199/night)
Best Mid-Range Hotels in Downtown Las Vegas
These mid-range properties offer excellent value with comfortable accommodations, good amenities, and prime Downtown locations – all at prices typically lower than comparable Strip hotels.
4. Downtown Grand Hotel & Casino
Located just one block from Fremont Street, the Downtown Grand offers modern accommodations following a complete renovation and expansion. The property features the Citrus Grand Pool Deck – Downtown’s largest pool experience – with infinity pool, cabanas, and fire pits. The new Gallery Tower provides contemporary rooms with art-focused designs and smart technology.
Key Features: Citrus Grand Pool Deck, Art Bar with rotating exhibits, Freedom Beat restaurant, multiple dining options, industrial-chic design, 24-hour fitness center, easy access to Mob Museum.
Price Range: Mid-Range ($39-$179/night)
5. Plaza Hotel & Casino
Positioned at the western end of Fremont Street, the Plaza Hotel & Casino combines a convenient location with recently renovated rooms and unique amenities. The property features a rooftop pool with food truck dining options and downtown views. Its location at the entrance to the Fremont Street Experience makes it an ideal base for exploring Downtown.
Key Features: Rooftop pool and recreation deck, Oscar’s Steakhouse with Vegas views, free parking garage, Comedy Works club, bingo hall, fitness center, pickleball courts.
Price Range: Mid-Range ($39-$159/night)
6. Four Queens Hotel and Casino
Four Queens offers classic Vegas charm in the heart of Fremont Street. This historic property maintains a traditional Vegas atmosphere with comfortable, recently updated rooms. While it lacks a pool, its central location and NO RESORT FEE policy make it a favorite among value-conscious travelers who want to be in the middle of Downtown’s action.
Key Features: No resort fees, Hugo’s Cellar fine dining restaurant, Chicago Brewing Company, Magnolia’s Veranda 24-hour cafe, classic casino with table games and slots, central Fremont Street location.
Price Range: Mid-Range ($39-$149/night)
Best Budget-Friendly Hotels in Downtown Las Vegas
Downtown Las Vegas offers excellent options for budget-conscious travelers who want comfortable accommodations without breaking the bank. These properties provide basic amenities and convenient locations at wallet-friendly prices.
7. El Cortez Hotel & Casino
As the longest continuously-running hotel and casino in Las Vegas, El Cortez offers authentic vintage Vegas charm with modern comforts. Located in the trendy Fremont East district, it provides easy access to both Fremont Street and the Arts District. The property features a mix of room types, from classic rooms to renovated Tower rooms and Cabana Suites.
Key Features: Historic property on National Register of Historic Places, renovated Tower rooms, Cabana Suites, Siegel’s 1941 restaurant, free parking, best odds in Vegas according to locals, no resort fees on some room types.
Price Range: Budget ($35-$129/night)
8. Golden Gate Hotel & Casino
As Las Vegas’ oldest hotel (established 1906), Golden Gate offers a unique blend of vintage charm and modern updates. Located at the western end of Fremont Street, this boutique property features compact but well-appointed rooms, some with historic elements preserved. The casino maintains its classic Vegas vibe while offering contemporary gaming options.
Key Features: Historic property with modern renovations, famous shrimp cocktail, Dancing Dealers, Bar Prohibition! with Prohibition-era cocktails, vintage Vegas memorabilia, prime Fremont Street location.
Price Range: Budget ($29-$129/night)
9. Oasis at Gold Spike
For travelers seeking a non-casino boutique experience, Oasis at Gold Spike offers a refreshing alternative. This renovated motel features individually designed rooms with unique themes and modern amenities. Connected to the Gold Spike entertainment venue, it provides a lively social atmosphere with games, food, and drinks just steps from your room.
Key Features: Boutique non-casino hotel, uniquely themed rooms, Gold Spike “Living Room” with games and entertainment, 24/7 restaurant, outdoor pool, bicycle rentals, pet-friendly rooms available.
Price Range: Budget ($49-$149/night)
Unique and Boutique Hotels in Downtown Las Vegas
Beyond the traditional casino hotels, Downtown Las Vegas offers several distinctive properties with unique concepts and experiences for travelers seeking something different.
10. The English Hotel
Opened in 2022, The English Hotel is a boutique property in the Las Vegas Arts District created by celebrity chef Todd English. This non-gaming hotel offers 74 stylish rooms with upscale amenities and artistic touches. Its location in the Arts District provides easy access to galleries, boutiques, and local restaurants while remaining just a short distance from Fremont Street.
