Nothing outshines the lights of the Las Vegas Strip, but for many, staying there isn’t preferred. In fact, according to a 2022 LVCVA survey, 25% of visitors chose to stay at hotels away from the Strip and downtown.
The reasons are numerous. Hotels off the Strip offer table games with player-friendly rules, have looser slots, serve comparatively inexpensive food & drink, and oftentimes offer premium amenities at a lower price point than resorts on the Strip.
In addition to being away from the madness of main tourist corridors, hotels away from the Strip are a cheap Uber ($15 – $25), or even a free shuttle ride from the action allowing guests to experience the best of both worlds.
I thought it would be fun to detail my top “Off-Strip” hotel picks for those who want luxury, but away from the crowds.
Durango
Durango, a Station Casinos property, is the newest resort in the locals market and is built to impress.
There, you’ll find a casino with an abundance of natural light, table game minimums that won’t break the bank, and better odds than you’ll find on the Strip.
My favorite amenity though is the indoor/outdoor sportsbook, which ranks among the most unique books in Vegas.
Rooms at Durango start at around $400/nt during non-peak times, but I’ve received several mailers offering comps as a low roller.
I swung by Durango a couple of weeks after the grand opening and was impressed – I can’t wait to stay there.
Red Rock
Located in Summerlin, Red Rock’s guestrooms match the luxury of top resorts on the Strip with stunning views of Red Rock Canyon.
In addition to the gaming floor you would expect from a resort in Vegas, Red Rock offers bowling, a movie theater, and numerous dining options spanning the price spectrum on-site.
Red Rock’s “Sandbar” Pool is among the nicest in all of Vegas and even offers poolside gaming.
Fresh off of a 2020 renovation project, I think you’ll agree that the room product is built to impress.
Red Rock’s baseline luxury rooms can commonly be had for around $150-$200 per night.
For those traveling with a family or group, Red Rock also offers suites with 2 bedrooms.
Green Valley Ranch
Located in Henderson, Green Valley Ranch is easily one of the best off-Strip hotels in Las Vegas.
With room options ranging from GVR’s baseline Deluxe Rooms, all the way up to a collection of suites, rooms match the level of luxury you would expect at upper-tier resorts on the Strip.
Like Red Rock, Green Valley Ranch also boasts a stunning, aesthetically pleasing pool complex complete with a beach made of sand and views of the Strip.
Room rates at GVR start at about $200 during non-peak times.
M Resort
Located in Henderson, M Resort offers luxurious hotel accommodations, diverse dining options, over 90,000 square feet of gaming, and a luxurious pool scene spread over 100,000 square feet complete with two heated infinity pools.
Adding to the allure of M’s pool are seating options submerged in 9-inches of water, making for a refreshing way to enjoy the Nevada sun.
Accommodations at M Resort are among the best you’ll find away from the Strip. Options start with their baseline “M Resort Room” which can be had for rates starting at around $125.
Virgin Las Vegas
The old Hard Rock Hotel and Casino has transitioned to the Virgin brand via a $200 million renovation project.
The reimagined property, which opened in Spring of 2021 is borderline walking distance from the Strip, although I’d instead recommend a cheap Uber… especially in the middle of summer… trust us… It’s a mistake I’ve made.
The resort’s 1,500 refurbished guestrooms, 60,000 square foot gaming floor, and stunning pool complex are destined to put Virgin atop the list of options off the Strip.
In addition to a shiny new resort experience, Virgin sits across the street from Hofbrauhaus, which serves up massive beers. Not a bad spot.
Palms
Palms was among the trendiest off-Strip resorts after opening in 2001 and subsequently hosting The Real World in 2003. Present at the hotel’s grand opening were notable celebrities including Samuel L. Jackson, Dennis Rodman, and Pamela Anderson.
After a hot start, Palms slowly fell out of favor and into a state of dated neglect.
That perception was reversed on a dime via a $690 million renovation project which restored the property’s image, touching all guest rooms, common areas, and the casino floor.
The gaming floor has the feel of an upscale Strip casino, and their AYCE Buffet is easily one of the best values in Las Vegas.
Sunset Station
Also located in Henderson, Sunset Station boasts budget-friendly pricing and updated modern-feeling hotel rooms.
The casino itself is incredibly unique with the focal point being a backlit stained glass ceiling.
As for ancillary amenities, Sunset has you covered with a bowling alley, a 13-screen theater, and numerous dining/drinking options.
Room rates start at a mere $75 per night mid-week, and increase during peak times.
As evidenced above, it is entirely possible to find luxurious accommodations away from the Strip with top-tier amenities. Adding to the appeal, slots are typically looser, table games boast player-friendly rules, and prices, on the whole, become less painful as you move away from the action.
Related: Are you eligible for a discounted hotel room in Vegas? Here is a rundown of discounts for the military, first responders, educators, and locals!
I’m a former software salesman turned Vegas aficionado. While the craps table is my preferred habitat, I pull myself away to explore new attractions, shows, restaurants, and outdoor activities around Las Vegas with the intent of sharing my experiences.
Ultimately, I just want to help folks plan a better trip and save a few bucks in the process.