And personally like it quite a bit. It's definitely quieter than the Hard Rock though, so you may want to keep that in mind if you like the rock n roll vibe they have over there. It's Halloween weekend and since you've visited Vegas before, I'm sure you know anywhere you stay is going to have a huge rate increase for the holiday weekend.  
Cosmo might be a fun place to stay in the strip,especially if you get a room with a balcony and a view of the Bellagio fountains. They have a very fun atmosphere Im sure you'd like, but they're on the higher end too.
In any case, I hope this was helpful
XOXO
Bri

Platinum...

Small lobby and bar no casino but they do have jacuzzi tubs if that is your thing
As Char mentioned during Halloween room rates are higher.
I would recommend close to Platinum is the Westin Hotel(very small slot area)nice rooms
Caesar's, Cosmopolitan,Planet Hollywood all of these hotels do not have security at the elevators

Downtown.  I stayed there last year at the Main Street Station. It's a decent place and clean.  There are lots of other places down there that are decent as well. The rates are much better then the strip.  Some place don't have resort fees and as far as I know they are not charging for parking if you are staying there.  I liked Downtown much better then the strip.