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El Cortez Hotel & Casino Las Vegas

4.1
·13k reviews·Las Vegas, United States

Step into a bygone era at El Cortez, Vegas's oldest continuously operating hotel & casino, offering authentic charm and affordable gaming.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday evenings

Fewer crowds, better odds

CrowdLow
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El Cortez - Image 1

El Cortez Hotel & Casino Las Vegas

Best Time

Weekday evenings

Fewer crowds, better odds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Step into a bygone era at El Cortez, Vegas's oldest continuously operating hotel & casino, offering authentic charm and affordable gaming.

4.1
(13k reviews)

"It's kitschy and has some cool history. Can't beat the price."

Vertical photo
TIP

💰 Score Freebies with Boarding Pass

Present your boarding pass within 24 hours for free play slots, a table game, and a drink.

☕ Budget-Friendly Coffee

Enjoy complimentary coffee pods in your room – a welcome change from pricey Strip hotels!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Jackie Gaughan Suite

Jackie Gaughan Suite

Penthouse Suite

Experience an 80s time capsule in this unique, preserved penthouse suite, once home to a Las Vegas legend.

TikTok
Historic Casino Floor

Historic Casino Floor

Casino

Gamble in a piece of history with original features and a classic Vegas atmosphere. Enjoy low-stakes blackjack and coin slot machines.

TikTokReddit
Cabana Suites

Cabana Suites

Cabana Suites

Opt for these updated, quieter rooms for a more relaxed stay, away from the Fremont Street buzz.

TikTokReddit
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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Old Vegas Charm

Step back in time at El Cortez, a historic gem offering an authentic downtown Las Vegas experience. Forget the glitz of the Strip; this is where you'll find genuine character, affordable gaming, and a taste of Vegas's storied past. TikTok

Room Choices Matter

While El Cortez rooms are generally clean and updated, consider your priorities. Cabana Suites offer a quieter escape from Fremont Street noise, while Tower rooms might provide city views but come with potential street sounds. TikTokReddit

Best Times

When
Weekday evenings
Why
Fewer crowds, better odds
Crowd
Low
When
Weekend mornings
Why
Quieter before Fremont buzz
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

I’ve never seen so many original 80s details in one hotel room! The Jackie Gaughan Suite is available to rent at @El Cortez in Las Vegas. #interiordesign #80saesthetic #vintagevibes
@aprettycoolhoteltour
89.1K likes • 504.8K views

💰 Score Freebies with Boarding Pass

Present your boarding pass within 24 hours for free play slots, a table game, and a drink. Reddit

☕ Budget-Friendly Coffee

Enjoy complimentary coffee pods in your room – a welcome change from pricey Strip hotels! TikTok

I wrote an epic blog guide to Vintage Vegas but gotta keep it short on the tok #lasvegas #oldvegas #travel #vintagevegas #vintagevibes #vivalasvegas
@midcenturymillennial
87.1K likes • 957K views
BIGGEST Jackpot EVER on Spooky Link at El Cortez!!! #lasvegas #vegas #jackpot #slots #casino #elcortez
ladyluckhq
27.3K likes • 794.8K views

🎲 Low-Stakes Gaming

Find some of the best 3:2 payout blackjack and affordable craps tables in town. TikTokReddit

🚶‍♀️ Walkable Downtown

Easily walk to Fremont Street Experience, Mob Museum, and Container Park. Reddit+1

El Cortez Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas #vegas #lasvegas 📍 @elcortezlv
immarcomurillo
3K likes • 126.4K views

Tips

from all over the internet

💰 Score Freebies with Boarding Pass

Present your boarding pass within 24 hours for free play slots, a table game, and a drink. Reddit

☕ Budget-Friendly Coffee

Enjoy complimentary coffee pods in your room – a welcome change from pricey Strip hotels! TikTok

🎲 Low-Stakes Gaming

Find some of the best 3:2 payout blackjack and affordable craps tables in town. TikTokReddit

🚶‍♀️ Walkable Downtown

Easily walk to Fremont Street Experience, Mob Museum, and Container Park. Reddit+1

✨ Old-School Vibe

Embrace the kitschy charm and rich history of one of Vegas's oldest casinos. TikTokReddit

What Travellers Say

4.1
(13k reviews)

Reviews Summary

El Cortez is lauded for its authentic old-school Vegas charm, rich history, and excellent value, particularly for budget travelers and gamblers seeking favorable odds. While rooms are generally clean and updated, some guests note potential noise from Fremont Street in tower rooms, and the lack of a pool is a consideration for some. TikTokReddit

"We had a decent time staying at the El Cortez! All of the staff was incredibly friendly, shoutout to Mary and Alice at the front desk for their stellar service, and Serena the server who was a sweetheart. The porter was kind too. When you're a guest, there is complimentary self-parking. They did a beautiful job with the renovations, it looks tasteful and blends in well with the history of the casino.

