Best Oldest Hotel in Las Vegas (9 Most Historic Hotels)

Las Vegas is a city known for its glitz and glamour but hidden amongst the neon lights, and modern skyscrapers are some of the oldest and most historic hotels in the United States. These iconic establishments have stood the test of time, witnessed the city’s evolution, and have played host to some of the most famous names in entertainment history. From the Flamingo’s elegance to the Golden Nugget’s luxury, these hotels have maintained their charm and character throughout the decades.

In this article, we will explore nine of the best Las Vegas oldest hotels, taking a journey through time and discovering the fascinating stories behind each of these legendary properties.

The Oldest Hotels On The Las Vegas Strip

Rank Original Hotel Name Current Hotel Name Opening Year
1 Flamingo Hotel & Casino Flamingo 1946
2 Sahara SLS 1952
3 Tropicana Tropicana 1957
4 Flamingo Capri Motel The Linq 1959
5 Tally-Ho Planet Hollywood 1963
6 Caesars Palace Caesars Palace 1966
7 Circus Circus Circus Circus 1968
8 Holiday Casino Harrah’s 1973
9 MGM Grand Bally’s 1973
10 Nob Hill Best Western Plus Casino Royale 1979

Most Aging Hotels in Las Vegas

1. Golden Gate Hotel

Overview: Golden Gate Hotel is an iconic establishment with a rich history. It is one of the oldest hotels in Las Vegas, having first opened its doors in 1906. Over the years, the hotel has gone through numerous renovations and expansions to keep up with the times, but it has always maintained its classic charm.

The first thing that strikes you about the Golden Gate Hotel is its stunning architecture. The hotel’s façade is adorned with elegant art deco designs that transport you back to a bygone era. The interior is equally impressive, with a stylish and modern décor that complements the hotel’s historical roots.

Amenities: The rooms at the Golden Gate Hotel are cozy and comfortable, with all the modern amenities you would expect from a high-end hotel. The beds are plush, and the linens are of the highest quality, ensuring a comfortable night’s sleep. The bathrooms are spacious and equipped with luxurious toiletries.

One of the highlights of the Golden Gate Hotel is its dining options. The hotel’s signature restaurant, Du-Par’s, is renowned for its delicious pancakes and pies, made from scratch daily. The casino at the Golden Gate Hotel is also a popular attraction, with a wide selection of games and slot machines.

  • Opening Year: January 13, 1906
  • Location: 1 E Fremont St, Las Vegas, Nevada

2. El Cortez Hotel

El Cortez

Overview: El Cortez Hotel is a historic hotel located in downtown Las Vegas, Nevada. Established in 1941, the El Cortez Hotel is one of the oldest hotels in Las Vegas. It is a true icon of the city’s history. It is located on Fremont Street, also known as “Glitter Gulch,” which is the original location of Las Vegas’ first casinos.

The hotel features classic mid-century architecture and décor, giving it a distinct vintage feel that transports guests back in time. It has undergone multiple renovations over the years, with the most recent being completed in 2013, restoring much of the property’s original charm and elegance.

Amenities: The El Cortez Hotel boasts 360 rooms and suites, each with a unique style and charm. Rooms are decorated in classic Las Vegas style, with vintage furnishings, plush bedding, and modern amenities such as flat-screen televisions, mini-refrigerators, and complimentary Wi-Fi. The hotel’s casino features classic table games, slot machines, and a sportsbook, allowing guests to experience the excitement of Las Vegas gaming. The hotel also offers a variety of dining options, including a steakhouse, coffee shop, pizza restaurant, a cocktail lounge, and a bar.

One of the most popular attractions of the El Cortez Hotel is its vintage-style lounge, The Parlour Bar, which has a 1940s ambiance and offers live entertainment, signature cocktails, and a charming atmosphere.

