Just got back from Vegas a few days ago. We stayed from Aug. 5-8 in the Carson tower.
Check-in & Carson Tower: we arrived around 3:30pm on Friday and we were checked in within 15 minutes. We asked for an upgrade which was an extra $15/night. The rooms were nice and clean but didn't have a coffee maker, no biggie since Starbucks was just steps from the elevator on the first floor. If you're looking for an affordable price for the weekend I recommend the Carson tower.
Pool: the main pool area is large with a lot of lounge chairs that are first come first serve. They fill up quick and the pool opens at 10am. It's a nice pool, music from the speakers was loud enough to hear but not to loud that you couldn't think. There was a constant line for the water slide so we didn't attempt it but looked fun. Good family atmosphere. Since we were kid free we decided to go up to the...
Hideout pool (adults only): this pool was much smaller but had a great party going on. The dj was pumping the music, everyone having a good time with no riff raff going on. They have a bar as well but the lounge chairs and cabanas cost money so be prepared to stand in the pool most of the time if you're not going to pay for the chairs. Overall we liked this pool the best as we were having a weekend to ourselves w/out kid in tow.
Casino and Food: the casino had some good action but we enjoyed the cheaper tables across the street at the Fremont. As for food...breakfast - try the Grille, it's fast and easy if you don't have time to sit down in a restaurant. We ate at the Claim jumper two or three times, service was good and prices as well. We had dinner at the Chart House which has a beautiful fish tank inside. We asked to be seated by the tank and they delivered. I thought the fish were gonna steal some food from the table. The food was fabulous and you must try the chocolate lava.
Overall we had a great experience at the "Nugget". It's a great location and there is always something going on on Fremont street. This was our first time staying downtown and we never left Fremont street except to go shopping at the outlets. I can't see staying on the strip ever again. The Nugget and Fremont have plenty to do for the weekend.