Are you planning a trip to Las Vegas and wondering if there are any hotels you should avoid? In this informative video by Turn It Up World, hosts Tanya and Dave share their experiences staying at four specific hotels in Las Vegas: Circus Circus, The Excalibur, The Rio, and Ellis Island Hotel and Casino. They provide an honest and detailed review of each hotel, discussing everything from check-in process and room conditions to amenities and dining options. They also encourage viewers to share their own experiences and recommendations for budget-friendly hotels in Las Vegas. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-timer to Sin City, this video is a must-watch for anyone looking to make the most out of their stay in Las Vegas and avoid any unsatisfactory hotel experiences.
Circus Circus
Positive Check-In Experience
When you arrive at Circus Circus, you may find that the parking lot is quite busy. But don’t worry, the lines for check-in move quickly. The staff at the front desk are friendly and efficient, ensuring that you have a smooth check-in process. Though there may be a wait, it’s worth it for the great service you receive.
Enjoyable Views from the Room
Once you’ve checked in and settled into your room, you’ll be treated to some enjoyable views. If you’re lucky, you may even be assigned a room in one of the main towers, like the west tower, which offers magnificent views from the 35th floor. Looking out over the city of Las Vegas from this vantage point is truly a sight to behold.
Recommendation: Steakhouse at Circus Circus
While staying at Circus Circus, you absolutely must visit their steakhouse. It’s one of the best steakhouses in all of Las Vegas, and the quality of the food truly speaks for itself. Whether you’re a fan of steak or prefer another dish, the menu offers a wide variety of options that are sure to please your taste buds. Don’t miss out on this culinary experience during your stay at Circus Circus.
Excalibur
Stayed in a Stay Well Room
During our visit to Excalibur, we had the opportunity to stay in one of their Stay Well rooms. These rooms are designed with your health and wellness in mind, offering features such as air purification systems and aromatherapy. The Stay Well rooms are a great option for those who prioritize their well-being while traveling.
Clean Room with Some Issues
While our room at Excalibur was generally clean, we did notice a few issues. There were some stains on the carpet and some dusty corners that could use a bit more attention during cleaning. However, these issues were relatively minor and did not significantly impact our overall experience.
Enjoyed Pool Area
One of the highlights of our stay at Excalibur was the pool area. It provided a great space to relax and soak up the sun. The pool was clean and well-maintained, and there were plenty of lounge chairs available for guests to use. Whether you’re looking to take a refreshing dip or simply catch some rays, the pool area at Excalibur is an enjoyable spot to spend some time.
Visited Shows and Restaurants
While staying at Excalibur, we took the opportunity to explore the various shows and restaurants within the hotel. There is a wide range of entertainment options to choose from, including magic shows and musical performances. Additionally, the dining options at Excalibur provide a variety of cuisines to suit every palate. Whether you’re in the mood for a casual meal or a fine dining experience, Excalibur has you covered.
Ellis Island Hotel and Casino
Located a Block Away from the Strip
If you’re looking to stay close to the Las Vegas Strip without paying sky-high prices, Ellis Island Hotel and Casino is a great option. It’s conveniently located just a block away from the Strip, allowing you to easily access all the exciting attractions and entertainment that Las Vegas has to offer.
Positive Experience with Elvis Suite
During our stay at Ellis Island, we had the pleasure of staying in their Elvis Suite. This themed room pays homage to the King of Rock and Roll, with decor inspired by Elvis Presley. The suite was spacious, comfortable, and offered a unique and fun experience for fans of Elvis.
Newly Renovated Room
One thing that stood out during our stay at Ellis Island was the newly renovated room. The hotel has made efforts to update their rooms with modern amenities and stylish decor. The result is a comfortable and aesthetically pleasing space that enhances your overall experience at Ellis Island.
Recommendation: Barbecue Food at Ellis Island
When it comes to dining at Ellis Island, their barbecue food is a must-try. The restaurant offers mouthwatering barbecue dishes that are sure to satisfy your cravings. Whether you’re in the mood for ribs, pulled pork, or barbecue chicken, Ellis Island serves up delicious and authentic barbecue flavors that will leave you wanting more.
The Rio
Formerly One of the Best Hotels in Vegas
The Rio Hotel in Las Vegas was once considered one of the best hotels in the city. However, over the years, it has fallen behind in terms of cleanliness and overall quality. While it may have had its glory days in the past, it’s important to be aware of the current state of the hotel before booking a stay.
