Fodor's Expert Review Red Rock Casino Resort & Spa

Way out on the western edge of the Las Vegas suburbs, this swanky golden-age Vegas property looks out on the ocher-red Spring Mountains, just a stone's throw from Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area. Inside, dozens of crystal chandeliers contrast with earthy sandstone walls and teak-marble floors. Rooms upstairs are among the nicest in all of Vegas, mixing modern touches such as mini-sculptures and USB ports with traditional elements such as couches. Suites take accommodations to another level, with pool tables and private patios (some even with private pools). Red Rock has a large public pool area, a 16-screen movie theater, a bowling alley, a vast selection of excellent restaurants (some with outdoor patios), and rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows. Even the gaming area is exquisite; the sports book has its own VIP area and three video walls that can combine into one huge screen. There's also a poker room. Factor in the live music in the hopping Rocks Lounge, occasional ticketed concerts in the backyard pool area and walking distance to baseball and other attractions in the Downtown Summerlin shopping district, and you can see why a lot of repeat visitors decide to skip the Strip.