Gambler's Weekend

Description:

This buffet has a nice room with actual natural lighting and a big wall of flames -- hence, firelight -- plus lighting that changes throughout the day, according to mood requirements, and a view of the water and laser-light show in the atrium of the hotel (kind of alfresco dining, in a Vegas artificial way). The buffet has international stations (Chinese, Mexican), a bar, and a dessert station with hand-scooped ice cream. The food is fine -- for a buffet, anyway.

Description:

Not long ago this was a small, three-story motel and casino, known for its Western Emporium and laid-back atmosphere. On the outskirts of town on the Boulder Strip, it currently offers more than 650 rooms and suites. All have great views, with outside rooms that overlook either the city or the mountains. The inside rooms overlook Mystic Falls Park, a man-made but thoroughly enchanting park setting with waterfalls and a nightly laser show called Sunset Stampede.

Description:

Imagine a park that is unaffected by the weather, climate-controlled, and features a laser show every two hours with music by the Indianapolis Philharmonic Orchestra. There are cooling waterfalls, birds, squirrels and even a bear and a wolf. Children and adults alike will enjoy this unique and fun experience. This all takes place in the atrium of Sam's Town Hotel. There are several restaurants, shops and a bar from which you can view the events.

Description:

Definitely one of the better Mexican restaurants in Las Vegas, it also offers friendly service and great atmosphere. Enjoy the dark "bar" atmosphere with soft lighting and candles. Patrons can sit at tables or booths. Large and delicious portions of the house specialties, such as nachos, chicken taquitos, burritos, enchiladas and tacos, are served a la carte or in a meal with beans and rice. Top it all off with some delicious Fried Ice Cream for dessert.

Description:

The Boulder Station bingo room is big on promotions and contests. The room offers smoking and non-smoking sections and complimentary beverages and snacks. Electronic "TED" bingo machines are available for rental, along with traditional ink and paper cards. Card prices start at USD4 and the payout goes up with the card price. All cards must be purchased with cash only and patrons must be at least 21 years of age.

Description:

Just 5 miles from the Strip (which means it's not precisely near anything, but if you have a car, it's also not far), Western-themed Sam's Town is immensely popular with locals and tourists alike. This unexpectedly pleasing resort is well worth considering for the price. Off the beaten track though it may be, regular (if not exactly frequent), free shuttles to the Strip and Downtown may help you with any feelings of isolation. The addition of a new entertainment complex (including an 18-screen movie theater, a 56-lane bowling alley, and a child-care center) makes it an even more positive option, particularly for families.

Sam's Town's main draw is its centerpiece atrium, a high-rising edifice that is part park, part Western vista. With living trees and splashing fountains, plus silly animatronic animals, it's kind of goofy, but also a nice, albeit artificial (as if that's unusual for Vegas) place to wander through and sit (which is a rare thing for this town). And if it's a bit noisy, well, we'll take the splashing sounds of the water over the ka-chinging of slots any day. The other public areas, including the casino, have gotten a face-lift. If it isn't up to the impossible standards set by the new Strip hotels, everything is certainly less dated and dark.

Rooms are adequately sized, if a tad dim, thanks to the Western/Native American-themed decor, but they are clean and fine, especially for the price. All have either mountain views (higher up is much better) or inside-atrium views, which are great fun.

And bless it, the hotel continues to find ways to improve through almost nonstop remodeling or expansion. And while we love it when a place does not rest on its laurels but constantly seeks the improvements of change, that also means that every time we come here, some wall is up indicating that construction is going on, and every place within the hotel is subject to the whims of fortune and decor. The point being, don't totally count on anything we've mentioned above being here forever -- after all, they took out a diner with the best burger in town and a large country-and-western dance hall of considerable tradition.

There are a variety of other dining options, such as Sam's Town Firelight Buffet and a cart in the atrium that serves homemade ice cream.

Roxy's Saloon, one of a dozen bars on the premises, offers live entertainment (country and western) for dancing, daily from noon to the wee hours. There's also a deli in the race-and-sports-book area, a bowling alley snack bar, a food court, an ice-cream parlor, and the aforementioned 18-screen movie theater and entertainment complex, complete with child-care facility.

