Las Vegas is one of my favorite quick trips and getaways. But it can also be an expensive eating and drinking experience, with a sandwich and fries costing almost $30 at some hotel restaurants. You think that's expensive? How about $15 for a Coors Light (or water as I like to say). I was charged $18 for a IPA recently. Let's not forget the $8 bottles of water. If there are two of you, that can be almost $100 for just one meal. I am all about saving money and eating and drinking for less. So today we cover some options and new places to try on your next Las Vegas adventure.
Ellis Island Casino
Located just a short walk or Uber ride from the strip is this favorite: Ellis Island. From 11 pm to 11 am you can order the “Steak and Eggs special” and get a complete breakfast for just $6.99. If you're not in the mood for breakfast, you can ask for the “Steak Special” and get a complete steak dinner for just $9.99. I preferred the quality of the steak dinner over the steak and eggs special, but both are good. I stop here on almost every visit. They also have their own brewery, a cheap pizza place, and some fantastic barbecue. They also just recently completed a remodel with a great sports watching area. This casino is one of my favorites for low key, less expensive table gaming as well.
Tip: If located near Paris, just walk over to Bally’s and cut out the side entrance. It will shorten your walk by a little bit.
Stage Door Casino
If coming from Bally’s, you will the Stage Door Casino which defines “hole in the wall.” Who doesn’t want a cheap beer and hot dog in Las Vegas? Ok maybe later if you're not full from the steak. This is where you can find a $3 Corona or $2 Bud Light. Even a mixed drink will only set you back $5 here. Or how about a hot dog and beer for just $3. Lots of affordable options here for those looking to save.
Miracle Mile-Planet Hollywood
Hidden in the deep corners of the Miracle Mile Shops, which is attached to the Planet Hollywood Casino and Hotel are some true low cost gems. I recently tried out Ketchup Burger Bar. The famous $4 burger special is only available on weekdays, but I still took advantage of their prices for a $7 hot dog and a $5 beer.
There are plenty of other options at the Miracle Mile Shops, including two locations with complete breakfasts for under $5. Blondies has a $3.99 breakfast as well as $1,99 Bloody Mary's or $7 Mimosa's. La Salsa Cantina has a breakfast for $4.79 and $0.99 Bloody Mary's. You will also find some other locations with great specials if it's a gameday for football or a big sporting event.
Las Vegas has no shortage of affordable breakfast options,
if you don't want to break the bank.
Casino Royale
I could not miss this strip favorite, Casino Royale. Located just steps from Harrah's, it also includes a Best Western hotel. For years, they were famous for their $1 Michelob beers. While recently prices are up to $3, the selection of drinks has increased. In Las Vegas, I tend to loosen my beer snob self and drink some cheap beer. I also like this location for a double cocktail for around $10. If staying at Harrah's, you can easily walk over, grab drinks, and go right back to Harrah's. You will also find some fast food options just steps away too. I do enjoy a good dive casino, and Casino Royale fits the bill.
Evel Pie
Evel Pie is located just blocks from Fremont Street, which is a great money saving area in itself. I had the pleasure of being shown this gem by the guys at Miles to Memories, who happen to have tons of great Vegas videos on their YouTube channel. You cannot go wrong with a beer and slice of pizza for only $6. Plenty of other happy hour specials too. Finally, they have great outdoor space for social distancing.
Other Options
Don't forget those other money saving options, like Groupon, which we recently wrote about. Groupon can save you money on food, beverages, and activities. You can use stores like CVS to save on food and beverage items. One of my favorite hotels is the Paris and it has a great location right next to CVS. I always check my CVS emails, as I often have 20%-40% off coupons. You will come across Vegas coupon books sometimes on your strip walks and they are worth a glance to see what discounts or coupons are offered. Finally, check those Chase or Amex Offers. I have used these to my advantage at chain locations like Yard House.
Final Thoughts
As a huge Las Vegas fan, I like to save money to enjoy more of it. I still love a nice dinner out, but I easily save hundreds of dollars by choosing wisely with some of these money saving options. We could talk Las Vegas all day and night to include plenty of money saving ideas. These are only some of the many options. What are your favorite spots in Vegas? Come over to our Facebook group and let us know your thoughts. Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram too!
