The Sahara is one of my favorite strip hotels. It is an inexpensive 3-4 star strip hotel with a small low table limit casino. The Sahara comps very well (be certain to get the coupon book) and it is very easy to find folks in the casino.

The Sahara has some nice amusements (roller coaster and NASCAR simulation) and is located almost directly across from the Stratosphere.

The Sahara is on the Monorail line so it is very easy to get up and down the strip. You can walk outside and catch a local bus to downtown (Freemont St experience).

I think your group will enjoy staying there.