Neon light and wild nights, Las Vegas is an epic destination that offers so much more than parties, booze and casinos.
But Las Vegas is a big city with a tonne of hotels, and choosing where to stay can be overwhelming. That’s why we put together this epic guide for where to stay in Las Vegas.
Written exclusively for The Broke Backpacker by our expert travel guides, this article breaks down the five best neighborhoods so you’ll know exactly where to stay in Las Vegas based on your needs. Whether you need to be close to the Las Vegas convention center or you’re looking to be at the heart of things right on Las Vegas boulevard, then we’ve got you covered.
Whether you’re looking to party all night long, explore the city’s artistic side, or simply find the cheapest place to sleep, we’ve got a neighborhood that best fits your needs. We’ve also covered cheap hotels, luxury hotels and of course places like the legendary Mandalay Bay and Bellagio hotel if you’re looking to splash the cash!
Let’s jump right to it. Here are our recommendations for where to stay in Las Vegas, Nevada alongside the best Las Vegas hotels in each area.
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- Where to Stay in Las Vegas
- Las Vegas Neighborhood Guide – Places to Stay in Las Vegas
- Las Vegas’s 5 Best Neighborhoods to Stay in
- FAQs about Finding a Place to Stay in Las Vegas
- What To Pack For Las Vegas
- Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Las Vegas
- Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Las Vegas
- Buy Us a Coffee!
Are you traveling to Las Vegas? Looking for a specific place to stay? These are our highest recommendations for places to stay in Las Vegas. We’ve compiled lists of a few hotels and Airbnbs in each of these Las Vegas neighborhoods. Whether you’re looking for a cheap hotel or searching for one of the top luxury hotels there’s something for everyone so you can get to having that classic Las Vegas experience in no time!
SKY Penthouse & Jacuzzi | Best Airbnb in Las Vegas
Just 2 minutes from the strip is this swanky apartment on the 37th floor with views right over the city, it’s the perfect place to watch the sunset in the comfort of your own Vegas pad. This luxurious hotel is the perfect place for your Vegas vacation. Located above the MGM Grand it’s got to be one of the best-placed hotels in Las Vegas, it’s also got a hot tub, gym, pool and kingsized bed.
Sin City Hostel | Best Hostel in Las Vegas
The Sin City Hostel is our pick for the best hostel in Las Vegas. Set near the buzzing Arts District, this hostel is close to restaurants, shops, bars and galleries! It has clean and comfortable rooms, a social common area, a well-stock kitchen and free wifi throughout. Breakfast is also available. Choosing to stay in a Las Vegas hostel means you won’t have to worry about paying a nasty resort fee which applies to most Las Vegas hotels.
The Carriage House | Best Hotel in Las Vegas
The Carriage House is in a fantastic location within walking distance to Las Vegas’ best bars, clubs and restaurants – getting it our vote for the best hotel in Las Vegas. It’s less than half a mile to the Bellagio Fountains and super close to Mandalay Bay too. You’ll get a comfortable and spacious hotel room, as well as a Jacuzzi, indoor pool, and golf course on-site. A good hotel class for your stay in Vegas.
South Strip
If you’re visiting Las Vegas for the first time, there’s no better place to stay than the South Strip neighbourhood. Located, you guessed it, just south of the world-renowned Las Vegas Strip, this neighbourhood is within walking distance of the city’s most famous casinos, clubs, restaurants and attractions.
Downtown Las Vegas
Downtown Las Vegas – or DTLV – is the city’s central business and historic district. Set a short walk north of the Strip, this ideally located neighbourhood is close to great bars, cool clubs, and a myriad of unique and unforgettable attractions.
The Strip
There’s no better place to stay if you’re looking to party the night away than the Las Vegas Strip, the most infamous neighbourhood in Las Vegas.
Arts District
Tucked away north of the Strip is one of the coolest and most colourful neighbourhoods in Las Vegas. Spanning 18 city blocks, the Arts District – also known as 18b – is the heart of Las Vegas’ arts and culture scene.
Symphony Park
Symphony Park is one of the smallest and newest neighbourhoods in Las Vegas. Covering just 61-acres, this neighbourhood is a mixed-use space that houses shops and businesses as well as residences and a massive green space.
Las Vegas is the entertainment capital of the world. The largest city in Nevada, Las Vegas has a reputation for hard parties, wild clubs, buzzing casinos, and legendary nightlife.