The Sunset Stampede is a laser-and-water show that takes place four times daily (at 2, 6, 8, and 10pm) in the Mystic Falls Park. It begins with a howl from an animatronic wolf atop the waterfall, and then water spurts in sync with orchestral themes, as lasers fire pretty colors around the room. A 10-minute show, it's not long enough or special enough to be worth the drive from the Strip (though there are free buses to transport you -- call for details), but if you happen to be around, grab a seat at the bar early. This is particularly important for kids, as it gets pretty crowded, and it's tough to see the show unless you are up close.

The enormous three-floor casino has a friendly, casual atmosphere.

Facilities: 7 restaurants; 12 bars; food court; casino; showrooms; 18-screen movie theater; 56-lane bowling center; outdoor pool; video-game arcades; tour desk; car-rental desk; shuttle to Strip/Downtown; laundry service; coin-op laundry machines in adjoining RV park

Our Local Expert Says:

Now owned by Harrah's.

Description:

Serious gamblers absolutely love this place. It is a throwback to the original "old Las Vegas" hard-drinking and hard-playing atmosphere. The best view of downtown can be had at Binion's Ranch Steakhouse on the 23rd floor where you can dine on some of the best steaks and prime rib in Las Vegas. The guest accommodations are adequate and comfortable and the rooftop swimming pool is a great place to relax after a day at the tables.

Description:

Step into the past, and enjoy a pleasant stay near the Fremont Street Experience. Among the memorabilia on display are Teddy Roosevelt's Pullman car and a piece of the Berlin Wall. Rooms are decorated with wood trim and wooden doors, which adds a luxurious feel to the decor. Some of the fine restaurants include the Triple 7 Brew Pub serving oysters on the half shell, and the award-winning Garden Court Buffet. The casino is packed with slots, sports book, keno and table games.

Description:

You may recognize this establishment from many movies filmed here, including Honey I Blew Up the Baby. The standard guest accommodations are tastefully decorated and comfortable. Petite Suites offer many amenities including a sitting and dining area. Deluxe Jacuzzi Suites also offer a refrigerator and wet bar. The 50,000-square-foot casino offers a myriad of table games including single-deck blackjack, Pai-Gow and three-card poker. Restaurants available include Magnolia's Verdana with 24-hour dining and Hugo's Cellar for a romantic evening.

Description:

Originally opened as the Sundance in 1980, it later gained the "luck of the Irish" and became Fitzgerald's now joined by Holiday Inn. There can not be a luckier place to stay in than Glitter Gulch, from the leprechaun on the roof to the six authentic blarney stones on display; the place exudes good fortune. Hotel guests will enjoy the 42,000 square foot casino, three restaurants and three bars. The comfortable rooms offer a quiet respite from the gambling excitement. Prices fluctuate widely depending upon visitor volume, but this is certainly "the" place to be in Las Vegas on St. Patrick's Day.

Description:

This buffet has often been voted number one in Las Vegas and while we wouldn't go that far, it certainly is top quality. Most of the seating is in plush booths. The buffet tables are laden with an extensive salad bar (about 50 items), fresh fruit, and marvelous desserts. Fresh seafood is featured every night. Most lavish is the all-day Sunday champagne brunch, which adds such dishes as eggs Benedict, blintzes, pancakes, creamed herring, and smoked fish with bagels and cream cheese.

Description:

This is a small, cheery room nestled inside one of the oldest existing hotels in Las Vegas, the Golden Gate. This eatery has all the charm of 1930s San Francisco, contrasting with the modern delights of the Fremont Street Experience. Counter seating and the mahogany interior with brass fixtures give the place a real "old-time" feel. Table seating is also available. Most famous for the "99-cent Shrimp Cocktail," it also offers a range of menu choices including breakfast and complete meals.

Description:

Located on the 23rd floor of Binion's Horseshoe, this is a real, old-fashioned steakhouse for people who love beef. Without a doubt, the most-popular menu item here is the Prime Rib of Beef. The spices, the juices and the horseradish all combine with prime cuts of beef to make simply the best dinner around. Steaks are also available and have to pass stringent quality ratings. A full wine and beer menu is available.

