Small group, 2- 4 guys. Don't care about restaurants, just want to play a round of golf, gamble and sit in the sportsbook for college football for awhile. Either arrive Friday afternoon or Saturday morning so one or two nights. Coming from Houston.

Don't want a bargain basement casino, but also don't need high end since we probably won't go the nice restaurants, only be in the room to sleep, etc... Any recommmendations to manage drive time, decent golf (doesn't have to be great) without spending $400/night at the nugget? We would prefer to spend our money on golf, blackjack and watching the Ags win than a super nice room.

Your choices are Golden Nugget, L'Auberge, or Coushatta. Since you're lolpoor, L'Auberge or Coushatta will be the best options.

You could stay at Wyndham or other hotel right by Golden Nugget. Some of them have shuttles that take you to Golden Nugget or just drive there in a couple minutes.

There are several hotels within 5 minute of Golden Nuggett. I tend to stay at the Marriott brand properties.