Ellis Island Hotel and Casino is small by Las Vegas standards with just over 300 hotel rooms and a mere 10,000 square feet devoted to gaming.
Although small in stature, Ellis has been able to successfully lure tourists away from the Strip via its differentiated offerings and strong value proposition for years.
For those that may be unfamiliar, Ellis Island is located right behind Horseshoe just a few blocks off the Las Vegas Strip. Simply exit Horseshoe and walk away from the Strip on E. Flamingo, then hang a right on Koval and you’re there.
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Things To Do at Ellis Island
Karaoke Nightly: Whether you intend to sing or not, the show is worth a trip as Ellis offers some of the best karaoke in Vegeas. Running weeknights from 9 pm-3 am, the performances are extended until 4 am on the weekends. With a catalog comprised of over 10k songs, you’re sure to hear something you like.
Cheap, Quality, Eats: Among my favorite things to do at Ellis Island is gorging myself on inexpensive, filling meals.
My go-to at breakfast is the $8.99 steak and eggs special and at dinner, I typically opt for the $18.99 NY Strip Steak and Fried Shrimp.
No, it’s not a top-tier steakhouse, but if thriftiness is your goal then you’ll appreciate the quality offered for the price.
Ellis also offers a good, cheap shrimp cocktail for $8.99. If I’m being honest, they went a little heavy on the celery, but it’s tough to beat that price on the Strip!
Grab an Inexpensive Craft Beer: While you’ll pay upwards of $8 at the casino bar for a bottled domestic on the Strip, Ellis’ 20oz craft brews can be had for a measly $4 (as long as you have a players card).
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.
Enjoy Cheap, Player-Friendly Gambling: In addition to over 300 slot games, Ellis offers table games with low minimum bets. Our go-to is their $5 blackjack that pays 3:2, dealt 24 hours a day. Not only will $5 tables elude you on the Strip, but most $10-$15 blackjack games have also already converted to 6:5.
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.