We will be visiting Las Vegas for the first time this Thanksgiving (Nov 27-Dec2). Reviewing previous questions and responses from different forums, I see mention of "wait until holiday rates are posted".

Could anyone tell me when those rates might be posted? Also, what kind of rates should I expect for that time of the year?

We am thinking of staying at Aladdin (pricing seems to be the best so far)--but have considered Mirage, Treasure Island, Mandalay Bay, Paris...Any advice is appreciated! Thanks!

LV hotels generally post rates through a 3-4 month period (right now you can identify rates generally through October for most strip hotels)

As a frequent visitor to LV, my approach to finding good rates is based essentially on two things: 1 - a regular checking of internet postings of rates, plus the special offers I often receive directly from hotels. If I find something either way at a rate I like, I book it. (my high-end limit generally does not exceed say $89/weekday for Paris, Mirage, or Treasure Island.) Rates can often be found that are below that - depending on where you wish to stay (the hotels you mention generaly would fall into the $59/wd - $89/wd range. (with the exception of Mandalay Bay) $59/$89 I would consider pretty good rates.

2. If nothing looks good, I then wait (as your post suggests) and book near trip time because often too, hotels do not sell out and post last minute rates to attract customers. (I've gotten a rate of $49/wd/we at MGM in this manner) If you did not also notice in your research, room rates go up substantially on weekends. A rate of say, $59 on Thursday, can easily become $169 on Friday - in the same room in the same hotel. (I often use a two-hotel strategy while on the same trip to take advantage of special rate offers for weekends vs weekdays)

I've not visited LV over Thanksgiving so I cannot advise you on rates during that time of year, but I would guess rates are attractive at that time of year. Perhaps others can offer better advice on that?

And finally, check out the "cheapovegas.com" website for good info on all LV strip/downtown hotels. A link to individual hotel websites is available, where they often post their special offers (for example, right now the Luxor has a $59 rate with some incentives thrown in (without knowing the specifics, I consider this an attractive offer) through Sept 5)
Hope this helps some and that you enjoy your first visit to Las Vegas!

Thanks for so much information speedo!

...Could I bother you or someone else for some more? We will be traveling w/our little one (just under 2...I know, not a place for her, but we wouldn't be allowed into the wedding we are attending if we did not bring her), bringing a babysitter w/us so that we can go out and make our millions gambling!!

Is there a particular hotel you would recommend? I have heard mixed reviews of Aladdin...but it looks nice...should we avoid it though?

Again, thanks! We are looking forward to the trip!!

Have stayed at the Aladdin and while a bit on the small side, found the room to be of very high quality. The casino I found to be "average", meaning nothing special - I perfer making my millions at Luxor, Monte Carlo, NYNY and Flamingo, but will take it most anywhere. My spin also is that Aladdin plays generally to a 30-40 age group.

While some reviews of the Aladdin are unfavorable, my observation from a June visit, which followed a March visit, concludes that it is now starting to come into its own. Perhaps since it is the latest of the mega resorts, carving out a market niche took longer than expected. (The pool area in my view, while fully acceptable, is its major drawback - it just doesn't sing to me)

In sum,when an attractive offer comes my way, I'll book the Aladdin without hesitation. A good location, quality rooms, tremendous shopping, good dining selections, and competitive dollar value, place it high in my strip hotel index.

(But all the hotels you identified in their own way, are good selections)

And if you do book the Aladdin, be sure to show your little one the indoor "rain" in the Desert Pasage mall which encircles the Aladdin casino. A two-year old might find that to be exciting)

Book something now but don't use a discount service, book something that is cancellable and changeable. You can always book a better rate later on if something comes up, but Vegas is very crowded over 4 day weekend periods - especially Thanksgiving since not only are tourists in town, but also loads of family visiting relatives.

I agree that the Aladdin is fine.

Thanks so much! You have given some great info--I appreciate it. Now, we will do our best to leave a little bit there for you guys after we win our millions...!

I actually prefer the Aladin since it is a bit smaller. It makes it more convenient to run up to your room when needed. Some of the other hotel/casinos are just way too big and spread out...spend 1/2 your time just trying to find the right elevator etc.
I've also won money in their casino which leaves me with a good favorable impression. I'd definitely go with the Aladin.