This property first opened in the late ‘90s as The Reserve, a small locals casino-hotel with an overwhelming jungle theme and not enough of the extras and perks that make most locals want to go to places like this. It never really took off and the hotel was purchased by local giants Station Casinos, who promptly turned it into a Henderson branch of their popular Fiesta chain.

What a difference a fresh coat of paint and a fresher management style can make.

They updated the exterior, removing the universally derided “rusted metal shack in the African jungle” look to a light and bright adobe scheme in keeping with the Fiesta name. It’s a huge improvement and makes going here feel less like you’re a wounded gazelle trying to outrun a hungry puma. Are there pumas in Africa? Whatever.

Inside the changes were a bit more subtle – although subtle is not a word one would probably ascribe to the inside of the Fiesta Henderson. Previously it was an oppressive, overgrown jungle with too many cutesy faux trees and foliage competing with too many slot machines and video poker.

Now the foliage has been trimmed back a little, the floor plan has been de-cluttered, and some new lighting has been strung trying to evoke a Mexican beach feel. We’d personally like to see more of the early theme removed for a less frenetic approach but what they have done is an absolute improvement. In other words you may still feel like the wounded gazelle but the puma isn’t as much of a threat.

Work with me here, folks.

Additional improvements are scheduled for 2006 including the construction of a much-needed parking garage and other amenities.

Scattered around the property are various dining establishments (the typical steakhouse, a buffet, etc.), a few bars, and that's about it. There are no movie theaters, bowling alleys, or any of that other stuff that is often found at locals casinos like this one although some of that may be coming in the future.

The 224 rooms in a 10-story tower have been updated as well and the former safari thing has been replaced by the fiesta thing here too. It’s very understated throughout the halls and rooms so it’s nothing to get worked up about. The rooms are pretty simple but they cover the basics. You’ve got your bed or beds; a table and chairs; a smallish TV with cable, pay-per-view, and Nintendo; phones with a data port; a hair dryer and coffee service in the smallish bathroom; and that about covers it. There are no safes or irons and boards although you can get either through the front desk.

Although the far-flung Henderson location is a bit of a drag, the prices at this hotel can often make up for the 10 miles or so you have to travel to get to The Strip. We’ve seen prices as low as $20 during the week but $30-50 is more common – add another $20-30 for the weekends.

As with other locals oriented hotels this probably isn’t going to be one of your first choices when it comes to booking a hotel stay and that’s fair. But definitely keep this one on your alternative list when everything else is full or too expensive. And on a future trip get off The Strip to visit fun smaller joints like this one!

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