The Lapis Suite at The Platinum Hotel

I liked the location because I’m not concerned with staying right on the Strip or paying extra for parking. Parking here is free, and the garage felt quiet and safe. It’s a couple of miles from Target, shops, fast food, and Lawry's is a block away. You can also walk to the Sphere, Bellagio, and Flamingo. The north-facing views of the Sphere from the east side of the building are lovely, and the hotel is quiet. Lindsay was great when I booked. My suite had a large bathtub that filled and heated quickly, though the shower took ages to get warm. They fixed it while I was out. It’s a 20-year-old hotel, so there’s visible wear and tear and some things don’t work as they should. Some suites have a washer and dryer, and some have fireplaces that don’t work.

We ate at the lounge twice, and the food was delicious. Andrew was kind and attentive, and made great drinks. Breakfast at the fifth-floor restaurant was also great, with polite, attentive service from Justis. When our late flight left us with time after the 11 a.m. checkout, they stored our luggage and let us stay in the lounge. This was my first Vegas trip, and choosing The Platinum Hotel and Spa just off The Strip worked out perfectly. Most of our destinations were walkable, and the apartment-like rooms were clean, comfortable, and had great views. The staff couldn’t have been nicer. Shania at the front desk was especially accommodating. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.

Ellis Island is right next door if you want a nearby casino, and Bautistas Hole in the Wall, the best Italian restaurant in the city, is only a block away. The price is much better than staying on the Strip, too. Great place just off the Strip. It’s clean, quiet, and comfortable, and about a 20-minute walk to the Linq, Caesars, Bellagio, and more.

We booked at the last minute and were really glad we did. Tim at the front desk was friendly and helpful at check-in, and even let us swap the complimentary wine for water we were about to buy in the lobby. The king suite was huge. We could only see half the Sphere from our balcony, but still loved the view and would try to book a Sphere-facing room next time. My one wish is that the pool stayed open later. I love ending a long day of walking with a hot tub.