Palace Station vs El Cortez: Classic Vegas Value Showdown
Palace Station Hotel & Casino
El Cortez Hotel and Casino
Accommodations & Room Quality
Palace Station features 1,011 recently renovated rooms with contemporary decor, plush bedding, and modern amenities including flat-screen TVs and reliable Wi-Fi. The Tower rooms offer particularly spacious layouts with separate sitting areas.
El Cortez maintains its historic charm with simpler, retro-style rooms that have been updated for comfort. While clean and functional, they lack the modern finishes of Palace Station. The Cabana Suites offer more space and vintage Vegas character.
Winner: Palace Station (for modern comfort)
Gaming & Casino Experience
Palace Station boasts a 95,000 sq ft casino with 1,400 slots, 40 table games, and a dedicated poker room. The atmosphere is lively but less intense than Strip properties, with good player rewards and frequent promotions.
El Cortez offers one of Vegas's most authentic gaming experiences with lower table limits and classic games. The casino maintains its historic character with vintage signage and a more intimate, old-school vibe that gambling purists appreciate.
Winner: El Cortez (for authentic Vegas experience)
Dining Options
Palace Station features diverse dining including the popular Feast Buffet, Oyster Bar, Italian restaurant, and 24-hour coffee shop. Quality exceeds expectations for the price point with good variety.
El Cortez offers simpler dining options including Siegel's 1941, a classic coffee shop, and The Parlour bar. While limited in variety, the food is hearty and reasonably priced, capturing old Vegas comfort food at its best.
Winner: Palace Station (for variety and quality)
Location & Accessibility
Palace Station sits west of the Strip with easy freeway access and ample free parking. It's less walkable to major attractions but offers regular shuttle service to the Strip and downtown.
El Cortez occupies prime real estate on Fremont Street Experience, putting guests steps from downtown's entertainment, bars, and attractions. Perfect for those wanting to explore historic Vegas on foot.
Winner: El Cortez (for walkable downtown location)
Value & Pricing
Palace Station offers excellent mid-range pricing with rooms typically $50-150/night. The property provides good value with modern amenities at reasonable rates.
El Cortez consistently ranks among Vegas's best bargains with rooms often available under $40/night. The unbeatable pricing makes it ideal for budget-conscious travelers.
Winner: El Cortez (for ultimate budget value)
Amenities & Services
Palace Station features a tropical pool, fitness center, multiple bars, and conference facilities. Service is efficient if not luxurious, with solid front desk and housekeeping operations.
El Cortez offers fewer amenities but maintains charming features like the vintage neon signage and historic exhibits. Service is personal and attentive, with staff often remembering repeat guests.
Winner: Palace Station (for comprehensive amenities)