While the Las Vegas Strip is famous for its glitz and glamour, the true heart and history of the city can be found on the Old Strip—also known as Fremont Street or Downtown Las Vegas. For travelers who crave vintage Vegas vibes, budget-friendly accommodations, and a more laid-back atmosphere, las vegas hotels on the old strip offer a unique and memorable experience.
What Is the Old Strip?
The Old Strip refers to the original Las Vegas entertainment district located along Fremont Street in Downtown Las Vegas. Long before the rise of mega-resorts on Las Vegas Boulevard, this area was the hub of gambling, neon lights, and iconic casinos. Today, it remains a hotspot for travelers seeking a mix of retro charm, cultural heritage, and lively entertainment.
Fremont Street is the centerpiece of the Old Strip and home to the Fremont Street Experience—a pedestrian mall covered by a massive LED canopy that hosts dazzling light shows, live music, and street performers. Surrounding it are several historic casinos and hotels that provide both nostalgia and affordability.
Top Hotels on the Old Strip
Staying in Downtown Las Vegas puts you close to some of the city’s most legendary hotels and casinos. Here are a few standout options:
1. Golden Nugget
A true icon of the Old Strip, the Golden Nugget offers luxury accommodations with a touch of classic Vegas. It boasts a high-end casino, an award-winning pool with a shark tank, and top-tier dining. The Golden Nugget blends vintage charm with modern amenities, making it one of the most popular choices in Downtown Las Vegas.
2. The D Las Vegas
For travelers who love energy and excitement, The D Las Vegas delivers. This vibrant hotel combines contemporary rooms with vintage flair, including a classic coin-operated slot machine area. Located right on Fremont Street, it’s perfect for those who want to be in the middle of the action.
3. Four Queens Hotel and Casino
This no-resort-fee hotel is a hidden gem for budget-conscious visitors. Four Queens has been a Fremont Street fixture since 1966, offering great value, comfortable rooms, and an authentic Vegas vibe. Its central location gives you easy access to the Fremont Street Experience and nearby attractions.
4. Plaza Hotel & Casino
Situated at the west end of Fremont Street, the Plaza Hotel features updated rooms, rooftop pickleball courts, and the iconic Oscar’s Steakhouse overlooking the city. Its retro appeal and convenient location make it a top choice for visitors wanting to explore Downtown Las Vegas.
Why Choose the Old Strip?
While the modern Las Vegas Strip is known for its upscale resorts, the Old Strip offers a different kind of allure:
- More Affordable Stays: Hotels in this area are generally more budget-friendly than those on the main Strip.
- Rich History: The Old Strip is where Las Vegas began. Staying here gives you a front-row seat to the city’s roots.
- Compact and Walkable: Unlike the sprawling main Strip, Downtown Las Vegas is easily walkable, making it ideal for exploring on foot.
- Local Culture: From street performers to vintage museums and art galleries, the Old Strip reflects the city’s local flavor.
Things to Do Near Old Strip Hotels
- Fremont Street Experience: Enjoy nightly light shows, live music, zip-lining, and people-watching.
- Mob Museum: Learn about the history of organized crime in America, just steps away from Fremont Street.
- Container Park: A creative outdoor shopping area built from shipping containers, featuring unique shops, restaurants, and family-friendly entertainment.
Plan Your Stay
When booking your trip, consider using a Downtown Las Vegas hotel map to find the perfect location for your stay. Look for places that fit your budget, are close to your planned activities, and offer the amenities you desire. Whether you’re visiting for the nostalgia, affordability, or the vibrant nightlife, the Old Strip has something for everyone.
By choosing to stay at Las Vegas hotels on the Old Strip, you’re not just booking a room—you’re stepping into a piece of Vegas history.
