Luxor vs El Cortez: Modern Mega-Resort vs Historic Downtown Classic
Luxor Hotel and Casino
El Cortez Hotel and Casino
Location & Accessibility
Luxor sits prominently on the South Strip, offering easy access to Mandalay Bay, Excalibur, and the Las Vegas Monorail. Its location provides excellent Strip connectivity but requires longer walks or transportation to reach central Strip attractions. Score: 8/10
El Cortez occupies prime real estate in the Fremont Street Experience, putting guests steps from downtown's vibrant entertainment, classic casinos, and cheaper dining options. The location excels for downtown exploration but requires transportation to reach the Strip. Score: 7/10
Winner: Luxor for better overall Las Vegas accessibility
Room Quality & Amenities
Luxor features 4,400 rooms including recently renovated tower rooms with modern furnishings, comfortable beds, and pyramid rooms with slanted windows. Standard rooms average 400-500 sq ft with expected resort amenities. Score: 7/10
El Cortez offers 300+ rooms ranging from historic standard rooms to newly renovated Cabana Suites. Rooms maintain vintage character but vary significantly in quality, with some showing age despite recent upgrades. Score: 5/10
Winner: Luxor for consistent modern accommodations
Casino Experience
Luxor's 120,000 sq ft casino features contemporary Egyptian theme with 2,000+ slots, 87 table games, and a race and sports book. The atmosphere is energetic but can feel crowded during peak hours. Score: 8/10
El Cortez maintains one of Vegas's most authentic casino floors with 1,000+ slots, 25 table games, and famously low table limits. The vintage atmosphere appeals to traditionalists but lacks modern game variety. Score: 7/10
Winner: Luxor for game variety and modern facilities
Dining Options
Luxor offers 10+ dining venues including buffet, steakhouse, Mexican, and quick-service options. Quality ranges from average to good, with prices typical for Strip properties. Score: 7/10
El Cortez features fewer but more affordable options including Siegel's 1941, a 24-hour coffee shop, and pizza outlet. Food quality is decent for the price point but lacks variety. Score: 6/10
Winner: Luxor for dining variety and quality
Entertainment & Amenities
Luxor boasts massive pool complex, spa, fitness center, shopping arcade, and hosts major productions like Blue Man Group. Amenities compete with higher-end Strip properties. Score: 9/10
El Cortez offers basic pool, fitness center, and proximity to Fremont Street entertainment. Lacks major production shows but provides access to downtown's free entertainment. Score: 5/10
Winner: Luxor for comprehensive resort amenities
Value Proposition
Luxor provides good mid-tier Strip value with rooms often $50-150/night, though resort fees add $45+ daily. You get modern Strip amenities at reasonable prices. Score: 7/10
El Cortez delivers exceptional value with rooms frequently $30-80/night and lower resort fees ($20-30). Offers Vegas's best budget accommodation without sacrificing casino experience. Score: 9/10
Winner: El Cortez for unbeatable affordability
Overall Atmosphere
Luxor creates immersive Egyptian theme environment with dramatic architecture and modern resort energy. Appeals to visitors seeking typical Vegas spectacle. Score: 8/10
El Cortez preserves 1941 vintage charm with original neon, historic casino floor, and authentic old-Vegas character. Appeals to nostalgia seekers and history buffs. Score: 8/10
Winner: Tie - Different experiences serving different preferences