Description:

Dine graciously and enjoy an incredible view from the Plaza Hotel. You can see the laser light show and hear the music at the Fremont Street Experience from all tables in the house. It's a fun place to eat at a reasonable price. Seafood and steaks are the specialties. A full-service bar and wine list is available. Excellent service rounds out your dining experience.

Description:

Just 5 miles from the Strip (which means it's not precisely near anything, but if you have a car, it's also not far), Western-themed Sam's Town is immensely popular with locals and tourists alike. This unexpectedly pleasing resort is well worth considering for the price. Off the beaten track though it may be, regular (if not exactly frequent), free shuttles to the Strip and Downtown may help you with any feelings of isolation. The addition of a new entertainment complex (including an 18-screen movie theater, a 56-lane bowling alley, and a child-care center) makes it an even more positive option, particularly for families.

Sam's Town's main draw is its centerpiece atrium, a high-rising edifice that is part park, part Western vista. With living trees and splashing fountains, plus silly animatronic animals, it's kind of goofy, but also a nice, albeit artificial (as if that's unusual for Vegas) place to wander through and sit (which is a rare thing for this town). And if it's a bit noisy, well, we'll take the splashing sounds of the water over the ka-chinging of slots any day. The other public areas, including the casino, have gotten a face-lift. If it isn't up to the impossible standards set by the new Strip hotels, everything is certainly less dated and dark.

Rooms are adequately sized, if a tad dim, thanks to the Western/Native American-themed decor, but they are clean and fine, especially for the price. All have either mountain views (higher up is much better) or inside-atrium views, which are great fun.

And bless it, the hotel continues to find ways to improve through almost nonstop remodeling or expansion. And while we love it when a place does not rest on its laurels but constantly seeks the improvements of change, that also means that every time we come here, some wall is up indicating that construction is going on, and every place within the hotel is subject to the whims of fortune and decor. The point being, don't totally count on anything we've mentioned above being here forever -- after all, they took out a diner with the best burger in town and a large country-and-western dance hall of considerable tradition.

There are a variety of other dining options, such as Sam's Town Firelight Buffet and a cart in the atrium that serves homemade ice cream.

Roxy's Saloon, one of a dozen bars on the premises, offers live entertainment (country and western) for dancing, daily from noon to the wee hours. There's also a deli in the race-and-sports-book area, a bowling alley snack bar, a food court, an ice-cream parlor, and the aforementioned 18-screen movie theater and entertainment complex, complete with child-care facility.

The Sunset Stampede is a laser-and-water show that takes place four times daily (at 2, 6, 8, and 10pm) in the Mystic Falls Park. It begins with a howl from an animatronic wolf atop the waterfall, and then water spurts in sync with orchestral themes, as lasers fire pretty colors around the room. A 10-minute show, it's not long enough or special enough to be worth the drive from the Strip (though there are free buses to transport you -- call for details), but if you happen to be around, grab a seat at the bar early. This is particularly important for kids, as it gets pretty crowded, and it's tough to see the show unless you are up close.

The enormous three-floor casino has a friendly, casual atmosphere.

Facilities: 7 restaurants; 12 bars; food court; casino; showrooms; 18-screen movie theater; 56-lane bowling center; outdoor pool; video-game arcades; tour desk; car-rental desk; shuttle to Strip/Downtown; laundry service; coin-op laundry machines in adjoining RV park

Description:

CLOSED 05-16-11
This property was one of the first on the Strip, dating back to the early 1950s. Recently renovated, it offers all the latest gaming and hotel amenities with old-fashioned charm and service. It is one of the few hotels left with full balconies for fantastic views. Eating opportunities range from an inexpensive Sahara Buffet and the 24-hour Caravan Coffee Shop to the more elegant Sahara Steakhouse or authentic and comfortable Paco's Hideaway for great Mexican cuisine.

