Let’s be honest, finding a decent hotel on the Las Vegas Strip without blowing your entire budget can feel like hunting for a unicorn. But that’s exactly why we booked a two night stay at Horseshoe Las Vegas. This hotel has gone through a few name changes and renovations over the years, and we wanted to see if it still delivers value in 2025.
We stayed in the cheapest room we could get, paid out of pocket, and checked out everything from the food to the Wi-Fi (spoiler: yikes). We explored the attractions, ate at the food hall, and even splurged on a steakhouse dinner. And we’re here to walk you through all of it.
If you’re a budget minded traveler who wants to be close to the action without dropping a fortune, you’re in the right place. In this post, we’ll cover the full Horseshoe Las Vegas experience; what’s great, what’s not, and who this place is really for.
Ready to see if it’s worth your money?
TL;DR: Horseshoe Las Vegas in 3 Quick Takeaways
Great location on the Strip next to Paris and across from Caesars—ideal for budget-minded travelers.
Room was just $24 for two nights, but resort fees and taxes brought the total to $129.14.
Dining is limited onsite, but good options are steps away. Don’t miss Ole Red or Jack Binion’s Steakhouse.
A Little History and a Prime Location
If Horseshoe Las Vegas looks familiar, that’s because it’s been around in one form or another for decades. When it first opened back in 1973, it was the original MGM Grand. With over 2,100 rooms, it was one of the biggest hotels in the world at the time.
Later, it became Bally’s. And now? It’s Horseshoe Las Vegas. Caesars gave the place a facelift and a new name in 2022 to tie in with its poker roots. Today, it’s home to the World Series of Poker and a nod to classic Vegas style.
But not all of its history is glamorous. In 1980, a fire at the then MGM Grand became one of the deadliest hotel fires in U.S. history. Tragically, 87 lives were lost. That tragedy sparked major safety reforms across the country, including better fire suppression systems and updated evacuation plans.
So Where Exactly Is Horseshoe?
Location wise, it doesn’t get much better. Horseshoe is smack in the center of the Strip. You’re right next to Paris Las Vegas, directly across from the Bellagio, and a short walk from Caesars Palace and The Cosmopolitan.
You’re steps away from major restaurants, nightlife, shopping, and entertainment. If you want to be in the heart of the action without paying a premium price, this spot delivers.
Want to see what’s nearby? Here’s a handy Strip map from the LV Monorail to help you get your bearings.
Arriving at Horseshoe Las Vegas
Pulling up to Horseshoe Las Vegas is pretty straightforward. If you’re getting dropped off by a taxi, shuttle, or rideshare, the main entrance is right off Flamingo Road. It’s the same spot where valet operates, and where you’ll find plenty of hustle and bustle.
But here’s a helpful tip: if you’re using a rideshare to leave the resort, the pickup area is not in the same spot. It’s actually around the corner from the main entrance. If you’re already inside the building, look for the exit doors across from the box office. That’ll point you in the right direction.
Parking and Costs
Driving your own car? You’ll find the self-parking garage shared between Horseshoe and Paris Las Vegas. Just follow the signs. There are EV charging stations available, too, which is a nice bonus.
Now let’s talk cost. Parking isn’t free unless you’re Platinum level or higher with Caesars Rewards. For everyone else, it’s $20 per day for self-parking, and $40 for valet, plus tip.
The downside? That garage sits between the two resorts. So, if you park there, be prepared for a bit of a walk to get to the check in desk.
The Check In Experience
Once you get inside, you’ll spot the front desk right away. It’s to the left of the main entrance. Sounds easy, right? Well, the process itself can be a mixed bag.
If you check in online ahead of time, you’ll get a QR code. You can use it at one of the self-service kiosks. That’s what I did, and from start to finish, it took about 30 minutes.
But not everyone had a smooth go. Caesars funnels all guests through the same line, pushing most toward the kiosks. If you’d rather talk to someone at the front desk, you still have to wait in that first line, then head to a second one.
Also, those kiosks are English only. In a city that welcomes international travelers every day, that’s a surprising and unfortunate oversight. During my visit, I saw several folks struggling to figure out the prompts, using their phones to translate or waving pieces of paper at confused agents. Some just gave up and went straight to the front desk line.
