California Hotel & Casino: Hawaiian Hospitality in the Heart of Downtown Las Vegas
Located just steps from the iconic Fremont Street Experience, the California Hotel & Casino—affectionately known as “The Cal”—offers visitors a warm, welcoming escape with a unique twist: a strong Hawaiian influence. Since opening in 1975, The Cal has built a loyal following, especially among travelers from Hawaii, earning its nickname as the "Ninth Island."
If you're seeking a laid-back, affordable hotel with casino action and a taste of island culture, California Hotel & Casino delivers a relaxed Vegas experience away from the chaos of the Strip.
Location: Easy Access to Fremont Street & Downtown Fun
The California Hotel & Casino is located at 12 E Ogden Ave, just a short walk from:
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Fremont Street Experience
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Main Street Station
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Binion's and Four Queens
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Downtown Container Park
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The Mob Museum
A connected skybridge links the hotel to Main Street Station, providing easy access to even more gaming and dining options.
Rooms: Comfortable, Recently Renovated, and Affordable
The hotel offers over 700 guest rooms and suites in a recently renovated tower, featuring:
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Flat-screen TVs
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Mini-fridges
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Free Wi-Fi
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Modern, island-inspired décor
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Optional connecting rooms for families
Room Options Include:
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Deluxe King or Double Queen
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Premium Rooms with updated amenities
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Suites with separate seating and work areas
Despite its age, the renovations give the rooms a clean and comfortable feel without high Vegas prices.
Casino: A Classic Gaming Floor with Hawaiian Luck
The California Hotel & Casino offers a more relaxed, community-focused gaming atmosphere compared to the Strip. It includes:
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Slot machines (classic and modern)
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Table games: Blackjack, roulette, craps, and more
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Sportsbook powered by Boyd Gaming
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Players Club rewards (B Connected)
The casino is smaller but welcoming, often quieter than others nearby—ideal for those who prefer easy access and a more local vibe.
Dining: Island Flavors and American Favorites
A major highlight of The Cal is its Hawaiian-inspired dining, reflecting its strong connection to the islands.
Restaurants Include:
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Aloha Specialties: Local Hawaiian comfort food like loco moco, teriyaki beef, and saimin noodles.
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California Noodle House: Asian cuisine in a modern setting, known for ramen, pho, and stir-fry dishes.
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Redwood Steakhouse: A traditional Vegas-style steakhouse with a relaxed, classy atmosphere.
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Market Street Café: A casual 24-hour café serving breakfast, burgers, and Hawaiian plate lunches.
The food is a big reason many visitors return year after year.
Atmosphere: Friendly, Relaxed, and Cultural
What makes the California Hotel & Casino stand out is its strong sense of community and Hawaiian hospitality. Staff are known to greet guests with the aloha spirit, and the vibe is more relaxed than flashy.
Many guests are returning visitors from Hawaii, and there's a strong feeling of familiarity and friendliness that gives the hotel a homier atmosphere than typical Vegas resorts.
Special Features
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Hawaiian Cultural Events: Often hosts themed nights, concerts, and food festivals.
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Meeting & Banquet Spaces: Good for small conferences or celebrations.
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Free Parking: For hotel guests—huge bonus in Vegas.
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Skybridge Access: To sister property Main Street Station.
Who Should Stay Here?
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Travelers from Hawaii (especially repeat visitors)
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Budget-conscious travelers who want comfort
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Families and seniors seeking a peaceful stay
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Anyone who wants quick access to Fremont Street without high prices
The California Hotel & Casino is a hidden gem in Downtown Las Vegas. It offers clean, cozy rooms, friendly service, and great food at prices that won’t bust your budget. Whether you're visiting for the first time or returning for a nostalgic trip, “The Cal” is a solid option for a laid-back Vegas experience with a warm island touch.
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