The Cromwell vs El Cortez: Boutique Luxury vs Historic Value in Las Vegas
The Cromwell
El Cortez Hotel and Casino
Location & Accessibility
The Cromwell occupies a prime center-Strip location at Flamingo and Las Vegas Boulevard, providing walkable access to Bellagio, Caesars Palace, and the LINQ Promenade. The hotel sits directly on the Strip with monorail access nearby. Score: 9/10
El Cortez is located in the heart of downtown Las Vegas on Fremont Street, offering authentic old-Vegas atmosphere and easy access to the Fremont Street Experience. While vibrant, the downtown location requires transportation to reach the Strip. Score: 7/10
Winner: The Cromwell
Room Quality & Amenities
The Cromwell features 188 boutique-style rooms with luxurious furnishings, marble bathrooms, and sophisticated technology. Rooms average 300-400 sq ft with premium linens and upscale toiletries. The hotel offers a sophisticated adults-only pool and fitness center. Score: 9/10
El Cortez offers recently renovated but simpler accommodations with a retro vibe. Rooms are clean and functional but lack the luxury finishes of Strip properties. The hotel maintains its historic charm with vintage decor throughout. Score: 6/10
Winner: The Cromwell
Dining Options
The Cromwell features Giada De Laurentiis's restaurant offering Italian cuisine with strip views, along with a stylish lobby bar and the Bound rooftop lounge. Dining options are upscale but limited in variety. Score: 8/10
El Cortez offers multiple casual dining options including Siegel's 1941, a 24-hour coffee shop, and The Parlour bar. The options are affordable and authentic but lack fine dining establishments. Score: 7/10
Winner: The Cromwell
Entertainment & Casino
The Cromwell features a sophisticated 40,000 sq ft casino with table games and slots, plus the popular Drai's Nightclub and Beachclub with celebrity DJs. The entertainment is modern and upscale. Score: 9/10
El Cortez maintains one of Las Vegas's most historic casinos with classic games and lower table limits. The atmosphere is nostalgic with occasional live music but lacks major production shows or nightclubs. Score: 7/10
Winner: The Cromwell
Value & Pricing
The Cromwell commands premium prices with rooms typically starting at $200-400 per night, plus resort fees. The experience is luxurious but represents a significant investment. Score: 6/10
El Cortez offers exceptional value with rooms often available under $50 per night, including lower resort fees. The property provides authentic Vegas experience at a fraction of Strip prices. Score: 9/10
Winner: El Cortez
Service & Experience
The Cromwell provides personalized, attentive service with a staff-to-guest ratio favoring individual attention. The experience is sophisticated and tailored to discerning travelers. Score: 8/10
El Cortez offers friendly, straightforward service with a focus on efficiency rather than luxury pampering. The staff is experienced and helpful but less formal than Strip properties. Score: 7/10
Winner: The Cromwell
Unique Features
The Cromwell stands out as Las Vegas's first standalone boutique hotel, offering an intimate, adults-focused experience with designer details throughout and direct access to the LINQ Promenade. Score: 9/10
El Cortez holds the distinction of being the longest continuously operating hotel-casino in Las Vegas, offering genuine historic charm and a designated historic landmark status. Score: 8/10
Winner: The Cromwell