Yes I am giving this location 4 stars and I will justify it below. We generally don't stay downtown. If we were to do it again we would return without hesitation. The four stars isn't based on the location. It's based on the business, it's presentation and what it has to offer. Yes, It is located downtown so you're not on the strip. Yes it is old. Yes it is located next to the Greyhound bus station.
BUT, you only see the bus station while you're at the valet. Upon entry, the casino floor is small and easy to navigate. It has bars in easily accessible locations and it's not overly smokey at all. Check in was quick and flawless. Staff was professional and friendly. During check in you're given a discount book to the different eateries, stores, bars and games located in The Plaza. It's smart on their part to keep business in their casino and it's a bargain to the customer. The book easily saved us about $100-$150 during a 3 day period.
We were placed on the 18th floor of the South wing. Upon exiting the elevator it smells clean and looks clean and modern. Our room is spacious, clean and had a great view of Vegas. You can tell it's been remodeled recently and kudos to them.
The Plaza itself has an awesome steak house called Oscars; see my review of it for info. It has other small quick food locations also. For a sit down breakfast or lunch with decent chow try Hash Club a Go Go.
For some good microbrews The Plaza even has an establishment called the Beer Garden.
The Plaza a is located on the west end of Fremont street so you have easy access to the downtown entertainment.
We didn't visit the pool so I can't speak on it.
Give it a shot. It's worth the money. It's clean spacious and has all you need for a good time at a decent cost.
DO IT!!!