Harrah's Las Vegas

Here's another property that is doing its best to keep up with the pace in Vegas, to mixed success. Though parts of Harrah's benefited from a reworking of the place a few years ago, the rest of it evokes Old Las Vegas in the way the Riviera does -- as in, dark, dated, and claustrophobic. Still, there is much to like here, and occasional quite good rates might make the so-so bits worth overlooking. Certainly, it wants to be the fun and convivial place we wish more of Vegas were (instead of pretty much catering to high rollers and simply tolerating the rest of us with normal budgets). The monorail stop is a draw, too, because it is now easier to get to and from here.

The rooms have undergone some cosmetic fluffing to the tune of good new mattresses and those white bed covers that are now more or less standard in most local hotels. The rooms aren't flashy, but they are reliable for what is ultimately a gamblers' hotel and provide guests with most of the necessary amenities.

A variety of restaurants include a steakhouse (with great views of the Strip), a fine Italian bistro, a Toby Keith-themed joint, featuring down-home cooking and nightly entertainment, a buffet, and a food court for quick bites to eat. The casino has a fun, festive atmosphere. There's a showroom (that used to be home to Sammy Davis, Jr., back in the day), a comedy club, Mac King's wonderful comedy/magic act, and other amusing entertainment diversions.

Carnaval Court is a festive, palm-fringed shopping plaza where strolling entertainers perform. It's notable because it's right on the Strip but entirely outdoors; similar ventures at other hotels are inside artificial environments. Note that lounge singer legend Cook E. Jarr often plays here late on varying nights.

Harrah's has an Olympic-size swimming pool and sundeck area with a waterfall, trellised gardens, and a whirlpool. It's a pretty underwhelming pool by Vegas standards, but the adjacent health club and spa are nice enough.

Facilities:
9 restaurants; casino; concierge; executive-level rooms; health club; outdoor pool; room service; showrooms; spa

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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