* I have NOT stayed at any of these Las Vegas Strip Hotels, but I have lived here long enough to know which Las Vegas Hotels consistently have the lowest ratings. I started looking for 5 non-stellar establishments most people want to avoid then I expanded the lists some. The good news is THE STRIP is prime property so the bad hotels or run down or worn out or whatever you choose to call them Hotels eventually get remodeled or completely rebuilt. YMMV

Sometimes its as important knowing where not to stay as it is where to stay. Sadly Vegas sites are all about the PROMOTION of properties and you have to dig a bit to find the downside. Now just because a Hotel gets a few dozen or a few hundred bad reviews doesn’t mean it is not a good “value” depending on the needs and budget of a family.

But in order to avoid disappointment (Every Hotel has a wonderful website extolling the virtues of their properties) you’ll have to do a bit of review investigating. And these Hotel manage to stay in business year after year . The point of this list is to SET YOUR EXPECTATIONS. So before booking at these properties make sure you check them thoroughly and READ THE Reviews on Google, Yelp, and TripAdvisor. The glass really is half empty sometimes.

These are the 5 hotels on the Las Vegas Strip with the worst reputations:

  1. Stratosphere Hotel, Casino & Tower: The Stratosphere is one of the oldest hotels on the Strip, and it shows. The rooms are dated and in need of renovation, and the casino is small and smoky. The hotel is also located at the northern end of the Strip, which is far from most of the action. In all fairness (The Stratosphere is now named the “Stat” and they have dumped millions into renovations. So it’s better than it was It’s major problem is it is so far North that you have to do a lot of walking or driving to get to other Hotels.
  2. Circus Circus Hotel & Casino: Circus Circus is a family-friendly hotel, but it’s also known for its rundown condition and its large number of budget-minded guests. The rooms are small and basic, and the casino is crowded and noisy. The hotel is also located at the northern end of the Strip, which is far from most of the action.
  3. Excalibur Hotel & Casino: Excalibur is another family-friendly hotel on the Strip, but it’s also known for its dated décor and its large number of budget-minded guests. The rooms are small and basic, and the casino is crowded and noisy. The hotel is also located at the southern end of the Strip, which is far from most of the action.
  4. Tropicana Las Vegas: Tropicana is a mid-range hotel on the Strip that has been in decline in recent years. The rooms are in need of renovation, and the casino is small and dated. The hotel is also located at the southern end of the Strip, which is far from most of the action.
  5. Flamingo Las Vegas: Flamingo is a mid-range hotel on the Strip that is known for its large pool and its iconic wildlife habitat. However, the rooms are in need of renovation, and the casino is crowded and noisy. The hotel is also located at the center of the Strip, which can be overwhelming for some guests.

If you have stayed at one of these Hotels and your opinion differs let me know in the Comments Section Below.

I am just the messenger a bad hotel is a bad hotel unless it’s not, You get to decide.

Here is an UPDATE as of November 2024. A few more for Good (Bad?) Measure

While the Las Vegas Strip is home to many iconic and high-end hotels, there are a few older properties that have struggled with upkeep or have received mixed reviews due to outdated facilities, lower-quality service, or a less-than-ideal atmosphere. Here are some hotels on the Strip that are often considered run-down or not the best choices for travelers seeking a more modern or luxurious experience:

1. The Stratosphere (now The STRAT Hotel, Casino & SkyPod)

  • Why it’s considered run-down: While the Stratosphere has a unique appeal due to its height and views, the hotel itself has received criticism for being dated and lacking modern amenities. The rooms can feel old, and the overall property isn’t as polished as other Vegas resorts. Some travelers have also mentioned the location being a bit farther from the heart of the Strip, making it feel less connected to the action.
  • Upgrade: The hotel has undergone some renovations, but it’s still viewed as more of a budget option compared to newer, more luxurious resorts.

2. Circus Circus

  • Why it’s considered run-down: Circus Circus has a reputation for being a budget option, and many of its rooms and facilities reflect that. The overall feel of the hotel can be outdated, and the property lacks the high-end amenities found at more expensive resorts. The casino area, although popular with families due to the arcade and circus performances, can feel cluttered and old-fashioned.
  • Upgrade: The hotel has made some improvements over the years, but it remains one of the more basic and less glamorous choices on the Strip.

