If you’re looking for a reasonably priced vintage stay in Las Vegas, what better place than Bugsy Siegel’s very own El Cortez?
While it’s one of the smaller hotels in the city, it sits proudly in the bustling downtown area and exudes a historical and vintage vibe that can be difficult to find in such a well-maintained city.
What Room Should I Choose at The El Cortez?
Your perfect stay in Vegas starts with choosing the right room, and while the El Cortez isn’t one of the city’s most sought-after stays, it does boast a selection of room types to cater to different visitors.
Rooms
Tower Premium: The Tower Premium rooms are the newest room type added to the El Cortez hotel. They’re the most luxurious non-suite option, providing a relaxing and romantic atmosphere with stylish furnishings and king-size beds.
Pavilion Rooms: The Pavilion Rooms at the El Cortez are considered the best value hotel rooms in Las Vegas. These budget-friendly rooms provide the essentials, and whilst a little more dated in design choices, they’re still well-decorated in a vintage style and provide stunning city views.
Original 47 Rooms: If you’re looking for a truly historic visit, staying in the original El Cortez rooms is a good idea. These rooms date back to the 1940s, back when infamous American Mobster Bugsy Siegel owned the El Cortez. These rooms are situated just above the casino floor, feature a plush, queen-sized bed, and are accessible only via stairwell, so this may not be the best choice if you plan on bringing heavy luggage with you or have weak knees. They have been renovated, though.
Suites
Tower Premium Suites: A slightly more stylish step-up from the regular Tower Premium rooms is the Tower Premium Suites – another new addition to the property. They boast a spacious living room, an elegant main bedroom, and small decor details throughout that exude charm. This lavish suite type also includes a spacious walk-in shower, 55” and 42” HDTVs, a mini fridge, and a selection of other elevated amenities.
Cabana Suites: The Cabana Suites don’t particularly feel like they’re a part of the El Cortez, thanks in part to their brightly colored and unusual retro design choices. They sit just across Ogden Avenue from the El Cortez and are some of the most unique and stylish accommodations in the downtown area.
What Dining and Drinking Options are at the El Cortez?
The El Cortez has on-site drinking and dining options that cater to a range of different price points.
Restaurants
Siegel’s 1941: Siegel’s 1941 is a gorgeous spot. Named after the original owner, Bugsy Siegel, this restaurant seeks to transport diners back in time to experience Las Vegas as it was when the El Cortez was born. Not only can guests enjoy old-school and sophisticated vintage decor, but they can also indulge in some old-fashioned dishes. Think indulgent Prime Rib, tasty crab, and delicious wine and cocktails – just how Bugsy intended it to be!
Eureka: Eureka! – You’ve found it! Inspired by the name, meaning ‘excitement upon discovery,’ this modern restaurant seeks to be a go-to spot for all guests at the El Cortez. Enjoy burgers, tacos, and other staple comfort foods.
Sushi Ichiban: Lovers of Japanese cuisine can find all their favorite sushi classics at this Japanese restaurant.
Hot Noodz: Hot Noodz is a relatively new addition to the El Cortez, but this family-owned Asan spot has quickly become a firm favorite. Showcasing the culinary expertise of Michelin Guide-recognized Chef Po Fai Lam, Hot Noodz aims for comforting dishes and bold flavors. Indulge in ramen, udon, and wok-fried noodles.
Bars and Nightlife
The Parlour Bar and Lounge: The Parlour Bar is the perfect spot for anyone looking to enjoy a drink in a comfortable and welcoming environment. Though it may look classy and regal, all are welcome here! The Parlour Bar boasts a wide liquor selection and decent prices.
Showbar: The showbar is a rendition of classic Las Vegas. It’s one of the time-warping spots at the El Cortez that feels more like an escape into history than anything else. This charming bar serves up spectacular handcrafted cocktails, great live entertainment, and a captivating atmosphere.
Roulette Bar: One of the most unique bars in Downtown Las Vegas is the El Cortez’s Roulette Bar. Indulge in cocktails as you soak up the vibrant and exciting environment and play a game of roulette on the casino floor!
What Is There To Do at the El Cortez Hotel and Casino?
The El Cortez isn’t known for having tons of attractions, but you won’t be bored. Here are some of the best things you can enjoy while staying at the El Cortez.
Casino
The El Cortez has many games in its casino, including authentic coin-operated slots – just another way the El Cortez seeks to take its guests back in time.
There’s also a range of video poker options and table games. With 10x offs on Craps to full pay 3-2 double deck blackjack, you can find better odds here than on Las Vegas Blvd. Enjoy Blackjack, Roulette, Double Roulette, 3-Card Poker, Craps, Ultimate Texas Hold ‘Em, and Baccarat.
A new high-limit room has recently been added, and you can bet $250 per slot spin!
Sportsbook
The Sportsbook at El Cortez serves its purpose. You bet, watch games, maybe have a few drinks.
Non-Gaming Attractions
When you’re done gambling, you can explore spots like:
The History Hallway: This History Hallway, located just off the casino floor, showcases the city’s growth through the years.
Beauty Salon: Terry Rae Beauty Salon is a full-service hair and beauty salon at the El Cortez that specializes in color, including corrective color and hair reconstruction.
Speakeasy Barbershop: Hairstyling and pampering aren’t just for the ladies at the El Cortez, as they have a great speakeasy barbershop located on the second floor to cater to the gents, too.
NV Spa: If an on-site salon and barbershop didn’t offer enough of a pampering experience, there’s also a tiny on-site spa on the casino’s second floor. NV Spa invites guests to relax and rejuvenate with professional reflexology and 60-minute full-body hot stone massages.
Entertainment at the El Cortez
Being a small hotel and casino with such a unique and historical charm, the entertainment offered at the El Cortez is a far cry from international DJs and world-class rock bands on the Strip. Instead, guests can enjoy gentle piano music by Ray Horvath in the lobby bar on Fridays and Saturdays, as well as a selection of live performances from some truly great acts.
Upcoming acts include the vintage voice of Vegas, Michael Nugent; Hawaiian music from Joseph Soul; Dan Fester with some alternative rock; and the great duo Sunrise Sunset.
