Bars Unknown: Las Vegas Strip Bar Crawl

The Casino Royale in Las Vegas doesn’t strut or gleam—it grins. Nestled on the Strip like a scrappy street poet between marble giants and neon titans, it leans in close with a raspy laugh and says, “Come on in, sweetheart. We still do it the old way.” It doesn’t pretend to be a palace. It doesn’t need to. It’s the beating, beer-scented heart of Vegas as it once was—louder, cheaper, and a little more alive.

There’s no chandelier made of a thousand crystals. There’s no Roman column or faux-Venetian canal. There is, instead, the unmistakable glow of $3 bottles, $5 drafts, the clatter of cheap chips, and the glorious scent of $3 hot dogs cooked just slightly too long.

Inside, the ceiling feels low, like a secret. The carpet is loud and unapologetic, a kaleidoscope of colors that seem to whisper of long nights and longer odds. The lighting is dim, not moody but practical—because in Casino Royale, the star is the action, not the ambiance. This is Vegas without the designer heels!

The littlest casino on the Vegas Strip and home to my favorite Frozen Baileys (this thing is like a Wendy's Frosty drenched in Baileys Irish Cream!)- O’Sheas offers beer pong, a selection of low minimum table games, including blackjack and roulette, allowing guests to test their luck in a more intimate setting compared to the sprawling casinos nearby. The outdoor bar area provides a perfect spot to soak in the vibrant atmosphere of the Promenade, with views of the High Roller observation wheel adding to the visual spectacle.

The LINQ Promenade is a vibrant, open-air entertainment district. A pedestrian-friendly esplanade offers a dynamic blend of dining, shopping, and attractions that cater to visitors of all ages.

At the heart of the Promenade stands the High Roller, a 550-foot-tall observation wheel (largest in operation in the world) that provides panoramic views of the city skyline. For thrill-seekers, the Fly LINQ Zipline offers an exhilarating ride soaring above the bustling crowds below.

The Promenade boasts an eclectic mix of over 35 restaurants and retailers, including popular spots like Brooklyn Bowl, Gordon Ramsay Fish & Chips, In-N-Out Burger along with several food and drink happy hour deals.

Whether you're looking to indulge in culinary delights, shop for unique souvenirs, or simply soak in the lively atmosphere, the Promenade offers a quintessential Las Vegas experience that combines modern attractions with the city's signature flair.

Tucked just off the glitzy Las Vegas Strip, Stage Door Casino is one of the last whole in the walls slightly on/off the Strip yet offers a nostalgic retreat into the city's storied past. Established in 1976, this enduring establishment has witnessed the evolution of Las Vegas, maintaining its charm amidst the ever-changing landscape .

Inside, patrons find a cozy space adorned with vintage decor, where the ambiance is both unpretentious and inviting. The bar boasts some of the most affordable drink specials in town, including $1 Bud Lights and Budweiser, complemented by $2 Nathan’s Famous ¼ lb. hot dogs .

Adjacent to the bar, a well-stocked liquor and convenience store offers a range of spirits, including rare bourbons and cognacs, as well as snacks and souvenirs .

Stage Door Casino stands as a testament to Las Vegas's rich history, offering a genuine and affordable experience that contrasts with the city's more opulent venues.

The Cromwell Las Vegas is a boutique hotel and casino located at the heart of the Las Vegas Strip. With 188 rooms, including 19 suites, it offers an intimate, Parisian-inspired atmosphere that blends vintage charm with modern luxury. Honestly it reminds me of a dine-in Pizza Hut but features at 2-4-1 cocktail happy hour and a $5 drink happy hour!

The Grand Bazaar Shops at Horseshoe Las Vegas is a vibrant open-air marketplace that captures the essence of global bazaars, reimagined with a Las Vegas flair. Visitors can explore a diverse array of retailers, gift shops, candy store and food options. Culinary offerings are equally varied, featuring establishments such as Chicago style pizza, 2-4-1 drink deals, Wahlburgers, Giordano's, and Istanbul Mediterranean, providing flavors from around the world.

Whether you're seeking unique souvenirs, international cuisine, or simply a lively atmosphere to stroll through, the Grand Bazaar Shops offer a dynamic and engaging experience in the heart of the Las Vegas Strip.

The Cosmo is a sanctuary of modern luxury and artistic expression nestled in the heart of the Strip. With its sleek, high-rise towers and distinctive design, it stands as a testament to contemporary elegance amidst the neon glow of Las Vegas.

Upon entering, guests are greeted by the iconic Chandelier Bar, a three-tiered marvel of crystal and light that shimmers like a jewel at the center of the resort. The ambiance is both glamorous and inviting, setting the tone for the experiences that await.

Beyond its well-known attractions, the resort conceals a collection of hidden gems that offer unique experiences for the discerning explorer: an unmarked pizzeria accessible through a hallway adorned with vinyl records, a tequila a nachos bar Located behind an unassuming door marked with a white donkey and, Disguised behind a functioning barbershop, a speakeasy-style lounge with live music and an extensive whiskey selection.

Lastly, If time allows and/or you still have some steps left in you - We'll go up to Brewdog. It's a rooftop bar, perched atop the vibrant Las Vegas Strip, it offers a unique fusion of craft beer culture and the city's dynamic energy. Spanning two expansive floors, this venue combines a rooftop bar, microbrewery, and entertainment space, all set against the backdrop of panoramic views of the city's iconic skyline.

Again, if time allows and depending on the day/ time booked, and you have a few more steps in you, we'll drop into a classy vintage style cocktail lounge with nightly live music behind a donut shop.