The El Cortez casino is the complete opposite of the strip casinos. They have some great games -- and I think it's the best place in Vegas to play Blackjack. They only deal single and double deck games. No 6 or 8 deck shoes. They have low minimums -- as low as $3 or $5 all the time. Single deck blackjack pays 3:2 (single deck at most other places pays 6:5). They also have lots of full pay video poker machines. The atmosphere is pretty smoky, but this place is the way Vegas is supposed to be done.



The food and drinks in the restaurants and bars are very reasonably priced. They have invested a lot of money over the past few years renovating the rooms and although I've never stayed there, those who do rave about them. It's an excellent value.



I encourage you to support places like this, and keep them around! I have had some great experiences here, and look forward to going back.

This is Las Vegas as I remembered it in the 1950's.

Full pay video poker and great food specials make this a great place to go.

There is still a lot of smoke, but it is geting better.

Tower rooms are the same as those well touted rooms at the Orleans. Pavillion rooms are more basic but mine were all renovated and fine.



You can't beat the prices or the comps after a little play. I get 2 free rooms and can use them on weekends too and food coupons on very little play. It is a ways from Fremont but not that far and closer to the Deuce bus than many downtown casinos.



Best of all the gambling is the best in Vegas. $5 BJ single deck 3:2 - probably the only one left. Full pay video poker. And a unique live poker game that spreads 1-3 and then 1-6 on the river.



Jackie himself joins the game almost every afternoon with his classic, "One for the money!"

The El Cortez is a fantastic Las Vegas value. I've stayed there many times over the years. It has been remodeled in recent years. The tower rooms are really nice.



For an old time Las Vegas experience try one of the rooms above the casino. You can hear casino action but that's what Vegas is all about :)) I just love the place! It also has some great gaming!!