But there’s plenty to do in Las Vegas beyond booze, bars and gambling. Las Vegas also is home to a thriving arts and culture scene, as well as a great selection of world-class restaurants, interesting museums, and activities the whole family will love. But you’ll still want to visit places like the famous Bellagio Fountains, Mandalay Bay and Las Vegas boulevard to name but a few!
The city is divided into a number of distinct neighborhoods packed with activities and attractions for different types of tourists. There’s also a variety of hotels in Las Vegas for different needs and budgets.
Starting with Downtown Las Vegas. The city’s central business district and historic centre, Downtown Las Vegas is home to a variety of cultural attractions as well as bars, casinos, clubs as wall as many of the best Las Vegas hotels.
Travel several blocks west and you’ll arrive in Symphony Park. One of the newest neighborhoods in the city, Symphony Park is a mixed-use urban space that features everything from shops and businesses to residential dwellings. Here you’ll also find a sprawling urban greenspace.
Head south to the Arts District. The cultural hub of Las Vegas, the Arts District is bursting with studios and galleries showcasing incredible works by local and international artists.
Continue travelling south and you’ll arrive in the most popular and bustling neighborhood in town. The Strip is by far the most famous Las Vegas neighborhood. Here you’ll find world-renowned hotels, casinos and nightclubs, as well as restaurants, neon lights and unique attractions. If you’re looking for Las Vegas hotels right in the heart of town, this is the spot!
Still not sure where to stay in Las Vegas? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered!
Want to save money on accommodation?
We got you. For reals.
Las Vegas’s 5 Best Neighborhoods to Stay in
Now, let’s take a look, in more detail, at the five best neighborhoods in Las Vegas. Each caters to a different type of traveller, so be sure to pick the area that’s the best fit for you.
1. South Strip – Where to stay in Las Vegas first time
If you’re visiting Las Vegas for the first time, there’s no better place to stay than the South Strip neighborhood. Located, you guessed it, just south of the world-renowned Las Vegas Strip, this neighborhood is within walking distance of the city’s most famous casinos, clubs, restaurants and attractions. By staying here, you can enjoy all the perks of Las Vegas, while also enjoying a break from the action.
But you don’t have to leave the South Strip to get in on the fun. Within this neighborhood, you’ll find some of the most impressive landmarks in Las Vegas, including New York New York, the Eiffel Tower and the Egyptian-themed Luxor Hotel. You can also enjoy Mandalay Bar and incredible golfing just a short distance away.
SKY Penthouse & Jacuzzi | Best Airbnb in South Strip
Just 2 minutes from the strip is this swanky apartment on the 37th floor with views right over the city, it’s the perfect place to watch the sunset in the comfort of your own Vegas pad. This luxurious hotel is the perfect place for your Vegas vacation. Located above the MGM Grand it’s got to be one of the best-placed hotels in Las Vegas, it’s also got a hot tub, gym, pool and kingsized bed.
Excalibur | Best Budget Hotel in South Strip
With its fantastic location, sprawling casino and exclusive spa, it’s no wonder this is our favourite budget option on the South Strip. This three-star hotel has nearly 4,000 modern rooms with air-conditioning and great features. It has an outdoor swimming pool, a coffee bar and a stylish lounge bar. Decent Wi-Fi too for a hotel of this class.
Mandalay Bay | Best Hotel in South Strip
Mandalay Bay Las Vegas Hotel is our recommendation for where to stay on the South Strip thanks to its five swimming pools, its Shark Reef Aquarium, and its 11-acre sand beach. This hotel boasts a great selection of relaxed rooms with air-conditioning and elegant features. Centrally located, you’ll find great bars, bistros and landmarks right at your front door.
Luxor Las Vegas | Best Hotel in South Strip
Comfortable beds and spacious rooms make this an excellent choice for your itinerary in Las Vegas. You’ll be able to enjoy an outdoor swimming pool, a Jacuzzi and a sauna, as well as an on-site casino and an intimate bar. This hotel is also conveniently located near restaurants, shops and top tourist attractions. A good Las Vegas hotel with free Wi-Fi.
Things to See and Do in …
- Visit the iconic and classic Mandalay Bay hotel and casino. Think Vegas doesn’t have a beach, think again because the 11-acre pool features real sand and a wave machine!
- If you need a bit more excitement beyond gambling, then have a go on the Big Apple Coaster, the taxi cab trains wrap about the incredible New York-New York Hotel.
