The LINQ Hotel & Casino vs Golden Gate Hotel and Casino: Modern Strip Experience vs Historic Downtown Charm
The LINQ Hotel & Casino
Golden Gate Hotel and Casino
Location & Accessibility
The LINQ enjoys a premier center-Strip location directly connected to the LINQ Promenade and within walking distance of Caesars Palace, Flamingo, and Harrah's. Its proximity to the High Roller observation wheel and easy access to monorail stations make it ideal for exploring the Strip. Golden Gate sits at the entrance to the Fremont Street Experience in downtown Las Vegas, offering immediate access to historic casinos, free light shows, and vintage Vegas atmosphere. While downtown has its own attractions, it requires transportation to reach the main Strip.
Winner: The LINQ Hotel & Casino (for Strip accessibility)
Accommodations & Rooms
The LINQ features 2,256 modern rooms with a youthful, contemporary design. Standard rooms measure 250-300 square feet with platform beds, 55-inch TVs, and vibrant decor. The hotel offers 107 suites with upgraded amenities. Golden Gate provides 122 recently renovated rooms that blend historic charm with modern comforts. Rooms range from 200-400 square feet featuring plush bedding, vintage-inspired decor, and modern bathrooms. While smaller overall, Golden Gate's rooms offer surprising comfort and historical character.
Winner: The LINQ Hotel & Casino (for room size and modern amenities)
Gaming & Entertainment
The LINQ's 120,000-square-foot casino features 820 slot machines, 38 table games, and a high-energy atmosphere with modern gaming options. It connects directly to the LINQ Promenade's entertainment options including the High Roller, Brooklyn Bowl, and numerous bars. Golden Gate's intimate 24,000-square-foot casino maintains vintage charm with classic slot machines, table games, and the original $1 minimum craps table that made it famous. The casino exudes old Vegas character with lower minimum bets and a more relaxed atmosphere.
Winner: The LINQ Hotel & Casino (for variety and modern gaming options)
Dining Options
The LINQ offers diverse dining including Guy Fieri's Vegas Kitchen & Bar, Hash House A Go Go, and casual options at the LINQ Promenade. The property features multiple bars and quick-service options. Golden Gate is famous for its shrimp cocktail tradition and features Du-Par's Restaurant (24-hour diner), One Door Saloon, and the original home of the $1.99 shrimp cocktail. While offering fewer options, Golden Gate provides excellent value and historic dining experiences.
Winner: The LINQ Hotel & Casino (for variety and celebrity chef options)
Value & Pricing
The LINQ offers mid-range pricing with rooms typically $100-250 per night, plus resort fees. It provides good value for its Strip location and modern amenities. Golden Gate offers exceptional value with rooms often $50-150 per night and lower resort fees. Its downtown location and historic charm provide outstanding affordability for budget-conscious travelers.
Winner: Golden Gate Hotel and Casino (for overall affordability)
Atmosphere & Experience
The LINQ delivers a vibrant, youthful atmosphere targeting millennials and younger crowds with its modern design, high-energy casino, and connection to the LINQ Promenade's entertainment. Golden Gate offers authentic historic Vegas charm as the city's original hotel (1906), featuring vintage architecture, a more relaxed atmosphere, and direct access to the Fremont Street Experience's classic Vegas energy.
Winner: Golden Gate Hotel and Casino (for historic character and authentic Vegas experience)