Trying something different on my next Vegas trip

I just booked my July 2013 trip to Las Vegas. This is my 16th trip to Vegas, but will be my first time not staying on the Strip. Decided to do something different and stay downtown at the Golden Nugget. From what I have seen on visits to the GN and from what I've read on these posts, I think I made a good decision.

I think that you made a great decision!

We don't stay on the strip if we can help it. I much prefer to stay at "locals" type casinos where I get more play for my money. I have stayed downtown at the Plaza, and we had a great time. Have a great time and please post a trip report.

In the last 80 trips or so, I can count on one hand the number of times I've stayed on the strip (and that was when Venetian was being generous). You won't regret the decision and next time you may even venture out further to some of the other locals.

F*** the Strip. Lousy paying slots, overpriced food, crowds, obnoxious people, timeshare vultures and more.

I love staying at the Nugget. Downtown in general is fun. I never play slots so I don't care about downtown machines being looser. I do miss the old Binions and the Pioneer Club. I also liked LVC when Mel owned it.

In April I'm going with someone who has never been to Vegas and she wants to stay on the strip so that's where we're staying. But you'll love staying downtown.

I concur with everyone above. Haven't stayed on the strip for 10+ years. Have never regretted it once.
Strip = rip off ! Too many other great choices.

Yes, downtown is an excellent alternative to the Strip with its better deals on hotel rooms, food, and gambling. If you decide to go farther afield, my personal recommendations would be either Red Rock or Green Valley Ranch. I enjoyed Orleans as well, and I think South Point would be fun even though I've never stayed there.

You will enjoy the change of pace. DT is in the middle of one hell of an upsurge. There is always a ton of stuff going on.

Check out the 3rd Street District, the Mob Museum, Downtown Cocktail Room, and lots of other fun stuff.

Have fun and win big!

Hi,
The last hotel I stayed at on the Strip was Bill's Gambling Hall several years ago (I'm pretty sure my room was haunted).
I really enjoyed that place, but now it is closed up.
I always rent a car now and stay at Silverton (I love this hotel/casino), Orleans and either Red Rock or Green Valley Ranch. Lately, Stations Casinos has stopped sending me offers. So for my late May to early June trip I'm going to stay at Silverton, Orleans and the M Resort. All three of these properties send me free room offers.
I prefer staying off the Strip. In fact, sometimes I don't visit the Strip at all. I drive out to Boulder City, explore Red Rock Canyon and shop at the Sunset Galleria. I usually go to the Springs Preserve and then visit many of the locals casinos.
For off the Strip dining, I always try to have a combination pan roast at the Palace Station Oyster Bar, chile rellenos at Bonito Michoacan, the weekday lunch buffet at the M Resort and the California Benedict at the Black Bear Diner.
Aloha,
Jennifer