3. The Riviera (now closed and replaced by the Fontainebleau)

  • Why it’s considered run-down: The Riviera was once a popular hotel, but by the time it closed in 2015, it had become outdated and was showing significant signs of wear and tear. The property was known for its dated decor, aging facilities, and lack of major renovations. The Riviera was eventually demolished, and a new luxury hotel (Fontainebleau) is being built in its place.
  • Upgrade: The closure of the Riviera has made way for a more modern and upscale development, which should offer a better experience once completed.

4. Tropicana Las Vegas

  • Why it’s considered run-down: The Tropicana has been around for decades and while it has received some updates over the years, parts of the hotel feel old and the overall vibe can seem a little tired. It tends to cater to a more budget-conscious crowd, and some guests report issues with cleanliness or the quality of service. While it’s located on a prime part of the Strip, it’s not as well-maintained as some of the newer or higher-end properties.
  • Upgrade: There have been renovations to the pool area and some of the rooms, but many areas still feel a little behind the times.

5. Excalibur

  • Why it’s considered run-down: Excalibur is a themed hotel that appeals to families, but it can feel a bit tired and overly kitschy for those seeking a more upscale or contemporary experience. The hotel is older, and some rooms show significant signs of wear. While the price point is often affordable, the overall condition of the property can make it seem like it’s in need of significant updates.
  • Upgrade: Though Excalibur has made some updates, particularly to its pools and common areas, it remains less luxurious than other hotels on the Strip.

6. Luxor

  • Why it’s considered run-down: The Luxor’s iconic pyramid structure is still a draw, but the hotel itself is showing its age. Many rooms are outdated, and some guests have reported issues with cleanliness and maintenance. The location is somewhat isolated compared to other Strip resorts, which can make it feel like it’s less connected to the action. The decor, while once cutting-edge, is starting to feel dated.
  • Upgrade: The hotel has attempted renovations over the years, but it’s still considered one of the more budget-friendly options on the Strip with fewer modern touches.

7. Monte Carlo (now Park MGM)

  • Why it’s considered run-down: Before its transformation into Park MGM, the Monte Carlo was often seen as a more middle-tier hotel, lacking the glitz and glamour of its competitors. The Monte Carlo had a reputation for being a little tired, with rooms and facilities that felt worn out. However, the property was completely renovated and rebranded as Park MGM, which has brought a more modern, upscale experience to the site.
  • Upgrade: If you are considering this location, the newer Park MGM is an improvement, offering more contemporary accommodations and dining options.

8. Bally’s Las Vegas (now Horseshoe Las Vegas)

  • Why it’s considered run-down: Bally’s was once a well-regarded property, but over time, it has suffered from a lack of major updates. Some of its rooms are known to be outdated, and guests have reported a lack of attention to detail in terms of cleanliness and service. The casino area also feels a little stuck in the past.
  • Upgrade: Bally’s was rebranded as Horseshoe Las Vegas, which brought some improvements, but the property may still feel like it’s not quite on par with newer developments.

9. Planet Hollywood

  • Why it’s considered run-down: While Planet Hollywood offers a vibrant atmosphere with its connection to pop culture, the rooms and overall hotel experience are seen as outdated by some. The property was originally a themed hotel and has not seen as much renovation as other nearby properties. Some guests report issues with room cleanliness and maintenance, making it feel less polished than newer hotels.
  • Upgrade: Some areas have been updated, but it still lags behind more modern Strip properties.

Things to Keep in Mind:

  • Location: Some of the older, less-maintained hotels are located further down the Strip, making them feel a bit more disconnected from the action.
  • Budget Option: While these properties can be more affordable, they may not offer the level of comfort, luxury, or modern amenities you’d expect from higher-end resorts.
  • Renovation Status: Many older properties are in the midst of renovations, so the state of the hotel can change over time.

If you’re looking for a more modern and well-maintained hotel, some of the newer and updated properties to consider include The Cosmopolitan, Aria, Caesars Palace, Wynn Las Vegas, and Bellagio, which offer a more luxurious experience and are generally in better condition. Generally 😉