gotten specials at all three major hotels in this area (caesars, bellagio and aria) for well within your price range. I have no idea if they will available this weekend, but sometimes last minute deals are the best. As far as off the strip properties, Green Valley Ranch and Red Rock Station are among the nicest, but neither is too close to the strip. I also second the south point suggestion, but that isn't close either. If you really don't care exactly where you stay, I have had great success using priceline's negotiator. You pick the level of hotel you want (5 stars, 4.5 stars...) and the exact area and then you name your price. I am usually successful when I put in a little less than half of the average rate. For example, if it says the average rate is 100, I put in 45 or 50. The only down side is you have to put in your credit card first and if you make an acceptable offer you have to take what they give you. I've gotten amazing deals and okay deals, but nothing bad so far. Good luck!