Rio Hotel & Casino vs El Cortez Hotel and Casino: Classic Vegas vs Historic Downtown Experience
Rio Hotel & Casino
El Cortez Hotel and Casino
Accommodation Quality
Rio Hotel: Features 2,522 rooms including suites with separate living areas. Rooms average 500-700 sq ft with modern furnishings, marble bathrooms, and comfortable bedding. Recent renovations have updated many rooms, though some areas show wear.
El Cortez: Offers 364 rooms with historic preservation in mind. Original Cabana Suites maintain 1940s charm with retro decor, while newer rooms provide basic comfort. Smaller room sizes (250-400 sq ft) but well-maintained for their vintage style.
Winner: Rio Hotel (for modern comfort and space)
Amenities & Facilities
Rio Hotel: Extensive amenities including multiple pools, full-service spa, fitness center, 120,000 sq ft casino, convention space, and free shuttle to Strip. Features Masquerade Village with shops and entertainment venues.
El Cortez: Basic amenities include outdoor pool, small fitness area, and historic casino floor. Focuses on classic gaming experience rather than resort amenities. Lacks spa and extensive recreational facilities.
Winner: Rio Hotel (for comprehensive resort experience)
Dining Options
Rio Hotel: 12+ dining options including upscale restaurants like VooDoo Steakhouse, all-you-can-eat buffet, casual eateries, and food court. Variety caters to different budgets and tastes.
El Cortez: Limited but quality options including Siegel's 1941, coffee shop, and diner-style restaurant. Focuses on classic American fare with good value pricing. Lacks upscale dining variety.
Winner: Rio Hotel (for variety and upscale options)
Entertainment & Nightlife
Rio Hotel: Features Penn & Teller Theater, VooDoo Lounge rooftop nightclub, live music venues, and regular special events. Offers diverse entertainment options beyond gaming.
El Cortez: Limited entertainment beyond casino gaming. Occasional live music in casino bar. Proximity to Fremont Street Experience provides external entertainment options.
Winner: Rio Hotel (for on-property entertainment variety)
Location & Accessibility
Rio Hotel: Located west of Strip with free shuttle service. Requires transportation to reach main Strip attractions. Ample free parking and easier vehicle access than Strip properties.
El Cortez: Heart of downtown Fremont Street Entertainment District. Walking distance to all downtown attractions, casinos, and experiences. Better for pedestrians seeking downtown vibe.
Winner: El Cortez (for walkable downtown location)
Value & Pricing
Rio Hotel: Mid-range pricing with rooms typically $60-150/night. Good value for amenities provided, though resort fees add to cost. Often includes promotions and player club discounts.
El Cortez: Exceptional value with rooms from $30-80/night. Lower resort fees than Strip properties. Best budget option in Vegas with historic charm included.
Winner: El Cortez (for unbeatable budget pricing)
Overall Experience
Rio Hotel: Provides complete resort experience with modern comforts, diverse amenities, and professional service. Ideal for visitors wanting resort features without Strip prices.
El Cortez: Offers authentic historic Vegas experience with character and charm. Perfect for budget-conscious travelers seeking downtown accessibility and vintage atmosphere.
Winner: Split Decision (depends on traveler priorities)