Key Features: Boutique non-casino experience, The Pepper Club restaurant by Todd English, outdoor pool with cabanas, pet-friendly rooms, Arts District location, complimentary parking, modern design with artistic elements.
Price Range: Luxury ($129-$249/night)
11. Hotel Apache at Binion’s
Hotel Apache offers a unique historic boutique experience within Binion’s Gambling Hall. Originally opened in 1932, this recently renovated hotel maintains its vintage charm with modern comforts. The 81 rooms feature Art Deco-inspired designs that transport guests to classic Vegas while providing contemporary amenities. Connected to Binion’s casino, it combines historic atmosphere with convenient gaming access.
Key Features: Historic boutique hotel, vintage Vegas atmosphere, Art Deco design elements, access to Binion’s casino and restaurants, Top of Binion’s Steakhouse with city views, central Fremont Street location, Million Dollar Photo Experience.
Price Range: Mid-Range ($59-$159/night)
Top Attractions Near Downtown Las Vegas Hotels
One of Downtown Las Vegas’ biggest advantages is the walkable proximity to numerous attractions. Most hotels on our list put you within easy walking distance of these popular destinations:
- Fremont Street Experience – 5-block entertainment district with ziplines, free light shows, and live music
- Mob Museum – Interactive exhibits on organized crime and law enforcement history
- Neon Museum – “Boneyard” of historic Las Vegas signs and neon art
- Container Park – Outdoor shopping and dining complex made from shipping containers
- Arts District – Galleries, boutiques, breweries, and local restaurants
- SlotZilla Zipline – Fly over Fremont Street on this unique zipline attraction
- Golden Nugget Shark Tank – Waterslide through a shark aquarium
- Circa Stadium Swim – Multi-level pool complex with massive video screen
Transportation Tip: To visit the Las Vegas Strip from Downtown, use the Deuce bus ($8 for a 24-hour pass) or rideshare services (approximately $12-18 one way). Many Downtown hotels also offer free parking, making it easy to bring or rent a car.
How to Choose the Right Downtown Las Vegas Hotel
For Families with Children
While Downtown Las Vegas is generally more adult-oriented than the Strip, these properties offer the best experience for families:
- Golden Nugget – The shark tank pool is a hit with kids, and the hotel offers larger rooms and family-friendly dining options.
- Downtown Grand – Spacious rooms and a large pool deck provide comfort for families, plus easy access to Container Park’s children’s playground.
- Plaza Hotel – Offers connecting rooms, a casual atmosphere, and proximity to the SlotZilla zipline attraction.
For Couples and Romantic Getaways
These hotels offer the best atmosphere and amenities for couples:
- Circa Resort – Adults-only environment with luxurious rooms, rooftop lounge, and sophisticated dining options.
- The English Hotel – Intimate boutique setting with stylish rooms and a quieter location in the Arts District.
- Golden Nugget – Upscale rooms in the Rush Tower, couples spa treatments, and fine dining at Vic & Anthony’s.
For Budget Travelers
These properties offer the best value without sacrificing comfort or location:
- El Cortez – Historic charm with some of the lowest rates and no resort fees on certain room types.
- Four Queens – Central location with no resort fees and comfortable rooms.
- Golden Gate – Compact but well-appointed rooms in a historic property with affordable rates.
For Luxury Seekers
Downtown’s luxury options rival many Strip properties:
- Circa Resort – The newest and most upscale Downtown property with premium amenities and modern luxury.
- Golden Nugget – Rush Tower rooms offer upscale accommodations with full resort amenities.
- The English Hotel – Boutique luxury with personalized service and upscale design.
For First-Time Vegas Visitors
These hotels provide the best introduction to both Downtown and Las Vegas overall:
- Golden Nugget – Full resort experience with easy access to Fremont Street attractions.
- The D Las Vegas – Modern rooms with a high-energy casino and central location.
- Downtown Grand – Contemporary property near major attractions with good amenities.
Final Thoughts on Downtown Las Vegas Hotels
Downtown Las Vegas offers a compelling alternative to the Strip, with historic charm, better values, and a more walkable experience. The best hotels in Downtown Las Vegas combine convenient locations with distinctive personalities and amenities that honor Vegas’ past while embracing its future.
For luxury travelers, Circa Resort sets a new standard for Downtown, while value-seekers will appreciate properties like Four Queens and El Cortez that deliver comfort without high resort fees. No matter which Downtown hotel you choose, you’ll be steps away from the vibrant energy of Fremont Street and the authentic Vegas experience that keeps visitors returning year after year.
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