Golden Nugget in Las Vegas F-G

The Golden Nugget got new owners a few years back (The Landry's Restaurant chain) who immediately threw millions of dollars at the property to transform it from a very good hotel into a great one. Their attention to detail - which has continued in the years since they have owned the hotel - shows from the gorgeous casino to the fantastic pool to the nice rooms and beyond.

Start at the landscaped drive leading to a Porte Corchere and a lobby designed primarily for the newer Rush Tower rooms but available to anyone checking in. It is done in golden earth tones with a swirling crystal chandelier structure offsetting a 75,000 gallon aquarium at the Chart House restaurant right behind the main desk.

The rich color scheme of earth tones throughout the public spaces - deep browns, creamy whites, glowing oranges offset by vibrant splashes of green and red here and there - is nothing short of gorgeous. I know, I used that word already but there's no need to rush off to the thesaurus - gorgeous applies.

The casino is still a bit cramped for space but the good news is that they pack a lot of gaming options into that area, with slot machines of all denominations, plenty of gaming tables, a race and sports book, a poker room, and more.This is a genuinely enjoyable place in which to lose your life savings.

Since owners Landry's is first and foremost a restaurant chain, it's no great surprise that there are several of their signature eateries on site (Vic & Anthony's, Chart House, and the Grotto) plus a nice buffet, a Cadillac Grill, and a Claim Jumper. A showroom that features various entertainment options and a lovely spa offer some additional distractions.