Check out the Gold Spike

They've really cleaned this place up. They've got a $10 free play for new signups. The VP selection is no better than avg., but no worse. I keep forgetting to check out the table games myself, but others like them.
It is no longer the uncomfortable hole it used to be.

My big gripe is that collecting ANYTHING requires a hand pay, but the attendant said she thinks they are moving to TITO (and they are small enough that hand pays are quick).

The casino renovation was completed about 2 years ago

Stayed there last year on the $7.77 deal. The room had some nice touches, nice duvet, Ipod dock, etc. But security is a total issue here, our room was unlocked(and slightly open) when first arrived, and we watched a tweaker talk to no one on the public phone in the casino for almost an hour. That we had to sign a document saying we would not deal or do drugs in the room should have been a tip off. Bottom line is this is a great deal at $7.77, but only for like a guys trip, don't bring a girl here, and girls travelling alone should totally avoid the place.

I think you have to sign a similar drug disclosure form at Wynn/Encore also. You can't be too carefull these days.

Good Luck!
Ric at Joes

I only once ventured into the Gold Strike and it was during the renovation about a year ago. It is a little frightening to walk to, but once I got there, I hit a small jackpot and was quickly handpaid for it. It's nice enough and might try it again. I would not, however, stay in a room here. Too dicey of a neighborhood.

I stay at the El Cortez Cabana Suites and it's close by. Course, that place has plenty of security.