For the budget traveler, Downtown Las Vegas has long offered a source of solid yet pretty basic accommodations. Renovations have swept through the area over the past few years, giving old properties face lifts. The D Las Vegas, formerly Fitzgerald's, has gone one step further, abandoning its Irish theme in favor of a modern new look.

The D's older, vintage feeling is on its way out. Instead of leprechauns and giant four-leaf clovers, expect to see clean lines, sleek modern styling, and a bright hip look. The new building wrap, a giant red "D" with a sexy pair of legs (notice the red high heels), captures the idea behind the new design.

The D Las Vegas — Photo courtesy of The D Las Vegas at Facebook

A property-wide remodel will give all the rooms and suites a complete make-over with totally updated room features. The hotel will remain open during renovations, so guests who want to book a stay before the remodel is complete in fall 2012 should ask about when the new rooms are expected to be complete.

The D's first renovation, a new casino bar, was completed and opened in March 2012. The Longbar is just what its name implies: one very long bar, the longest in Nevada, in fact.

All renovations are expected to be done in the fall of 2012, including a transformed casino. The D's casino will become a two-story affair (according to the D, it will be the only two-level casino in Las Vegas). Another planned new addition: "Dancing Dealers" to keep the party atmosphere going.

The D's Vue Bar, which will undoubtedly get a new look during the renovation, already gives customers a great view of the Fremont Street Experience. This second-floor bar with a patio overlooking Fremont Street is the place to have a seat, enjoy a drink, and watch the light show of Viva Vision.