If Caesars wants this system to work, they really need to make it more accessible.
A Look Inside the Room
Once you’re checked in, it’s time to head up and see what kind of room you actually get. We booked the cheapest option available at Horseshoe Las Vegas. It’s called the One King Resort Room. First impressions? It’s roomy.
The layout is open and easy to move around in. There’s a large desk if you need to work, plus two comfy chairs that make a nice little sitting area. It feels more like a lounge than just a place to crash. That’s a nice bonus.
The décor has a bit of a throwback vibe. Lots of browns and reds, almost like a 1960s bachelor pad. It’s clean and updated, but still leans vintage more than modern. If you’re into that, it’ll feel cozy. If you’re not, it might feel a little bland.
Details That Matter
There’s a mini fridge. That’s not always guaranteed in Vegas hotel rooms, especially at budget friendly resorts. It doesn’t get super cold, though. Think of it more like a cooler than a fridge. It’ll keep drinks cool, but don’t expect ice cream to survive.
The bed is firm. No pillow top here. And oddly, only three pillows on a king bed. That felt a little stingy. We didn’t find any extras in the closet either.
Speaking of the closet, it’s spacious. Plenty of room for a couple of carry ons. You also get a safe, ironing board, and iron.
Now let’s talk about the bathroom. It’s surprisingly roomy, with a large mirror and strong lighting. You’ll find your basics like shampoo, conditioner, soap and a magnifying mirror. The vanity shows a little wear, but nothing major. The water pressure is solid, and the shower drains like it’s supposed to.
Cleanliness and Comfort
Here’s where it got a little weird. I noticed some straps sticking out from the chair cushions. Turns out the tops come off. Underneath? Crumbs. Crackers. Candy. It wasn’t gross enough to complain, but definitely something housekeeping missed. Keep an eye out if you’re a clean freak.
There were also a few scuff marks on the ceiling and doors. Nothing major, but if you’re the type who notices that stuff, you might find it a little sloppy.
The AC worked fine. The room stayed comfortable, even if we couldn’t quite get it down to 68 degrees. And if you like fresh air, good news: the window opens just a crack to let a little breeze in.
Final Thoughts on the Room
For what we paid, this room delivered. It wasn’t luxurious, but it was big, quiet, and had most of what we needed. If your trip to Vegas involves exploring the Strip more than lounging in your hotel, this setup works. Especially for budget minded travelers who still want to stay center Strip.
Next up, let’s check out what Horseshoe offers in terms of amenities and features outside the room.A Look Inside the Room
Once you’re checked in, it’s time to head up and see what kind of room you actually get. We booked the cheapest option available at Horseshoe Las Vegas. It’s called the One King Resort Room. First impressions? It’s roomy.
The layout is open and easy to move around in. There’s a large desk if you need to work, plus two comfy chairs that make a nice little sitting area. It feels more like a lounge than just a place to crash. That’s a nice bonus.
The décor has a bit of a throwback vibe. Lots of browns and reds, almost like a 1960s bachelor pad. It’s clean and updated, but still leans vintage more than modern. If you’re into that, it’ll feel cozy. If you’re not, it might feel a little bland.
Details That Matter
There’s a mini fridge. That’s not always guaranteed in Vegas hotel rooms, especially at budget friendly resorts. It doesn’t get super cold, though. Think of it more like a cooler than a fridge. It’ll keep drinks cool, but don’t expect ice cream to survive.
The bed is firm. No pillow top here. And oddly, only three pillows on a king bed. That felt a little stingy. We didn’t find any extras in the closet either.
Speaking of the closet, it’s spacious. Plenty of room for a couple of carry ons. You also get a safe, ironing board, and iron.
Now let’s talk about the bathroom. It’s surprisingly roomy, with a large mirror and strong lighting. You’ll find your basics, shampoo, conditioner, soap and a magnifying mirror. The vanity shows a little wear, but nothing major. The water pressure is solid, and the shower drains like it’s supposed to.
Cleanliness and Comfort
Here’s where it got a little weird. I noticed some straps sticking out from the chair cushions. Turns out the tops come off. Underneath? Crumbs. Crackers. Candy. It wasn’t gross enough to complain, but definitely something housekeeping missed. Keep an eye out if you’re a clean freak.
