The Best Hotels to Book in Laughlin, Nevada

Forgo the Las Vegas Strip 100mi (161km) north, and visit Harrah’s in Laughlin for all the gambling thrills with none of the hassle of the crowds in Sin City. The gang’s all here, with slots, table games, poker tournaments, a keno lounge and more. When you’re ready to fold, see a live show, or hit the private beach, two pools or spa. Don’t miss Guy Fieri’s El Burro Borracho for margaritas and Mexican fare.

Let’s run the numbers: 1,906 guest rooms, a 57,000sqft (5,295sqm) casino and more than 1,200 slot machines. It all adds up to the largest 24-hour gaming resort in Laughlin. At the Aquarius Casino Resort, you can see performers like Pitbull and Grand Funk Railroad and nosh on everything from panini and pizza to prime rib and pasta pomodoro. When you need a break from the action, step outside, where the riverwalk offers views of the Nevada desert and Colorado River.

Turn off your email and turn up at Tropicana Laughlin with a piña colada from beneath the shade of a private poolside cabana (complete with a refrigerator and a fan). If craft suds are more your speed, hit the Brews Brothers Tap House for ​​16 bar taps and pub favorites, such as wings and burgers. Like Harrah’s, this Caesars Entertainment property offers slots, table games and a sportsbook – there’s even bingo and the new Generation Fun 65+ program.

With Dunkin’ Donuts, Denny’s, Capriotti’s Sandwich Shop, a steakhouse and more on-site at Edgewater Hotel, Casino and Resort, you could just eat your weight in delicious treats your whole stay. But we suggest poking your head outside for views of the Colorado River or a soak in the outdoor hot tub before ducking back in to play the latest slots titles from IGT, Konami, Aristocrat, Aruze and Scientific Games.

With a name like Golden Nugget, you’re bound to win big. If you’re not high-rolling in the casino, where the games have won eight Best of Gaming awards from Casino Player magazine, you might get lucky in Rush Lounge, a cocktail bar built for mingling and listening to live music. Not a betting man? Book a river-view king room for tranquility with a side of waterfront views, then indulge in a porterhouse at Saltgrass Steak House.

If you ask us, the meandering, lagoon-style pool with two waterfalls and lush vegetation is the star of the show at Avi Resort and Casino – make sure to visit the Tiki Bar. But the Mojave Crossing Event Center – just across the river from the resort – steals the spotlight, featuring everything from rodeos and circuses to monster truck rallies. At the resort, inquire about the remodeled luxury rooms, which feature modern furnishings, USB outlets and LCD televisions.