Harrah's Las Vegas vs El Cortez: Classic Strip Resort vs Historic Downtown Gem
Harrah's Las Vegas Hotel & Casino
El Cortez Hotel and Casino
Location & Accessibility
Harrah's (Score: 9/10): Situated mid-Strip with direct access to the LINQ Promenade and connected to the Venetian via indoor walkways. Perfect for first-time visitors wanting to experience the iconic Strip. Monorail station adjacent property.
El Cortez (Score: 7/10): Located in the heart of downtown's Fremont Street Experience, offering authentic old Vegas atmosphere. Less convenient for Strip access but surrounded by historic casinos and attractions.
Winner: Harrah's for superior Strip access and connectivity
Room Quality & Amenities
Harrah's (Score: 7/10): 2,677 rooms recently renovated with comfortable Carnival-themed decor. Standard rooms average 350-450 sq ft with modern bathrooms. Multiple room categories including suites.
El Cortez (Score: 5/10): 298 rooms mixing historic charm with basic modern comforts. Rooms range from recently renovated Cabana Suites to simpler accommodations. Smaller average room size (250-300 sq ft).
Winner: Harrah's for consistently modern accommodations
Casino Experience
Harrah's (Score: 8/10): 87,000 sq ft casino with comprehensive game selection including 1,300+ slots, table games, and sportsbook. Higher minimums than downtown but excellent player rewards program.
El Cortez (Score: 7/10): Historic casino floor with 1,000+ slots and lower table minimums. Known for favorable blackjack rules and old-school Vegas atmosphere. Smaller but more intimate gaming experience.
Winner: Harrah's for variety and modern gaming options
Dining Options
Harrah's (Score: 7/10): Multiple dining options including Ruth's Chris Steak House, Fulton Street Food Hall, and casual eateries. Good variety but not as extensive as larger Strip resorts.
El Cortez (Score: 6/10): Classic Vegas dining with Siegel's 1941, The Cal, and casual options. More limited selection but excellent value and historic ambiance.
Winner: Harrah's for greater variety and upscale options
Entertainment & Nightlife
Harrah's (Score: 8/10): Home to the Improv Comedy Club, Carnival Court outdoor bar with live music, and easy access to Strip nightlife. Well-positioned for entertainment options.
El Cortez (Score: 6/10): Limited on-site entertainment but surrounded by Fremont Street's free concerts and light shows. More focused on gaming than production shows.
Winner: Harrah's for superior on-site entertainment options
Value & Pricing
Harrah's (Score: 6/10): Moderate pricing for Strip location. Room rates typically $80-200/night. Resort fees apply. Good value for Strip accessibility.
El Cortez (Score: 9/10): Exceptional value with rooms often $40-100/night. Lower resort fees and gambling minimums. Best for budget-conscious travelers.
Winner: El Cortez for outstanding affordability
Overall Experience
Harrah's (Score: 8/10): Reliable, well-located Strip resort offering consistent quality and convenience. Ideal for visitors wanting the classic Vegas Strip experience without ultra-luxury prices.
El Cortez (Score: 7/10): Authentic historic Vegas experience with character and exceptional value. Perfect for travelers seeking old-school charm and downtown accessibility.
Winner: Split decision based on traveler priorities