Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino

We were sad when the once fairy-tale fantastic Aladdin was purchased by Planet Hollywood -- it was the end of yet another era. Sure, today's Aladdin wasn't the same building where Elvis married 'Scilla, but even so. But thanks to that same Planet Hollywood and its memorabilia gimmick, the rooms are currently the most distinctive in town.

The reconstructed Strip entrance, heavy on the LED screens (it's supposed to evoke the visual mania of Times Square), certainly makes the interior easier to access than the last incarnation of Aladdin. Inside, those looking for the pop kitsch sensibility of the Planet Hollywood restaurants will be disappointed; it's actually kind of classy and design-intensive. But you are going to come here for the rooms. Each has a movie or entertainment theme, such as Pulp Fiction, which might have John Travolta's suit in a glass case and a glass coffee table filled with more original memorabilia from the film. Although more than one room may share the same movie theme, no two rooms will have the same objects. The vibe of the room can vary radically depending on if the theme is Judy Garland in some charming musical or Wesley Snipes in Blade, so ask when booking. As gimmicks go, it's a catchy one, and a good use for all that junk the company's accumulated over the years.

A 2010 addition tacked on a couple of thousand new rooms in the PH Tower, a timeshare/hotel concept that offers the typical sleek design and decor of modern Vegas hotels but throws in a Hollywood twist through art and amenities. Studios through four-bedroom suites each have kitchens (from wee to wow), projector televisions that use the blackout shades for truly gigantic screen viewing, and whirlpool tubs. They are definitely nicer than those in the main tower, albeit with a little less personality.

The whole shebang was purchased in 2010 by Harrah's and is now a sister to places like Caesars Palace and next-door-neighbor Paris Las Vegas. What this means to you is a heavier emphasis on customer service, which Harrah's been paying attention to of late, and points in their Total Rewards players' club when you gamble in the stylish and sexy casino.

Note: The parking lot is all the way on the other side of the Miracle Mile shopping area, thus requiring guests to drag their suitcases all the way through the mall and a good chunk of the hotel before getting to registration. Do not self-park here if you have mobility issues of any kind. Instead, follow the signs for casino (as opposed to mall) valet parking (free, except for the tip), which is right outside the front desk.

A long list of restaurants includes Sammy Hagar's Cabo Wabo Cantina; Strip House, a New York steakhouse with a bordello theme, PBR Rock Bar & Grill, and the Earl of Sandwich.

And then there is the Miracle Mile shopping area, the Center for the Performing Arts for touring shows and concerts, and a fine spa and health club.

Facilities:
20 restaurants; bars/lounges; casino; concierge; executive-level rooms; health club; 2 Jacuzzis; performing-arts center; 2 outdoor pools; room service; showroom; spa; wedding chapel

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.

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