During your vacation, it really depends on what you are seeking when it comes to the comparison between Fremont Street and downtown Las Vegas with the Las Vegas Strip. Las Vegas tourists often pose this question, trying to weigh the pros and cons of each option. The answer, however, is not a simple one. It all boils down to personal preferences and the specific experiences one desires.
The heart of downtown Las Vegas, Fremont Street Experience, serves as a prominent attraction for tourists. It boasts an array of entertainment options, including the mesmerizing Viva Vision light show that illuminates the expansive canopy above. Along this vibrant street, one can also find a collection of the city's oldest casinos, steeped in history and offering a taste of vintage Las Vegas.
The Strip in Las Vegas hosts some of the biggest resorts worldwide, with a majority of the city's lavish casinos located there.
Drawing a comparison between casinos located in downtown Las Vegas and those on the Las Vegas Strip.
In and around the Fremont Street Experience, you'll come across smaller casinos compared to the grandeur of the Las Vegas Strip. But here's the thing, the odds in downtown Las Vegas casinos often beat those found on the Strip. Now, let me tell you, it's not always a surefire thing, it depends on the game you're playing.
Blackjack
In my previous article, I made a point of highlighting that the casinos at Fremont Street Experience have a monopoly on the absolute worst blackjack games in Las Vegas. It's worth noting that these games are exclusively offered at these casinos and nowhere else. Interestingly, the other blackjack games available at these establishments are not much better, often resembling the 6:5 variants commonly found on the famous Las Vegas Strip. This is particularly true for players who prefer lower betting limits.
In downtown Las Vegas, you'll find a handful of casinos that outshine the Strip when it comes to low limit blackjack. Take a stroll to El Cortez, Golden Gate, Plaza, California, or Fremont, and you'll discover enticing blackjack tables starting as low as $10. The best part? These joints still offer the classic 3:2 payout for blackjack. But here's the real gem: El Cortez boasts the only single deck blackjack game in the entire Las Vegas market that pays 3:2. So, if you're looking for some affordable blackjack action with favorable odds, downtown Las Vegas is the place to be.
There are a few exceptions to the norm, but for the most part, the value offered at Las Vegas Strip properties falls short. It's quite common to find casinos that only offer 6:5 blackjack games for bets under $25. In fact, in some cases, you'll need to wager as much as $100 just to find a 3:2 Las Vegas Strip blackjack game. However, there are a handful of establishments that deviate from this trend.
At The Strat, you can play a game of six-deck blackjack for just $10, and they offer a generous 3:2 payout. This game not only allows you to surrender, but also offers the option to re-split aces up to four hands. If you're looking for a similar deal, Treasure Island also offers this exciting blackjack game for $10. But if you prefer a double deck game, you can head over to Treasure Island where they have 3:2 blackjack starting at $15. However, at The Strat, the same double deck game will cost you $25.
The advantage of blackjack in Las Vegas is a subjective matter. It greatly varies depending on the location and the casinos one chooses to play at. If you're looking for value, the downtown area of Las Vegas offers some excellent options. Casinos like Downtown Grand, El Cortez, Golden Gate, and Plaza are known for their outstanding blackjack offerings that surpass those on the Las Vegas Strip. Additionally, establishments like The D and Circa are highly recommended. On the other hand, if you venture into certain Fremont Street Experience casinos, you'll likely encounter subpar blackjack games that diminish the overall appeal of the downtown area. Thus, in terms of overall quality, the Las Vegas Strip tends to come out on top.
Craps
When it comes to craps value, downtown Las Vegas casinos often outshine the Strip. What sets them apart is not only the lower limits but also the fact that half of these downtown establishments offer 10 times odds or even better. If you're looking for a Las Vegas Strip casino that offers 10 times odds at craps, The Strat is your go-to destination. However, it's worth noting that all the other Strip casinos only provide 3-4-5 times odds, which may not be as enticing for avid craps players.
In downtown Las Vegas, you'll typically find minimum bets of $10 or $15 along the Strip. However, there's a hidden gem at the Downtown Grand where you can enjoy a game of craps for just $5. On the bustling Las Vegas Strip, craps tables usually have minimum bets of $15 or $25, making it quite uncommon to stumble upon a $10 game. So, if you're looking to roll the dice without breaking the bank, head over to the Downtown Grand for an affordable craps experience.
