A Las Vegas hotel expert, having stayed in every resort on the Strip, reveals five must-stay accommodations, offering insights into the best options for various traveler preferences, from luxury seekers to budget-conscious visitors.
A veteran Las Vegas visitor who claims to have stayed in every hotel on the Strip has revealed his top five recommendations for lodging, providing a curated list based on firsthand experience and catering to diverse tastes and budgets. Brian Kelly, also known as “The Points Guy,” offers a unique perspective, having extensively explored the Las Vegas hotel scene. His selections go beyond mere opulence, delving into the distinctive character, amenities, and overall value proposition of each property.
Kelly’s recommendations are based on several factors, including location, room quality, amenities like pools and dining, and overall experience. “Las Vegas has something for everyone, but choosing the right hotel can make or break your trip,” Kelly stated in an interview. His list is designed to help travelers navigate the overwhelming number of choices available on the Strip, ensuring they find the perfect fit for their individual needs and expectations.
The Bellagio: For Timeless Elegance and Iconic Spectacles
Topping Kelly’s list is the Bellagio, renowned for its timeless elegance and iconic features. The hotel is a fixture of the Las Vegas skyline, instantly recognizable for its stunning fountains and upscale atmosphere. “The Bellagio is a classic for a reason,” Kelly explains. “From the moment you step into the lobby, you’re transported to a world of luxury and sophistication.”
The Bellagio’s appeal extends beyond its visual grandeur. The hotel boasts a wide array of high-end amenities, including world-class dining options, upscale shopping boutiques, and a renowned art gallery. Its central location on the Strip provides convenient access to other attractions, making it an ideal base for exploring the city. The rooms are elegantly appointed with luxurious furnishings and modern conveniences. Many rooms also offer stunning views of the Bellagio fountains or the Las Vegas Strip, adding to the overall experience. The hotel is also known for its exceptional service, with attentive staff dedicated to ensuring a seamless and memorable stay for every guest.
The Bellagio’s famous fountains are a major draw, with choreographed water shows set to music and lights captivating audiences throughout the day and night. The Conservatory & Botanical Garden is another popular attraction, featuring elaborate floral displays that change with the seasons. For those seeking relaxation, the Bellagio Spa & Salon offers a range of treatments designed to rejuvenate the mind and body. The hotel also has a selection of high-end restaurants, including Le Cirque and Picasso, both renowned for their exquisite cuisine and impeccable service.
The Cosmopolitan: For Modern Luxury and Vibrant Nightlife
For travelers seeking modern luxury and vibrant nightlife, The Cosmopolitan is Kelly’s second recommendation. This hotel stands out for its chic design, trendy atmosphere, and innovative dining and entertainment options. “The Cosmopolitan is a hotel that truly understands the modern traveler,” Kelly notes. “It’s stylish, sophisticated, and always buzzing with energy.”
The Cosmopolitan’s distinctive architecture and edgy art installations create a unique and memorable environment. The hotel’s rooms feature private balconies, a rare amenity on the Strip, offering stunning views of the surrounding cityscape. The Cosmopolitan is also known for its diverse range of restaurants and bars, from casual eateries to upscale dining establishments. The hotel’s vibrant nightlife scene is a major draw, with several popular nightclubs and lounges attracting a fashionable crowd.
One of the hotel’s most distinctive features is its multi-level Chandelier Bar, a stunning architectural masterpiece adorned with millions of crystals. The Cosmopolitan also hosts a variety of events and performances, including live music, DJ sets, and theatrical productions. Its location in the heart of the Strip provides easy access to other attractions, making it a popular choice for travelers looking to experience the best of Las Vegas. The hotel’s pool area is a destination in itself, with several different pools offering varying atmospheres, from relaxed lounging to lively parties. The Cosmopolitan also offers a range of unique experiences, such as secret pizza places and hidden bars, adding to its allure.
NoMad Las Vegas: For Intimate Luxury and a Boutique Experience
Kelly’s third pick is NoMad Las Vegas, which provides a more intimate and boutique experience within the larger Park MGM complex. NoMad offers a more subdued and refined atmosphere, catering to guests seeking a more personalized and exclusive stay. “NoMad is a hidden gem on the Strip,” Kelly explains. “It offers a level of service and attention to detail that you won’t find in the larger mega-resorts.”
NoMad Las Vegas features elegantly designed rooms and suites, decorated with custom furnishings and original artwork. The hotel’s signature restaurant, NoMad Restaurant, is known for its exceptional cuisine and elegant setting. The NoMad Bar offers a sophisticated cocktail experience, with expertly crafted drinks and a refined ambiance. Guests of NoMad also have access to all of the amenities of the larger Park MGM complex, including its pools, restaurants, and entertainment venues.
