Stratosphere Las Vegas Hotel & Casino

Description:

• A really neat idea, in that Vegas way, in a really bad location. At 1,149 feet, it's the tallest building west of the Mississippi. In theory, this should have provided yet another attraction for visitors: Climb (okay, elevator) to the top and gaze at the stunning view. But despite being on the Strip, it's a healthy walk from anywhere -- the nearest casino is the Sahara, which is 5 very long blocks away. This, and possibly the hefty price charged for the privilege of going up to the top of the tower, may have conspired to keep the crowds away.

  And although the crowds might have been justified before, they -- and by "they," we mean "you" -- might reconsider, especially if you are looking for a friendly place to hang your hat, but nothing more. The smaller-size rooms here are basically motel rooms -- really nice motel rooms, but with that level of comfort and style. Then again, you can often get such a room for around $49 a night. And do join the casino's players' club -- they tend to offer free rooms with more or less minimal play. Perfect if you are coming to Vegas with no plans to spend time in your room except to sleep (if even that). Of course, the place just sold, so who knows what's in store for it?

  That isn't to say there aren't other elements to like in place already, including the aforementioned casino, a midway area with kiddie-oriented rides, a pool with a view, and some of the friendliest, most accommodating staff in town. You can still ride the following incredible thrill rides (provided the wind isn't blowing too hard that day) on top of the tower: the Big Shot, a fabulous free-fall ride that thrusts passengers up and down the tower at speeds of up to 45 mph; X-Scream, a giant teeter-totter device that gives you the sensation of falling off the side of the building; and Insanity: the Ride, a whirly-gig contraption that spins you around more than 900 feet above terra firma, and another yet-to-be-announced ride to replace the closed roller coaster. Indoor and outdoor observation decks offer the most stunning city views you will ever see, especially at night. For the price, this might be the right place for you. Just remember that you need a rental car or a lot of cash for cabs to get to the true thrills down the Strip.

  In addition to the casino, the hotel sports two production shows: American Superstars (an impression-filled show) and BITE.

  Facilities: 9 restaurants; several fast-food outlets; casino; showrooms; wedding chapel; large pool area w/great views of the Strip; children's rides and games; concierge; tour desk; car-rental desk; shopping arcade; 24-hr. room service; laundry service; executive-level rooms

• © Frommer's 2013

Awards:

CitySearch

•  Tourist Hotel 2007

Frommer's

•  Recommended 2010

Other features:

A spacious new resort-style outdoor pool was added to the eighth-floor rooftop in 2001, complementing the old rectangular pool atop the tower section. An outdoor events arena was also added the same year for concerts and sporting events.