Seeking an affordable base for your Vegas vacation? The South Point is a lively option for families, mature travelers and even clubbers who want to be close to all the action but not necessarily right in the middle of it. Frequented by locals, this mid-range hotel sits on the outlying southern end of Las Vegas Boulevard about five miles (that's less than 10 minutes) from the Welcome to Fabulous to Las Vegas sign, which marks the start of the Strip.

Equine aficionados will be right at home here. The South Point is revered for its Equestrian Complex. It boasts a 4,600-seat arena, where riding and rodeo events are held year-round, along with 1,200 climate-controlled horse stalls. A giant statue of local gaming maverick Benny Binion on horseback is situated near the entry -- a simple tribute to the man who brought the National Finals Rodeo to Las Vegas.

Non-equestrian entertainment is plentiful outside the complex. The hotel is home to a 16-screen movie theater and a 64-lane bowling center. The Showroom at South Point also features a variety of singers, bands and comedians, along with the Saturday night '80s dance party led by the Spazmatics.

Bars of every shape and size are located throughout the hotel -- some are just steps away from each other. The Malibu Bar and Island Bar serve up tropical spirits, while the Lobby Bar is a focal gathering point in the heart of the casino. The Silverado Lounge offers a classic, Old West ambiance with a wood-paneled bar and overstuffed chairs. By the race and sports book, the Del Mar Lounge is a great spot for a cold beer during the game, and the Grandview Lounge at the southern end of the casino has a "Cheers"-like vibe and often hosts dance bands on weekend nights. 

The South Point possesses a multitude of dining options sure to satisfy any appetite. A standout among the restaurants is the intimate gourmet room Michael's. With a 20-year history, it has won accolades for the excellent filet mignon, sirloin steak and seafood preparations. Meat lovers looking for a more casual setting with equally succulent cuts can mosey into the Silverado Steakhouse or Primarily Prime Rib. Exotic cravings are filled with the freshly made pastas in Don Vito's and south-of-the-border favorites at Baja Miguel's.

For quick ways to appease your hunger pangs in between hands and other casino play, try the Coronado Café or the Garden Buffet, which offers six live cooking stations. The Del Mar Deli is a fabulous spot for New York-style soups, sandwiches and decadent desserts. Plus, the beloved Midwestern chain Steak 'n Shake, known for its "steakburgers" and hand-dipped shakes, opened its first Las Vegas location inside the South Point.

Don’t forget to play in the finest bingo room around, indulge in a treatment at the Costa Del Sur Spa and Salon, work out in the 24-hour fitness room or relax in the lagoon-style pool and hot tub. Kids and teens can spend hours at the Time-Out Arcade, while men will enjoy an expert shave and haircut at the Barber Shop. 

A stay at the South Point is also ideal for business travelers, who will have access to 71,000 square feet of meeting space and free wireless internet access in the lobby. There's a large business center that offer computers, copy and fax services, shipping and office supplies as well.

The hotel has 2,163 spacious rooms and suites. Comfortably furnished, each one comes with a 42-inch LED television, a hair dryer, an iron and ironing board, a coffeemaker and a clock radio with MP3 connectivity. Free shuttle service to McCarran International Airport is available.

Conveniently located close to the Strip and many of Vegas' most exciting attractions, you'll experience unmatched hospitality at the South Point while benefiting from a hotel that’s a breed above the rest.

--By Renée LiButti