NoMad’s library, a two-story space filled with books and comfortable seating, is a unique feature that sets it apart from other hotels on the Strip. The hotel’s intimate setting and personalized service make it a popular choice for couples and travelers seeking a more relaxed and luxurious experience. NoMad’s location within Park MGM also provides convenient access to T-Mobile Arena and other nearby attractions. The hotel’s understated elegance and attention to detail create a truly memorable and distinctive experience for guests.
The Venetian/The Palazzo: For Grandeur and Italian-Inspired Ambiance
For those seeking grandeur and an Italian-inspired ambiance, Kelly recommends The Venetian and The Palazzo, which are essentially sister properties connected and sharing amenities. These resorts offer a unique and immersive experience, transporting guests to the romantic canals of Venice. “The Venetian and The Palazzo are truly spectacular,” Kelly states. “From the moment you arrive, you’re transported to a world of Italian elegance and charm.”
The Venetian and The Palazzo are known for their elaborate architecture, stunning artwork, and attention to detail. The hotels feature gondola rides on the Grand Canal, providing a romantic and memorable experience. The rooms and suites are spacious and luxurious, with elegant furnishings and modern amenities. The Venetian and The Palazzo offer a wide range of dining options, from casual eateries to upscale restaurants, showcasing the best of Italian and international cuisine.
The hotels’ shopping areas are a destination in themselves, with a wide variety of boutiques and designer stores. The Venetian and The Palazzo also host a variety of events and performances, including live music, theatrical productions, and art exhibitions. The Canyon Ranch SpaClub is one of the largest and most luxurious spas on the Strip, offering a range of treatments designed to rejuvenate the mind and body. The hotels’ multiple pools and sundecks provide a relaxing escape from the hustle and bustle of the Strip. The Venetian and The Palazzo offer a truly immersive and unforgettable experience, making them a popular choice for travelers seeking a touch of Italian romance in Las Vegas.
Planet Hollywood: For Budget-Friendly Fun and a Lively Atmosphere
Rounding out Kelly’s top five is Planet Hollywood, offering a more budget-friendly option with a lively and energetic atmosphere. This hotel is known for its central location, affordable rates, and celebrity-themed decor. “Planet Hollywood is a great choice for travelers who want to be in the heart of the action without breaking the bank,” Kelly explains. “It’s fun, energetic, and always buzzing with excitement.”
Planet Hollywood’s rooms are decorated with movie memorabilia, creating a unique and memorable experience. The hotel offers a wide range of dining options, from casual eateries to celebrity-chef restaurants. The Miracle Mile Shops, located within Planet Hollywood, offer a variety of shopping and entertainment options. The hotel’s casino is lively and energetic, with a wide range of games and betting options.
Planet Hollywood’s central location on the Strip provides easy access to other attractions, making it a convenient base for exploring the city. The hotel’s pool area is a popular spot for sunbathing and socializing. Planet Hollywood is also known for its live entertainment, with a variety of concerts, shows, and performances taking place throughout the year. The hotel’s affordable rates and lively atmosphere make it a popular choice for younger travelers and those seeking a more budget-friendly Las Vegas experience. The hotel is directly connected to the Miracle Mile Shops, offering a wide array of dining and retail options.
Kelly’s recommendations offer a diverse range of options for travelers planning a trip to Las Vegas. From the timeless elegance of the Bellagio to the budget-friendly fun of Planet Hollywood, there’s a hotel on the Strip to suit every taste and budget. His firsthand experience and expert insights provide valuable guidance for navigating the overwhelming number of choices available, ensuring that visitors can find the perfect accommodation for their needs and preferences. By focusing on factors such as location, amenities, and overall experience, Kelly’s list serves as a trusted resource for anyone looking to make the most of their Las Vegas getaway. The Points Guy’s assessment emphasizes the importance of aligning hotel choice with personal travel style and budget considerations, ultimately enhancing the overall Las Vegas experience.
Expanded Analysis:
Kelly’s selections represent a balanced approach to evaluating Las Vegas hotels. He doesn’t solely focus on the most expensive or luxurious options, but rather considers the overall value proposition of each property. His emphasis on factors like location, amenities, and unique experiences sets his recommendations apart from typical “best of” lists.
The Bellagio, for example, is a classic choice for its timeless elegance and iconic features, but Kelly also highlights its central location and high-end amenities. The Cosmopolitan, on the other hand, appeals to a more modern and trend-conscious traveler with its chic design and vibrant nightlife. NoMad Las Vegas offers a more intimate and exclusive experience, catering to those seeking a more personalized stay. The Venetian and The Palazzo provide a unique and immersive experience with their Italian-inspired ambiance and grand architecture. Finally, Planet Hollywood offers a more budget-friendly option without sacrificing location or excitement.
