When we decided to visit downtown Las Vegas, we wanted to find a hotel that would provide us with a unique and exciting experience. After hearing rave reviews, we chose to stay at Circa on Fremont Street. However, I must admit that Fremont Street was not my favorite area in the past, as I found most of the hotels there to be underwhelming. But Circa seemed different, and I was eager to see if it lived up to the hype.
History and Location
Circa is a relatively new addition to downtown Las Vegas, opening its doors in October 2020. It stands out as the first new hotel-casino to be built in the area in over 40 years. The construction of Circa was a monumental undertaking, resulting in a property that boasts 777 guest rooms and suites, an expansive casino, and a unique rooftop pool experience called Stadium Swim.
Staying at Circa allowed us to fully immerse ourselves in the downtown Las Vegas experience. With its proximity to other iconic casinos, the lighted dome, and lively street performers, we were right in the heart of the action. The energy of Fremont Street is contagious, and we loved being able to explore everything the area had to offer just steps away from our hotel.
As we checked into Circa, we were greeted by a vibrant atmosphere. The entire property is exclusively for guests aged 21 and over, making it the first adults-only resort and casino in Las Vegas and a perfect place for us to crash for a couple nights (nothing kills the mood in Vegas like a crying toddler). This created a lively and party-like atmosphere throughout our stay.
Restaurant Options
One of the highlights of our stay at Circa was the incredible variety of dining options available. From casual bites to upscale dining experiences, Circa had it all. Our personal favorite was 8East, a contemporary Asian restaurant that offered a fusion of flavors and a stylish ambiance. 8East is a hidden gem for food lovers. The moment we stepped inside, we were greeted with an elegant and modern setting. The menu featured a delectable array of Asian-inspired dishes, each crafted with care and precision. Most notably is the Beef Brisket Fried Rice. The bowl is easily splitable, but you won’t want to because it’s so delicious. We met up with friends there and everyone enjoyed their food immensely.
The service at 8East was impeccable, with attentive staff who were knowledgeable about the menu and made excellent recommendations. The owner can also be seen there often, a telling sign of passion. The restaurant’s ambiance was inviting and vibrant, perfect for fueling up before taking on Fremont Street.
Casino and Sports Book
Of course, no trip to Las Vegas would be complete without a visit to the casino. Circa’s multi-level casino is modern and has a large variety of games. What set Circa’s casino apart was its lively party atmosphere. The table games were filled with energy, and the dancing girls added an extra touch of glamour and excitement. I believe it has the best environment to gamble downtown and many people thought the same. The casino floor was packed during both evenings we were there.
Sports enthusiasts will be in heaven at Circa thanks to its impressive sports book. The large screens displayed all the major sporting events, creating an immersive experience for fans. Whether you’re a die-hard football fan or a casual bettor, the sports book at Circa offers a thrilling environment to cheer on your favorite teams. We even sat for awhile and watched, the seats were so comfy.
Stadium Swim
One of the highlights of our stay at Circa (and the number one reason we will be returning) was the one-of-a-kind Stadium Swim. With six pools, multiple swim-up bars, and a 40 foot tall TV Screen, Stadium Swim was the perfect place to soak up the Vegas sunshine. You could easily spend all day there, and one day we did just that. We lounged by the pool, sipping on refreshing cocktails, and enjoying the football games that were playing. I haven’t mentioned the best part…all the pools are heated (up to 104 degrees) and they are open year round. (I couldn’t believe it either, I wish this was on the Strip). Stadium Swim was a clear and definite highlight of our stay at Circa, but you don’t have to there to visit. They sell day passes to the pools, that start around $20, depending on events. So if you are staying elsewhere downtown, you can come party for the day in the heated luxury.
Hotel Room
Our room at Circa was modern and stylish, although I do worry in a few years it will start to show its age. For the hotel being almost new some of the furnishings seemed worn. However, the comfortable beds provided a good night’s sleep, and the overall ambiance of the room was inviting and relaxing.
While our experience in the room was generally positive, it’s worth noting some minor issues we encountered. There were a few broken items in the room, such as non-functioning bed lamps and an iPad on the nightstand that didn’t work. Additionally, the layout of the room, particularly the platform box around the beds, could be a bit hazardous if you’re not careful (aka drunk).
It is also worth mentioning that Circa is priced closer to Strip hotels and is generally more expensive than other downtown properties. Resort fees are about $35 and we paid $130 for a weekday and $350 for a weekend holiday night for a standard room. It did have a great view of Stadium Swim, though.
It’s important to mention, again, that Circa is a 21 and over property, making it an ideal choice for adults looking for a lively and energetic stay. Families may need to consider other options in Las Vegas that cater to all ages. There are staff carding at every door, so no sneaking in.
Conclusion
In conclusion, our stay at Circa on Fremont Street was a overall an enjoyable experience. Its numerous dining options and amazing Stadium Swim make it a property we will return to if we find ourselves back downtown. If you’re looking for a vibrant and adult-oriented stay in the heart of the city, Circa is the perfect choice. And don’t forget to try the Brisket Fried Rice, you can thank me later.
