The 18 best hotels in Las Vegas for a once-in-a-lifetime trip

If you’re looking to stay downtown, this adults-only Vegas hotel is the place. The Circa opened in 2020, and is a little more low-key than the likes of those on the strip. But never fear, it’s still got that Vegas charm and a generous whack of Vegas pizazz, too. And just because it's not on the strip that doesn't mean it doesn't come complete with classic Las Vegas scale – or a theme, of course. You see, Circa is a magnificent 35-story sports-themed casino resort, with close to 800 rooms, a restaurant, an outdoor pool and a bar. Yeah, huge, loads of fun, and absolutely worthy of its place in our best Las Vegas hotels list. Check it out.

Where is it? Fremont Street, Downtown Vegas, right between the Neon Museum and DISCOVERY Children’s Museum.

Which room? If you’re splashing out then the Circa Suites can host four adults comfortably (one double bed, one pull-out sofa). Plus there's a very glitz bar which should get good use. If you’re on a budget then the singles are still spacious, and fixtures and fittings of exceptional quality.

Time Out tip: Explore Freemont Street because there’s a lot going on, from free gigs to awesome bars. Remember your ID whenever you leave the property – you’ll need it to get back in.

Roll up, roll up, because you’re looking at one of Las Vegas’ most exclusive resorts right in the heart of the city. This hotel opened its doors in the summer of 2021, and has quickly become one of the biggest names in the game, owing to its incredible suites with floor-to-ceiling views of the strip, and four-bedroom deluxe ‘palaces’ with their own exclusive private pool. And sure, it’s got those hot-right-now Vegas vibes about it but if you can get a room you're going to be treated like royalty, so you’re totally not going to feel out of place. Rock up and own it, is our advice. After all, you’re in Vegas, right?

Where is it? Resorts World Avenue, on the Las Vegas Strip.

Which room? The West Four-Bedroom Penthouse Suite is one of the most desired at Crockfords, although the King Suites are just as gorgeous. Plus they offer accessibility options if you need any extra assistance. 

Time Out tip: Check out the convenience of the resort's premier dining and gaming offerings and discover entertainment on your – literal – doorstep.

One of Vegas’ newest additions is the ENGLiSH Hotel (it opened in March 2022), a seriously swanky boutique hotel in the Arts District. It's got just 74 rooms, so it’s certainly a little more intimate than those massive city-like Las Vegas hotels, but what it lacks in size it makes up for in luxurious features and bucket loads of charm. The outdoor swimming pool, bar and huge sun terrace are all popular, and the rooms are properly on-spec, too. What’s more, it’s owned by renowned chef Todd English, so you know the food is going to be good. Plus that explains the name... but maybe not the weird capitalization. We'll let it go.

Where is it? South Main Street, in the heart of the Arts District.

Which room? This all depends on who you're traveling with. Going solo? Go for the King Room. Partying with a pal? Go for the Deluxe Queen Room to secure a bed each.

Time Out tip: Stay here if you're looking to be close enough to the action of the Strip – without hearing it 24/7.

One of the largest hotels in the world, Aria has 4,004 rooms, including 568 suites and two distinct AAA Five Diamond hotel products. Along with the regular rooms and suites, which boast integrated one-touch tablet technology that opens the curtains, adjusts the lights and electronics, and regulates the room temperature when a guest enters or leaves, the resort includes a hotel-within-a-hotel, the exclusive Sky Suites. Accessed via private check-in and elevator, these 1,000-7,000-square-foot suites offer more than a luxe escape from the clanging casino. They also come with access to a dedicated lounge and Sky Pool, where complimentary treats are distributed at regular intervals.

Where is it? Las Vegas Boulevard South, on the Strip.

Which room? For those looking to splash the cash, none other than the Sky Suites Penthouse should be on the cards. However, if you're keen to save on your room for the wild nights out, go for the Deluxe Queen or King.

Time Out tip: Get to know the one-touch room control system before heading out – it can be somewhat perplexing after a night on the town!

The Cosmopolitan set out to be different from anywhere else in on the Strip and it has achieved that goal with style, sophistication and plenty of wit. The choice of the hip “curious class,” as well as in-the-know locals, Cosmo attracts a younger, more urbane crowd with its poolside concerts and buzzy restaurants. Spend the night and enjoy spacious, boldly decorated rooms with amenities like Japanese soaking tubs and some of the only balconies on the Strip. Plus, 21 ultra luxury penthouses debuted in 2017, created by a trio of world-class designers.

Where is it? Las Vegas Boulevard South, on the Strip.

Which room? The City Room is super affordable – and gorgeous – for those watching the cash. Looking for a little more pizzazz? Head to the Terrace Suite for fountain views and Vegas nights.

Time Out tip: Head to EggSlut to nurse your hangover from as early as 7am. Oh, and no judgement if you're just walking through the door.

