Which hotel (mid range - still over whelmed by choice!)

Question

I know this question is asked over and over but going round in circles trying to get a holiday booked - going through a travel agent for ease but need some guidance on hotels - our budget is throwing up Planet Hollywood,Luxor,Hurrah’s or Excalibur.

3 friends travelling in our 40/50’s,2 sharing one room (so ideally 2 beds) and 1 in another. Travelling September 10th.

The reviews I’ve read seem so mixed for all of them so looking for any thoughts here or any other suggestions in this price range?

Thank you!

Answer

It sounds like you and your friends are planning a great trip to Las Vegas, and I completely understand how overwhelming it can be to choose from all the hotel options. The properties you mentioned — Planet Hollywood, Luxor, Harrah's, and Excalibur — all fall into a similar mid-range price range, but each has its own unique vibe and set of pros and cons. Here's a breakdown of each to help you decide:

1) Planet Hollywood

Planet Hollywood is a great choice if you're looking for a more modern, lively hotel with a central location. It’s located right on the Strip, so you'll have easy access to a variety of restaurants, shops, and entertainment. The rooms are spacious and more modern compared to some other mid-range hotels, and it tends to be a bit more upscale than some of the others on your list. The hotel has a fun, energetic vibe, which might be appealing for a group of friends in their 40s/50s. The resort fee can be a bit higher, but you’ll be paying for the prime location.

Pros: Great central location, modern rooms, vibrant atmosphere.
Cons: Higher resort fees, can be busy and noisy depending on your room location.

2) Luxor

The Luxor is known for its iconic pyramid design and the Egyptian theme, which makes it stand out among other hotels. It’s slightly off-center, so it's a bit further from the heart of the Strip compared to Planet Hollywood, but it still has easy access to the attractions. The Luxor tends to be a more affordable option, with spacious rooms and some quirky charm, but the property is a bit dated in certain areas. The vibe here is a little more low-key compared to the more energetic hotels.

Pros: Lower price point, spacious rooms, unique architecture.
Cons: The property is a bit older, some rooms might feel a little outdated, further from central Strip attractions.

3) Harrah's

Harrah’s is located more toward the middle of the Strip, which makes it a great choice if you're looking for a convenient, central location without paying the higher prices of places like Planet Hollywood. The rooms here are simple but comfortable, and there are a variety of dining and entertainment options. Harrah’s tends to be a bit quieter compared to the high-energy resorts, which might appeal if you want a more relaxed environment but still want to be close to the action.

Pros: Central location, relatively affordable, quieter than some other hotels.
Cons: The hotel is a bit more basic compared to others, no frills.

4) Excalibur

Excalibur has a fun, family-friendly vibe due to its castle theme. It’s located near the southern end of the Strip, which is a bit farther from the major attractions in the middle of the Strip. The rooms are affordable, but like Luxor, they’re a bit outdated. Excalibur is often considered one of the more budget-friendly options, but it still offers plenty of entertainment, including shows and a fun atmosphere. It’s a good choice if you’re looking to save some money, but it might not have the same level of luxury as the other options on your list.

Pros: Affordable, family-friendly theme, good entertainment options.
Cons: Older rooms, further from the center of the Strip, more of a budget vibe.

Additional Hotel Suggestions

The Flamingo: A classic hotel located in the heart of the Strip. It’s got a fun, retro feel and is often a bit more affordable while still offering great amenities. Rooms are a mix of modern and classic styles.
The Mirage: Slightly more upscale than some of your options but still within a similar price range. It's a great choice if you want a more luxurious experience without the price tag of a five-star hotel. The rooms and the pool area are lovely.
Park MGM: Modern and more affordable with great amenities, and it’s located right on the Strip. It’s a good option if you want something a little fresher and more contemporary.

Conclusion

If you're looking for a more central, lively vibe and are willing to spend a little more, Planet Hollywood might be your best bet. However, if you prefer a quieter atmosphere and don't mind being a bit farther from the Strip’s busiest areas, Luxor or Excalibur could be good options. Harrah’s strikes a nice balance with its central location and more affordable prices.

Ultimately, it depends on your preferences for location, atmosphere, and room quality, but I hope this gives you a clearer picture of your options. Enjoy your trip to Las Vegas!