El Cortez vs Four Queens: A Historic Downtown Vegas Showdown
El Cortez Hotel and Casino
Four Queens Hotel and Casino
Historical Significance & Atmosphere
El Cortez (1941) holds the distinction of being the longest continuously operating hotel-casino in Las Vegas, with original ownership that included mobster Bugsy Siegel. The property maintains much of its vintage character with retro signage, classic casino floor layout, and historic photographs throughout. Four Queens (1966) also boasts rich history, named after the owner's four daughters, with a slightly more polished but still classic downtown atmosphere. Both properties offer authentic old Vegas experiences, but El Cortez wins on pure historical authenticity.
Winner: El Cortez
Room Quality & Accommodations
El Cortez offers three room categories: Cabana Suites (recently renovated), Classic rooms (vintage style), and the newer boutique-style rooms. The Cabana Suites feature modern amenities while maintaining retro flair. Four Queens provides recently updated rooms with more contemporary furnishings, plush bedding, and modern bathrooms. Both properties show some wear in common areas, but Four Queens edges out with more consistent room quality across categories.
Winner: Four Queens
Dining Options
El Cortez features Siegel's 1941, a 24-hour coffee shop serving classic American fare, and The Parlour for quick bites. The property is known for its affordable steak specials and old-school coffee shop atmosphere. Four Queens offers Hugo's Cellar, a renowned fine-dining establishment with tableside preparation, and Magnolia's Veranda for casual dining. Both have standard casino bars, but Four Queens provides more dining variety and upscale options.
Winner: Four Queens
Casino Experience
El Cortez maintains a classic casino floor with older slot machines, table games, and a separate sportsbook. The atmosphere is more relaxed with lower minimum bets. Four Queens features a slightly larger casino floor with newer slot machines, popular table games, and a lively atmosphere. Both cater to budget-conscious gamblers, but El Cortez offers better odds and more player-friendly rules.
Winner: El Cortez
Location & Accessibility
Both properties are located on Fremont Street, but Four Queens sits directly on the Fremont Street Experience pedestrian mall, providing immediate access to entertainment, light shows, and street performers. El Cortez is one block east, requiring a short walk to the main action but offering slightly quieter surroundings. Both are within walking distance of downtown attractions, but Four Queens has the superior positioning.
Winner: Four Queens
Service & Amenities
El Cortez provides basic hotel services with friendly, if sometimes dated, customer service. The property lacks resort amenities like pools or spas. Four Queens offers slightly more polished service and maintains a small outdoor pool. Both properties focus on gaming rather than resort amenities, but Four Queens provides marginally better service and additional facilities.
Winner: Four Queens
Value Proposition
El Cortez consistently offers some of the most affordable room rates in Las Vegas, often under $50 per night midweek. The property provides exceptional value for budget-conscious travelers. Four Queens commands slightly higher rates ($20-40 more per night on average) but remains very affordable compared to Strip properties. For pure budget accommodation, El Cortez cannot be beaten.
Winner: El Cortez