Which hotel, cor or not?

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?

Also maybe better to already drop our car at the rental office at the airport beforehand, and then Uber to our hotel? initial plan is to take the car with us, to drive to the airport to drop the car the next day, but reading into it, this makes me doubt about it.

Thank you.

Answer

For a first-time trip to Las Vegas with a budget of $250 per night, you’ll have some great options for both hotels on the Strip and Fremont Street. Here's some advice to help you make the best choice:

Strip vs. Fremont: Both areas offer great experiences, but they cater to slightly different vibes:

The Strip: The Strip is where most of the iconic Vegas attractions are located, including major resorts, casinos, high-end shopping, shows, and dining. If you want the quintessential Las Vegas experience, staying on the Strip will allow you to experience the glitz and glamour of places like the Bellagio fountains, the Venetian canals, and the massive casinos and resorts.
Fremont Street: Fremont Street offers a more vintage Vegas experience with its neon lights, historic casinos, and the Fremont Street Experience light show. It’s a bit less expensive compared to the Strip, and you’ll find more affordable hotels, but it’s still packed with energy and excitement. It’s a great option if you want to experience the “old school” Vegas but still want to have fun. However, it’s a little more laid-back compared to the Strip.

Hotel Recommendations: Given your budget of $250, here are a few good options for both areas:

The STRAT Hotel, Casino & SkyPod (on the Strip): Known for its iconic observation tower, The STRAT is a budget-friendly hotel that still offers plenty of Vegas-style fun. It's slightly off the main Strip but still very close to the action and often has rooms under $250. Plus, you’ll have easy access to great views and the SkyPod for a memorable experience.
Flamingo Las Vegas (on the Strip): A classic Vegas hotel that’s centrally located on the Strip. It has affordable rates, a fun casino, and a pool area with a tropical vibe. It’s a solid choice if you want to be right in the heart of things.
Downtown Grand Hotel & Casino (Fremont): This is a modern, affordable hotel with great amenities in the Fremont Street area. It’s less expensive than most Strip hotels but still offers easy access to the Fremont Street Experience and several good restaurants and bars nearby.
Golden Nugget (Fremont): If you prefer staying closer to Fremont Street, the Golden Nugget offers an iconic Vegas experience with comfortable rooms, a large pool area, and great proximity to the Fremont Street Experience. It may be a bit more expensive than some of the other Fremont options, but still a great value.

Parking Considerations: Since you have a car, there are a couple of things to consider when it comes to parking:

Parking on the Strip: Many Strip hotels charge for parking, and it can be pricey. If you’re planning to drive on the Strip during your stay, be prepared for $20-$40 per day for parking. If you’re not planning to drive much once you’re at the hotel, it may be worth considering Uber or Lyft as a more convenient option to avoid parking fees and the hassle of traffic.
Fremont Street Parking: Fremont Street hotels generally offer cheaper or even free parking, so if you’re leaning towards a Fremont hotel, it could be easier to park without additional charges.
Car Rental Return: If you plan to return the car before you reach your hotel, dropping it off at the airport early and taking an Uber to your hotel is a good idea. It will save you from parking fees and avoid dealing with Strip traffic. Many hotels on the Strip, including those at Fremont Street, are very accessible by Uber or Lyft.

Final Thoughts:

If you want to be in the heart of the action with easy access to top attractions, restaurants, and shows, staying on the Strip is your best option. Look for deals at places like The STRAT or Flamingo for great value.
If you prefer a more affordable option with a unique, nostalgic Vegas feel, Fremont Street offers a fun experience. The Downtown Grand or Golden Nugget would be excellent choices.
Considering your budget, parking costs, and your desire to experience the full Vegas vibe, dropping the car off at the airport and using Uber is a good idea. It’ll save time, money, and frustration.

Ultimately, both the Strip and Fremont have their unique offerings, but both will give you a great introduction to Las Vegas. Enjoy your trip!