There were also a few scuff marks on the ceiling and doors. Nothing major, but if you’re the type who notices that stuff, you might find it a little sloppy.
The AC worked fine. The room stayed comfortable, even if we couldn’t quite get it down to the 68 degrees I set it to. And if you like fresh air, good news: the window opens just a crack to let a little breeze in.
Final Thoughts on the Room
For what we paid, this room delivered. It wasn’t luxurious, but it was big, quiet, and had most of what we needed. If your trip to Vegas involves exploring the Strip more than lounging in your hotel, this setup works. Especially for budget minded travelers who still want to stay center Strip.
Exploring the Layout and Amenities
The layout at Horseshoe Las Vegas is simple. That’s a good thing. Once you walk in, you’re on the casino floor. It’s one big room. Everything else branches off from there.
At the back of the casino, you’ll find a set of escalators. These take you down to what the resort calls the “mall level.” We called it the basement. And honestly, it feels a bit forgotten. While the main areas upstairs got a refresh, this space looks like it missed the memo.
But don’t write it off just yet. This is where you’ll find several useful spots.
What’s Downstairs?
There’s a food hall, a few shops, the monorail station, and the fitness center. Somewhere down there is also the pool. We didn’t see it. Doesn’t really matter, though. It was closed during our visit. Pool season in Vegas usually runs from March through October. We were there in winter.
The fitness center, on the other hand, was open. It’s located deep in the back of the lower level. You’ll get a bit of a walk, but once inside, it’s solid. Treadmills, free weights, and a few machines. Enough to keep your routine going, if that’s part of your trip.
Need a spa day? Horseshoe doesn’t have one. But the good news is, you can walk right over to Paris Las Vegas next door. Their spa is open to Horseshoe guests. That’s a nice perk, especially if you’re already over that way for dinner or shopping.
More Than Just a Casino
One bonus of the Horseshoe’s layout is how compact it feels. If you’ve ever stayed at a mega resort and walked ten minutes just to grab a coffee, you’ll appreciate this. Here, you can get from your room to dining or the casino floor in no time.
The downside? You’ll feel that lack of grandeur. If you’re looking for a resort experience with lush pools, expansive lounges, or high end lobbies, this isn’t that. But if you want convenience and function without the fluff, Horseshoe delivers.
Dining at Horseshoe: Quick Bites to Steakhouse Nights
When it comes to Horseshoe Las Vegas restaurants, the options are surprisingly limited. If you’re expecting a long list of sit down dining spots, this might catch you off guard. Your main two choices inside the resort are Jack Binion’s Steakhouse and Guy Fieri’s Flavortown Sports Kitchen.
That’s it for full service restaurants on site.
Otherwise, you’re headed to the Horseshoe Food Hall for quick service, or stepping outside to the Grand Bazaar Shops or next door to Paris Las Vegas.
Let’s break down a few of the dining experiences we tried, including value insights.
Jack Binion’s Steakhouse: Classic and Elegant
Jack Binion’s Steakhouse is Horseshoe’s signature dining spot. If you’re looking for a classic Vegas steakhouse with a vintage vibe, this checks the box. It’s dark and cozy, with plush leather booths, a curated wine wall, and an old school big band soundtrack playing in the background.
We shared the 8 oz Wagyu rib cap, Oscar style. The steak was incredibly tender and topped with a generous pile of crab. The Oscar sauce added a smooth, buttery richness without overpowering the meat. It felt like a special occasion meal.
We also ordered the Parmesan Crusted Brussels Sprouts, crispy and drizzled with a tangy vinaigrette and hand cut frites, which had a great texture and salty finish. Our server was attentive and checked every dish for allergy safety, which was a huge plus.
Total cost? Not budget dining. The steak alone was over $100. But the portions were generous and shareable, which helped us justify the splurge. It’s a great choice if you’re celebrating or want a quieter, upscale meal.
Ole Red Las Vegas: Views, Vibes, and Bold Flavors
Ole Red Las Vegas, just outside in the Grand Bazaar Shops, is Blake Shelton’s multi level country bar and restaurant. It’s lively, packed with music, and has great rooftop views of the Bellagio fountains.
