One of the most important choices you’ll have to make before going to Las Vegas is where to stay. On the Las Vegas Strip or in Downtown Las Vegas (Fremont Street). The best option for you will depend on what kind of trip you want, since both offer very different experiences.
This is a simple, clear comparison that will help you pick the best place to go.
1. Staying on the Strip:
New, Flashy, and Lots of Fun Things to Do
The Strip is the most famous part of Las Vegas. This is where you’ll find the best restaurants, the best casinos, the most famous landmarks, and the biggest, most expensive resorts.
Why People Choose the Strip
- There are always things to do, like concerts, shows, and going out at night.
- Some of the most well-known hotels are Bellagio, The Venetian, Wynn, Caesars Palace, and MGM Grand.
- A classic Las Vegas trip with lots of things to see
- Great for first-time visitors to Vegas who want to see everything.
Who the Strip Is Best For:
- People Who Have Never Been
- Couples looking for a romantic or fancy vacation
- People who enjoy going out at night and having fun
- People who want to be able to walk to everything when they travel
Staying on the Strip may have some downsides
- like higher hotel prices.
- Parking and resort fees can add up quickly. in the town
- There are a lot of people, especially on the weekends.
2. Staying in the city center is cheap, old-fashioned, and full of local charm.
Fremont Street is the main street in downtown Las Vegas, which is where the city started. It’s more laid-back, has more character, and costs less.
Travelers Pick Downtown
- Prices for hotels, food, and drinks are lower.
- Casinos often have lower minimum bets, which is good for people who are new to the game.
- There are street performers and live shows all over Fremont Street.
- A place that is less busy and more laid-back
Who Should Go to the City? Travelers on a budget
- Groups of friends
- People who come to the area for its charm instead of its luxury
- People who want better odds or lower buy-ins when they play games of chance
- If you stay downtown, things that could go wrong include fewer high-end and luxury resorts.
- At night, the area can be knit.
- Not as nice as the Strip
3. A clear side-by-side look at the Strip and downtown Las Vegas
| Category | The Strip | Downtown Las Vegas |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Higher | Lower |
| Vibe | Modern, upscale, busy | Vintage, casual, energetic |
| Best For | First-timers, couples, nightlife | Budget travelers, gamblers, local feel |
| Entertainment | Shows, clubs, attractions | Street shows, bars, casinos |
| Walking | Long distances | Compact and easy to explore |
| Hotels | Luxury mega-resorts | Smaller, affordable, historic |
4. What Area Should You Pick?
- Choose the Strip if you want the full “classic Las Vegas” experience.
- You like new things and fancy hotels.
- You like to have everything in one place, like food and fun.
- Choose Downtown if you want to save money on hotels, food, and gambling.
- You like the old-school, laid-back vibe of Vegas.
- You like table games that cost less and people who live nearby.
A lot of people who travel to Las Vegas choose to stay on the Strip for a few nights and Downtown for a few nights. This way, you can see both sides of Las Vegas without having to choose one.
SOME QUICK FAQs
1. Is it less expensive to stay in Downtown Las Vegas than on the Strip?
Yes. Usually, hotels, food, drinks, and gambling are cheaper in the city center.
2. Is the Strip better for people who have never been there before?
The Strip is the most popular place for first-time visitors because it has the most famous Las Vegas sights.
3. How far is the Strip from the center of town?
Uber, Lyft, or a taxi will take about 10 to 15 minutes to get there.
4. What are the best casinos?
The Strip has the most famous casinos, but players can often find better odds and lower table limits in the downtown area.
5. In the town Are there any nice places to stay in the city center?
There are a lot of older hotels in the downtown area, but some have been updated. The D, Circa, and Golden Nugget are all good mid-range options.
6. Is it loud in the city at night?
There can be a lot of noise near Fremont Street. You can cut down on noise by staying a few blocks away or choosing a room on a higher floor.