I'm happy The Golden Nugget is the first hotel and casino reviewed by All Vegas Guide because The Golden Nugget has always been one of my favorites. Sure, there are fancier hotels on the strip, but The Golden Nugget offers class and elegance at a more affordable price, the table minimums are reasonable, the buffet is outstanding, the Fremont Street Experience and atmosphere is just outside the door and you're within walking distance to several other casinos that offer excellent gaming structures at their tables.
Update: This was the very first resort review that I added to All Vegas Guide. A lot has changed since then, but the Golden Nugget is still my favorite hotel in all of Las Vegas.
For one thing, the Golden Nugget added their shark tank to the pool area and that's worth seeing even if you aren't staying at the Golden Nugget. Fremont Street itself has turned into a circus, in a good way. There are street performers and unique restaurants and bars up and down Fremont Street. One of my favorite places to hang out and watch the crowd is Banger Brewery, but that's certainly not your only option. There are also several "speakeasy" bars where you can get away from the hustle of Freemont Street for a craft cocktail.
The more the Strip turns into huge hotels with no personality run by corporate giants, the more I'm going to like the atmosphere Downtown and Golden Nugget is the perfect place to take advantage of that.