We ordered the Cajun chicken sandwich, which had some real heat. The avocado smash and slaw helped cool it down, and the thick cut bacon added great texture. The sandwich was massive. Easily shareable. We paired it with tater tots, which were crispy on the outside but dense inside. Next time, we’d go with fries.
The full meal ran us about $25. Not cheap, but with shareable portions and that rooftop view? It felt like a solid deal. Plus, there’s live music downstairs most nights. Just know it gets loud, so maybe not ideal for date night conversations.
Wing Zone: Fast, Familiar, and Just Okay
Located downstairs in the food hall, Wing Zone gives off strong mall food court vibes. That’s not a complaint. Sometimes you just want wings and a soda without fuss.
We ordered eight bone in garlic parmesan wings for $16.95 and added a fountain drink for $4.95. Total was $23.73. The wings were meaty, the sauce was creamy with a light tang, and everything was hot and fresh.
But make no mistake, you’re paying Strip prices here. These wings cost more than what you’d pay off Strip or at a regular Wing Zone location. Still, the convenience of not leaving the resort made it worth it in a pinch.
Mon Ami Gabi: Worth the Walk
We walked over to Paris Las Vegas for dinner at Mon Ami Gabi, and it was one of the highlights of our stay. This French inspired bistro is popular for a reason.
We sat outside with heaters keeping things warm, and watched the Bellagio fountains from our table. That view alone was worth the walk.
Dinner included a half chicken, crispy and buttery, served with hand cut fries and garlic spinach. The chicken didn’t come with the usual mushroom sauce, but the side of garlic, bacon, and onions helped amp up the flavor. The fries were super crispy, and the spinach was soft, salty, and rich with garlic.
We ended with a deconstructed bananas foster crepe, just vanilla ice cream and sauce on the side, made gluten free by request. Sweet, slightly bitter, and completely delicious.
For travelers with dietary needs, this place was accommodating and friendly. The menu is French inspired but varied enough to find something for almost everyone.
If you’re staying at the Horseshoe, you’ll probably eat at least one meal on property. But you’re also a short walk from Paris, Bellagio, and the rest of the Strip’s restaurant scene. And that makes it easy to mix high end dining with quick, casual bites, whatever your budget and appetite call for.
Shopping at Horseshoe: What to Expect and Where to Go Instead
If you’re heading to Horseshoe Las Vegas with dreams of boutique shopping, you’ll want to adjust your expectations. Retail isn’t a big draw here. The shopping is limited and leans more toward souvenirs and snacks than high end fashion or luxury gifts.
Inside the resort, you’ll find the basics. A couple of small souvenir shops, a convenience store or two, and not much else. Step outside to the Grand Bazaar Shops, and things get more lively, but still not very retail focused.
Grand Bazaar Shops: More Food Than Finds
The Grand Bazaar Shops might sound like a shopper’s dream, but in reality, it’s mostly bars and food counters. If you’re looking for tacos, burgers, or a daiquiri, you’re in the right place. But if you’re hunting for clothing or unique gifts, the pickings are slim.
That said, there are a few stores worth popping into. There’s a Sunglass Hut, an NFL Raiders store for sports fans, and It’Sugar, a whimsical candy shop that’s fun to browse. Not exactly a retail paradise, but fun for a quick walk through.
The Real MVP: CVS
Here’s a tip that’ll save you time and money. Just outside the Grand Bazaar is a CVS, and it’s a lifesaver. Bottled water, snacks, toiletries, and even some groceries. It’s cheaper than buying the same stuff in the casino shops.
And here’s another bonus: there’s a real bank ATM inside. That means you can avoid the outrageous fees you’ll find at casino ATMs. If you need cash or travel size shampoo, this is your spot.
Want More? Take a Short Walk
If you want a better shopping experience, walk next door to Paris Las Vegas. There you’ll find more boutique style stores with a bit more variety. Looking for upscale? Bellagio is right across the street with its designer shops and elegant window displays.
You’re also within walking distance of Caesars Palace’s Forum Shops and The Shops at Crystals, both packed with luxury brands and big name designers.
In short, Horseshoe Las Vegas won’t win any awards for retail therapy. But its central location makes it easy to reach the good stuff without needing a taxi or rideshare. If you just need sunscreen or a Vegas themed t-shirt, stick to the basics here. But for anything more, plan a short walk and go exploring.