Kelly’s insights are particularly valuable given the sheer number of hotels available on the Las Vegas Strip. With so many choices, it can be overwhelming for travelers to decide where to stay. His curated list provides a starting point for narrowing down the options and finding the perfect fit. By considering factors such as budget, travel style, and desired amenities, visitors can use Kelly’s recommendations to make informed decisions and ensure a memorable Las Vegas experience.
The inclusion of NoMad Las Vegas is a noteworthy aspect of Kelly’s list. While many travelers may be familiar with the larger mega-resorts on the Strip, NoMad is a hidden gem that often gets overlooked. By highlighting this boutique hotel, Kelly is introducing travelers to a more intimate and personalized experience that they might not otherwise consider. Similarly, his recommendation of Planet Hollywood demonstrates that a great Las Vegas experience doesn’t have to break the bank. By offering a budget-friendly option, Kelly is catering to a wider range of travelers and showing that it’s possible to have fun in Las Vegas without spending a fortune.
The emphasis on location is another key aspect of Kelly’s recommendations. All of the hotels on his list are centrally located on the Strip, providing easy access to other attractions, restaurants, and entertainment venues. This is particularly important for first-time visitors to Las Vegas, who may want to explore as much of the city as possible. By choosing a hotel in a central location, travelers can save time and money on transportation and maximize their overall experience.
Ultimately, Kelly’s recommendations offer a valuable resource for anyone planning a trip to Las Vegas. By considering his expert insights and firsthand experiences, travelers can make informed decisions about where to stay and ensure a memorable and enjoyable getaway. His emphasis on factors such as location, amenities, and overall value proposition sets his list apart from typical “best of” lists, making it a trusted guide for navigating the overwhelming number of choices available on the Las Vegas Strip.
Impact on the Las Vegas Tourism Industry:
Brian Kelly’s recommendations can significantly influence the Las Vegas tourism industry. As “The Points Guy,” he has a large and engaged following of travelers who trust his opinions and insights. His endorsement of these five hotels can lead to increased bookings and revenue for these properties. Furthermore, his recommendations can shape the perceptions of potential visitors, influencing their decisions about where to stay and what to expect from their Las Vegas experience.
The inclusion of NoMad Las Vegas, a smaller and more intimate hotel, can help to diversify the Las Vegas tourism landscape. By highlighting this boutique property, Kelly is encouraging travelers to consider options beyond the mega-resorts and explore the more unique and personalized experiences that Las Vegas has to offer. This can lead to a more diverse range of visitors and a more sustainable tourism industry.
Similarly, his recommendation of Planet Hollywood can help to broaden the appeal of Las Vegas to a wider range of travelers. By showcasing a budget-friendly option, Kelly is demonstrating that Las Vegas is not just for high rollers and that it’s possible to have a great time without spending a fortune. This can attract younger travelers, families, and those on a tighter budget, expanding the market for Las Vegas tourism.
The overall impact of Kelly’s recommendations is likely to be positive for the Las Vegas tourism industry. By providing valuable guidance and expert insights, he is helping travelers to make informed decisions and ensuring that they have a memorable and enjoyable experience. This can lead to increased repeat visits and positive word-of-mouth, further boosting the industry. His curated list encourages exploration and provides options suitable for various travel styles and budgets, contributing to a more inclusive and thriving tourism environment.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
1. What criteria did Brian Kelly use to select these five hotels?
Brian Kelly, “The Points Guy,” selected these hotels based on firsthand experience, considering factors like location, room quality, amenities (pools, dining), and overall experience. He aimed to provide options for various traveler preferences and budgets, emphasizing the unique character and value of each property.
2. Is Planet Hollywood a good option for families visiting Las Vegas?
Yes, Planet Hollywood can be a good option for families looking for a budget-friendly stay with a lively atmosphere. Its central location, affordable rates, and access to the Miracle Mile Shops make it convenient. However, families should be aware of the hotel’s energetic casino and nightlife scene.
3. What makes NoMad Las Vegas different from other hotels on the Strip?
NoMad Las Vegas offers a more intimate and boutique experience compared to the larger mega-resorts. It features elegantly designed rooms, personalized service, and unique amenities like the NoMad Restaurant and the library. Guests also have access to Park MGM’s facilities.
4. Which of these hotels is best for a luxury romantic getaway?
The Bellagio and NoMad Las Vegas are both excellent choices for a luxury romantic getaway. The Bellagio offers timeless elegance, stunning fountain views, and world-class dining, while NoMad provides a more intimate and exclusive atmosphere with personalized service and refined amenities. The Venetian/Palazzo is also a good option given its Italian-inspired ambiance, and Gondola rides.
