Best Hotels near University of Nevada--Las Vegas

A block and a half off the Strip, The Signature at MGM Grand is a bit of an odd duck compared to other Sin City properties. As a condo-hotel, The Signature's suites come with fully equipped kitchens and balconies overlooking the bustle below. Recent guests praised the rooms and cleanliness of the hotel and laud the quiet non-gaming and smoke-free environment. Just be sure to read the fine print: Although the property acts like a full-service hotel (and falls under the MGM Resorts brand), each suite is technically a condo that is handled by various management companies. So it's best that you understand the rental terms before you solidify your reservations.

The Platinum Hotel and Spa is located two blocks off the Strip, which can be an annoying inconvenience for gamblers or party-seekers. But for those looking for a luxurious, gaming-free environment to escape to at the end of the day, The Platinum is a good choice. All accommodations are set up in a suite style, with comfortable beds, couches and tons of room to spread out (suites start at 900 square feet). In addition to enjoying access to complimentary Wi-Fi, you can indulge in treatments at the on-site WELL Spa and go for a swim in the indoor and outdoor swimming pools. Recent travelers loved the attentive and accommodating service staff, the in-suite kitchens and the comparatively affordable rates for which you can get it all at this slightly off-the-beaten-path property.

Despite the off-Strip location on Paradise Road, the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino is great for young and aspiring rock stars. Swim-up blackjack tables near the ever-popular Rehab Beach Club and the casino's 24-hour Center Bar help create a party-centric vibe. But some recent travelers offer mixed reviews on the staff: Some said they encountered poorly trained or uninterested workers, while others said their experience with the hotel's employees was wonderful. Lodgers were more complimentary of the accommodations, which feature stocked minbars, plasma TVs, iPod docking stations and luxury linens. Recent guests recommended booking a room in the HRH All-Suite Tower or Paradise Tower, as the Casino Tower is on the older side. Many also praised this Hard Rock outpost's eight restaurants, which dish up everything from steaks to tacos to sushi.

The Renaissance Las Vegas Hotel is just a hotel. No gaming tables, no loud slot machines, no smoke smell permeating the grounds; it's a quiet place to rest your head a few blocks off the Strip. Its on-site amenities are limited to an outdoor pool and a 24-hour fitness center, but it also features a few restaurants, and high rollers can breathe easy – the nearby monorail can transport you to popular casinos in less than 10 minutes. Some guests lament the cost of breakfast and Wi-Fi, but overall, most travelers applaud the staff at the Renaissance Las Vegas Hotel, the free parking and the well-maintained rooms. And if you're looking for a good view, recent travelers recommended asking for accommodations adjacent to the Wynn's golf course. Plus, if you're a Marriott Bonvoy member, you can earn or redeem points here.

A 52-story blue glass tower and a member of the Hilton family, Elara offers traditional guest rooms and one- to four-bedroom suites within walking distance of the Las Vegas Strip. The hotel's rooms include kitchenettes, flat-screen TVs and floor-to-ceiling windows with electronic automatic blinds. Recent guests praised the Strip views as seen from Elara's top floors, but complained that a drink at the on-site bar can put a dent in your wallet. If you'd rather sip on a cocktail from your own cabana, head to the Oasis Bar & Grill near the outdoor pool. For a heartier meal, you'll have to head off-site – the hotel doesn't house a formal restaurant. And if you're looking to gamble, you're going to have to take a (very short) walk up the Strip – the closest casino is Planet Hollywood.

The Westin Las Vegas Hotel, Casino & Spa is about a block and a half off the Strip. Catering more to suits than gamblers and party seekers, the rooms can seem a bit sterile and generic compared to the rest of Sin City. But if neutral sages and tans and simple designs are up your alley, take advantage of this dialed-down Westin outpost. That same decor transfers to guest rooms, which are adorned with Westin's signature Heavenly Beds as well as flat-screen TVs and complimentary water. Guests particularly love the free access to the workout room – a rarity in Vegas – the relaxing pool area and especially the happy hour with complimentary drinks and snacks from 6 to 7 p.m. daily. Another guest favorite and rare plus: Indoor smoking is only allowed on the casino floor; all other restaurants, lounges, clubs and rooms on this Westin property are smoke-free. And because this hotel is part of the Marriott hotel family, Marriott Bonvoy members can earn and use points here.