Sam's Town Hotel & Gambling Hall vs El Cortez Hotel and Casino: Off-Strip Value Comparison
Sam's Town Hotel & Gambling Hall
El Cortez Hotel and Casino
Location & Accessibility
Sam's Town is located approximately 15 minutes east of the Strip on Boulder Highway, requiring transportation to reach major attractions. The property offers ample free parking and shuttle services. El Cortez sits in the heart of downtown Las Vegas on Fremont Street, providing walkable access to the Fremont Street Experience, Container Park, and numerous downtown casinos.
Winner: El Cortez (Superior location for downtown access)
Room Quality & Amenities
Sam's Town features 650 rooms recently renovated with a western theme. Standard rooms include 42-inch TVs, comfortable bedding, and modern bathrooms. The property boasts a 56-lane bowling alley, movie theater, and extensive gaming floor. El Cortez offers 364 rooms with a mix of vintage and modern accommodations. The recently renovated rooms feature boutique-style decor while maintaining historic charm. Room sizes are generally smaller than Sam's Town.
Winner: Sam's Town (More spacious rooms and superior amenities)
Dining Options
Sam's Town features multiple dining options including the Firelight Buffet, Willy & Jose's Mexican Cantina, and a 24-hour coffee shop. The variety caters to different budgets and tastes. El Cortez offers Siegel's 1941, a 24-hour coffee shop, and The Parlour bar with limited food options. The property is surrounded by numerous downtown dining choices within walking distance.
Winner: Sam's Town (Better on-property dining variety)
Gaming Experience
Sam's Town features a 133,000-square-foot casino with 1,300 slots, 40 table games, and a race and sports book. The atmosphere is spacious and less crowded. El Cortez offers a more intimate gaming experience with 1,000 slots and 25 table games, including one of the best single-deck blackjack games in Vegas. The casino maintains its classic 1940s vibe.
Winner: El Cortez (Better table game limits and historic atmosphere)
Entertainment & Recreation
Sam's Town's Mystic Falls Park features a free laser and water show, live music venue, and seasonal ice skating rink. The property also includes a large outdoor pool and fitness center. El Cortez focuses primarily on gaming with limited entertainment options, though guests can easily access Fremont Street's free concerts and events.
Winner: Sam's Town (Superior on-property entertainment)
Value & Pricing
Both properties offer exceptional value with room rates typically between $30-80 per night. Sam's Town provides better value for families and those seeking resort amenities, while El Cortez offers better value for downtown access and classic Vegas experience.
Winner: Tie (Both offer excellent value for different experiences)
Service Quality
Sam's Town staff are known for friendly, efficient service with a focus on repeat visitors and locals. El Cortez provides personalized service with many long-term employees who create a welcoming, old-school Vegas atmosphere.
Winner: El Cortez (More personalized service experience)