Flamingo

There's pretty much nothing left of the original casino that Bugsy Siegel built at the birth of Vegas, the one where Elvis won his race car at the beginning of Viva Las Vegas. The signature pink neon-bubble tower is gone--indeed, now the most distinctive thing about the Flamingo these days is the 20-story poster advertising Donny and Marie (yes, they are playing here). As a casino, the Flamingo is a weird hodgepodge of the original Tropical theme, a sort of ganster/Rat Pack moment and a few recent attempts at mid-century sleek. The rooms are also a mixed bag, although most of the eye-searing, paradise-print chintz has been replaced by more soothing fabrics. The accommodations are pretty utilitarian, although some top-floor rooms have floor-to-ceiling, wall-to-wall windows that give top-quality Strip views; "Go" rooms have snazzier decor, with white vinyl headboards (try not to think about handprints). The most remarkable thing about the Flamingo is its large, jungle-styled, pink-toned pool complex, where you can visit the penguins and the Flamingos and, if you're interested, a small plaque honoring Bugsy.