- If you’ve ever wanted to see an 800lb Statue of Liberty made entirely out of chocolate (of course you have), then check out Hershey’s Chocolate World Las Vegas.
- If you’re a ’90s kid like me then you’ll have grown up fascinated with the Titanic. A visit to Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition includes several replica sections of the famous ship alongside an exhibition of over 250 real artifacts.
- If you’re into computer games then check out GameWorks, it’s one of the world’s largest arcades. Set over several levels there are over 250 games to pick from!
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View on Osprey View on REI2. Downtown Las Vegas – Where to stay in Las Vegas on a budget
Downtown Las Vegas – or DTLV – is the city’s central business and historic district. Set a short walk north of the Strip, this ideally located neighborhood is close to great bars, cool clubs, and a myriad of unique and unforgettable attractions.
One of DTLV’s can’t miss sights is the Fremont Street Experience (FSE). This pedestrian mall spans five blocks in DTLV and glows thanks to its many neon signs and electric decorations. Day or night, make sure you take a stroll through the FSE to marvel at all of the bright and vibrant lights.
DTLV is also where you’ll find a high concentration of budget hotels and inexpensive accommodation options. Save your hard-earned travel dollars for the casino or the club by staying in DTLV.
Room with Family just off the Strip | Best Airbnb in Downtown Las Vegas
They call it the 420 friendly room. Take that how you want it, but needless to say, this room is for the traveler who enjoys a super chill time in the city and will be doing more on the strip than they will in the room. The cozy bed with dark shades is EXACTLY what you need after a night or morning buried in slot machines on the strip.
Las Vegas Hostel | Best Hostel in Downtown Las Vegas
This awesome hostel comes complete with a swimming pool, hot tub, air-conditioning and plenty of free features and amenities. Situated in DTLV, this hostel is close to great bars, restaurants, landmarks and attractions. It has comfortable rooms with ensuites, as well as a stylish lounge and TV room.
Downtown Las Vegas Grand as Ascend Collection Hotel | Best Hotel in Downtown Las Vegas
This four-star hotel is our pick for where to stay in downtown Las Vegas. It has an outdoor swimming pool and an on-site restaurant, as well as a modern fitness centre and a stylish lounge bar. It has more than 600 well-equipped rooms, perfect for budget travellers.
Polo Towers By Diamond Resorts | Best Hotel in Downtown Las Vegas
Centrally located in downtown Las Vegas, this hotel is the perfect base for exploring the region. It is surrounded by shops and restaurants, and the city’s top tourist attractions are just a short walk away. This modern three-star hotel has an onsite restaurant and bar, and a laundry service for guests.
Things to See and Do in …
- Check out Vegas Vic, one of the most iconic neon signs in the city.
- If you’re looking to see a different side of the city, check out the Old Las Vegas Mormon Fort dating back to the mid-1880s.
- If you’re looking to truly embrace the American way of life, have a meal at the aptly named Heart Attack Grill!
- Discover the history and stories of organised crime in Vegas at the fascinating Mob Museum.
- Check out the Neon Museum, there are classic Vegas signs dating back to the 1930s, it’s a great way to see the history of this larger-than-life city.
Pssst! Haven’t packed yet? Check out our ultimate Las Vegas Packing List to know what to bring with you on your Las Vegas adventure!
3. The Strip – The best area to stay in Las Vegas for nightlife
There’s no better place to stay if you’re looking to party the night away than the Las Vegas Strip, the most infamous neighborhood in Las Vegas.
Set at the centre of the city, the Las Vegas Strip is home to world-famous hotels, bars, clubs and restaurants. Whether you’re looking to dance all night long to international DJs, drink exotic and urbane cocktails, or rub elbows with celebrities, you’ve come to the right place. The Las Vegas Strip is where you’ll find a great time any day or night of the week!
Need a break from the bars? The Strip is also where you’ll find adrenaline-pumping activities like the Slotzilla zip line which lets you soar over the busy and bustling streets of Las Vegas. If you are coming to Vegas in an RV, you won’t be able to park it here.
MGM Penthouse Suite | Best Airbnb in The Strip
You hit the jackpot staying at this Penthouse. Way up on the 37th floor, overlooking the sky scrappers, you’ll quickly forget how much money you may have lost at the casino down the street. Throw in some poolside drinks, soak in the sun, and soon enough, you’ll be charged up for the night ahead. This place is the spot to be with the Las Vegas Monorail station and MGM Casino at your doorstep!
