Oh, Circus Circus. When I told my dad we were staying here, he said that it was the cheapest place on the strip when he used to visit back in the 70s. Looks like it's still the cheapest and the carpet is definitely still the same!
Given, the reviews, I was fully expecting this place to be gross. Lucky for us, it was not. Our room was clean if not updated.
If you're looking for a place just to sleep (or not sleep) during your stay in Vegas and don't want to spend a lot. Circus Circus is still a viable option.
Pool is pretty meh. Food is gross. Casino has seen better days. It's dark and has the signature stale cigarette smell (come on NV it's time to ban indoor smoking).
My only run in with the staff was with an overly aggressive bellman who got in my personal space while I was looking for my check ticket. Seriously, dude. There is no one behind me in line, lay off! He then proceeded to take over ten minutes to find my bag and wouldn't take no as an answer when I said I didn't need help to the room. I get that you work for tips, but the fastest way to lose your tip is telling a female customer that she's not strong enough to lift her own luggage. I overheard another bell demanding a tip from a foreign tourist (who had no idea about tipping). Guess I shouldn't expect the staff at a tacky hotel to have any tact.
PS: They are also extremely pushy about check out. Check out is earlier than most hotels and the maids are waiting at your door well BEFORE check out. Be prepared to leave in a hurry otherwise you will be charged.