One good place to check hotel prices is Priceline.com. You don't have to bid, just put in your dates and they will bring up a list of hotels with discounted prices. You can find some great deals.
I recommend center strip also. If your trying to impress your wife, avoid Imperial Palace, Bill's, Bally's, Harrah's or Flamingo. There are much better choices. Particularly Bellagio, Ceasers, or The Venetian. If those are too much, try Paris or Planet Hollywood.
Enjoy.