Aside from the Tropicana, Flamingo is probably the most recognizable hotel name in Las Vegas, mainly because it’s the longest survivor on the Strip. Bugsy Siegel opened the 105-room (it would be considered “boutique” today) Flamingo in 1946, and 7 decades later, despite the fact that the original bones are completely gone, he’d probably still recognize the place.

The pink neon that has been burned into our collective memories still streams through the hotel, especially when you check into the FAB rooms and retro-inspired GO rooms. The main difference between the two? The GO rooms are prettier to look at, having been remodeled more recently, and come standard with showers only (FAB rooms do have tubs). The Flamingo embraces its Rat Pack history, with the GO rooms attempting to throw you back into all its mod glory, with vinyl padded headboards, black and white photos of Vegas days of yore, and pops of color on the striped wallpaper, all with modern amenities like electronic window treatments, and TVs built into the mirrors.

For those in search of nostalgia, Donny and Marie will take a bow at the end of 2019, and Paula Abdul will set up shop. Irreverent magician Piff The Magic Dragon has become a favorite as well. 

The pool is one of the hotel’s biggest draws. Lush foliage covers 15 acres of lagoons, waterfalls, and streams, as well as five pools and whirlpools. The GO pool features DJ-driven pool time, but the other swimming spots are more family-friendly. You can find the flocks of the namesake bird on Flamingo Island, part of the property’s famed Wildlife Habitat, as well as other animals such as ducks, ibis and turtles, all part of this carefully maintained ecosystem. These species might not be native to Nevada, but they’re definitely a part of the Las Vegas landscape.