The Ultimate Las Vegas Dilemma: Excalibur or Luxor?

Choosing between Excalibur and Luxor is a classic Las Vegas conundrum. Both hotels are iconic parts of the Strip's skyline and often offer some of the most budget-friendly prices.

They are sister properties, located right next to each other, and are even connected by a free tram. However, despite their proximity, they offer very different experiences.

Further, these two properties are included in the new All-Inclusive Las Vegas Resort Package, making this decision all the more timely.

This guide will break down the vibe, amenities, and typical guest for both, helping you decide where to drop your bags.

The Vibe: Medieval Magic vs. Ancient Egypt

The most obvious difference is the theme. While both are "themed" resorts, the execution is entirely different.

Excalibur

Excalibur fully embraces its medieval castle theme. It's whimsical, fun, and can be a bit loud. The castle exterior with its colorful turrets sets a playful tone. Inside, the theme continues with stained-glass details and a somewhat dark but immersive feel. It's often bustling and has a younger, more family-centric, and generally casual energy.

Luxor

Luxor offers a more striking and unique architectural experience. The iconic 30-story black pyramid is a masterpiece. The massive open-air atrium inside is awe-inspiring. The theme, while based on ancient Egypt with the Sphinx out front and tomb replicas inside, feels slightly less "costumey" and more majestic. The vibe is a bit quieter and more sophisticated compared to Excalibur, making it feel slightly more upscale, despite often similar price points.

Accommodations: Castles vs. Pyramids

Excalibur

Rooms at Excalibur are generally standard hotel fare. They have been updated over the years and are clean and comfortable. The main draw isn't luxury, but functionality and price. You can choose between the Royal Tower (the original castle building) or the contemporary-styled Resort Tower rooms. The main complaint can be that the hotel is large, and it can be a long walk to your room from the casino floor or the front desk.

Luxor

Luxor offers a unique opportunity: staying inside a pyramid. The rooms in the main pyramid feature slanted walls, which is a cool and memorable feature. These rooms can feel a bit smaller due to the geometry, but the experience is unmatched. However, some pyramid rooms can feel dated. Luxor also has the "East" and "West" Towers, which are traditional hotel buildings with standard rooms that are often larger and more modern than the pyramid rooms. If you prefer a traditional layout, book a Tower room.

Dining & Entertainment: Where to Feast and Be Entertained

Excalibur

Dining at Excalibur is very casual. Think food courts (though their main one closed, smaller options remain), a Dick's Last Resort (where service comes with attitude), and a steakhouse (The Steakhouse at Camelot). The headliner here is the long-running "Tournament of Kings" dinner show, a medieval-themed event where you eat with your hands and cheer for your knight. For nightlife, it's more about the lively casino bars.

Luxor

Luxor has a slightly more diverse dining scene. You'll find a wide range of options from a quick slice of pizza to a sit-down Mexican meal at Diablo's Cantina. The headlining shows are generally more sophisticated, currently featuring "Blue Man Group" and "Carrot Top." It’s also home to the fascinating (but slightly grim) "Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition" and "Bodies: The Exhibition." The nightlife leans towards casual lounges rather than massive nightclubs.

Swimming & Recreation: Splashing Around

Excalibur

Excalibur has a great, sprawling pool complex with four pools, a water slide, and an adult-only pool (the Pool at Excalibur). It's very family-friendly and can get crowded. The atmosphere is energetic and loud.

Luxor

Luxor's pool area is also impressive, featuring four massive pools. The setting is unique, as you are swimming right at the base of the pyramid. It's generally a more relaxed and less chaotic environment than Excalibur's pool scene.

Location: Connected Convenience

Both properties benefit from being on the south end of the Strip. While this means you are far from downtown and some other major resorts, they are well-connected. A free tram runs between Mandalay Bay, Luxor, and Excalibur, making it easy to visit sister properties.

The Low Down: Excalibur

The Verdict for Excalibur

Excalibur is the clear winner for families, large groups, and anyone looking for the absolute most affordable option. It's fun, easy-going, and unpretentious. The pools are great for kids, and the theme is a hit. The downside is that it can feel a bit more dated and chaotic, and the walk to your room can be epic.

Excalibur Insider Tips:

• Book the Resort Tower: These rooms are generally considered more updated and in a better location than the original Royal Tower rooms.

• Request a High Floor: Ask for a high-floor room for the potential of a Strip view and to escape some of the street noise.

• Embrace the Theme: Don't go expecting luxury. Lean into the castle theme; it's what makes it unique.

The Low Down: Luxor

The Verdict for Luxor

Luxor is better for couples, solo travelers, or those wanting a slightly more unique and quieter experience without the higher price tag of more luxurious hotels.

The iconic pyramid architecture is a genuine Vegas landmark, and the pyramid rooms offer a memorable stay. The shows are top-notch. The drawback is that some pyramid rooms are dated, and the Egyptian theme is less interactive.

Luxor Insider Tips:

• Try a Pyramid Room: Staying in the pyramid is the whole point of Luxor! If you are fine with a slightly non-standard layout, go for it for the unique experience.

• Avoid the Low Floors: Lower-level rooms near the open atrium can be prone to noise from the casino floor below.

• Utilize the Free Tram: Save your steps and your money by using the free tram to get to Mandalay Bay and Excalibur rather than walking the whole way.

  
  

Final Thoughts: Castle vs. Pyramid - Your Call

Ultimately, the choice comes down to personal preference.

If you are traveling with kids, prefer a more lively atmosphere, and want to keep your costs at an absolute minimum, go with Excalibur.

If you are a couple or solo traveler who values architectural uniqueness, slightly quieter surroundings, and wants a memorable, distinct Vegas photo, choose Luxor.

No matter which one you choose, you'll be on the famous Las Vegas Strip, surrounded by lights and excitement, and just a free tram ride away from your castle or pyramid neighbor.

• IN OUR BLOG: Luxor and Excalibur Announce New All-Inclusive Las Vegas Package.