I booked a vintage room which is above the casino. Stairway access only for these rooms. The vintage room was nicely furnished and very clean. The ventilation system produced hum and vibration but did not disturb me but can see how others could be bothered.
The El Cortez is a very short walk to Fremont St. Experience which I made several times. The property had plenty of free parking and the internet connection was fair. The casino seems to do well. Security was on the ball and housekeeping was considerate.
Overall, my vintage room was very comfortable, bargain priced and a good launch pad for a fews nights stay.

I really like this hotel because I am a solo traveler that loves Vegas! I am female by the way but if had a man , I would perfer more luxury. You know, couples spend more time IN the room but for me, when I wake, I hit the ground running and enjoy the STREET! I gamble, eat , and see the sights. At night I crash and the hotel is fine. You can also get a late night meal before bed. They have a few new slots that make it worth your while to gamble there. If you want fun, on a budget, and can deal with basic only,the EC is the place for you. If you're trying to impress with your lodging, stay elsewhere. For my money, EC anytime! I was there in March, May, and will return in August 2009. I am from S.C. but I return often because, I love Vegas! (I really hate there is no fridge or micro wave in EC)But my best tip for you is, take the bus or cab-because after all the alcohol all the many casinos offer you-they will lock you up for DUI in a heart beat in a car. It happened to a friend and spoiled the whole trip. Real bummer! VIVA LAS VEGAS!

The El Cortez has made changes and updates that should make anyone staying in the downtown area consider it as their first choice.

As always the relaxed atmosphere, friendly staff, great bargains on rooms and meals make a visit to the El Cortez worth it. The drinks keep coming.

I didn't recognize the place at first, but all the changes were well thought out.

We had stayed downtown before but this was the first time at El Cortez. We thought the room was very nice, beautifully furnished and clean and the bed was comfortable. I was disappointed that there was no mini-fridge or hair dryer in the room, and they were stingy with the towels. The downside was the casino - way too smoky too spend any time in, and the comps were poor compared to other downtown hotels - for the same time at the tables at El Cortez we received $4 compared with 2 free meals at the Queens. The coffee shop is very dark, but the breakfast was great. Staff is friendly. Also, we had an even-numbered room - a guest with an odd-number told us he had trouble sleeping from the noise from the concert on Fremont.