Unique Edge in Downtown Las Vegas: Las Vegas Craps Advantage
Video poker
Downtown Las Vegas surpasses the Strip in terms of video poker quality, particularly at lower stakes. Nevertheless, it is crucial to be aware of the precise locations to discover these favorable game options.
At Plaza in downtown Las Vegas, you'll find the ultimate video poker game. It's none other than the full pay Joker Poker, boasting a remarkable return of 100.65% when played flawlessly. What's more, this gem is conveniently available in the quarter denomination. If you're on the hunt for another high-paying option, look no further than California, Four Queens, and Plaza, where you'll discover the coveted 10/7 Double Bonus, providing an impressive 100.17% return when played to perfection. However, Four Queens steals the show when it comes to this game, as they sweeten the deal by offering some enticing comps to lucky players.
The Four Queens casino, located in Las Vegas, is renowned for its top-notch bar video poker games. Here, you can find an extensive selection of video poker variants, including the popular $.50 and $1 10/6 Double Double Bonus machines. What makes Four Queens even more enticing is its strategic decision to implement a slightly lower payout for a straight flush, ensuring that the overall payout remains slightly below 100% when playing with five coins and employing perfect strategy. This clever move adds an element of challenge and excitement to the game. Moreover, Four Queens also stands out for offering some of the most favorable pay tables for various video poker variations, truly catering to the preferences of avid players. As an enthusiast myself, I find the Four Queens players club to be unparalleled in the entire Las Vegas market when it comes to earning comps and accumulating points while playing video poker. It's a haven for those seeking exceptional rewards for their loyalty and dedication to the game.
I have discovered that some of the best video poker options are available at the Plaza hotel. They have both 9/6 Bonus Poker Deluxe, with a whopping 99.64% return, and 9/6 Jacks or Better, which boasts a 99.54% return. On the other hand, if you're wandering through downtown Las Vegas, you'll find that most casinos, including those on Fremont Street Experience, tend to offer games like 8/5 Bonus Poker, which carries a return rate of 99.17%, and 9/7 Double Bonus, with a respectable 99.11% return. If you're looking for the 8/5 Bonus Poker game specifically, I highly recommend checking out the bars at The D or even the sportsbook rail at Circa. These spots are known for providing a great gaming experience.
On the famous Las Vegas Strip, video poker games below the $5 denomination, with a 99% payout, are non-existent. These high-quality games are exclusively available for players who prefer high limit stakes.
Unveiling the edge of video poker in Las Vegas: Exploring Downtown Las Vegas
Roulette
When it comes to getting the best value for roulette in Las Vegas, Downtown is the place to be. You see, what sets Downtown apart is the fact that Plaza offers single zero roulette with a minimum bet of just $15. Now, hold on a minute, because on the Strip, you'd normally have to shell out $100 to play the same game. That's quite a difference, isn't it? Another advantage of Downtown is the scarcity of triple zero roulette tables. You won't come across many of those in this area. However, if you venture into the casinos along the iconic Fremont Street Experience, such as Binion's, Four Queens, and Golden Nugget, you might just stumble upon one. So, if you're looking to make the most of your roulette experience without breaking the bank, Downtown Las Vegas is where it's at!
Most casinos along the Las Vegas Strip offer triple zero roulette, a popular choice among avid roulette players. However, if you're a high-limit player, you'll have the opportunity to indulge in single zero roulette, a game that provides a more favorable edge. The minimum bet for this exclusive experience usually starts at $100, ensuring a thrilling and high-stakes environment. It's worth noting that a few of these tables feature European Roulette, which grants players the advantage of receiving half their even money bet back if the ball lands on zero.
Discover the Las Vegas roulette edge: Low limit players find their advantage in the heart of Downtown Las Vegas, particularly at Plaza. On the other hand, high limit players thrive on The Strip and emerge victorious.
