Durango Casino & Resort vs El Cortez Hotel and Casino: Modern Luxury vs Historic Charm
Durango Casino & Resort
El Cortez Hotel and Casino
Accommodations Comparison
Durango Casino & Resort features 200 contemporary rooms and suites with premium bedding, marble bathrooms, and smart room technology. All rooms include 55-inch smart TVs, minibars, and luxury toiletries. The resort offers 12-story tower rooms with panoramic desert views.
El Cortez Hotel and Casino provides 364 rooms across three towers, ranging from basic accommodations to recently renovated Cabana Suites. Rooms feature vintage Vegas charm with updated amenities including flat-screen TVs and complimentary WiFi. The historic rooms maintain original 1940s character with modern comforts.
Winner: Durango Casino & Resort (Superior comfort and modernity)
Dining Options
Durango offers seven dining venues including Nicco's prime steakhouse, Signature Buffet with chef stations, and multiple casual options like a food hall and sports bar. Culinary offerings emphasize quality ingredients and diverse cuisine types.
El Cortez features four restaurants including The Siegel Restaurant 1941 steakhouse, The Cal vintage coffee shop, and affordable buffet options. Dining focuses on classic Vegas fare with reasonable pricing.
Winner: Durango Casino & Resort (More diverse upscale options)
Gaming Experience
Durango boasts 83,000 square feet of gaming space with 2,300 slots, 60 table games, and a dedicated poker room. Features state-of-the-art gaming technology and high-limit areas.
El Cortez offers 40,000 square feet of classic gaming with 1,000 slots and 25 table games. Known for favorable odds and old-school gambling atmosphere, including one of Vegas's last remaining $5 blackjack tables.
Winner: El Cortez Hotel and Casino (Better player odds and historic vibe)
Amenities and Facilities
Durango features a resort-style pool with cabanas, full-service spa, fitness center, and multiple bars/lounges. Includes conference facilities and wedding chapel.
El Cortez offers a seasonal pool, basic fitness center, and multiple bars. Focuses on gaming amenities rather than resort features.
Winner: Durango Casino & Resort (Superior resort amenities)
Location and Accessibility
Durango is located in the rapidly growing southwest area, convenient for local residents but requiring transportation to Strip attractions (15-20 minute drive). Free parking and easy freeway access.
El Cortez sits in the heart of downtown Las Vegas on Fremont Street, walking distance to all downtown attractions. Direct access to Fremont Street Experience and nearby transportation options.
Winner: El Cortez Hotel and Casino (Superior tourist location)
Value Proposition
Durango offers premium experience at mid-range pricing, with room rates typically $150-300/night. Good value for the quality offered.
El Cortez provides exceptional value with rooms often under $100/night, low minimum bets, and affordable dining. Best budget option in Vegas.
Winner: El Cortez Hotel and Casino (Unbeatable value pricing)
Overall Experience
Durango delivers a modern, sophisticated resort experience with attention to detail and contemporary luxury. Appeals to guests seeking newer facilities and upscale amenities.
El Cortez offers authentic vintage Vegas experience with historic charm and classic casino atmosphere. Ideal for budget-conscious travelers and history enthusiasts.
Winner: Split Decision (Different target markets)