"Sin City's Star: A Glamorous Retreat at The Cosmopolitan, Las Vegas"

Having traveled to Las Vegas over 25 times, our family has found The Cosmopolitan hotel to be our top choice, staying here nearly 10 times. Centrally located on the Strip, this hotel stands out as one of the hippest resorts, offering a vibrant atmosphere, luxurious amenities, and unparalleled convenience. The Cosmopolitan is both a member of the MGM family of resorts and Marriott. It's a great option if you are loyal to MGM and Marriott. This is one of the reasons we have stayed here so many times. From its chic design to its world-class dining and entertainment options, The Cosmopolitan consistently delivers an exceptional Vegas experience.

Location

The location of The Cosmopolitan on the Las Vegas Strip is simply unbeatable. Centrally situated, it offers seamless connectivity to both the Bellagio and Vdara, making it a hub of convenience and luxury. Just a few steps away, you'll find the upscale Shops at Crystals, perfect for indulging in some retail therapy. Additionally, a quick bridge walk takes you to the vibrant Planet Hollywood Hotel, ensuring that you're always in the heart of the action.  There is even a CVS across the street and this is great for purchasing lower cost beverages and snacks. This prime location makes The Cosmopolitan an ideal base for exploring all that the Strip has to offer.

Hotel Grounds

The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas is renowned for its modern and sophisticated design, setting it apart as one of the Strip's most stylish destinations. The hotel grounds feature a blend of luxurious amenities and artistic touches that create a unique and vibrant atmosphere.  The hotel is not extremely wide when viewing from the strip, like the Bellagio or Caesar's Palace. It is extremely long though.  The casino is on the first floor and stretches the length of the hotel. On levels two and three near the strip, you will find shopping and dining options.

The lobby of The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas is a stunning introduction to the hotel's modern and sophisticated ambiance. As guests enter, they are greeted by a blend of contemporary design elements and artistic flourishes that set the tone for the entire property. Digital art installations, including rotating displays on towering columns, captivate the eye with their dynamic visuals. The lobby's spacious layout and stylish décor reflect the hotel's commitment to luxury and innovation, offering a welcoming atmosphere that invites guests to begin their Las Vegas experience in style.  If you are a Marriott Bonvoy member with a Platinum Elite or higher status, skip the long check in line by using the Autograph Lounge.  Not only can you skip the long lines, but they also have free coffee and tea.

The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas is distinguished by its impressive and eclectic art collection, seamlessly integrating contemporary pieces into the hotel's vibrant atmosphere.  These dynamic pieces set the tone for the hotel's innovative approach to art.

Additionally, the hotel's Art-o-mat machines offer a playful twist, allowing guests to purchase original artwork from repurposed vintage cigarette machines. This unique concept makes art accessible and adds an element of surprise and delight to the guest experience.

Rooms

The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas offers a variety of room types, each designed with a blend of modern luxury and artistic flair. Many rooms boast stunning views of the iconic Bellagio Fountains, enhancing the guest experience with nightly water and light shows. One of the unique features of The Cosmopolitan's rooms is the private balconies, a rare amenity on the Strip, providing guests with a personal outdoor space to enjoy the vibrant cityscape.

Over the years, we've stayed in several types of rooms at The Cosmopolitan, appreciating the different layouts and views.

This trip, we enjoyed a terrace one bedroom suite overlooking the Boulevard pool, which provided a lively yet relaxing atmosphere. It's worth noting that some of the rooms have a slightly risqué design, where the shower area is visible from the bedroom through semi-transparent glass, adding a playful and intimate touch to the space. Our room this trip featured a large shower area with a built-in tub that opened up into the bedroom, creating a spacious and luxurious feel. This thoughtful design allows for a seamless blend of relaxation and modern elegance, making each stay at The Cosmopolitan a unique and memorable experience.

I recommend trying to book a room with a view of the Bellagio Fountains. The rooms are a little more expensive, but the view is worth it. Plus, it's on the opposite side of the Marquee day pool. On our first night at the hotel on this trip, the Marquee Club stayed open until about 3:00 a.m. and we could hear the music all night long. 

Pools

The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas offers a trio of distinct pool experiences, each catering to different moods and preferences. The Boulevard Pool, located on the east side of the property, is known for its vibrant atmosphere and stunning views of the Las Vegas Strip. At night, this pool transforms into an outdoor theater, hosting "Dive In Movies" where guests can enjoy classic and contemporary films while lounging poolside. During the Christmas holiday season, they turn the pool deck into an ice-skating rink.

The Chelsea Pool provides a more tranquil and relaxing environment. Here, guests can unwind in the cool zero-gravity chairs that sit in the water, offering a unique floating experience. The area is dotted with luxurious cabanas and daybeds, perfect for those seeking a private oasis to enjoy the sun and pool in comfort.

