Best pool for budget hotel

Question

Hi,

which one of these hotels have better pool and overall better experience (location rooms) for end of April/ early may? For my moms 70th birthday!

Luxor, Linq, Exaclibur, Flaminqo, Horseshoe, STRAT?

We are not into gambling more going for vibe and visiting Vegas after so long. We are thinking of of going weekday, is there still lots to do there during week? in terms of seeing as show lounges, or seeing some of free stuff?

TIA

Answer

For a budget-friendly Las Vegas stay with a focus on pool and overall experience for a special occasion like your mom’s 70th birthday, you’ll want to consider both pool quality, room comfort, and location on the Strip. End of April to early May is a great time for Vegas—temperatures are pleasant and pools start to be open and lively.

Here’s a comparison of the hotels you mentioned:

Luxor: The pyramid-themed property has a decent pool area with a few pools and a lazy river, but it is often crowded. Rooms are spacious but can feel dated. Location is southern Strip—good for walking to Mandalay Bay or MGM.
Linq: Modern, mid-Strip location with a renovated pool area. Smaller than some others, but central location is excellent for free attractions like the Linq Promenade and High Roller observation wheel. Rooms are contemporary and clean.
Excalibur: Budget-friendly with a large pool area, including a castle-themed vibe and some kid-friendly fun. Rooms are basic, and the southern Strip location is convenient for walking to Luxor and Mandalay Bay, but the property is large and can feel crowded.
Flamingo: Classic Vegas feel with a lush garden-style pool area with flamingos, waterfalls, and several pool options. Location is central Strip, close to Caesars Palace and Linq. Rooms are recently renovated and generally more comfortable than Luxor or Excalibur.
Horseshoe (formerly Bally’s): Mid-Strip location. Pool area is smaller and more low-key. Rooms are decent, but not as modern or vibrant as some other options.
STRAT: Off-Strip location at the north end, famous for its observation tower. Pool is smaller, more basic, and the Strip attractions are farther away. Rooms are modest.

For your priorities—pool experience, central location, and a pleasant vibe—the Flamingo generally stands out as the best choice for a budget hotel. It has a relaxing garden-style pool, central Strip location, and renovated rooms that feel comfortable. The Linq is a close second if you prefer modern rooms and a smaller, more intimate pool area with very easy access to free attractions and the promenade.

Regarding weekday activities in late April/early May:

Shows and lounges: Many daytime and evening shows operate throughout the week. Weekdays tend to be less crowded, so tickets may be easier to get.
Free attractions: Bellagio Fountains, Mirage Volcano, and Fall of Atlantis at Caesars are all operational during weekdays. The Strip’s pedestrian areas and hotel lobbies (Venetian, Bellagio Conservatory) are enjoyable without paying.
Shopping and dining: Weekdays mean shorter waits at restaurants and easier access to popular dining spots.

In summary, for a special birthday stay with focus on pool and vibe without heavy gambling, Flamingo offers the best balance of pool, location, and comfortable rooms. Linq is a modern alternative with a smaller pool and very central location. Weekday visits will still allow you to enjoy shows, free attractions, and the Strip without the weekend crowds.

Best pool for budget hotel

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