The oldest continuously operating casino resort in Las Vegas, El Cortez has been operating in downtown Las Vegas since 1941 and is on the National Register of Historic Places. The Cabana Suites tower offers well-appointed modern rooms at budget prices, and the hotel's vintage character, cheap drinks, and loose slot machines keep loyal regulars coming back. Downtown Fremont Street is right at the door.
El Cortez Hotel & Casino at 600 E Fremont St holds the distinction of being the oldest continuously operating casino resort in Las Vegas, having opened its doors in 1941 without interruption — five years before the Flamingo opened on the Strip. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the property was briefly acquired by Bugsy Siegel and his associates in the 1940s before passing through a series of owners, including Las Vegas gaming legend Jackie Gaughan, who maintained the hotel's authentic downtown character across decades of ownership. Today El Cortez comprises the original historic building, the Ogden House mid-century annex, and the newer Cabana Suites wing. The Cabana Suites offer the most contemporary accommodations: modern finishes, updated bathrooms with contemporary fixtures, and a boutique aesthetic that contrasts agreeably with the vintage Original Building rooms. The hotel's casino retains a classic downtown character — low table minimums, single-deck blackjack games, and video poker pay tables that have long attracted serious gamblers who value favorable odds over resort luxury. The property sits on the east end of Fremont Street, one block east of the Fremont Street Experience canopy and the main downtown casino cluster. Dining options include Siegel's 1941, a 1940s-themed American diner honoring the hotel's founding era, and the Cortez Room traditional steakhouse. El Cortez's combination of genuine historical significance, authentic downtown character, budget-friendly rates, and favorable gambling conditions has produced a fiercely loyal local and regional following that no Strip property replicates.
Amenities
- casino
- multiple restaurants
- wifi
- vintage character
Location
600 E Fremont St, Las Vegas, NV 89101
36.1697, -115.1389 View on map
Highlights
- Oldest continuously operating casino in Las Vegas since 1941, listed on the National Register of Historic Places
- Cabana Suites: boutique-quality modern rooms within a historic property at budget prices
- Single-deck blackjack and favorable video poker pay tables attracting skilled gamblers from across Nevada
- Siegel's 1941 restaurant with 1940s American diner décor honoring the hotel's founding era
- Authentic downtown Las Vegas character distinct from the corporate polish of Strip mega-resorts
Tips for visiting
- Request a Cabana Suite room specifically — these are significantly more modern than the Original Building rooms and represent the best experience at this property
- El Cortez offers some of the most favorable blackjack conditions in Las Vegas, including single-deck games with advantageous rules; consult gaming guides for current specifics
- The hotel runs direct-booking specials that often undercut third-party pricing — check the property website before reserving
- A short walk east of the main Fremont Street cluster, El Cortez is quieter than the heart of downtown but easily accessible by foot
- Early weekday mornings offer the best casino availability with lower minimum bets and fewer crowds on the gaming floor
Accessibility
El Cortez Hotel & Casino has accessible entrances and elevator access to upper floors. The Cabana Suites wing includes fully ADA-accessible rooms with roll-in showers. The historic Original Building has more limited accessibility; guests with mobility requirements should request the Cabana Suites when booking.
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Frequently asked questions
How old is El Cortez Hotel & Casino?
El Cortez has been operating continuously since 1941, making it the oldest continually operating casino resort in Las Vegas. The building is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
What are the Cabana Suites at El Cortez?
The Cabana Suites are a newer addition to El Cortez, offering contemporary décor and updated amenities in contrast to the vintage Original Building. They represent the hotel's best-value modern accommodation and are popular with guests seeking a clean, current room at a budget price.
Where is El Cortez relative to the Fremont Street Experience?
El Cortez is located at 600 E Fremont St, approximately two blocks east of the main Fremont Street Experience pedestrian canopy. The walk takes about 5 minutes and is straightforward.
Why is El Cortez popular with serious gamblers?
El Cortez offers single-deck blackjack games and video poker machines with pay tables that are more favorable to the player than most Las Vegas properties, attracting gamblers who prioritize odds and table conditions over resort amenities.