Hostel Cat | Best Hostel in The Strip
Located in the heart of the Las Vegas Strip, you won’t find a hostel closer to the city’s best bars and clubs. This fun and social hostel hosts nightly drinking games to get your night out started right. It also has a common room, yoga and weight area, and free coffee for all!
The Carriage House | Best Hotel on The Strip
The Carriage House is in a fantastic location within walking distance to Las Vegas’ best bars, clubs and restaurants including the Bellagio hotel – getting our vote for where to stay on the Strip. This awesome Las Vegas hotel has comfortable and spacious rooms, as well as a Jacuzzi, indoor pool, and golf course on-site.
Bluegreen Club 36 | Best Hotel in The Strip
Modern, stylish and centrally located – this is definitely one of the best hotels in Las Vegas. Located just off the Strip, this hotel is close to the city’s wildest bars and clubs, as well as great restaurants and tourist attractions. It has 487 apartments outfitted with contemporary amenities. There’s also a spa and heated pool on-site if you’re visiting during the winter.
Things to See and Do in …
- First things first, you’ve got to get your selfie with the Fabulous Las Vegas sign!
- Another thing you can’t miss out on when in Vegas is seeing the Bellagio hotel and fountains, inside the casino, there’s plenty to do beyond gambling too including botanic gardens and art galleries.
- Check out the impressive and slightly ridiculous, Bliss Dance, a massive glass sculpture of a dancing woman!
- The Fremont Street Experience is another must-do experience and it’s perfect for keeping both the kids and grown-ups entertained. It’s even open 24hrs a day!
- Another casino you’ve got to visit is the beautiful Venetian, it’s a replica of the stunning Italian city complete with the Rialto Bridge and gondola rides.
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Grab an eSIM!4. Arts District – The coolest place to stay in Las Vegas
Tucked away north of the Strip is one of the coolest and most colourful neighborhoods in Las Vegas. Spanning 18 city blocks, the Arts District – also known as 18b – is the heart of Las Vegas’ arts and culture scene. Here you’ll find a great selection of galleries and studios, independent shops and local boutiques that offer everything from high fashion and arts to furnishings, antiques and more.
The Arts District is also home to numerous urbane eateries and sophisticated cocktail bars. Enjoy sampling exotic and innovative dishes from around the world while you sip signature cocktails and drink craft brews in the buzzing and hip Arts District.
Downtown Luxury 1-Bedroom Loft | Best Airbnb in Arts District
Check out the other side of Vegas staying at this artsy loft. When you need a reset, chill out in this hip artsy part of the city away from the madness. This cute loft will still keep you occupied, from hanging out at the pool to checking out the district’s graffiti and murals. Great for couples looking to get some peace and see a more intellectual side of sin city!
Sin City Hostel | Best Hostel in Arts District
The Sin City Hostel is our pick for the best hostel in Las Vegas. Set near the buzzing Arts District, this hostel is close to restaurants, shops, bars and galleries! It has clean and comfortable rooms, a social common area, a well-stock kitchen and wifi throughout. Free breakfast is also available.
The ENGLiSH Hotel | Best Hotel in Arts District
Modern, luxurious and ideally located – it’s no wonder this amazing hotel is our recommendation for where to stay in the Arts District. Set right on the Strip, this hotel has great shops, galleries, restaurants and bars right on its doorstep. On-site is a variety of features, including a beauty centre, an outdoor pool, and a restaurant.
Golden Nugget Las Vegas | Best Hotel in Arts District
This hotel is set at the heart of the city. It is close to top tourist attractions, including the Las Vegas Strip and the Fremont Street Experience. It boasts elegant rooms with modern features. You can enjoy a Jacuzzi, a sauna, and an outdoor swimming pool.
Things to See and Do in …
- Enjoy a craft brew at many of the different bars and breweries, check out breweries like Hop Nuts, CraftHaus, HUDL Brewing, and Able Baker Brewing.
- Grab some food at Esther’s Kitchen, it’s considered the best Italian in Vegas!
- If you’re feeling wild then head to Koolsville and get a $10 tattoo, for the price, they’re actually pretty good and small enough to cover!
- Find some historic Las Vegas casino artifacts on sale at the Antique Alley Mall.
