J.C.
I loved the Venetian. It's a litle expensive but is fantastic. Bathrooms are great - and very clean. I like Cesars, too - lots of stuff going on. If you're young (which you are) the Palms might be for you. Basically, go with any large hotel and get your best rate. You will hardly be in your room anyway. The Hard Rock is cool but it's off the Strip a bit.
Another tip is to go to Freemont St. one night. It's cool and fun and the gambling is MUCH cheaper.