If you need a quieter room in the tower, then I suggest asking for a higher floor and paying for the north (mountain) view. We had first stayed on a lower level and it was difficult to sleep due to street club noise, but then we stayed on the 11th floor and it was much more comfortable.

El Cortez has a wide selection of games, in my experience I won and lost throughout my stay. I really liked the retro customized coin slots. But it was a good time overall, would stay there again. Important to note that if you're a non-smoker, there are non-smoking rooms but the casino floor has smoking everywhere."

Cheyenne Bruneau

"Pleasantly surprised!

I liked El Cortez far more than I expected. The staff downtown feels so much more down-to-earth than on the Strip, which made the whole experience comfortable and familiar from the moment I pulled into valet.

I’d only heard about El Cortez from watching my favorite slot YouTubers, but for a first-time visit it really delivered. If you want a laid-back, non-pretentious Vegas experience focused on gaming and dining rather than glitz, this is the spot.

From a slot player’s perspective, after three days of play, the lower-denomination machines hit more frequently than what I’ve seen on the Strip—smaller bonuses, but much steadier action. It’s fun, casual, and easy to settle into.

Location is great—just a block and a half from Carson Kitchen and Fremont Street, two of my downtown favorites.

The rooms are simple but spacious and comfortable, perfect for my recent trip with my 23-year-old son. We both enjoyed our stay and will definitely be back."

Antonio T

"I stayed here for my birthday weekend. I enjoyed the location and the walking distance to things i needed as far as my hygiene products, snacks and of course my drinks. I didn't need to leave Fremont Street at all. I enjoyed everything else. Except the staff. My room was dirty still. With trash behind the bathroom door and beads that seems to have come a dress or something. And the drawers still had the customers items in it. I brought this up with the staff and they didn't seem to give a single care. Never staying here again. I think I'll try the D hotel next time. The Excalibur wasn't this bad."

Dreya Teri

What People Like

Authentic old-school vibe
Affordable rates
Good gaming odds

What People Dislike

Potential street noise
No pool

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

A taxi or rideshare is your best bet, taking about 10-15 minutes. Walking from the Strip is not recommended due to distance. TikTok

Yes, it's a short and generally safe walk, especially if you stay under the Fremont Street Experience canopy. Reddit

Yes, El Cortez offers parking for guests, though it can get busy. Rideshare is often more convenient. TikTok

A taxi or rideshare is the most direct and convenient option, typically costing around $20-$30. TikTok

Absolutely! El Cortez is located just off the Fremont Street Experience, making it easily accessible on foot. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

It's highly recommended to book in advance, especially for weekends or special events, to secure your preferred room type. TikTok

Standard check-in is usually around 3 PM and check-out is at 11 AM, but it's best to confirm directly with the hotel. TikTok

El Cortez typically does not charge resort fees, making it a more budget-friendly option compared to Strip hotels. TikTok

Yes, by presenting your boarding pass within 24 hours of arrival, you can receive free play and other offers. Reddit

No, El Cortez does not have a pool, which is a key difference from many other Las Vegas hotels. Reddit

🎫 🎰 Onsite Experience

El Cortez offers a variety of games including single-deck blackjack with 3:2 payouts, craps with 10x odds, and classic coin-operated slot machines. TikTokReddit

Cabana Suites are generally quieter. Tower rooms can sometimes pick up noise from Fremont Street, especially on weekends. Reddit

El Cortez has a classic coffee shop and a steakhouse, known for its prime rib special. Reddit

Yes, there is a small fitness room available, though it's quite limited. Reddit

It's known for its authentic, old-school Vegas charm, rich history, and a more relaxed atmosphere than the Strip. TikTokReddit

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the vintage neon signs, the classic casino interior, and unique architectural details. The Jackie Gaughan Suite offers a distinct 80s aesthetic. TikTok

Generally, yes, but it's always polite to be discreet and avoid photographing other guests without permission. TikTok

While not heavily enforced, avoid intrusive photography, especially at gaming tables or in private areas. TikTok

A versatile setup like a mirrorless camera with a good zoom lens or a wide-angle lens for interiors would be ideal. TikTok

The lobby, the casino floor with its vintage machines, and the exterior neon signage are prime spots. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While El Cortez isn't a typical family resort with pools and extensive kid-friendly activities, its historic charm can still be an interesting experience for families. The Mob Museum and the Container Park are excellent nearby attractions that kids will enjoy. Reddit Consider staying in the Cabana Suites for a quieter environment if your children are sensitive to noise. Reddit

