One night, one full day ... hotel choice

Question

Only one night, 1 full day, first timers. We want the full Las Vegas experience. Coming in half on July. Budget $ 250 max. Room for 2, my brother and I, we have a car to park.

Which hotel should we get?

Better on the Strip, or even Fremont?

Answer

For your one-night, one-full-day trip to Las Vegas, it sounds like you’re looking to get the full experience within a $250 budget. With that in mind, I’ll offer you a few suggestions on where to stay, including options on the Strip and Fremont Street. Since you’re first-timers, you’ll want to be in the heart of the action to take in the sights, sounds, and nightlife of the city, but you also want to make sure you're within your budget and have convenient access to parking.

Hotel Options on the Strip:

Staying on the Strip will give you access to the iconic Las Vegas experience, with world-famous casinos, entertainment, restaurants, and attractions all around you. Here are a few budget-friendly options:

The LINQ Hotel + Experience: Located right on the Strip, The LINQ is a great choice for first-timers. It has a modern, casual vibe, and it’s close to the High Roller Ferris wheel, which offers spectacular views of the Strip. Room rates here tend to stay within your budget, and parking is available (usually with a fee).
Flamingo Las Vegas: Another classic on the Strip, the Flamingo is known for its prime location, right in the middle of the action. It’s home to a large outdoor pool area and offers affordable rooms. The Flamingo also offers free self-parking for guests, which can be a big plus.
Excalibur Hotel and Casino: If you're looking for a more themed experience, Excalibur might be a good fit. It’s not as fancy as some other hotels on the Strip, but it offers solid value for money. It has free parking and a fun castle-themed design. It’s also close to attractions like the Luxor and Mandalay Bay.

Hotel Options in Fremont Street (Downtown):

If you prefer a more retro, classic Vegas experience with a bit of a local vibe, Fremont Street could be a good choice. It’s less expensive than the Strip, but still filled with entertainment, casinos, and great food. Some options here include:

The D Las Vegas: This hotel is right on Fremont Street, and it has a lively, modern vibe with a great selection of bars and restaurants. The D is a little more affordable than many Strip hotels, and it offers free self-parking. If you’re into the party atmosphere, Fremont Street will give you plenty of opportunities to enjoy live music, street performers, and the famous Viva Vision light show at night.
Golden Nugget: The Golden Nugget is a historic and upscale option located on Fremont Street, offering a more luxurious feel without the Strip prices. It’s known for its gorgeous pool area (complete with a shark tank), and it's in close proximity to some of the best Fremont Street attractions. Self-parking is also free for hotel guests.
Four Queens Hotel and Casino: Located at the heart of Fremont Street, the Four Queens is a more budget-friendly option with free parking and a variety of dining and entertainment options. It’s perfect for first-timers who want to experience the vintage Vegas vibe without the hustle and bustle of the Strip.

Which is Better: Strip vs Fremont?

If your goal is to experience the iconic, flashy Vegas that you’ve seen in movies, the Strip is where you’ll want to stay. It’s home to the most famous hotels and casinos, like Bellagio, Caesars Palace, and MGM Grand, and is where most of the major attractions and world-class shows are located.

However, Fremont Street offers a more laid-back atmosphere with plenty of charm and great value for money. It’s a great option if you want to avoid the crowds and experience a more vintage side of Las Vegas with live music, street performers, and the Fremont Street Experience light show.

Parking and Transportation:

Parking fees can add up quickly in Vegas, especially on the Strip. Many hotels do charge for parking, but there are also some that offer free parking (like Flamingo and Golden Nugget). Make sure to factor this into your budget when selecting a hotel. Some hotels also offer valet parking, but that typically comes with an additional fee.

Other Tips for First-Timers:

Check out the Bellagio Fountains and Fremont Street Experience – both are free attractions and perfect for first-timers.
For a quick and affordable bite, try In-N-Out Burger (on the Strip) or explore the Downtown Las Vegas Food Truck Park.
If you’re interested in nightlife, head to a rooftop bar like Skyfall Lounge or La Contessa for stunning views of the city.

Overall, for a first-time visit with a $250 budget, I’d recommend looking at The LINQ or Flamingo if you want to be on the Strip, or The D or Golden Nugget if you prefer Fremont Street. Both areas offer great access to entertainment, restaurants, and a lively atmosphere.

Whichever option you choose, you're sure to have a memorable Las Vegas experience!