Downtown Grand

Downtown Grand opened in 2013 and still has a nice dose of modern appeal. It's situated within two towers that are connected by a sky bridge, though by Las Vegas terms, it’s a small property. However, that doesn't stop the hotel from being an influential player in the Downtown Las Vegas scene. You see, the Downtown Grand owns the street on which it's located and hosts festivals and food truck events throughout the year. The style inside is attractive, and the lobby is tricked out with details like clear glass orbs and pillars wrapped in golden tiles. It’s also possible to reach the guest rooms without walking through the casino area -- an uncommon setup in our Las Vegas experience. Don't be mistaken by the fairly straightforward city-hotel style here -- the Downtown Grand has a party vibe, too. In addition to the street fairs and live music at the restaurant, the pool hosts parties that stretch well into the night. It’s great if you’re ready to rage, but less so for families or light sleepers. During the day though, though, the pool is a relaxed, laid back spot to catch some rays (or a nap). The hotel attracts guests from nearly every corner of the globe, drawn by rates that are far lower than those found on The Strip.

Downtown Grand is located in the bustling heart of Downtown Las Vegas. The Mob Museum is visible from the hotel and is a quick, one-minute walk away. Fremont Street -- with its zip lines, casinos, musicians, and bars -- is only a three-minute stroll from the hotel. Multiple restaurants, bars, a pharmacy, and a mini-mart take four minutes or less to reach on foot. The Neon Museum, which is full of vintage Las Vegas signs, is a five-minute drive from the hotel. The Las Vegas Strip is ostensibly an 10-minute drive from the Downtown Grand, though traffic can be bad in Vegas. For an iconic snapshot, the "Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas" sign is 15 minutes away by car. Budget around the same amount of time to reach McCarran International Airport in a taxi.

Downtown Grand’s rooms are modern and colorful, though in some cases the patterns and hues can be a bit much. Deluxe Rooms are done up in a more subtle green shade accented by blond wood furniture, but the other categories on offer are generally gaudier. These units are dressed in an abundance of bright red alongside vibrantly patterned carpets and sleek laminate furniture. Artsy photos of colored smoke only add to the visual assault. Beds are either one king or two queens. All rooms feature flat-screen TVs with DirecTV channels, air-conditioning, included Wi-Fi, built-in desks, USB-integrated power outlets, safes, bottled water, and irons and ironing boards. Overall, rooms here are more stylish than similarly priced properties. However, you'll hear lots of noise. The hotel’s proximity to Fremont Street and the parties hosted downstairs mean that nights aren't exactly peaceful here. The included ear plugs help, but it still doesn’t solve the problem (particularly for light sleepers). Bathrooms are attractive and come with lots of marble counter space, illuminated beauty mirrors, hairdryers, and showers. The upmarket C.O. Bigelow bath products are a nice plus, too. Upgraded rooms are bigger and come with features including whirlpool bathtubs, toiletries like mouthwash and lotion, and Keurig coffeemakers. Downtown Grand is also a great spot for groups as there are bunk-bed rooms that fit up to 10 people.

Features are reasonable given this hotel's price point, but don't expect extras like a spa. Even so, it's a Vegas property through and through. The casino is modern, but nothing fancy, and offers slot machines, table games, and a sports and race book. A rooftop pool does the trick on a hot day, and is surrounded by lounge chairs and cabanas (the latter are available for rent), plus foosball tables, a corn-hole pitch, and an herb garden. There are musically themed pool parties and DJs on the weekends, plus regular weekly beer specials. The pool and its parties are open to those not staying at the hotel and it can get lively.The Bar at Citrus Grand is located next to the pool and offers happy hour drink and food specials. Its head chef is a winner of the "Hell’s Kitchen" TV show. It also has ping-pong and beer pong, plus blackjack tables on the weekends. Freedom Beat is a reasonably-priced bar/restaurant/live music venue with an American menu. The shabby-chic patriotic decor -- including LPs painted with a distressed American flag pattern -- is attractive. Triple George is Downtown Grand’s higher-end steak and seafood option. Food gets mediocre reviews across the board.The property's 24-hour fitness room feels like an afterthought, and only includes a basic assortment of cardio equipment. There’s an e-sports area with computers and video game consoles that's free for guests and open on weekend nights. There’s also an ATM and internet kiosk on-site. Meeting rooms can hold up to 200 people and the hotel hosts weddings as well. Wi-Fi and parking are included in the resort fee.