5. Symphony Park – The best neighborhood in Las Vegas for families
Symphony Park is one of the smallest and newest neighborhoods in Las Vegas. Covering just 61 acres, this North Las Vegas neighborhood is a mixed-use space that houses shops and businesses as well as residences and massive green space. It is home to the Discovery Children’s Museum, the Smith Center for the Performing Arts, as well as plenty of chic cafes and cosy eateries.
This neighborhood is ideally located for exploring Las Vegas. Situated one mile north of the Strip, Symphony Park is adjacent to Downtown, making it incredibly easy to experience everything from the Freemont Street Experience to the city’s most famous casinos, attractions and entertainment venues. This is why Symphony Park is our recommendation for where to stay for families visiting Las Vegas.
Brand New Home a block from the Strip! | Best Airbnb in Symphony Park
If you’re looking for a family adventure in this city, then this house is exactly what you want. Despite being close to North Las Vegas, within 3-5 minutes, you will end up in any part of the city. Just down the road, you can walk to 3 different museums, and loads of restaurants, and the house even has a cute slide the kids (and adults) have access to!
Golden Gate Casino Hotel | Best Budget Option in Symphony Park
For families on a budget, your best bet for affordable accommodations is the California Hotel & Casino. Set in Symphony Park, this hotel is close to popular Las Vegas attractions, as well as restaurants and cafes. It has heaps of spacious rooms and an outdoor swimming pool.
Plaza Hotel & Casino | Best Hotel in Symphony Park
The Plaza Hotel comes complete with a restaurant, a bar, and an outdoor pool. Situated in nearby DTLV, this hotel is close to Symphony Park’s most famous landmarks. This great three-star hotel is our recommendation for where to stay in Symphony Park. What’s better, you can step right from your hotel room into a casino, I mean, what more do you need from your Las Vegas hotel!?
Circa Resort & Casino | Best Hotel in Symphony Park
This is a great place to stay if you want to experience the best of Las Vegas. In the heart of the city, this hotel has clean and comfortable rooms, a coffee bar, and free wifi throughout. There’s also a delicious on-site restaurant, perfect for dining after an exciting day on the town. Want to know the best news, it’s adults-only, so no annoying kids splashing in the pool!
Things to See and Do in …
- Carry further on to North Las Vegas and visit the Planetarium where you can partake in an unforgettable stargazing experience.
- Take in a performance at the impressive Smith Center for the Performing Arts.
- Keep the kids entertained and enthralled at the interactive DISCOVERY Children’s Museum.
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Hide Yo’ Money!FAQs about Finding a Place to Stay in Las Vegas
Here’s what people usually ask us about the areas of Las Vegas and where to stay.
What To Pack For Las Vegas
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
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Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
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Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Las Vegas
Yo, I know buying travel insurance sounds very pretty lame when you’re planning an epic trip to Vegas. But believe me, you can’t plan for everything, especially in Vegas! If you do come to need it, it really can be a lifesaver and your wallet will thank you too!
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
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Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Las Vegas
Las Vegas has a reputation for being Sin City. It is one of the most infamous cities in the world with its wild nightlife, buzzing casinos, and non-stop entertainment. But with a vibrant arts scene, cultural attractions, and plenty of activities for families with kids, Las Vegas is truly a city that will enchant and enthral all kinds of travellers.
In this guide, we’ve highlighted the top five neighborhoods to stay in Las Vegas. If you’re still not sure which is right for you, here’s a quick recap of our favourites.
Sin City Hostel is our favourite hostel thanks to its location near the Strip and the trendy Arts District. It has clean and comfortable rooms, and breakfast is available.
The Carriage House is another great option. With its central setting and wellness features, you won’t find a more comfortable place to stay in the city.
- Check out our ultimate guide backpacking around Las Vegas.
- Figured out where you wanna stay? Now it’s time to pick the perfect hostel in Las Vegas.
- Or… maybe you want to check out some Airbnbs in USA instead.
- Next up you’re gonna need to know all the best places to visit in Las Vegas to plan your trip.
- Planning out an itinerary for Las Vegas is a great way to maximise your time.
- Save yourself hassle and money and get an international sim card for USA.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
Buy Us a Coffee!
A couple of you lovely readers suggested we set up a tip jar for direct support as an alternative to booking through our links. So we created one!
You can now buy The Broke Backpacker a coffee. If you like and use our content to plan your trips, it’s a much appreciated way to show appreciation 🙂