  • Opening Year: November 7, 1941
  • Location: 600 E Fremont St, Las Vegas, NV, United States

3. The Flamingo Las Vegas Hotel

The Flamingo

Overview: The Flamingo Las Vegas Hotel is one of the most iconic hotels on the Las Vegas Strip. It was opened in 1946 by infamous mobster Bugsy Siegel and has since become a beloved institution in the city. The Flamingo is a favorite among tourists and locals with its distinctive pink facade and sprawling property.

Amenities: The hotel features over 3,600 rooms, including suites and villas, and a variety of amenities that make it a destination in itself. Guests can enjoy multiple pools, a spa, a fitness center, a casino, dining options, and nightly entertainment. The Flamingo is also home to the Wildlife Habitat, a serene oasis filled with exotic birds, fish, and turtles.

The Flamingo’s rooms are modern and comfortable, with various options to suit any traveler’s needs. Standard rooms are spacious and equipped with all the necessary amenities, while suites offer additional living space and luxury touches like whirlpool tubs and Strip views. The hotel’s villas are the ultimate luxury, with multiple bedrooms, living areas, and private pools.

Gaming Options: The Flamingo’s casino is a bustling hub of activity, featuring table games, slots, and a sportsbook. The hotel’s restaurants offer a range of dining options, from upscale steakhouses to casual cafes and everything in between. Guests can catch nightly entertainment at the Flamingo’s showroom, with acts ranging from stand-up comedians to musical performances.

The Flamingo’s location on the Las Vegas Strip makes it an ideal base for exploring the city. With its classic Vegas charm and modern amenities, it’s no wonder Flamingo remains one of the most popular hotels in Las Vegas.

  • Opening Year: December 26, 1946
  • Location: 3555 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV

4. The Sahara Las Vegas Hotel

Sahara hotel

Overview: The Sahara Las Vegas Hotel, formerly known as the Sahara Hotel and Casino, is one of the oldest hotels in Las Vegas. The hotel is located on the famous Las Vegas Strip and has been a landmark since it opened in 1952. The Sahara has undergone many changes over the years, including renovations and ownership changes. The most recent renovation was completed in 2020, bringing a modern touch to the hotel while maintaining its classic Vegas charm.

Amenities: The hotel has over 1,600 rooms, including suites and penthouses, all updated with modern amenities. Guests can enjoy the latest technology in their rooms, such as flat-screen televisions and high-speed internet. The hotel also has several dining options, from casual to fine dining, and various bars and lounges. The Northside Café and Chinese Restaurant, located inside the hotel, is open 24 hours a day, offering guests a wide range of food options at any time of day.

The hotel also has a 24-hour fitness center, a full-service spa, and a rooftop pool that provides stunning views of the Las Vegas skyline. The Sahara is also known for its entertainment, with various shows and events held in the hotel’s theater, which can accommodate up to 1,600 guests.

This Hotel is located in the heart of the Vegas Strip, making it convenient for guests who want to experience all that Las Vegas has to offer. The hotel is within walking distance of many of the city’s top attractions, including the Bellagio Fountains and the High Roller Observation Wheel.

  • Opening Year: October 7, 1952
  • Location: 2535 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV

5. The Four Queens

Four Queens

Overview: The Four Queens Hotel is a historic downtown Las Vegas, Nevada hotel. It is known as one of the oldest hotels in the area and has been a popular destination for travelers since it opened its doors in 1966. The hotel features 694 rooms, including 45 suites, and is named after four queens of playing cards: the Queen of Hearts, the Queen of Diamonds, the Queen of Clubs, and the Queen of Spades.

Amenities: The hotel boasts a classic Vegas vibe with its neon lights and vintage charm but has been updated with modern amenities to cater to the needs of contemporary travelers. Each room comes equipped with flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, and plush bedding to ensure guests have a comfortable and enjoyable stay. The Four Queens also offers a variety of dining options, including Hugo’s Cellar, a fine dining restaurant known for its romantic atmosphere and impeccable service, and
Magnolia’s Veranda is a 24-hour restaurant offering American cuisine.