Description:

Nestled between the Flamingo Hilton and Bally's, and across from Caesars Palace, this is one of the best locations in town. The hotel is small, with just under 200 rooms, but elegant. The rooms are larger than average, with original paintings on the wall and spacious bathrooms. This comfortable and unique hotel is also the home of Drai's Gourmet Restaurant. The casino area features table games, slot machines and a state-of-the-art race and sports book.

Description:

Las Vegas has managed to keep a few connections with the stage shows of the past and this show, the longest running ever, keeps visitors coming back. Featuring music and dance numbers, Folies has modernized the original show, but kept its heart and soul. Feathers and fancy costumes are displayed with the fervor of the 1950s reviews. Audiences will be delighted while watching the beautiful showgirls. Call ahead for reservations.

Description:

This hotel comprises a bright and busy gaming area, which hosts table gambling like Blackjack and Caribbean Stud. Both high-stakes players and the casual gamer will feel at home. The deluxe guest rooms and luxury suites are tastefully decorated in colors of the rainforest. The accommodations are dispersed among six towers with views of the Strip or courtyards below. Dining choices at the hotel range from simple to sophisticated. The fun Peking Market offers excellent Chinese cuisine and Paradise Garden Buffet features fabulous food with an equally-fabulous view. Guests will also enjoy the lush Wildlife Habitat.

Description:

CLOSED 05-16-11
The buffet at the Sahara Hotel is enormous with more than 900 seats and a Middle Eastern theme. Menu items include carved meats, salads, turkey, seafood, chicken, Chinese food and an Italian cooking station. One nice feature is a "serve yourself" beverage station. The place has a comfortable ambiance making for a pleasant dining experience. Prices and menu may vary on holidays, holiday weekends, and during special events.

Description:

Located on a newly opened 15-acre park area behind the Flamingo Las Vegas, this animal habitat features some animals not normally found in the Nevada desert. Surrounded by waterfalls and breathtaking flora, you will find ponds filled with Catfish, Japanese Koi (giant goldfish), and turtles that swim freely. For bird-lovers, penguins, flamingos (naturally), swans and other rare birds make this park their home. Everyone in the family will have an enjoyable time especially the kids. Admission is free.

Description:

What began in 1972 as the Holiday Hotel has developed into this magnificent property which continues to expand on a regular basis. The bright casino area is host to all forms of table games including tables for the high-rollers. The multitude of slot machines are always a favorite of the hotel guests. For five straight years, the casino was voted the 'Best Place to Play Slots.' The guest rooms are comfortable and well-appointed and the service is excellent. Six fine restaurants in the hotel offer something for everyone.

Our Local Expert Says:

One of Las Vegas' most well-known attractions--and it's free!

Description:

The Bellagio's Fountains sound like a simple concept: shooting jets of water timed to music. But what sounds simple is actually a complex choreography of technology, sound, and water. Designed by WET Design, an international company that specializes in elaborate water displays, the Bellagio's Fountains are spread over the nine-acre lake in front of the Bellagio. Over 1,200 nozzles and 4,500 lights work together to shoot water 400+ feet in the air—but that's not all the fountains do. They sway, they dance, and they wow the crowds that gather to watch them.

Shows start in the afternoon, but the best time to see the fountains is at night. The combination of music and the illuminated dancing water is enchanting. Many people have already seen the fountains on television shows or in movies (most famously, the George Clooney remake of "Ocean's 11"). Romantic, spectacular, and iconic, the Bellagio's Fountains are a free Las Vegas attraction that's appropriate for anyone of any age.

An underground well supplies most of the water for the fountains. Prior to the Bellagio, the Dunes and its golf course were located here—thus, the well, which watered the golf course. The Dunes was imploded to make way for the Bellagio.

Description:

Flamingo Las Vegas Hotel & Casino is one of the premier hotels and casinos on the Las Vegas Strip. The original Flamingo, now incorporated into the main hotel, was built by mobster Bugsy Segal. Excellent dining, entertainment, and casino gambling are hallmarks of The Flamingo Las Vegas. The beautiful tropical retreat is home to live flamingos and the resort's four interconnected swimming pools, tropical waterfall and private cabanas. Nightly world class entertainment rounds out the experience at the original Strip resort.