Amusement rides
One of the attractions available at Fremont Street Experience is the SlotZilla zipline. Personally, I wouldn't advise participating in this activity. In my opinion, the price doesn't match the experience it offers. To make matters worse, when my friend Kristina and I decided to give it a try, she ended up getting stuck on the zipline. The situation was quite precarious as she dangled above the street, requiring the staff to take measures and rescue her by maneuvering along the line for an entire block. Surprisingly, despite the inconvenience and potential danger, they didn't provide us with a refund or the opportunity to ride again. It was just an unfortunate turn of events.
Observing from the Fremont Street Experience viewing area at Binion's Whiskey Liquor Bar, I have often witnessed individuals getting trapped on SlotZilla, and it's not an isolated occurrence. This seems to be a prevalent issue, as I recall a few years back when the fire department had to intervene to rescue someone. Interestingly, those unfortunate riders who find themselves stuck on the SlotZilla tend to be located in the vicinity of the Whiskey Liquor Bar, according to my keen observations.
In Las Vegas, there's a zipline at the Linq Promenade that's comparable to the one mentioned earlier. However, unlike SlotZilla, Fly LINQ actually offers locals a $10 discount. Interestingly, I haven't had the opportunity to experience Fly LINQ firsthand. Apparently, riders are required to wear protective gear while on the zipline, but that doesn't really entice me to give it a try.
I have had the pleasure of experiencing the thrilling adventure known as SkyJump at The Strat, and let me tell you, it is far from your ordinary zipline. Without a doubt, this heart-pounding activity has secured its spot as my preferred choice. Picture this: as a rider, you descend a series of cables, starting from the 108th floor of The Strat tower all the way down to the second floor. Believe me when I say, I have had the privilege of conquering this exhilarating feat not just once, but twice. Its sheer uniqueness and adrenaline-pumping nature make it an exceptional experience that leaves you craving for more. As a testament to my admiration for this extraordinary adventure, I have even documented my last SkyJump on video. And here's the cherry on top: if you happen to be a local, there are discounted rates available for the SkyJump experience. So, don't miss out on the opportunity to embark on this unforgettable journey and unleash your inner thrill-seeker.
My 2020 SkyJump video
Avoiding these rides is advisable for those with a fear of heights, as there are three additional amusement rides situated atop the Strat. Personally, I thoroughly enjoy all of them.
New York-New York offers the thrilling Big Apple Roller Coaster, while Circus Circus features its own extensive amusement park called Adventuredome. With over a dozen rides to choose from, Adventuredome guarantees an exhilarating experience for all visitors. Personally, I find immense enjoyment at both locations. Whether it's the heart-pounding loops of the roller coaster or the multitude of attractions at the amusement park, there's never a dull moment at either Circus Circus or New York-New York.
The Las Vegas Strip dominates the amusement ride scene in Las Vegas with unparalleled superiority.
Shows
In downtown Las Vegas, there's a variety of comedy shows that won't break the bank. The Plaza, for instance, hosts comedy headliners in its spacious showroom on numerous weekends. Additionally, they offer a unique experience with their outdoor arena, where laughter under the stars is guaranteed. Another great spot for comedy aficionados is the Downtown Grand, which features a recurring comedy show in its cozy Fremont Room. It's the perfect place to unwind and enjoy some side-splitting humor in the heart of the city.
The Viva Vision canopy hosts free shows every hour in the evening hours down at the Fremont Street Experience. It's a spectacle that shouldn't be missed. The concerts held there are quite an experience, although many of them are cover bands. You may find that most of the well-known acts are from decades ago when they were at the height of their fame. But don't let that discourage you, as there's still plenty of energy and excitement to be found.
The Las Vegas Strip is an absolute playground of entertainment, offering an extensive array of options to suit every taste. Countless opportunities await, from complimentary spectacles such as the visually stunning Mirage volcano show and the mesmerizing Bellagio Conservatory with its captivating water show. But the Strip doesn't stop there; it boasts an abundance of additional entertainment venues, ensuring there is never a dull moment. Whether you're seeking grandiose productions or electrifying concerts featuring today's hottest performers, the Strip has got you covered. However, it's worth noting that tickets for these highly sought-after shows tend to come with a hefty price tag.
Reveals benefit: Las Vegas Boulevard.
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