Entertainment at Horseshoe: From Poker to Potter
If you’re staying at Horseshoe Las Vegas and wondering what there is to do besides gamble, good news—there’s actually a lot packed into this spot. It might not have the flashiest nightlife or the biggest shows on the Strip, but it holds its own with some fun, quirky entertainment options.
The Show Lineup: Small Venues, Big Personality
First up, the entertainment venues here are on the smaller side. That can actually be a good thing. The theaters are more intimate, which means no bad seats in the house.
Potted Potter is a great example. It’s a two man parody that covers all seven Harry Potter books in just over an hour. The theater is tiny, just four rows of chairs, and that cozy space really adds to the experience. If you’re a fan of the books or movies, you’ll catch every joke. If not, you might feel a little lost, but you’ll still enjoy the energy and improv.
Then there’s Paranormal: Mind Reading Magic. It’s one of those shows that makes you sit back and wonder, “Wait, how did they do that?” If you like mentalism, audience participation, and a little Vegas style flair, this is worth checking out.
And for something louder, you’ve got BattleBots. Yes, actual robots battling it out live, just like on TV. Great for fans of tech, action, or anyone who wants something completely different.
If you’re looking for something a bit more risqué, X Rocks brings together burlesque and hard rock. It’s high energy, adult only, and classic Vegas.
Attractions for All Ages
Beyond the shows, Horseshoe has a few walk in attractions that are easy to fit into your day.
There’s Twilight Zone Mini Golf, a glow in the dark course with lots of theming and humor. It’s silly and fun, perfect if you want a break from the casino.
Families might like Dino Safari, an interactive dinosaur exhibit with life size creatures and educational displays. Definitely more kid friendly, but even grown ups can appreciate the scale and detail.
There’s also an arcade, and it’s surprisingly decent. You’ll find everything from old school games to newer machines, so if you need a break from the tables, it’s a fun option.
What It’s Missing
Now, if you’re hoping for headline residencies or big musical acts, this isn’t the place. Horseshoe keeps things smaller and a bit more offbeat. But that can be a perk, especially if you don’t love huge crowds or waiting in line just to get a seat.
It’s worth checking for discounted tickets to shows like Potted Potter or BattleBots through trusted vendors like Vegas.com, especially if you’re visiting midweek.
So if you’re into quirky fun, magic, or just looking to kill a couple hours without spending a fortune, Horseshoe’s entertainment lineup might just surprise you.
Bars at Horseshoe Las Vegas: Chill Sips and Curious Cocktails
Horseshoe Las Vegas doesn’t try to compete with the wild club scene of its neighbors. You won’t find thumping bass, velvet ropes, or packed dance floors here. But if you’re into casual lounges, creative cocktails, and places where you can actually hear your friends talk, this resort has some gems.
A Bar for Every Vibe
Let’s start at the front. The Lobby Bar is the largest bar in the resort and it’s open and lively. It has a sleek modern design and tons of seating. It’s also right by the entrance, so it makes a great pit stop if you’re heading in or out for the night.
If you’re craving something low key, Indigo Lounge is tucked toward the back. It’s not fancy, but it’s quiet. They occasionally offer live music, so keep an eye out for scheduled performances. Most nights, though, it’s a calm place to unwind.
Feeling playful? Head to the Arcade Bar, located right next to the actual arcade. It leans casual, with a fun, relaxed energy. Whether you’re wrapping up a round of games or just grabbing a drink on the go, it’s a lighthearted spot.
A Hidden Highlight: The Cabinet of Curiosities Lounge
Now for the standout. The Cabinet of Curiosities Lounge is a cozy, tucked away bar that feels like a secret. The décor is packed with vintage trinkets and mysterious items, each with a backstory you can discover by scanning QR codes.
They offer daily happy hour from 1 to 4 PM, and a reverse happy hour from 10 PM to close, featuring $12 cocktails. Not a bad deal for a bar on the Strip.
I had a drink recommended by John, one of the bartenders there. His Italian Old Fashioned was smooth and sweet, with just enough kick to make it interesting. It’s the kind of drink you want to sip slowly while taking in the atmosphere.
