If you’re heading to Las Vegas and want a hotel that offers something a little different, The STRAT might catch your eye. With its towering 1,149-foot observation deck and thrill rides, The STRAT is hard to miss—and for travelers looking to stay near the north end of the Strip, it offers an affordable, entertainment-heavy option. But if you’re planning to bring your dog along, there’s an important question to ask before you book: Does The STRAT allow pets? Let’s find out.

The STRAT’s Pet Policy

Let’s get straight to it: The STRAT Hotel, Casino & Tower does not allow pets. The hotel has a strict no-pets policy, and unfortunately, that includes dogs—no matter how small, quiet, or well-trained. The only exception to this rule is for registered service animals, in full compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. So if you were hoping to enjoy the Strip’s tallest hotel with your pup by your side, you’ll need to look at other options.

So, What Are Your Options Nearby?

Luckily, there are several dog-friendly hotels within a short drive—or even a reasonable walk—of The STRAT. These alternatives offer pet-friendly policies, thoughtful amenities, and a range of price points to fit your travel style. Some go as far as offering in-room dog beds, doggie menus, and even on-call pet sitters. Whether you’re looking for upscale vibes, mid-range comfort, or simple convenience, there’s a dog-welcoming spot in Vegas that’ll work for both you and your pup.

Virgin Hotels Las Vegas

Just east of the Strip, Virgin Hotels Las Vegas is easily one of the best pet-friendly hotels in the city. What sets Virgin apart is how natural it feels to have your dog with you—there are no pet fees, no weight or breed restrictions, and dogs aren’t treated like a problem to be tolerated, but like valued guests.

The hotel welcomes up to two dogs per room and provides food and water bowls, a plush dog bed, and even a branded bandana at check-in. The modern design features hard floors that are easy to clean, and the property’s layout makes potty breaks a lot easier than in the middle of the Strip. While it doesn’t have a full dog park, it’s walkable and thoughtfully laid out for guests with pets. It’s an ideal match if you’re looking for style, ease, and zero pet-related stress.

The LINQ Hotel + Experience

For travelers who want to stay right in the heart of the Strip without leaving their pup behind, The LINQ is a strong option. It’s part of Caesars’ PetStay program, which allows up to two dogs per room, with a weight limit of 50 pounds per dog. You’ll pay a pet fee, but in return, you’ll get essentials like food and water bowls, pee pads, and waste bags, plus access to a designated dog relief area on-site.

The vibe at The LINQ is younger and energetic—perfect if you want to be surrounded by action and nightlife. And since it’s connected to the LINQ Promenade (a pedestrian-friendly shopping and dining zone), there’s more room to walk your dog than you might expect. It’s not quiet, but it is convenient—and surprisingly dog-aware for such a busy part of town.

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Las Vegas Airport N. Convention

If your priority is affordability and ease, La Quinta near the Las Vegas Convention Center might be your best bet. It’s one of the few hotels in Vegas that allows dogs of any size or breed and doesn’t charge a pet fee. That alone puts it ahead of many options when it comes to value.

Rooms are simple but spacious, and there’s a small grassy area on-site for pet relief. The surrounding area is quieter than the Strip, and you’ll find several low-traffic walking routes nearby. It’s not flashy, but it gets all the essentials right—and for dog owners who want a smooth, no-surprises stay, that’s more than enough.

What to Know About Bringing Your Dog to Vegas

Bringing your dog to Las Vegas is absolutely doable, but it’s not quite the same as traveling to a laid-back beach town or a quiet mountain cabin. Vegas presents its own set of quirks—especially when you’re staying near or on the Strip. From the intense desert heat to the lack of green space, there are a few things you’ll want to prep for before you arrive.

Watch Out for the Heat

The Las Vegas heat is serious business—especially for dogs. In the summer, the air temperature often reaches over 100°F, but the pavement can get even hotter—up to 140°F, which can burn paws in seconds. And unfortunately, most of the Strip and its surrounding areas are paved, so walking your dog during the day can be tricky.

If you’re heading out with your pup, try to schedule walks in the early morning or after the sun has gone down. Always test the pavement with your hand first. If it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for them. Bring booties or use paw balm for added protection, and stick to shaded sidewalks or areas with artificial turf where possible. And don’t forget to carry water—not just for drinking, but also in case your dog needs to be cooled down quickly.

Plan for Potty Breaks in Advance

If you’ve never been to Vegas with a dog before, here’s a tip: grass is rare, especially near hotels like The STRAT. Many hotels don’t offer dedicated pet relief areas, and if they do, they vary a lot in quality—from tiny patches of turf to fully fenced grassy zones.

That’s where planning ahead comes in. At Dog Friendly Las Vegas, we’ve put together a list of all hotel pet relief areas, complete with photos and field reports so you know what to expect. That way, you’re not wandering around the back of a parking garage in the dark hoping your dog will find a suitable spot. You’ll know exactly where to go before the “potty dance” even starts.

Pet Sitting and Doggy Daycare Are Easy to Find

As much as we all love traveling with our dogs, there are plenty of things in Vegas they just can’t do—like hit the casino floor or attend a Cirque du Soleil show. And most hotels, even dog-friendly ones, won’t allow pets to be left alone in the room.

Luckily, Las Vegas has a number of local dog sitters and daycare providers who specialize in helping out-of-town guests. Many can come directly to your hotel for in-room care, or you can arrange a few hours of playtime at a local doggy daycare while you enjoy your evening. Virgin, The LINQ, and other pet-welcoming hotels are often happy to connect you with vetted services—they know the drill and can help you set it all up.

In a Nutshell

While it’s disappointing that The STRAT doesn’t allow dogs, there’s no shortage of solid alternatives nearby. Whether you want the stylish hospitality of Virgin Hotels, the central energy of The LINQ, or the straightforward convenience of La Quinta, you’ve got pet-friendly options that let you enjoy Las Vegas without leaving your dog behind.

And with a little planning—from choosing the right hotel to mapping out relief areas—traveling with your dog in Vegas can be just as smooth as any other city. For more on where to stay, walk, and play, check out our full guides at Dog Friendly Las Vegas. We’re all about helping you and your pup explore the city without compromise.