More modern than many Reno hotels, Grand Sierra Resort and Casino is an upscale property that's about a 10-minute drive from downtown Reno, and not within walking distance of other casinos. On-site entertainment is in abundance -- there's a casino, movie theater, bowling alley, a beach-style outdoor pool, and driving range, as well as big-name music headliners plus a variety of restaurants and lounges. The 1,900 contemporary rooms have “spa-inspired” bathrooms, which are particularly impressive and outfitted in striking dark marble. In addition, the hotel offers a spa and fitness center and space for RV hookups.

Silver Legacy Resort and Casino is an upper-middle-range hotel in downtown Reno with more than 1,700 rooms and a casino featuring a huge composite dome reflecting the Nevada sky. The property is newer than several comparable hotels in the area and has an outdoor pool with mountain views. Big headlining acts swing through on weekends and the hotel hosts comedians nightly. Rooms are modern and straightforward, with flat-screen TVs and free Wi-Fi. The resort also has a small fitness center, a spa with a whirlpool and sauna, and a hair salon. Guests voice minor complaints about problems with key cards and long waits to check in, but overall it's a good choice for the rate.

A circus-themed property that will please guests who have a penchant for all things big top, the 1,500-plus-room Circus Circus Hotel and Casino-Reno is a mid-range property built in 1978 that retains its outdated decor. It's popular with families for its kid-friendly midway featuring carnival and arcade games, as well as daily circus shows. Scooter rentals are available, and the hotel has a variety of casino games and restaurants on-site. Rooms are spacious but dated, with unattractive carpeting and curtains. Guests may want to compare rates with Silver Legacy Resort and Casino, which is attached to Circus Circus via indoor walkway -- it has an outdoor pool and its rooms are slightly more modern.

The 833-room Sands Regency Casino Hotel is a lower-middle-range property with a friendly staff and a casino housing slot machines, card tables, and a Bingo parlor. Rooms are spacious and pleasant with carpeted floors, blue accent walls, small flat-screen TVs, and free Wi-Fi, but decor is dated and rooms could be cleaner. Several lounges and restaurants are on-site including a 1950s style diner and a prime rib buffet. The fitness center has views of the mountains and a whirlpool; there's also a large seasonal outdoor pool. Some rooms get outside noise from the elevators and neighboring train tracks -- request a room on a high level for the best views and to avoid noise. This property offers one of the most affordable rates in the area.