Las Vegas: Casino Royale changes hands but not the funky facade

How many Best Westerns does Las Vegas need? The number is apparently five, at least for now.

The mid-range hotel chain in December took over and rebranded (sort of) the Casino Royale and Hotel on the Strip. The name lives on as Best Western Plus Casino Royale, and the sign and the cartoonish Victorian-style exterior haven’t changed either. If you’ve never been (I haven’t), here’s how Vegas Tripping describes the former low-roller casino:

“Hidden in a little nook between Harrah’s and the Venetian (we doubt Bond would ever show his face here), the Casino Royale is a dank little sawdust joint that appeals to the grinder in all of us. Cheap tables, funnnnnky vibes, and the ever-present unexpected put this joint on the top of our list of bizarro must-sees for the Vegas Tripper. If you have no expectations, you will not be disappointed.”

Not sure whether the “funnnnnky vibes” will survive the transformation. Cheap slots and cheap beer are the usual draw, but a business center with computer, printer and fax services might be angling for business travelers too.

This Best Western’s nightly rates remain low -- $59.99 midweek and $89.99 on weekends -- for rooms that come with flat-screen TVs, coffee makers and refrigerators, free Wi-Fi and free parking. There’s also a fitness center and pool, and no resort fees either.

Other Best Western Plus properties in Las Vegas include Mardi Gras Hotel & Casino, McCarran Inn, Main Street Inn and Las Vegas West.

Mary.Forgione@latimes.com
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