For years, the Sahara Casino tried to leave behind its past, and the all-suite Lux Tower was called SLS Las Vegas. Now, it’s proudly back to its casino origins - and it’s undergone $150 million in renovations along the way, including the fresh 24-hour CASBAR lounge, premium gaming room, new hotel lobby and sparkling upgraded spa. And it wouldn’t be the Sahara without its 60,000-square-foot casino. Yep, a lot of gaming right there people. 

Where is it? South Las Vegas Boulevard South, along the Strip.

Which room? The Blanca King is a super affordable room at the Sahara, while the Marra One Bedroom Suite offers a little more luxury to your stay.

Time Out tip: Book in for a treatment at the on-site spa and wellness center – it's as dreamy as it sounds.

This was once the Hard Rock hotel, but underwent some serious renovations when it was bought by the Hilton franchise to join its Curio Collection in 2020. Now, it’s the Virgin Hotel, and it boasts eight restaurants, room service, and lounge areas including The Bar at the Commons Club, for when you want to spend your hard-earned Hilton-exchanged currency. Oh, and your dog can stay, too. Well, good boy deserves a little Las Vegas break every once in a while too, right? 

Where is it? Paradise Road, near the Harry Reid International Airport.

Which room? For the budget-conscious, check out the Chamber King. Keen to splash out with your furry friends in tow? Go for the dog-friendly Ruby Chamber Double Queens. 

Time Out tip: By staying in the resort, you'll get 20% off the spa and a complimentary appetizer with two mains at the Kitchen at Commons Club. 

Not exactly a ‘hidden gem’, but sometimes a brand is famous for a reason. Get all the gilding and glamour you’d expect from the name ‘Waldorf Astoria’ but coupled with a fabulous Strip location and city views. A stay here offers a chance to get your fill of Vegas while also reclaiming a little bit of me-time. Want to feel more human after a big night? Spend some time in the yoga room or pamper yourself in the massive onsite spa.

Where is it? Las Vegas Boulevard South, on the Strip.

Which room? Immerse yourself in the panoramic views of a one-bed King Suite.

Time Out tip: Add a dash of British decadence with afternoon tea in the Tea Lounge.

Once the sophisticate of the Strip, the Wynn and Encore have traded their elitist atmosphere for a more energetic vibe without sacrificing any of the luxury. And luxury is what you’ll find the moment you step inside: Hotel rooms start at 640 square feet and offer floor-to-ceiling windows, signature Wynn Dream beds, luxe linens and marble bathtubs. Steve Wynn’s famed attention to detail is evident everywhere you look, but perhaps especially in the Wynn’s Fairway Villas, which come with his-and-hers bathrooms, bars, living and dining areas and even their own massage rooms. If you're looking to impress on a honeymoon, anniversary or, well, whatever, to be honest – you’re in exceptionally good hands here.

Where is it? Las Vegas Boulevard, on the Strip.

Which room? If you're staying at the Wynn, we're sure you're ready to drop some cash. Our suggestion? Go for gold in the Wynn Tower Suite Parlor – it's magical. 

Time Out tip: Can't face the Strip tonight? Head to the hotel's 1,800-slot casino – along with 26 poker tables and a variety of card games available to play.

At these Italian-themed sister properties, opulence is the overriding aesthetic, from grand pillars to muraled ceilings to the turquoise canal that winds through the Venetian complete with singing gondoliers. The same holds true for the all-suite accommodations, which feature separate sitting areas and grand bathrooms and start at a size larger than most New York apartments. Yep, these are big. If money's no object, book your stay at Prestige at the Palazzo, a massive spread that comes with continental breakfast, a live piano player on request, and complimentary wine. Glorious.

Where is it? Las Vegas Boulevard South, on the Strip.

Which room? This suite-only hotel has only the best to offer. Whether you go for Venetian Luxury King Suite or the Venitian Prestige Club Lounge Grand King Suite, you're in for a pretty epic treat.

Time Out tip: The Venetian has a 40ft rock-climbing wall in its on-site Canyon Ranch Spa and Fitness gym. Enjoy. 

If the Strip had a grand dame, this MGM Resorts property would be the place. It exudes a sort of unself-conscious elegance, evident in the lobby’s Chihuly glass ceiling, the observatory’s horticultural wonderland and the iconic fountains, which never fail to captivate. You can enjoy all these sights without booking a room, but opt to stay the night and Bellagio rewards you with spacious rooms and suites with integrated tech, mood lighting and soaking tubs. For a fee, you can even bring the dog along.

Where is it? Las Vegas Boulevard South, on the Strip.

Which room? From the Resort King Room to the Penthouse Suite, you'll find luxury at its finest at the Bellagio.

Time Out tip: Looking for that Insta shot? Head to the Fountains of Bellagio in front of the hotel – it's ideal.

This excellent example of why Marriott is so good at these things is just a little walk from the Las Vegas Strip. That means you’re close enough to the action but because there’s no casino here it’s a little quieter, so it’s great if you’re looking for something a little less manic from your Vegas trip. Prices are really reasonable compared to hotels right on the Strip, and while there’s less glitz the rooms are big and service was exceptional on our visit. And if you’re in a group? The villas – available with up to three rooms – are a really solid option.

