Most people visit the modern Vegas strip and never catch a glimpse of the original Fremont Street that started it all, and they’re missing out. History buffs, retro-lovers, and casino players alike will fall in love with a vintage-inspired vacation Old Vegas style.
Where to Stay
The Golden Gate is the oldest casino hotel in Vegas dating back to 1906 when the population was only 800 people. It has since been modernized boasting sleek penthouses and suites, but there are still 10 original rooms that have housed ranchers, mobsters, and starlets.
The Golden Gate installed the first telephone in Vegas in 1907, displayed one of the first neon signs in 1927, hosted the iconic Rat Pack in 1964, and in 2010, the biggest roulette bet in history was made. The casino has table games, slot machines, and hidden speakeasy-style high-limit rooms that you have to find before you can enter.
Where to Play
The El Cortez is the longest continually operating casino in Vegas, running since 1941 and formerly owned by infamous gangsters Meyer Lansky, Bugsy Siegal, Moe Sedway, and Gus Greenbaum. Play like they did in the good ole days with table games, a high-limit room, a full race and sports book, and original coin slot machines.
Where to Eat
The Golden Steer Steakhouse is the epitome of old-time Vegas with booths named after the famous stars who graced them including Elvis, Frank Sinatra, Mario Andretti, Natalie Wood, and Joe DiMaggio. It feels like stepping back in time with dark wood paneling, intimate lighting, red leather, and tuxedoed waiters.
The restaurant is famous for its Caesar salad, banana foster, and its pristine cuts of prime beef. In 2009, Golden Steer received the “Best Steaks on Earth” title from Bon Appetit Magazine.
What to See
Feast your eyes on the illuminating past of Vegas’ iconic signs at the Neon Boneyard. Nighttime tours are the best way to see these iconic signs from famed haunts such as Sahara, Sassy Sally’s, and Stardust. A guide will take you through the maze of glass and metal at the Neon Museum with stories of local lore.
Practice Before You Go
If you’re new to gambling or not, experts advise practicing before a trip to Vegas. Players can find thousands of exciting slots and games to choose from online, some with a nod to Las Vegas including Vegas Nights, Vegas Stacks, and Vegas Magic. If you’re more of a card player, other online games to practice are Grand Baccarat, Live Poker Lobby, and Quantum Blackjack Plus. Players who love to spin can also find online roulette games such as Speed Roulette and French Roulette.
Once in Vegas, there are a few tips to consider. Dollar machines have better odds than nickel ones and the higher paying machines are usually hidden in the back. Overall, better odds for players happen at the card table, but remember to always play by the rules and learn how to read other players.
Final Thoughts
Old Las Vegas offers a unique vacation to step into the past and live out your retro fantasies, so gather your best mates and start planning – Sin City is calling!
