Guide for the 2025 WSOP (World Series of Poker) - Part 2: Food & Accommodation Recommendations
Unfiltered, Straight-Up Guide Part 2: Hitting the WSOP 2025 in Style
Jim Reid, the man behind the popular RecPoker podcast and a lifelong poker enthusiast, continues dishing out insider tips for rec players aiming to conquer the WSOP 2025. This time, we're focusin' on livin' it up in Las Vegas!
You've planned out your tournament schedule like a boss in part one of this series. Now, let's dive into the nitty-gritty of preparin' for your epic Vegas adventure!
First things first: accommodation. The cost here will be a big variable in your budget. It's crucial to strike a balance between convenience, proximity, and expenses. While stayin' near the action may be swanky, it usually makes a dent in your wallet. If you're not solo, split a two-bed hotel room to slash costs.
Where to hang your hat in Vegas?
Airbnbs can be a fabulous option, offering more space and some handy amenities like a washing machine and kitchen facilities, but they're rare to find right on the Strip. Considering you'll likely spend most of your time at the tables, you'll want to be stationed close by. Plus, commuting can hike up costs in transportation, and it'll just eat up your time.
I've personally bedded down in both hotels and apartments, but unless I'm travelin' with a crew or plan to stay for an extended period, I prefer hotels. Here are my top four recommendations within easy reach of the WSOP that I've personally tried and endorse:
The Flamingo
Situated literally across the street from the WSOP, The Flamingo may be a bit worn, but it's undeniably convenient and affordable. Plus, they provide fridges in every room, which is a neat perk if, say, you're into makin' PB&J sandwiches!
The Linq
A little fancier than the Flamingo but further away, The Linq comes with a higher price tag. If you're stayin' here, skip the lower-floor rooms overlooking the Strip-based music performance area. Trust me; you'll want your beauty sleep!
The Horseshoe
Being able to roll out of bed and straight to the heart of the WSOP is convenience at its finest. On breaks, you can pop to the bathroom, grab a refresher, and change without dealin' with the Strip's heat or traffic. It's all about savin' every second when you're as busy as a Vegas golf caddy!
Paris Hotel & Casino
Last but not least, Paris shares the WSOP's convenience, with direct access to the tournament area. The rooms are beautiful, but pricey, so keep your eyes peeled for any sweet deals!
Remember, your room might only serve as a brief rest spot. You probably won't be spendin' more than 6-7 hours sleepin' there, with the rest of the time devoted to the tables. Cut some costs on accommodation to have more cash for other poker events!
Noshin' in Vegas – Wallet-friendly options
Food preferences will vary like a colossal slot machine jackpot, but if you want to keep expenses under control, it's doable, my friend! Poppin' by a CVS to stock up on essentials is always a high priority for me. Grab some basics like jam, peanut butter, bread, and bananas to keep your energy up without breakin' the bank. Pack some snacks in Ziploc bags from the comfort of your room to save a few bucks. Keep it simple with food that doesn't make a mess and won't leave greasy fingerprints on your cards or chips!
The Horseshoe's food court in the basement features several options for a quick meal. In a pinch, use your own washroom and grab a snack from the minifridge on breaks. The open-air food market out front also provides some options if you're cravin' some fresh air, and you might just get the chance to see the sky while you munch!
For American grub in that bazaar, give Dave's Hot Chicken and Wahlburgers a try for decent value. However, my personal fave is Istanbul Mediterranean on the corner, where you can score a healthy salad or meat bowl at a great price. If you're headin' further up the Strip, the huge breakfast burrito at Urth Cafe at the Wynn is a winner, or swim on over to Tacos El Gordo across from Resorts World.
Time for a breather – Recharge that poker mojo!
Depending on your stay duration, you might be borderline obsessed with poker. But if you're takin' a longer trip, remember to give yourself a break to refuel your batteries!
Step outside, catch some sunshine, relax in your room, take a dip, or catch a show. Vegas offers a treasure trove of attractions to explore beyond the WSOP. Who knows? You might even score a good night's rest without saggin' at the table like I did in a previous trip!
Tune in for part three of The Rec's guide to the WSOP 2025, where we delve deeper into the logistics of registrin' and playin' in these prestigious events. Oh, and check out LoriAnn Persinger's advice on inexpensive Las Vegas adventures on a recent episode of the RecPoker Podcast, including ideas for the Pinball Museum, Bellagio Botanical Gardens, Flyover Las Vegas, and the Mob Museum in Downtown Vegas.
- During the WSOP 2025, Jim Reid suggests considering accommodation that is conveniently located close to the tournament area, as commuting can be costly and time-consuming.
- Jim Reid recommends The Flamingo, The Linq, The Horseshoe, and Paris Hotel & Casino as budget-friendly options for accommodation in Las Vegas that are within easy reach of the WSOP.
- In order to keep expenses under control while in Vegas, Jim Reid suggests stocking up on essentials like jam, peanut butter, bread, and bananas from a convenience store like CVS.
- Jim Reid recommends visiting the food court in the basement of The Horseshoe or Istanbul Mediterranean on the corner for affordable food options during the WSOP 2025.
