Ellis Island is a small casino and hotel, a short walk from the Strip behind Horseshoe and Vanderpump, and it’s been on my “must-stop” list for years.
The appeal has only grown as they wrap up a $35 million renovation and expansion project that has left the property unrecognizable.
It used to be a budget-friendly, dumpy (said lovingly) casino.
Now, it’s a budget-friendly, nice AF casino.
They glowed up without losing sight of their affordable roots.
Things To Do at Ellis Island
Check the Place Out: The new Ellis is disorienting in the best way. If you haven’t been there in a while, you are unlikely to recognize it.
Karaoke Nightly: Whether you intend to sing or not, the show is worth a trip as Ellis offers some of the best karaoke in Vegas. Running weeknights from 9 pm-3 am, performances run until 4 am on weekends.
With a catalog comprised of over 10k songs, you’re sure to hear something you like.
Cheap, Quality, Eats: If I’m stopping into Ellis Island, I’m grabbing something to eat at the Village Pub or Front Yard, and it’s non-negotiable.
Unfortunately, the steak and eggs special at Village Pub has essentially doubled in price, now costing $14.99. While not a “screamin’ deal” anymore, it’s still solid for the price, as is the rest of the menu.
No, it’s not a top-tier steakhouse, but if thriftiness is your goal then you’ll appreciate the quality offered for the price.
Vilage Pub also has a solid, cheap shrimp cocktail for $9.99.
They also offer quick-serve concepts like Metro Pizza (cheese slices start at just $3.75!) and Via Focaccia ($10-$15 sandwiches).
Watch the Big Game in the Front Yard: Ellis Island’s front yard is the perfect place to settle in and enjoy the game you just wagered on while sipping craft beer. In fact, the venue is a top option for folks looking for Super Bowl or March Madness watch parties.
With an abundance of TVs, one of which boasts an 18-foot screen, there isn’t a bad seat in the house. In addition to sporting events, Ellis’ Front Yard also hosts other forms of live entertainment weekly.
The Front Yard also offers bar-top video poker and a venue-specific stadium food menu.
While Village Pub was my original favorite at Ellis, The Front Yard has become my go-to. Most recently, I enjoyed the $17 Chicken Buff & Truff sandwich served alongside a tall $6.50 craft beer.
Enjoy Cheap, Player-Friendly Gambling: In addition to an abundance of slot games, Ellis offers table games with low minimum bets.
My go-to is their $5 blackjack that pays 3:2, dealt 24 hours a day. Most Strip games start at a $10-$15 minimum while only paying 6:5.
They also deal $10 craps with 10x odds – Affordable stuff.
Drink with a View: The Deck is a new rooftop lounge with Strip views. The Deck wasn’t open when I stopped in last for pics, but it looks great. So do the stairs leading up to it.
For a hotel and casino with a small footprint, Ellis Island offers plenty of things to do outside of gaming. Stop in for cheap food and drink, karaoke, and player-friendly gaming close to the Strip.
Related: 44+ ways to save money while in Vegas.
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.