For those looking for an energetic vibe, the Marquee Dayclub Pool is the place to be. Known for its lively day parties and DJ performances, this pool area features plush cabanas, daybeds, and multiple bars serving up refreshing cocktails. It's a hotspot for socializing and enjoying the vibrant party scene that The Cosmopolitan is famous for.

Each pool area is designed with its own unique charm, providing a diverse range of experiences for guests. Whether you're looking to relax, catch a movie, or join a lively party, the pools at The Cosmopolitan cater to every desire.

Restaurants

If you are a serious foodie, then the Cosmopolitan is a hotel for you!  The hotel has many fine dining establishments, several quick eats, and a buffet.

Fine Dining

The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas is a culinary hotspot, offering an array of fine dining restaurants that cater to diverse tastes. Among our favorites is Superfrico, celebrated for its inventive Italian-American cuisine and vibrant, eclectic ambiance. Scarpetta, another top choice, delights with its sophisticated Italian dishes, featuring house-made pastas and fresh, bold flavors, and it's also a favorite of ours at the Fontainebleau in Miami. China Poblano by José Andrés offers an innovative fusion of Chinese and Mexican cuisine, creating a unique and flavorful dining experience. 

Other notable restaurants include é by José Andrés, a hidden gem offering avant-garde Spanish fare, Blue Ribbon, known for its modern take on classic American dishes, LPM offers vibrant Mediterranean Cuisine, Beauty & Essex offering unique sharing plates and new twists on classic cocktails, Jaleo brings authentic flavors of Spanish cuisine, Momofuku an American Asian restaurant, Red Plate offers a dining experience grounded in authentic Chinese flavors, and STK the popular steak house . With such a diverse and high-quality selection, The Cosmopolitan ensures an exceptional dining experience for every guest.

Quick Serve Options

If time and money are limited, The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas offers a variety of quick-serve food options that cater to different tastes and preferences, ensuring guests can enjoy delicious meals even on the go. Here are some of the top quick-serve spots:

Eggslut: Famous for its gourmet egg sandwiches, Eggslut provides a delicious and satisfying breakfast or brunch option. The signature Fairfax sandwich, featuring scrambled eggs, chives, caramelized onions, and sriracha mayo, is a must-try.  I have never seen this place without a long line.

Secret Pizza: Tucked away in a hidden corridor, Secret Pizza offers New York-style pizza by the slice or whole pie. Its unmarked entrance adds a fun element of discovery to grabbing a quick, tasty slice.  

The Halal Guys: Known for their flavorful Mediterranean street food, The Halal Guys serve up generous portions of chicken, gyro, and falafel platters, along with their famous white and hot sauces.

Hattie B’s Hot Chicken: Bringing a taste of Nashville to Las Vegas, Hattie B’s offers mouthwatering hot chicken with various spice levels, along with Southern-style sides like pimento mac and cheese and collard greens.  Being from Nashville, I have never tried the hot chicken in Vegas, but it looks the same as back home.

District: Donuts. Sliders. Brew.: This spot combines three favorites—donuts, sliders, and coffee. With a range of creative donut flavors, juicy sliders, and quality coffee, it’s perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. This is often our go to for a quick breakfast.  Be aware that they do tend to run out of their popular doughnuts as the day goes on.

Tekka Bar: Handroll & Sake: Specializing in fresh sushi handrolls and sake, Tekka Bar provides a quick, delicious, and authentic Japanese dining experience.

Lardo: Known for its indulgent sandwiches, Lardo offers a variety of options, including the popular Pork Belly Gyro and Korean Pork Shoulder Sandwich, making it a great spot for a hearty, quick bite.

Pok Pok Wing: A smaller version of the famous Pok Pok restaurant, this spot offers flavorful Thai-style chicken wings and sides, perfect for a quick, exotic meal.

Buffet

While most hotels in Vegas are moving away from the buffet experience, the Cosmopolitan  continues to provide this classic Vegas experience. The Cosmopolitan is home to the Wicked Spoon Buffet, a modern and upscale take on the traditional buffet experience. Known for its high-quality offerings and unique presentation, Wicked Spoon stands out as one of the top buffets in Las Vegas.

Bars 

The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas is renowned for its vibrant and diverse selection of bars and lounges, each offering a unique atmosphere and specialty drinks. Here’s a snapshot of some of the notable bars you can explore at The Cosmopolitan:

The Chandelier: Perhaps the most iconic bar at The Cosmopolitan, The Chandelier is a three-story visual spectacle enveloped in thousands of shimmering crystals. Each level offers a different experience: the bottom level features classic cocktails in a glamorous setting, the middle level offers innovative mixology with adventurous drinks, and the top level is an intimate hideaway serving rare spirits and refined cocktails.  A must try is the special flower drink that is available on the 2nd level only.  I will not spoil the fun and tell you about the drink, but give it a try.