Dated and Not Clean, Smoky Smell
Unfortunately, during our visit to the Rio, we found that the hotel felt dated and not clean. There were visible signs of wear and tear, and the cleanliness of the rooms and common areas left much to be desired. Additionally, there was a noticeable smoky smell throughout the hotel, which may not be pleasant for non-smokers or those with sensitivities.
Bought Out by Dreamscape, Partnering with Hyatt
The Rio has recently been bought out by Dreamscape, a company partnering with Hyatt. This change in ownership brings hope for improvements and updates to the hotel. It’s promising to see new investment and a commitment to revitalizing the Rio for future guests.
Plans for Updates and Room Refresh in Next Three Years
With the new ownership, there are plans in place to make updates and refresh the rooms at the Rio within the next three years. These updates are much-needed and have the potential to transform the hotel into a more modern and enjoyable experience for guests. It will be interesting to see the progress and improvements made during this time.
Voodoo Lounge and Voodoo Steakhouse Closed
During our visit to the Rio, we were disappointed to find that the Voodoo Lounge and Voodoo Steakhouse were closed. These were once popular attractions at the hotel, offering unique dining experiences and breathtaking views. It’s unfortunate that they are no longer available to guests, but hopefully, the new ownership will introduce exciting new offerings in their place.
Tried Smash Burger and Enjoyed Rooftop Views
Despite the shortcomings of the Rio, we did find some positives during our visit. We tried the Smash Burger, a fast-casual burger joint within the hotel, and enjoyed the delicious food. Additionally, we took advantage of the rooftop views at the Rio, which offer a unique perspective of the Las Vegas skyline. These highlights provided us with some enjoyable moments during our stay.
Size and Variety of Things to Do at the Rio
One thing that cannot be denied about the Rio is its size and variety of offerings. The hotel boasts a wide range of amenities, including multiple pools, a spa, a fitness center, and various entertainment options. There are plenty of things to do and explore at the Rio, ensuring that you won’t be bored during your stay.
Renovations Recommended Before Revisiting
While there may be potential for the Rio to improve under the new ownership, we would recommend waiting until the renovations are complete before revisiting the hotel. The current condition of the hotel leaves much to be desired, and it’s worth waiting to see how the improvements will transform the Rio into a more inviting and enjoyable destination.
Ask Viewers for Budget-Friendly Hotel Recommendations in Las Vegas
We would love to hear from you, our viewers, about your experiences with budget-friendly hotels in Las Vegas. If you have any recommendations for hotels that provide great value for money, please share them in the comments below. Your insights and suggestions will not only be helpful to us but also to our fellow viewers who are planning their trips to Las Vegas.
Conclusion
Budget-Friendly Options with Minor Issues
Overall, the hotels we explored during our visit to Las Vegas provided budget-friendly options for travelers. While some of the hotels had minor issues, such as cleanliness concerns or outdated decor, they still offered comfortable accommodations at affordable prices. If you’re looking to save some money while visiting Las Vegas, these hotels are worth considering.
Unique Experiences: Adventure Dome, Pool Areas, Themed Rooms
Each of the hotels we stayed at during our visit to Las Vegas offered unique experiences that set them apart. From the Adventure Dome at Circus Circus to the pool areas at Excalibur, there are plenty of fun activities to enjoy within these hotels. Additionally, themed rooms, such as the Elvis Suite at Ellis Island, provide an added element of excitement and novelty to your stay.
Price Increases in Las Vegas
It’s important to keep in mind that Las Vegas, like many other destinations, has experienced price increases in recent years. This means that even budget-friendly hotels may not be as affordable as they once were. It’s always a good idea to research prices and compare different options to ensure that you’re getting the best value for your money.
Exploring Alternative Hotel Recommendations
While the hotels we discussed in this article provided budget-friendly options, there are many other hotels in Las Vegas that may also fit your needs and preferences. It’s worth exploring alternative hotel recommendations and reading reviews from other travelers to find the perfect accommodation for your stay in Las Vegas. Remember to consider factors such as location, amenities, and customer reviews when making your decision.
Las Vegas is a vibrant and exciting city with plenty to offer visitors. Whether you choose one of the hotels we discussed or decide to explore other options, we hope that your trip to Las Vegas is filled with unforgettable experiences and wonderful memories. Happy travels!