In the city of Las Vegas, where everything seems bigger, brighter, and more modern, there’s a place that stands out by being none of these things. The El Cortez Hotel and Casino, located in the heart of Downtown Las Vegas, is a vestige of a bygone era that continues to charm and draw in visitors with its nostalgic atmosphere and favorable gaming conditions.
A Slice of Vegas History
Built in 1941, El Cortez is one of the oldest hotel-casinos in Las Vegas. Stepping into El Cortez is like stepping back in time, with its vintage decor, neon signage, and old-school charm. It’s no wonder that the hotel was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2013. Despite its age, El Cortez holds its own among the mega-resorts and maintains a loyal fan base.
Downtown Location: The Real Vegas
Situated in Downtown Las Vegas, El Cortez is in the midst of what many consider the real Vegas. This is where Las Vegas started, and the area is filled with history and charm. The hotel is a short walk away from the Fremont Street Experience, a five-block entertainment district with everything from live music to a zipline. Despite being a bit off the Strip, its location offers guests a different, but equally entertaining, Las Vegas experience.
Optimal Blackjack Conditions
What truly sets El Cortez apart, however, is its reputation for offering the best blackjack in Las Vegas. The casino provides a variety of blackjack tables with some of the lowest minimum bets in town – as low as $5 on some tables. Additionally, the casino frequently offers single-deck blackjack, a rarity in Vegas, and one that swings the odds slightly more in the player’s favor.
For both novice and seasoned blackjack players, El Cortez’s conditions make for a unique and enticing gaming experience. The casino, like the hotel itself, offers an old-school Vegas vibe that is increasingly hard to find in the city.
Accommodations with Character
Accommodation at El Cortez ranges from standard rooms to full suites, all at reasonable prices compared to Strip hotels. The rooms, much like the rest of the hotel, exude a vintage charm. They are clean, comfortable, and offer all the basic amenities. They might not have the luxury finishes of the mega-resorts on the Strip, but they offer a cozy atmosphere that complements the overall vintage feel of the hotel.
Dining Options
When it comes to dining, El Cortez offers a selection of restaurants and bars that cater to a range of tastes. Siegel’s 1941, named after the hotel’s original owner, Bugsy Siegel, serves up a variety of dishes 24/7. For a quick bite, there’s also EAT, which offers an excellent breakfast and lunch menu, and the Subway for something on-the-go.
Conclusion
The El Cortez Hotel and Casino offers a different take on the Las Vegas experience. It may not have the glitz and glamor of the Strip’s mega-resorts, but it more than makes up for it with its historical charm, excellent blackjack conditions, and affordable rates. For those looking for a slice of old Vegas and the city’s best blackjack, El Cortez is a destination worth considering.
