Frommer's Review
One of the few venerable old casino hotels still standing in Vegas (it's come a long way since it opened in 1952 on the site of the old Club Bingo), how you now view the Sahara may simply depend on which direction the sun is shining. It's been a few years since a spiffy renovation really pulled in some solid Moroccan details (an arched neon dome with Moroccan detailing, plenty of marble and chandeliers, plus small tiles and other Arabian Nights decorations) and caused the loss of the landmark sign, once the tallest in Vegas. Then they added a roller coaster around the outside (quite a good ride, enthusiasts assure us), you know, just because. Meanwhile, the hotel was recently purchased, with plans for a top-to-bottom overhaul with an eye toward making it more like the Palms. This project, which probably won't start until sometime in 2008 or 2009, will be a good thing. The old place deserves another shot at Vegas significance.
Rooms are currently a bit too motel-room bland (though the windows open, which is unusual for Vegas). Again, this may simply be in comparison to the gleaming new kids in town, a comparison suffered by most of the older hotels. If you are looking for four walls and a mattress, this isn't a bad choice at all. It should be noted that the Sahara feels that it is not as well equipped as other hotels for children and discourages you from bringing yours -- and yet, it added a roller coaster. Go figure.
The hotel includes the Sahara Buffet. The casino is a pretty pleasant one to gamble in, and there's a showroom as well. There is one pool.
Facilities:
5 restaurants; casino; showroom and lounge w/free entertainment; outdoor pool; spa; salon; tour desk; car-rental desk; business center; shopping arcade; limited room service; executive-level rooms
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without
notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before
planning your trip.