Gaming: In addition to its comfortable accommodations and excellent dining options, The Four Queens also offers a variety of entertainment and gaming options. The hotel’s casino features a wide range of slot machines, table games, and a sportsbook, making it a popular destination for those looking to try their luck in Sin City. The hotel also offers a variety of live entertainment options, including tribute shows and comedy acts.

  • Opening Year: June 2, 1966
  • Location: 202 E Fremont St, Las Vegas, NV

6. Caesars Palace

Palace Station Hotel & Casino

Overview: Caesars Palace is one of the Las Vegas Strip’s most iconic and luxurious hotels. Established in 1966, it is one of the oldest hotels in Las Vegas and has become a symbol of the city’s glamorous past and present.

The hotel boasts 3,976 guest rooms and suites, all elegantly decorated and equipped with modern amenities. Guests can choose from various accommodations, including standard rooms, suites, and villas. The hotel also has celebrity-themed suites like the Nobu Penthouse Suite and the Cleopatra Villa.

Dining Option: Caesars Palace is also home to an extensive range of restaurants, bars, and lounges. The hotel features over 25 dining options, offering everything from casual bites to fine dining experiences. Some of the most notable restaurants include Gordon Ramsay Hell’s Kitchen, Nobu Restaurant, and the Old Homestead Steakhouse.

Amenities: In addition to its culinary offerings, Caesars Palace is known for its entertainment options. The hotel has hosted some of the biggest music and entertainment industry names, including Celine Dion, Elton John, and Mariah Carey. The Colosseum at Caesars Palace is a state-of-the-art theater that has been specifically designed to host these large-scale shows.

The hotel has several pools, spas, and fitness centers for those looking to relax and unwind. The Garden of the Gods Pool Oasis is a sprawling pool complex with several pools, hot tubs, and cabanas. The Qua Baths and Spa is a 50,000-square-foot sanctuary where guests can enjoy a range of spa treatments and therapies.

  • Opening Year: August 5, 1966
  • Location: 3570 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV

7. Downtown Grand Hotel & Casino

Downtown Grand Hotel and Casino
Overview: The Downtown Grand Hotel is one of the oldest hotels in Las Vegas, offering a unique blend of classic and modern amenities to its guests. Originally known as the Lady Luck, the hotel has undergone extensive renovations since its inception in 1964, transforming it into a sophisticated and luxurious destination.

Located in the heart of downtown Las Vegas, the Downtown Grand Hotel & Casino boasts over 600 guest rooms and suites, each designed with stylish and modern decor that is comfortable and inviting. 

The hotel’s amenities include:

  • A rooftop pool and lounge.
  • A fitness center.
  • A full-service casino.
  • Multiple bars and restaurants.
  • A 24-hour front desk.

Gaming Options: The casino at the Downtown Grand Hotel features a wide variety of gaming options, including slot machines, table games, and sports betting. The hotel also offers a range of dining options, including award-winning restaurants such as Freedom Beat and Triple George Grill and casual dining options like Pizza Rock and the Deli.

Features: One of the standout features of the Downtown Grand Hotel is its rooftop pool and lounge, which offers stunning views of the Las Vegas skyline. The pool is open year-round and features cabanas, daybeds, and loungers for guests to relax and enjoy the sun.

The hotel’s central location in downtown Las Vegas puts guests within walking distance of many of the city’s top attractions, including the Fremont Street Experience, the Mob Museum, and the Neon Museum. The hotel also offers a free shuttle service to the nearby Fashion Show Mall on the Las Vegas Strip.

  • Opening Year: 1964
  • Location: 206 N 3rd St, Las Vegas, NV

8. Planet Hollywood

Planet Hollywood

Overview: Planet Hollywood and Casino is a world-famous Las Vegas hotel known for its exceptional amenities and entertainment. Opened in 1963, it is one of the oldest hotels on the Las Vegas Strip and has been a popular destination for visitors worldwide for decades.

The hotel features 2,567 guest rooms, including luxury suites and villas, all equipped with modern amenities such as flat-screen TVs, Wi-Fi, and room service. The resort also offers a variety of dining options, including several celebrity-owned restaurants, such as Gordon Ramsay Burger, Koi, and Strip House.