5. How can I book a stay at one of these hotels and potentially get a good deal?
To book a stay and potentially get a good deal, it’s recommended to check the hotel’s official website, use online travel agencies (OTAs) like Expedia or Booking.com, and compare prices. Consider traveling during the off-season or mid-week, and look for promotional packages or discounts. It’s also a good idea to sign up for hotel loyalty programs to earn points and access exclusive deals.
In-depth Examination of The Points Guy’s Las Vegas Expertise:
Brian Kelly, the man behind “The Points Guy,” isn’t just a casual observer of the Las Vegas hotel scene. His extensive experience stems from a dedicated focus on travel rewards, maximizing value, and understanding the nuances of different hotel brands and properties. This expertise is built upon years of travel, reviewing accommodations, and analyzing loyalty programs. His reviews are known for their detailed assessments, covering everything from room design and service quality to dining options and resort amenities. This depth of knowledge allows him to offer insightful recommendations that go beyond superficial impressions.
Kelly’s approach is not simply about highlighting the most luxurious or expensive options. Instead, he focuses on providing a balanced perspective, considering factors such as value for money, unique experiences, and suitability for different travel styles. This is particularly important in Las Vegas, where the sheer variety of hotels can be overwhelming for visitors. His ability to distill this complexity into a curated list of recommendations makes his advice particularly valuable.
Furthermore, Kelly’s expertise extends to understanding the intricacies of hotel loyalty programs. He advises readers on how to maximize their points and miles, enabling them to access upgrades, free nights, and other valuable benefits. This knowledge adds another layer of depth to his recommendations, as he can help travelers choose hotels that align with their loyalty program preferences and maximize their rewards.
His perspective is also informed by a deep understanding of the Las Vegas market. He recognizes the city’s unique blend of entertainment, dining, and gaming, and he tailors his recommendations to reflect this. He understands that different travelers have different priorities, and he offers options that cater to a wide range of tastes and budgets. This nuanced understanding of the Las Vegas market is what sets his recommendations apart from more generic travel advice.
The Impact of Social Media and Online Reviews:
In today’s digital age, social media and online reviews play a significant role in shaping travel decisions. Travelers increasingly rely on platforms like TripAdvisor, Yelp, and Instagram to research hotels and destinations before making a booking. This has created a powerful feedback loop, where online reviews can significantly influence a hotel’s reputation and occupancy rates.
Brian Kelly’s recommendations are amplified by his presence on social media. As “The Points Guy,” he has a large and engaged following on platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram. This allows him to reach a wide audience of potential travelers and influence their decisions. His recommendations are often shared and discussed online, further expanding their reach and impact.
Online reviews can also be a valuable source of information for travelers, providing insights into the experiences of other guests. However, it’s important to approach online reviews with a critical eye, as they can be subjective and biased. It’s also important to consider the source of the reviews and whether they are verified.
By combining expert recommendations with online reviews, travelers can gain a more comprehensive understanding of a hotel’s strengths and weaknesses. This can help them make more informed decisions and ensure that they choose a hotel that meets their needs and expectations.
The Future of Las Vegas Hotels:
The Las Vegas hotel industry is constantly evolving, with new properties opening and existing hotels undergoing renovations and upgrades. The future of Las Vegas hotels is likely to be shaped by several trends, including:
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Increased focus on experiential travel: Travelers are increasingly seeking unique and memorable experiences, and hotels are responding by offering a wider range of activities and amenities. This includes immersive entertainment, interactive exhibits, and personalized services.
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Integration of technology: Technology is playing an increasingly important role in the hotel industry, with features such as mobile check-in, smart room controls, and personalized recommendations becoming more common. Hotels are also using data analytics to improve their operations and enhance the guest experience.
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Emphasis on sustainability: Sustainability is becoming a more important consideration for travelers, and hotels are responding by implementing eco-friendly practices and reducing their environmental impact. This includes measures such as energy conservation, water management, and waste reduction.
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Growth of boutique hotels: Boutique hotels are becoming increasingly popular, offering a more intimate and personalized experience than the larger mega-resorts. These hotels often feature unique design elements, personalized service, and a focus on local experiences.
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Diversification of amenities: Hotels are diversifying their amenities to appeal to a wider range of travelers. This includes features such as co-working spaces, fitness centers, and pet-friendly accommodations.
These trends are likely to shape the future of Las Vegas hotels, creating new opportunities for innovation and growth. By adapting to these changes and meeting the evolving needs of travelers, Las Vegas hotels can continue to thrive and remain a popular destination for visitors from around the world.
The Vegas hotel scene continues to redefine luxury, comfort, and entertainment, and Brian Kelly’s expertly curated list serves as a compass for travelers navigating this exciting landscape.
