Silverton

Reminiscent of a rustic mountain lodge and situated just southwest of the Strip, the Silverton offers something for everyone, including affordable rooms, a gigantic Bass Pro Shops, a fine steakhouse and a huge saltwater aquarium.

Decorated in earth tones and accented by amber-tinged lighting, stone and wood, the hotel has become a favorite for locals and visitors alike. The property has spacious accommodations with upscale cabin décor. The deluxe rooms are decorated in warm earth tones and boast pillow-top beds, a minibar and a safe. The suites feature an adjoining living room, a spa tub and a breakfast bar. Wireless internet access is available.

Guests at the Silverton will also enjoy a 165,000-square-foot outdoor enthusiast's paradise, the Bass Pro Shops. The first of the beloved chain to open in the West, the store offers everything from hunting supplies and boats to fishing lures and golf gear. It also boasts an archery range, a rock-climbing wall, a shooting range and a huge aquarium filled with fish to practice your casting skills.

Not far from Bass Pro Shops, the hotel has its own own aquatic wonderland -- a 117,000-gallon saltwater aquarium that houses more than 5,000 tropical fish and the occasional mermaid. There is comfortable seating around the aquarium where you can just relax and gaze at the stunning fish, sharks and stingrays. The adjacent Mermaid Lounge and Restaurant has a jellyfish tank and serves casual bar food.

You'll discover a wide variety of menus to satisfy your every desire in the Silverton. Two fine dining options include the Twin Creeks Steakhouse and a locals favorite, the Sundance Grill, which has its own gelato stand. The Mi Casa Grill Cantina serves innovative Mexican cuisine. Their specialties are tamales and ceviche. Plus, hungry guests can pile their plates high in Seasons buffet. There are Asian, American, Italian and seafood stations, as well as a healthy salad bar and a decadent dessert area with chocolate-covered strawberries. For a quick bite, a food court is located near the parking garage that's comprised of Johnny Rockets, the Villa Fresh Italian Kitchen (for pizza by the slice) and Starbucks.

Concerts and special events are regularly offered in the Silverton's Entertainment Pavilion, a 13,000-square-foot freestanding complex built steps away from the casino. Guests can enjoy drinks before or after shows at the Shady Grove Lounge, a casual bar tucked away on the southern side of the resort. It's home to a vintage 1950s Airstream trailer with two alleys for mini bowling. For a more elegant setting, check out the hip and trendy Flare Bar on the opposite end of the casino floor. It's easy to spot, thanks to 260 color-changing glass fixtures that hang overhead. 

In addition to more than 30 table games, the 90,000-square-foot casino boasts a high-limit salon, a keno lounge and a smoke-free poker room. Race and sports betting is provided courtesy of Leroy's. The more than 2,200 slots feature the latest in technology with LED screens that stream player-specific messages. 

Rounding out the amenities is the Sway Pool & Lounge, a small dipping pool and hot tub with a party-like vibe during the summer months.

The Silverton is a great place to stay because it puts you close to all the action but not right on the Strip. And shuttle service is available throughout the day to and from The Forum Shops at Caesars and McCarran International Airport, so you don't have to worry about driving.