Where is it? East Harmon Avenue, 15 mins from Las Vegas Strip.

Which room? From one- to three-bedroom villas, you're spoilt for choice. This is the ideal hotel for a group of pals looking to paint the town red Vegas-style.

Time Out tip: Looking for a little peace among the madness of Las Vegas? The Grand Chateau is described as a 'hidden gem' in the middle of the chaos – stay here if you know you'll need a respite once in a while. 

Another corker of a hotel on the Strip, and right next to the T-Mobile Arena, the Park MGM goes big on style. We really like the fact that it's got an Eataly here (big fans), but the food is maybe even better at Bavette's Steakhouse & Bar, specializing in high-quality French-inspired cuisine. The rooms are properly high-spec, there's an onsite casino (of course there is!), and there are three pools with poolside cabanas. Glorious. Oh, and if the T-Mobile Arena next door is too far to walk? The Park MGM Las Vegas has its own 5,200-seat arena, the Dolby Live at Park MGM. You'll know plenty of the names playing.

Where is it? Las Vegas Boulevard South, on the Strip.

Which room? The Nighthawk Suite as it offers so much in one great package. From 55-inch TVs to walk-in closets, it's got all you for a great Vegas stay.

Time Out tip: Wine and dine at Bavette's Steakhouse and Bar on-site for French-inspired cuisine and smooth jazz throughout the evening.

It’s kitsch, it’s quirky and, despite being entirely devoted to its namesake city, it's somehow quintessentially Vegas. This one-of-a-kind hotel brings the Big Apple to Nevada with, for example, a replica of an entire Greenwich Village street doubling as the food court. In the contemporary, unfussy rooms you’ll find more nods to Manhattan and its surroundings. The whole place is designed to be unashamedly ‘fun’ and when you’re in Vegas that’s all you really want.

Where is it? Las Vegas Boulevard South, on the Strip.

Which room? Splash out on a one-bed Luxury King Suite for additional space.

Time Out tip: Get competitive in the video game arcade.

The casino resort that redefined Las Vegas continues to be one of the Strip’s prime destinations, with a stunning pool area, the hottest club in town, a massive shopping center and nearly 4,000 rooms and suites. They run the gamut from the Forum Tower's classic design to the Augustus Tower’s contemporary aesthetic to Nobu Hotel’s sleek Japanese sophistication. And because Caesars has long been synonymous with luxury, the hotel also boasts a handful of ultra-exclusive villas, starting at $15,000 per night. The best of the bunch is the 10,300-square-foot Nobu Villa with a massive terrace, steam shower and game room, which has played host to Justin Bieber, Taylor Swift and Drake.

Where is it? Las Vegas Boulevard South, on the Strip.

Which room? The Forum Tower Duplex Suite – it's next level.

Time Out tip: Take yourself down to the Qua Baths for a unique Roman Bath hydrotherapy treatment.

Located around the back of Mandalay Bay, Delano is the resort's chic luxury tower. The rooms here are all suites, decorated in Miami-style minimalism with stunning views, separate living areas, plush robes and a pair of 46-inch HD TVs. The same hip design is employed throughout the hotel, which has its own array of amenities, including the Franklin bar, Delano Beach Club, the Bathhouse Spa and Rivea, a new Mediterranean restaurant from chef Alain Ducasse.

Where is it? Las Vegas Boulevard South, on the Strip.

Which room? The Delano Strip View Two Queen Suite, for you and three pals to live out your best lives for a weekend.

Time Out tip: Head to the Delano Beach Club for noon mimosas and good vibes all day long.

Another city-in-a-city themed venue, the Paris Las Vegas Hotel and Casino merges European sophistication with Vegas attitude. Spend time in the pool while also admiring the Eiffel Tower (yes, really) or enjoy dinner around bistro-style tables complete with checkered tablecloths. The hotel has its own casino and you’re also right on the Strip for more Vegas attractions. Like all the best hotels in town, this one has its own spa and – if you’re really feeling up to it – a gym.  

Where is it? Las Vegas Boulevard South, on the Strip.

Which room? When in Paris, stay in a Versailles Room with a La roi-sized bed.

Time Out tip: Check out the dueling piano players while sipping drinks in the bar.

With all the amenities of a Strip mega-resort, Red Rock has a devoted following of visitors who choose the property precisely because it's away from the hubbub of Las Vegas Boulevard and in close proximity to the city's best rock climbing and cycling. But just because you want to get outside, doesn't mean you'll be roughing it. The guestrooms are fashionably outfitted with modern furniture and accessories that don't sacrifice comfort for style, and a massive spa renovation means top-notch pampering and fitness classes (vertical yoga, anyone?) are right downstairs.

Where is it? W Charleston Boulevard, near Spring Valley.

Which room? The Luxury Suite, with two bedrooms, mountain views and stunning design.

Time Out tip: Ask about the Summer Dreamin' packages – it could be just what you're looking for.