El Cortez Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas, NV

Let me be blunt: El Cortez is a complete disgrace. Yes, the building is historic and the architecture is charming — but everything else about this hotel is a nightmare and a rip-off. I’ve stayed in a lot of places in Vegas over the years, and this was, without a doubt, the worst experience I’ve ever had. Upon check-in, the staff was cold, dismissive, and unhelpful. Instead of a warm welcome, we were hit with an aggressive upsell. I had already prepaid $164 a night, but the woman at the desk pushed an “upgrade” for $45 more per night — totaling $467 for three nights. On top of that, I was forced to pay a $150 incidental deposit and $29 a day in resort fees. Spoiler alert: there was nothing resort-like about this place. The upgraded room? A total joke. We were promised “mountain views” but ended up staring at a disgusting alley filled with overflowing dumpsters. Not a mountain in sight. The elevator made terrifying popping noises that made you genuinely wonder if you’d plummet to your death each time you used it. We tried Siegel’s restaurant because of its reputation — huge mistake. Cold, low-quality food served with all the grace of a fast food drive-thru. Staff were literally sweeping under our feet while we ate. Not only was the food awful, but it was outrageously overpriced, and the tip was added automatically — even though the service was non-existent. And here’s the kicker: El Cortez charged us nearly $980 for the stay. I’m not a math expert, but even with all the added fees, our total should’ve been in the $600 range — especially since I had already prepaid one night. When we brought it up, we were told to “wait until checkout.” At checkout, they gave us the runaround again, blamed us for booking it “wrong,” even though we booked through their own website, and only refunded a measly $29. The arrogance and lack of accountability from management was beyond belief. I recorded the entire exchange for social media, because people need to see how bad this place has become. And to make matters worse, I want to call out Vegas Matt, the influencer who promotes this dump and has merch sold in their casino. I don’t know what they’re paying him, but he should be ashamed of backing this place. During our stay, we heard constant complaints from other guests: no towels, filthy rooms, pathetic views, tight slot machines, and miserable staff. The tower rooms they promote as “upgraded” are filled with cheap, shoddy craftsmanship and bargain-bin linens. Calling it “luxury” is an insult. El Cortez is a fraud. A rundown, dishonest, ghetto casino clinging to its historic charm while treating guests like garbage. It is NOT the hotel it used to be. The original owners would roll over in their graves if they saw how it’s run today. Do yourself a favor: STAY ANYWHERE ELSE. Don’t fall for the fake hype. This place is a total scam.

The El cortez was an easy choice for us to stay downtown. We have gambled there multiple times, but first time staying. The check in process was fairly quick. We were staying at a strip property, and I called to see if rooms were ready and waiting for us..they were. We arrived and were greeted with a friendly face only to be told only 1 room was ready. We requested same floor, the second room assigned was on the next floor up. Not a deal breaker at all, but we expected to be close to the other party. The wrist bands as room keys with elevator access are ok, I think there could be a better way. We witnessed a man be tackled in the casino after trying to rob someone, another gentleman escorted out who claimed to have a room but no wrist band, and a shady couple follow my sister and wife to a floor, we quickly contacted security since they had no wristband. Other than that drama, the rooms were clean, open, and bright. The bathrooms were clean, though our shower drain backed up a bit if the water ran for too long. Housekeeping was prompt and friendly. Despite a few hiccups would likely stay again.

Poor service and attitude. Just checked in at 5:30 pm on April 11. Waited fifteen minutes, supervisor was rude when she finally came out to help. Didn't offer any upgrades of just blew us off. Didn't even tell us how to get to the room. I mean, I stay here often and this was the poorest experience I've had here. I've stayed here several times, but this lowers my view of the hotel and might not allow me to return due to their supervisory attitude and lack of empathy. Just flat out rudeness. Didn't catch her name because she didn't wear a name tag, but was night shift and from Philippines.

Great location in the "old" area of Las Vegas by Fremont but one block from bus that runs to the big strip area and arenas. Clean comfortable room and bathroom. Pleasant and helpful staff. Good drinks. Can't comment on the gambling as I was in town for Pens vs VGK. Nice to have the airport shuttle. Price was reasonable for my budget. I stayed in the Cabana Suites, just across from the main building, restaurants and gambling floor but it was a safe and easy walk to all of that. I'd book it again.

This was my fourth stay at El Cortez and tower room still very nice. Comfortable bed, Clean room. All common areas clean. Check in staff has always been friendly. Love the vibe and location of this hotel. Newly remodeled casino is very nice. This is the only hotel I stay at when in Downtown Las Vegas.