I'm no world traveler, but McCarran is one of my favorite airports, if not my MOST favorite.
There's always something to do there, and the carousels for luggage are convenient and right by the shuttles and taxi area. This airport is well designed for the newbie traveler, and always a breeze to go through.
The gambling, while some love it, is okay - like I said, it at least gives you something to do to pass the time in the terminal. But there are also shops, restaurants, and bars to occupy your time as well. It's just a well laid out airport.