Vesper Bar: Inspired by the classic James Bond novel "Casino Royale," Vesper Bar exudes a sophisticated yet approachable ambiance. It specializes in expertly crafted cocktails using premium spirits and fresh ingredients, creating a refined drinking experience.

CliQue Bar & Lounge: Located near the casino floor, CliQue is known for its social atmosphere and inventive cocktails. It features comfortable seating areas and a menu that includes both classic and innovative drinks, as well as small plates for a complete dining and drinking experience.

Speakeasies

The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas is home to several unique speakeasies that offer a blend of secrecy, style, and exceptional cocktails. Here are the noteworthy speakeasies you can find at The Cosmopolitan:

The Barbershop Cuts & Cocktails: This speakeasy is cleverly disguised as a classic barbershop. Behind an unassuming janitor's door, you'll discover a stylish Prohibition-era bar complete with plush seating, live music, and expertly crafted cocktails. The ambiance combines old-world charm with modern mixology, making it a must-visit for a unique nightlife experience.  This is one we have not visited.  This speakeasy is known to have superstar music acts such as Bruno Mars to randomly show up and perform.

Ghost Donkey: Tucked away within the Block 16 Urban Food Hall, Ghost Donkey is a hidden gem that transports guests to a vibrant, secret cantina. Its entrance is subtly marked, adding to the allure of discovery. Inside, the intimate space is adorned with colorful lights and festive décor, creating a lively yet cozy atmosphere. Ghost Donkey specializes in an extensive selection of tequila and mezcal, offering adventurous and creative cocktails. To find the entrance, simple walk behind Hattie B's and look for the door with a donkey on it.

The Ski Lodge:  Part of Superfrico's expanding nightlife offerings. This speakeasy-style lounge transports guests to a cozy, alpine ski retreat, right in the heart of the Las Vegas Strip. The Ski Lodge captures the essence of a classic mountain lodge with its rustic wooden décor, vintage ski gear, and warm, inviting atmosphere. It offers a whimsical and immersive experience, complete with faux snow, wood-paneled walls, and roaring fireplaces that create an authentic après-ski ambiance. This hidden bar is located directly to the left of Superfrico. Look for the door with the person skiing.

Each of these speakeasies at The Cosmopolitan provides a distinct and memorable experience, combining the thrill of hidden entrances with outstanding drinks and unique atmospheres.

Casino

The casino at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas is a dynamic and contemporary gaming destination, featuring an array of slot machines, table games, and high-limit areas. Known for its stylish ambiance and innovative design, the casino often showcases some of the newest and most advanced slot machines on the market, providing guests with a modern gaming experience.

It's worth noting that while the casino offers a diverse selection of games, including blackjack, roulette, and more, we have found the slot machines to be relatively tight. This observation aligns with the understanding that casinos like The Cosmopolitan are designed with the expectation that the house will maintain a statistical edge over players in the long run.

Overall, The Cosmopolitan's casino combines sleek surroundings with a variety of gaming options, making it a popular choice for those seeking excitement and entertainment on the Las Vegas Strip.

Shopping

The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas features a variety of boutique shops and upscale retail options, offering guests a diverse shopping experience right within the hotel. Here’s a look at some of the notable stores you can explore at The Cosmopolitan:

AllSaints: Known for its contemporary and edgy fashion, AllSaints offers a range of clothing and accessories that blend modern style with a touch of British heritage.

Monogram: This boutique specializes in personalized jewelry and accessories, allowing guests to create custom pieces that reflect their individual style and preferences.

CRSVR: A destination for streetwear enthusiasts, CRSVR offers a curated selection of sneakers, apparel, and accessories from top urban fashion brands.

Retrospecs & Co.: This unique store showcases vintage eyewear and accessories, featuring a collection of carefully curated frames that span decades of fashion history.

Rose. Rabbit. Lie. Boutique: Located within the hotel’s social club of the same name, this boutique offers an eclectic mix of gifts, home décor, and fashion items that reflect the venue’s whimsical and artistic vibe.

Blu Perfer: Specializing in upscale men’s and women’s fashion, Blu Perfer features a curated selection of clothing, shoes, and accessories from luxury brands.

These stores at The Cosmopolitan cater to a range of tastes and preferences, offering everything from high-end fashion and personalized jewelry to vintage eyewear and unique art pieces. Whether you’re looking for a special gift, a fashion statement, or a souvenir of your Las Vegas experience, The Cosmopolitan’s boutique shops provide plenty of options to explore.

Summary

Overall, The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas provides an all-encompassing Vegas experience with its stylish accommodations, vibrant entertainment options, and central location. Whether exploring the casino floor, indulging in gourmet dining, or relaxing by the pool, guests are sure to find something to suit every preference and create lasting memories in the heart of the Strip.

Interested in booking a trip to Las Vegas?  Request a quote by sending me an email: jrupert@mainstreetadventures.com