Best of 2024: A Look Back at Vegas
We’re now a month and a half into 2025—no better time to reflect on an incredible year of Vegas trips and highlight the best of the best. From Pizza Expo to NFR and even a little alien adventure at Area 51, 2024 was packed with unforgettable experiences. Here are our top hotel stays and restaurant picks from the past year.
Best Hotels of 2024
1. Fontainebleau Las Vegas
Fontainebleau exceeded every expectation. From the moment we stepped into our room, we knew this stay would be special. The view of the Strip was possibly the best we’ve ever had, the bed was incredibly comfortable, and the bathroom was among the finest on the Strip. Dining at Fontainebleau was top-tier—we had outstanding meals at Mother Wolf and KYU, both ranking among our best restaurant experiences in Vegas. While we stayed in December and didn’t fully experience the expansive pool complex, the winter pool was more than adequate. The cocktails at the Center Bar were top-notch, with the only downside being the lack of tabletop gaming. Without a doubt, Fontainebleau was our best resort stay of 2024.
2. Wynn & Encore
Whether you stay at Wynn or Encore, you can’t go wrong. This resort is a feast for the eyes, with a casino that exudes luxury and dining and nightlife that are simply unmatched. It also happens to be the only casino where we hit a hand pay in 2024! The only drawback? If you’re looking for low-limit table games, they can be tough to find. But if you want a premium Vegas experience, Wynn and Encore remain top-tier choices.
3. Resorts World
My first impression of Resorts World wasn’t great—it felt more like a shopping mall than a casino. But over time, my opinion has completely changed, and it has become one of my go-to spots in Vegas. The rooms are comfortable, and the pool complex is one of the best on the Strip. The Crystal Bar serves some of the best complimentary cocktails in Vegas, and their Mai Tai was a standout drink of the year. While Wally’s is a must for lunch, the overall dining scene at Resorts World is a bit hit-or-miss—Brezza and Viva were good but didn’t quite blow us away. Bonus: with a Vegas Loop stop, it’s an excellent option if you’re heading to the convention center.
4. Mandalay Bay
This one might be a bit nostalgic, as it was the first Vegas resort I took my wife to, but Mandalay Bay remains a favorite year after year. For whatever reason, I get more comps here than anywhere else, and I’m not complaining. The pool complex is arguably one of the best in the world, and the standard rooms are some of the best in Vegas—clean, modern, and comfortable. The biggest downside? Casino floor drink service is lacking, and the cocktails themselves aren’t great. While the location is often viewed as a drawback, with the tram and connected walkways, you can be center-Strip in 30 minutes or less.
Best Restaurants of 2024
1. Mother Wolf – Fontainebleau
Chef Evan Funke’s Mother Wolf brings a taste of Rome to the Strip with a menu celebrating bold flavors and expert technique. Standout dishes include the rich and velvety Cacio e Pepe, the perfectly balanced Rigatoni all’Amatriciana, and the indulgent Carbonara—each showcasing authentic Italian ingredients and precision. A must-visit for lovers of classic Roman fare in a stunning Vegas setting.
2. KYU – Fontainebleau
For a bold, wood-fired dining experience, KYU delivers. The Pork Belly Bao Buns are pillowy and rich, the Korean Fried Chicken achieves the perfect balance of crispy, spicy, and savory, and the Thai Crispy Rice with Duck is an explosion of flavor and texture. With its sleek ambiance and innovative dishes, KYU is a must-visit for fans of elevated comfort food.
3. Bavette’s Steakhouse – Park MGM
Bavette’s is all about ambiance. Dimly lit and effortlessly stylish, it’s one of the most romantic and inviting steakhouses in Vegas. The Sourdough Bread is warm and comforting, the Wedge Salad is crisp and flavorful, and the Ribeye is cooked to perfection, bursting with buttery richness. If you’re looking for a classic steakhouse experience with vintage charm, Bavette’s is a can’t-miss.
4. La La Noodle – Park MGM
For a flavorful, casual Pan-Asian experience, La La Noodle delivers. The Pad Thai and Drunken Noodles are expertly crafted, striking the perfect balance of bold spices and fresh ingredients. But don’t skip their unique take on a Mai Tai—one of the best we had all year. Whether you’re craving comforting noodles or a fantastic cocktail, La La Noodle is a great Strip option.
Final Thoughts
2024 was filled with incredible Vegas experiences, and these hotels and restaurants truly stood out. Whether you’re planning a first-time trip or looking for new places to explore, these picks offer some of the best that Las Vegas has to offer. Can’t wait to see what 2025 brings!
