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Question

Hi all

We have booked 3 nights san fran and a coastal cruise then heading to Vegas for 5 nights.

I’m in a bit of a dilemma. I came 20 years ago but hubby never done USA. We like a drink of an evening and just realised how expensive food and drink is on the strip.

We are booked in to Luxor. We will probably get a car for 3 days to see Death Valley and similar, discount shopping malls and Grand Canyon (tho may use helicopter for that). We aren’t gamblers at all and we can only do so much walking around hotels.

My question is would we be better off strip for cheaper meals and drinks and use public transportation to go to the strip. Is there a nice hotel just off strip that has a fab pool. I appreciate your advice please. Couple in their sixties

Answer

It sounds like you have a wonderful trip planned, and I can understand your concern about the costs on the Strip, especially when it comes to food and drinks. Here are some tips to help you balance your stay in Las Vegas, particularly given your preferences and travel plans:

Staying Off-Strip vs. On-Strip

Staying off the Strip can indeed save you a lot of money on meals and drinks. The resorts and restaurants on the Strip tend to have higher prices due to their prime locations, and even casual dining can be pricey. If you're not keen on gambling and don't want to spend too much time walking around the hotels, staying off-Strip will give you the chance to enjoy more affordable options while still being close enough to enjoy the attractions when you want to.

Using public transportation (like buses or rideshares) is an easy and affordable way to get to the Strip from off-Strip locations. The Deuce bus runs 24 hours a day and goes up and down the Strip, and it’s a cost-effective way to travel back and forth. Uber and Lyft are also widely available and can be a good option for getting to specific destinations or for convenience.

Hotels Off-Strip with Great Pools

If you’re looking for a nice hotel off the Strip with a great pool, here are a few suggestions that might suit your needs:

The M Resort Spa Casino: Located south of the Strip, The M Resort is known for its more relaxed vibe and large pool area. It's away from the crowds but still has a great selection of restaurants and entertainment. It's a bit quieter compared to the bustling Strip hotels.
The Red Rock Casino Resort & Spa: Located in Summerlin, a bit farther from the Strip, Red Rock is one of the best off-Strip resorts with a fantastic pool area. The resort is surrounded by stunning desert views, and its pool area is relaxing and less crowded than those on the Strip. It also has excellent restaurants and a luxurious spa.
The Palms Casino Resort: Although it's a little closer to the Strip than some of the others, The Palms has a great pool and a more relaxed, off-Strip feel. It offers great value, especially if you're not interested in the Strip crowds but still want a fun atmosphere and amenities.
The Platinum Hotel and Spa: This all-suite hotel is located just off the Strip and is a popular choice for those looking for a quieter experience. The hotel offers a rooftop pool and a relaxed, non-casino environment, making it ideal for couples looking to enjoy the city without the overwhelming energy of the Strip.

Dining and Drinking Options Off-Strip

As for dining and drinks, there are plenty of options off-Strip that offer good value:

Famous Dave’s BBQ (near the M Resort): For a more casual dining experience, this spot offers affordable and delicious BBQ.
The Buffet at the Red Rock Casino: If you're in the mood for a buffet, this one is known for being high-quality and reasonably priced compared to Strip buffets.
Local Bars and Pubs: There are also a number of local bars and pubs away from the Strip that offer much cheaper drinks compared to those at the major resorts. Look for places in downtown Las Vegas, such as Fremont Street, where you can find great local spots with a more laid-back vibe.

Things to Consider for the Car Rental

If you're planning to use a car for trips to nearby places like Death Valley, Grand Canyon, or the shopping malls, having a rental car is a great idea, especially for trips to places outside the city. Since you're staying at Luxor for part of your trip, getting the car at the airport is an easy option. You can drop it off at the airport before heading home. The Luxor itself doesn't have a huge pool area compared to some resorts, so staying elsewhere for a more luxurious pool experience might be a good idea if that's important to you.

Overall, staying off-Strip could give you a much-needed break from the hustle and bustle of Las Vegas while still allowing you to enjoy the major attractions when you wish. The pool options at hotels like The M Resort and Red Rock are excellent, and you can easily reach the Strip by public transport or rideshare when you're ready for that Las Vegas excitement.

Enjoy your trip, and don’t hesitate to ask if you have more questions about your Las Vegas adventure or national park visits!