The Orleans Hotel & Casino

In a city known for its themed hotels, The Orleans Hotel & Casino doesn’t turn heads. Its brightly colored, French quarter-inspired exterior is simply part of the scenery. Inside, there’s no formal lobby or reception space, just a Mardi Gras masked reception desk adjacent to the casino floor. The property’s gaming space sprawls in all directions, where New Orleans themed decor pops up from time to time. A multi-faced joker hangs from the ceiling above the table games, while giant bayou gators play saxophones near the slots. The theme is kitschy, and totally Vegas, but if you’re looking for something as exotic as the Paris or the Venetian, you won’t find it here. The focus at the Orleans is gaming, and the hotel’s no-fuss atmosphere attracts tourists and locals alike. While Vegas hotels aren’t known for family friendliness, The Orleans has plenty of entertainment for kids and teens, including a bowling alley, movie theater, and an arcade. 

The Orleans is located on West Tropicana Avenue, about a 10-minute drive (35-minute walk) from the bustling Strip. There's little of interest in the immediate surrounds, though some fast-food joints and gas stations are within walking distance. McCarran International Airport is a 15-minute drive from the property. 

Rooms aren’t the main attraction at The Orleans. The decor is dated and drab, though the New Orleans theme is slightly hinted at with framed stock photos of the French Quarter and jazz instruments. On the plus side, they're well-sized and sufficient amenities consist of work desks, flat-screen TVs, single-cup coffeemakers, and free Wi-Fi. Mini-fridges are only available to rent. Rooms feature one king or two queen-size beds, as well as small seating areas with loveseats and armchairs. Basic bathrooms have shower/tub combos, hairdryers, free toiletries. Ironing equipment is also provided. 

Suites are considerably larger than rooms and have fresh, updated decor. Light-gray walls and sleek furniture give suites a modern feel that’s substantially nicer than the standard rooms. One- and two-bedroom suites have large separate living spaces with kitchenettes, and contemporary bathrooms with glass-enclosed showers.  

Gaming is the main attraction at The Orleans. This is not a Vegas hotel that attracts travelers with great dining or fun nightlife. Instead, its 24-hour casino is the draw for locals and tourists. All of the other on-site amenities are secondary. The casino has 2,600 slots, over 60 table games, a 35-table poker room, and a 60-seat Keno lounge. Plus, as a Boydgaming property, regular visitors can sign up for Boydgaming perks and loyalty programs that are valid at nearly 30 Vegas properties. 

Hotel guests have exclusive access to The Orleans’ pool, spa, and fitness center. The big, seasonal outdoor pool is surrounded by lounge chairs and umbrellas and has several separate hot tubs. An outdoor bar serves snacks and drinks throughout the day. The spa is small and feels somewhat clinical, but its popular with hotel guests seeking massages or facials. An adjacent fitness center has a good range of modern cardio and weight-training equipment.

The Orleans has 15 dining venues, ranging from upscale restaurants to fast-food spots. Alder & Birch and The Prime Rib Loft are the hotel’s fine-dining restaurants, both of which are steakhouse restaurants with menus that feature prime meats and seafood. Casual dining options include an Irish pub, Asian-fusion eatery, an all-day buffet, and an oyster bar. There’s also a T.G.I. Friday’s. A food court features outlets with coffee, subs, ice cream, pizza, and burgers. 

For kids and families, there are tons of entertainment options, including an 18-theater cinema, arcade, and bowling alley. There are also an indoor, multi-level jungle gym and play space called Kid’s Tyme. However, all of these entertainment outlets incur extra charges. 

Like all Vegas hotels, smoking is allowed inside of the casino, so the smokey smell tends to linger in places where it’s unwanted, like the restaurants, entertainment venues, and even some rooms. Guests can expect long lines for check-in and check-out, though this is another common problem at all Vegas properties. Wi-Fi is free for all hotel guests.