We have just returned from a 5 night stay at the Stratosphere (23 - 28 April). The principle reason for choosing this particular hotel was that it suited our meagre budget! I was a bit worried about it's distance from the strip, but you can buy a $5 daily pass for the bus, which stops just outside and goes the length of the strip. Having been to the strip for a few nights out I was actually really glad not to be in the middle of all the crowds and noise. Our room was in the premier tower and was basic. It was spotlessly clean and had all the amenities we needed, although a safe would have been a welcome addition. The view of the multi storey carpark was dreadful but would have cost an extra $10 dollars a night for a view of the strip, which we didn't want to pay. The pool was lovely with plenty of sunloungers and a good bar with friendly service. The casino was great (my first ever visit) and the croupiers were helpful. Having visited the other casinos during my trip I came to really appreciate the Stratosphere's low minimum bets as it meant I lost a lot less money! The drinks service was good, better than other hotels we visited, but on the whole we didn't get any of the fabulous comps I'd heard about. We ate at the Top of the World, which I would definitely recommend. The food was fantastic and the view spectacular. We also went to Lucky's for the breakfast buffet, which was fine, but not terribly exciting. On the whole, the Stratosphere was absolutely fine and perfect for our budget. However, having visited friends staying at the Bellagio I would say that Vegas is a once in a lifetime place and it is so worth blowing your budget to stay in one of the amazing hotels on the strip. Nothing could ever compare to the opulence of the Bellagio or the Venetian, but if you can't afford it the Stratosphere will do!

Hoped for a great R & R vacation, instead I had an awful experience & stay at The Stratosphere. Got stuck between floors on an elevator that was acting up, on my second day in Vegas. Anyone who is Clausterphobic, can see and understand what a traumatic experience that can be in itself. Lights went off, elevator didn't go up nor down, pitch black couldn't even see my hand in front of my face. I was called a "liar", in regards of them saying I didn't press the "button" of what floor I wanted to go to. Other people witnessed that, but didn't make a difference. I was asked to write a report. Still shaken up, I was so affraid to get on elevator the rest of my stay. They offered me a "free buffet", for my troubles... what a crock! I literally lost precious time staying in room, due to the severe fear of Clausterphobia. We had plans for a show and next day dinner and concert, none of which I got to enjoy because I refused to get on elevator as little as possible. None the less, the Risk Department Mgr. was indeed very rude and uncompassionate. I would not recommend this Hotel for your vacation or otherwise. Other hotels are available with prompt service and politeness.

Loved the casino, best buffet ever! room was O.K. but didn't really spend much time in it. The tower was worth the 45 minute wait in lineThe pool on the 8th floor gave a great beach feel. would stay there again but only facing the strip next time.

take the extra 20-40 dollars a day you are going to spend on cab fare and put it towards a more convieniently located hotel!!!comps are poor at best unless you are a semi-high roller. second night the bartender charged us for drinks and we thought no big deal until we read our reciept and realized he comped our drinks and put our money right into his own pocket.dealers aren't just formal, they're downright nasty.third day the pool was closed for about an hour for apparently no reason.on the bright side, we arrived and had an easy time at check in. we stayed in the premier tower, and our room was adequate despite a very poor (the parking garage) view. we could catch a vague twinkle of the strip lights after dark. hotel staff (as opposed to casino staff) was polite and helpful.