The M Resort Spa Casino

The M Resort Spa Casino is at 12300 Las Vegas Blvd. S. (from I-15, exit at St. Rose Pkwy.). If you're a weekend road warrior from L.A., your first (or last) chance to roll the bones in the metro Vegas area is at this major resort about 15 minutes south of the Strip. Don't be put off by the fact that it caters mainly to locals. Much like the Red Rock Resort, The M offers sleek decor, a nice lineup of restaurants and fairly good gambling odds.

On the far side of the floor is an extensive non-smoking gaming area. The plush race and sportsbook was the first in Vegas to offer “In-Running Wagering,” which lets you bet on live sports events already in progress. Also at the book you can pick up an eDeck, a palm-sized mobile gaming device that's loaded with games like Caribbean Stud and Texas Hold'em.

Food is available.