Circus Circus vs Excalibur – Vegas Hotel Showdown Ep 1

Welcome to Episode 1 of the Las Vegas Casino Hotel Showdown! In this new head-to-head video series, I’m comparing Las Vegas casino hotels to find out which one truly stands out—and which one moves on to the next round. This week, we’re starting with two of the Strip’s most budget-friendly and iconic spots: Circus Circus vs Excalibur.

🏨 What This Series Is About

Each week, I pit two Las Vegas casino hotels against each other and break them down by:

• Casino atmosphere & layout
• Food & dining options
• Entertainment and attractions
• Hotel location & walkability
• Overall vibe and guest appeal

I’m not covering hotel rooms or pool areas in this series—because most of us choose a hotel based on what’s nearby, what it feels like when you walk in, and where the fun is. Think: shows, restaurants, and energy.

New episodes drop every Sunday at 5PM, and you can watch this week’s battle right here.

🎪 Circus Circus: The Classic Carnival Hotel

Circus Circus has been a mainstay of the north end of the Strip for decades. It’s big, colorful, and unapologetically kitschy. With its indoor Adventuredome theme park, midway games, and classic casino vibe, it still draws families and nostalgia seekers alike.

• 🎡 Best for: Families with kids, budget travelers
• 🍔 Dining: Cheap eats and fast food options
• 🎲 Casino: Classic feel but dated and smoky in spots
• 🛍️ Location: Far from center Strip action, but near Resorts World

🏰 Excalibur: Budget Fun with a Medieval Twist

Excalibur’s castle theme is iconic and surprisingly energetic. Located right in the action-packed south Strip zone near Luxor and New York-New York, it offers more dining options, entertainment variety, and a livelier casino floor.

• 🧙 Best for: Budget travelers who still want a fun casino vibe
• 🍕 Dining: Food court, casual restaurants, and the Tournament of Kings show
• 🎲 Casino: Brighter, bigger, and better maintained than Circus Circus
• 🗺️ Location: Walkable to T-Mobile Arena, Park MGM, Luxor, NYNY

🏆 The Verdict

While Circus Circus has charm, Excalibur ultimately brings more to the table for the average Vegas traveler. It wins this round with a stronger location, better dining variety, and a more polished casino floor.

🥇 Winner: Excalibur
🆚 Up Next: Excalibur vs Luxor in Episode 2

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💬 What Do You Think?

Have you stayed at Circus Circus or Excalibur? Which would YOU pick? Drop a comment on the YouTube video and let me know—I love hearing your thoughts.