Amenities: Guests can enjoy a wide range of activities at the hotel, including a 7,000-square-foot casino with slots, table games, and a poker room. The Planet Hollywood Theatre is also a popular destination, featuring some of the biggest names in entertainment, such as Gwen Stefani, Backstreet Boys, and Pitbull. The hotel’s pool area, known as The Scene, features two pools and a beach club, offering a relaxing oasis in the middle of the bustling city. The hotel also boasts a full-service spa, fitness center, and shopping area, offering guests various options to enhance their stay.

  • Opening Year: 1962
  • Location: 3667 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV

9. The LINQ Hotel + Experience

LINQ Hotel & Experience

The LINQ Hotel + Experience, formerly known as The Quad Resort and Casino. It was opened in 2014, making it one of the newer hotels on the Las Vegas Strip. The hotel features a casino, fitness center, pool, unique outdoor area, a variety of entertainment options, and over 3,000 guest rooms. The LINQ is known for its contemporary design and amenities and its convenient location on the Las Vegas Strip, close to other popular hotels and attractions such as the High Roller and an observation wheel.

  • The LINQ hotel is also home to the world’s tallest observation wheel, the High Roller, which offers breathtaking views of the Las Vegas Strip.
  • It’s also a perfect place for nightlife enthusiasts as it has a variety of bars and nightclubs, such as Chayo Mexican Kitchen + Tequila Bar and O’Sheas Casino.
  • Address: 3535 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89109

10. Tropicana

Tropicana

The Tropicana Hotel in Las Vegas is a captivating oasis nestled in the heart of the renowned Las Vegas Strip. The Tropicana’s vibrant and iconic architecture offers guests modern luxury and classic charm. The hotel boasts an impressive array of amenities, from elegantly designed rooms and suites that provide ultimate comfort and relaxation to various world-class dining options that cater to every palate.

Its sprawling pool area, surrounded by lush tropical landscaping, offers a perfect retreat for guests seeking to unwind under the sun. The Tropicana features a lively casino for those seeking entertainment, where excitement and thrills abound. Whether one’s stay is for business or pleasure, the Tropicana Hotel promises an unforgettable experience enveloped in the spirit of Las Vegas’ vibrant energy.

TROPICANA DINING EXPERIENCE

Appetizers:

  1. Shrimp Cocktail – Succulent tiger shrimp served with tangy cocktail sauce.
  2. Caprese Salad – Fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze.
  3. Crispy Calamari – Lightly breaded and served with marinara sauce.

Soups and Salads:

  1. Lobster Bisque – Creamy lobster soup garnished with a touch of sherry.
  2. Caesar Salad – Romaine lettuce, garlic croutons, Parmesan cheese, and Caesar dressing.
  3. Garden Fresh Salad – Mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and choice of dressing.

Entrees:

  1. Grilled Filet Mignon – Tender and juicy filet served with garlic mashed potatoes and steamed asparagus.
  2. Pan-Seared Salmon – Herb-marinated salmon fillet with lemon butter sauce and quinoa and sautéed vegetables.
  3. Eggplant Parmesan – Breaded eggplant layered with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella, served with spaghetti marinara.
  4. Lemon Herb Chicken – Herb-marinated chicken breast with lemon beurre blanc, accompanied by roasted potatoes and seasonal vegetables.

Pasta:

  1. Shrimp Scampi – Sauteed shrimp in a garlic white wine sauce over linguine.
  2. Fettuccine Alfredo – Classic fettuccine pasta tossed in creamy Alfredo sauce.
  3. Penne Primavera – Penne pasta with fresh seasonal vegetables in a light tomato sauce.

 

Learn More

Best Historic Hotels In Las Vegas

Sources:

https://www.worldatlas.com/articles/the-oldest-hotels-on-the-las-vegas-strip.html

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Las_Vegas_Strip_hotels

https://trip101.com/article/historic-hotels-in-las-vegas

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