Where to Stay on the Las Vegas Strip: Your Best Hotel Bets

Mandalay Bay transports its guests to the South Pacific, complete with a sandy beach at the pool. An assortment of acclaimed restaurants, a shopping mall, an amazing pool area, the family-friendly Shark Reef attraction and easy access to a tram system makes Mandalay Bay a popular place for families--although it is by no means a destination only for guests with kids. If you're looking for nightclubs or bars, Mandalay offers plenty of those as well. The large guest rooms and suites have pillow-topped beds, superior linens, plasma TVs, and spacious bathrooms. The hotel shares its space with the exclusive Delano and The Four Seasons, giving guest a three-in-one hotel experience.

The Cromwell's boutique, intimate atmosphere is intended to be reminiscent of Paris, in a very hip way. Hardwood floors, plush furnishings and thoughtful amenities like steam showers give the rooms an ambiance that's new to hotels on the Las Vegas Strip. The property was renovated from its previous incarnation as Bill's Gamblin' Hall, and the new design has totally transformed the property. In addition to the redesigned rooms, the Cromwell also has Giada De Laurentiis' first restaurant, Giada, which is open for dinner and weekend brunch. Drai's, the combination pool club/nightclub and after hours club, is the only hold-over from the hotel's old identity, although it's also had a make-over--and is a popular stop. The nightclub is on the top floor, and guests who are light sleepers may want to avoid rooms directly below the club.

The Mirage might be best-known for its volcano, but don't forget it's also a great hotel right in the heart of the Strip. Attractions and amenities include Sigfried and Roy's Secret Garden and Dolphin Habitat, the expansive (and photo-worthy) pool and, of course, the volcano. The Mirage is also home to Cirque du Soleil's LOVE, which showcases The Beatles' music (open to guests over five, although those under 18 must have an adult with them). A wealth of other attractions along the Strip are also just a short walk away. The Mirage offers a variety of room sizes and styles, including suites. Standard rooms can sleep up to four with two queen beds. Several restaurants are located here, and if you'd rather not go out, there's 24 hour room service.

The Delano is attached to Mandalay Bay, but the differences between the two hotels are evident from the moment you check in. The Delano features a lot of classic, clean design in its lobby and common area, with plenty of subdued brown, tan and white in the color scheme. Rooms are a fresh, light color palette, and are large and comfortable. All rooms are suites, and guests will find plenty of space, including a desk area that's great for business travelers. Furnishings, linens, and bathrooms are uniformly upscale, and the floor-to-ceiling windows offer panoramic views. Larger suites include a two-bedroom and a penthouse. If the calm, quiet ambiance at Delano seems unusual for a stay in Vegas, just take a short walk to enter Mandalay Bay to explore the hustle and bustle of the casino, convention area and pool.

Aria's urban style incorporates public art and natural light, all of which was ground-breaking in Las Vegas when the hotel first opened. Aria's location in CityCenter puts it smack in the middle of a densely planned mixed-use property that includes non-gaming hotels, condominiums, abundant public art and a collection of impressive restaurants. Aria's rooms are technology-rich, and includes a tablet that controls lights and temperature, among other things. Look for a surplus of organic, natural, and recycled materials throughout the guest rooms. Several styles of rooms and suites are offered, from the standard guest rooms to the opulent 7,000 square-foot Sky Villas.

From the moment you pull up next to the bamboo in front of the Mandarin Oriental, you know you're not in the usual Vegas hotel. The sexy, Asian-inspired guest rooms were designed with elegance and functionality in mind. The beautiful result is a luxurious room that delivers a first-class experience. The room's entertainment, lighting, and temperature are controlled on one remote control. The bathrooms are enclosed with frosted glass panels (you can't be shy here) and are stocked with luxury bath products. Wired and wireless Internet access is offered. The spa, tea room, and overall feeling at Mandarin Oriental all convey a first-class sensibility. For eye-popping views, make reservations at Twist or stop by the Mandarin Bar.

When it was built, Bellagio quickly set new standards for luxury in Las Vegas hotels. Its signature dancing fountains have become a must-see attraction on the Strip. Inside Bellagio, you'll find a conservatory and a fine art gallery. Winning acclaim and numerous awards, Bellagio's first-class accommodations are complemented by equally impressive amenities: world-class restaurants, trendy nightclubs and big-name entertainment. Guests can choose from regular rooms, suites, and villas (fountain views are popular). Standard room features include flat screen HDTVs, plush pillow-top mattresses, plush linens and robes, soaking tubs, and organic carpeting. Technology options like an iHome docking station and WiFi are standard, as well as a laptop safe.

The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas has a sophisticated, hip style throughout the property, from the restaurants to the entertainment. One big bonus that's a unique feature in Las Vegas: many of the rooms have terraces. Several types of guest rooms are available, many of them suite-style room with kitchenettes--as well as that wonderful terrace to take in an incredible view of the Strip. The beautifully decorated, well-appointed rooms are modern with great design features. The City Studio, the hotel's smallest suite, features an oversized sitting area and artistic interior design throughout. The Cosmopolitan's location is ideal, situated right in the heart of the Strip, putting guests within walking distance of many well-known attractions.

The Venetian recreates the romantic setting of Old Venice, and its detailed styling, which comes complete with canals and gondolas, is fun for anyone. Seven styles of suites, including penthouse suites, are available. Look for small dining tables, sofa sleepers, wired and wireless Internet and big bathrooms (sometimes with televisions). The Penthouse is the hotel's largest suite at 2900 square feet, but even the standard suite is roomy and includes a sunken living room. The entire Venetian | Palazzo complex is one of the world's largest hotels, and the property's amenities include a tremendous number of things to do: shopping, a world-class spa, shows, restaurants and nightclubs.

Wynn Las Vegas took the idea of sophistication to a new level on the Las Vegas Strip. The large rooms and suites feature floor-to-ceiling windows, plentiful seating, pillow-top mattresses and spacious bathrooms. The Panoramic Corner View rooms, which begin at the 28th floor, give an impressive view of Las Vegas. When you're not in the room, enjoy one of Wynn or Encore's top-notch restaurants. The Wynn was built on the site of the Desert Inn, a property that included a beautiful golf course, and many of the large, mature trees and plants were saved and used, adding to hotel's lovely, lush landscaping.