Focus on the unique aspects of old Vegas, like the vintage slot machines, and the vibrant atmosphere of Fremont Street. It's a great opportunity to show children a different side of Las Vegas beyond the typical Strip attractions. Remember, El Cortez does not have a pool, so plan water activities elsewhere if that's a priority. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

El Cortez is a dream for budget-conscious travelers. Its affordable room rates, often without resort fees, make it significantly cheaper than Strip hotels. TikTok The low-stakes gaming means you can enjoy the casino experience without breaking the bank, and the complimentary coffee is a small but appreciated perk. TikTokReddit

Take advantage of the free play offers with your boarding pass and explore the many free or low-cost attractions within walking distance, such as the Fremont Street Experience and the Container Park. Reddit+1 Dining options like the hotel's coffee shop or the prime rib special offer good value. Reddit

couples

For couples seeking a more intimate and authentic Las Vegas experience, El Cortez offers a charming escape. Enjoy a romantic dinner at the steakhouse or share a drink at one of the hotel's bars, soaking in the vintage ambiance. Reddit The low-stakes gaming provides a fun and relaxed way to spend time together, perhaps trying your luck at blackjack or craps. Reddit

Explore the nearby East Fremont district for unique bars and a more local nightlife scene. Reddit Consider booking a historic room or the unique Jackie Gaughan Suite for a memorable stay that feels a world away from the typical tourist crowds. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Journey Through El Cortez's History

Opened in 1941, the El Cortez Hotel & Casino is a true relic of old Las Vegas, predating many of the iconic Strip resorts. It was famously owned by Jackie Gaughan for decades, a legendary figure in Vegas history. The hotel has retained much of its original charm, offering a stark contrast to the modern, themed mega-resorts. This commitment to preserving its past is a major draw for visitors seeking an authentic experience. TikTok

Walking into El Cortez feels like stepping back in time. The casino floor boasts original features, including a collection of coin-operated slot machines – a rarity in today's ticket-in, ticket-out world. The hotel has undergone renovations, particularly in its rooms and suites, ensuring comfort while maintaining its vintage aesthetic. The Jackie Gaughan Suite, a preserved penthouse, offers a unique glimpse into the opulent 1980s. TikTok

Beyond its physical attributes, El Cortez is steeped in lore and a beloved local haunt. It's known for its favorable gaming odds, particularly its 3:2 blackjack payouts and low minimums, making it a favorite among savvy gamblers. The hotel's enduring presence is a testament to its ability to blend history with a continuously evolving, yet still classic, Las Vegas experience. Reddit+1

Gaming at El Cortez: A Gambler's Paradise

For those who appreciate traditional casino games, El Cortez is a standout destination. It's renowned for offering some of the best low-stakes blackjack in town, consistently featuring 3:2 payouts, which significantly improves the player's advantage over the house edge. Reddit+1 You'll also find craps tables with generous odds, often 10x, a far cry from the tighter limits found on the Strip. Reddit

The casino floor also features a nostalgic collection of coin-operated slot machines, a true rarity that appeals to players who enjoy the tactile experience of traditional slots. Reddit Beyond the tables and slots, El Cortez is known for its player-friendly policies, with many locals and visitors reporting receiving offers and comps even with modest play. This focus on the player experience, combined with its historic ambiance, makes El Cortez a unique and rewarding place to gamble. TikTokReddit

Tip: Don't forget to check if your airline boarding pass can be exchanged for free play or other perks within 24 hours of arrival – a fantastic way to stretch your gambling budget. Reddit

Navigating Downtown Las Vegas from El Cortez

El Cortez's location in Downtown Las Vegas places you at the heart of a vibrant and historic district. It's situated just off the Fremont Street Experience, a pedestrian mall known for its light shows, live music, and street performers. Reddit This proximity means you're always just a short walk away from a lively atmosphere and a plethora of entertainment options. Reddit

Within easy walking distance, you'll find key attractions like the Mob Museum, offering a deep dive into organized crime history, and the Container Park, an open-air shopping and dining complex built from shipping containers. Reddit The East Fremont area is also nearby, boasting a trendy scene with unique bars and restaurants like Atomic Liquor and Evel Pie. Reddit

While downtown is generally safe, especially in well-trafficked areas like Fremont Street, it's always wise to stay aware of your surroundings, particularly late at night. Walking between El Cortez and other downtown hotels like Circa is considered safe and convenient. Reddit For destinations further afield, taxis and rideshares are readily available. TikTok