The vibe? Dim lighting, comfy seating, and soft music. Perfect for chatting or relaxing after a long day.
Want Something More?
If you’re looking for nightlife with a little more energy, just head outside. Ole Red, Blake Shelton’s country bar, sits right in front of the resort and offers live music every night. And the soon to open Bottled Blonde promises more food, drinks, and rooftop vibes.
Of course, being center Strip means you’re within walking distance of big name clubs and venues. Caesars Palace, Bellagio, and Paris Las Vegas are all right there.
So even though Horseshoe doesn’t go all in on nightlife, you’re never far from something exciting. And if you just want a solid cocktail and a comfy seat, it delivers exactly that.
So, Is It Worth It? Our Final Thoughts
Let’s get to what most folks really want to know. Was Horseshoe Las Vegas worth the price?
We stayed for two nights, from Sunday to Tuesday. The total room cost was just $24. That’s not a typo. Add in the resort fee, which was $89.90 for the stay, and $15.24 in taxes, and the grand total came to $129.14 for two nights.
That works out to about $64.57 per night for a hotel smack in the middle of the Strip.
The Best Fit: Budget Travelers Who Prioritize Location
This is where the Horseshoe Las Vegas value really shines. If you’re someone who spends more time exploring than lounging around the hotel, this might be your spot. It’s ideal for folks who want the Las Vegas Strip experience without blowing their entire trip budget on lodging.
You’re just steps from Paris, across the street from Bellagio and Caesars Palace, and walking distance to nearly everything else. For convenience alone, it punches well above its price tag.
Honest Pros and Cons
Let’s break it down.
Pros:
- Unbeatable central location
- Incredibly affordable room rates (especially with Caesars Rewards deals)
- Clean, comfortable, and spacious rooms
- Decent dining and bar options on site and nearby
- Easy access to attractions and entertainment
Cons:
- Wi-Fi was unreliable and frustrating
- Some areas of the hotel feel outdated
- Limited sit down dining compared to neighboring resorts
- Long check in lines, especially at peak times
If you’re a remote worker or someone who needs strong internet, the Wi-Fi issues could be a dealbreaker. In our case, one of us had to leave the property to work elsewhere. So keep that in mind if connectivity is critical for your stay.
But if you just want a clean, centrally located place to sleep, shower, and recharge between adventures, this is one of the best cheap Vegas hotels on the Strip.
We’d love to hear your thoughts. Have you stayed at Horseshoe Las Vegas? Planning to? Drop your questions or experiences in the comments below.
And if you’re hotel hopping or doing some Vegas research, be sure to check out our other reviews of Las Vegas hotels. You might just find your next favorite spot.
Until next time, cheers friends.
F.A.Q.
Is Horseshoe Las Vegas a good budget hotel?
Yes. Horseshoe Las Vegas is a solid choice for budget travelers who prioritize location over luxury. It’s centrally located on the Strip and offers affordable room rates, especially for Caesars Rewards members.
How much are the resort fees at Horseshoe Las Vegas?
As of 2025, the resort fee is $44.95 per night, plus tax, totaling $89.90 for a two-night stay.
What dining options are available at Horseshoe Las Vegas?
Dining includes Jack Binion’s Steakhouse, Guy Fieri’s Flavortown Sports Kitchen, quick-service options in the food hall, and access to nearby restaurants like Mon Ami Gabi at Paris Las Vegas.
Is the Horseshoe Las Vegas in a good location?
Absolutely. Horseshoe sits right in the heart of the Strip, next to Paris and across from Caesars Palace and Bellagio. It’s walkable to many shows, casinos, and restaurants.
Does Horseshoe Las Vegas have free parking?
Parking is not free unless you are a Caesars Rewards Platinum member or higher. Otherwise, it’s $20–$25 per day. Valet is $40/day plus tip.
How is the Wi-Fi at Horseshoe Las Vegas?
Wi-Fi can be unreliable, especially in rooms. One of us had to leave the hotel to get work done. It’s not ideal for remote workers.
Are there any live shows at Horseshoe Las Vegas?
Yes. Horseshoe hosts unique shows like Potted Potter, BattleBots, Paranormal, and X Rocks. Most shows are located on the lower level, near the box office.
