Las Vegas Hotels

Every year when this book is updated, we make some sort of proclamation that the Tropicana's future is in doubt and warn prospective visitors that it could be closed by the time they get to Vegas. And yet look, there it is, 49 years after it opened. However, this time we really mean it when we say that things could change at any minute, even by the time you pick up this book. A protracted bidding war for the parent company of the hotel will lead to new owners who will, at some point, close the hotel and start over. Of this there is no doubt. The main question mark is when.

We'd like to say we are sorry -- and in a nostalgic way, we are, but really, the Trop has seen better days. Once known for its lavish tropical resort stylings, it's now more than a little worn around the edges, especially compared with its splashy neighbors. The birds and other wildlife are gone, which makes things a little less messy, but the tacky "Garden rooms" are still around and ought to be demolished ASAP. Gone also is the outside light show.

Rooms -- well, think a clean '70s motel room, but a little bit nicer. Unless you're a Jimmy Buffet fan, you are better off staying in the Trop's Paradise Tower, where the rooms are slightly bigger and much easier on the eyes -- mock provincial, to be sure (check out the plaster molding and ceiling cornices -- a curious and welcome little touch) -- but it all appears less shabby and more fresh. Bathrooms are also bigger here, but dull, except for the ones with Jacuzzis. Even without the wildlife, the pool area is one of the best around and is the place's biggest draw. Note, however, that their touted swim-up blackjack is seasonal (read: summer only).

Calypsos, the 24-hour coffee shop, is a good value, as are the Trop's Island Buffet offerings. The showroom currently hosts the Folies Bergere revue.

Facilities: Casino; showrooms; wedding chapel; 7 restaurants; 3 outdoor pools; small health club & spa; video-game arcade; concierge; tour desk; car-rental desk; business center; salon; 24-hr. room service; laundry service; dry cleaning; executive-level rooms.

- Frommer's