ARIA Resort Casino: Your Ultimate Las Vegas Luxury Experience

About ARIA Resort & Casino Hotel

ARIA Resort and Casino stands as a luxury resort and casino, serving as the primary property at the CityCenter complex on the Las Vegas Strip in Paradise, Nevada. Unlike traditional Vegas resorts that lean heavily on elaborate themes (like Bellagio’s Lake Como or Paris Las Vegas’s French architecture), ARIA presents a sophisticated, contemporary aesthetic through its twin curvilinear glass towers rising up to 50 stories. My taxi driver once described it perfectly as “glassy and classy” when dropping me off—the moniker still accurately captures ARIA’s modern presence among the diverse architectural styles of the Las Vegas skyline.

ARIA Resort & Casino, Autograph Collection®

Instead of being merely an MGM property, this resort functions as the namesake of ARIA Campus—a high-end hotel and casino complex featuring the ARIA Resort & Casino, ARIA Sky Suites, and Vdara Hotel & Spa. ARIA belongs to Marriott’s Autograph Collection, representing unique properties that don’t fit standard brand categories but maintain distinctive character. The “Aria” name, unveiled in May 2008, was inspired by the resort’s placement as the central feature of CityCenter, as arias are focal points in operas—fitting for this centerpiece property.

When is check-in time and check-out time at ARIA Resort & Casino?

Check-in time is 15:00 (3:00 PM) and check-out time is 11:00 (11:00 AM) at ARIA Resort & Casino. There is also a dedicated check-in counter in the lobby for MGM Gold members and above, which saved me valuable time during my visit. For those arriving early or departing late, ARIA offers luggage storage services. If you’re checking in after driving from McCarran Airport (about 5 miles away), you’ll appreciate the smooth transition from arrival to check-in.

Essential information about ARIA Resort & Casino

ARIA opened during challenging economic times, as the Great Recession had a negative impact on the resort’s initial revenue. Construction of CityCenter began on June 25, 2006, with ARIA being the fourth component to open at CityCenter and the primary hotel property there. Despite arriving at what seemed like a misplaced time, ARIA found success by courting high-end travelers with its glamorous accommodations and restaurants, establishing itself as a sophisticated alternative to the themed resorts that dominate the Strip.

How close is ARIA Resort & Casino from the Las Vegas city centre?

In what area of Las Vegas is ARIA Resort & Casino located? ARIA is at the heart of ARIA Campus on the Las Vegas Strip. Specifically, it’s situated between Bellagio to the south and The Cosmopolitan to the north—putting you in the absolute center of all major Strip action. The distance to downtown Las Vegas is approximately 3 miles, making it easily accessible for those wanting to explore beyond the tourist corridor. Unlike resorts on the northern or southern ends of the Strip, ARIA’s location means shorter walks to nearby attractions and less time spent on transportation.

Restaurants, Bars, Lounge & Dining options

ARIA Resort offers one of the most impressive dining lineups in Las Vegas, with more than 20 international restaurants featuring menus designed by acclaimed chefs. Whether you’re seeking fine dining or casual eats, the resort delivers exceptional culinary experiences across various price points (though be prepared—dining costs might make your wallet cry, adding to the aura of exclusivity).

Does ARIA Resort & Casino have any famous restaurants?

Yes, ARIA Resort & Casino boasts several renowned dining establishments that attract both tourists and locals. The resort is home to one of only nine restaurants in the United States that serve genuine Kobe beef. Carbone serves New York–inspired cuisine with Italian flavors, while Catch offers Asian–influenced seafood in a $7 million space that replaced Bar Masa and Tetsu in 2018. Dining highlights include:

• Carbone – Italian-American fine dining specializing in old-school red sauce dishes
• Catch – Upscale seafood restaurant with Asian influence and stunning decor
• Bardot Brasserie – French restaurant by Michael Mina featuring classic brasserie fare
• Din Tai Fung – Home of world-famous soup dumplings (operates ARIA’s largest U.S. location)
• Cathédrale – Mediterranean restaurant designed by Rockwell Group featuring authentic French-Mediterranean cuisine

As a hotel reviewer and frequent visitor, I’ve experienced everything from the bargain route at the luxe restaurants ($23 wedge salad, $74 filet mignon, $21 side of potatoes) to casual dining at proper Eats. It was fun to watch chefs make dumplings in the display kitchen near the host stand at Din Tai Fung. While the minibar suggests ARIA can be stressful for budget dining, strategically using promotions and lunch specials makes it more accessible.

Casual Dining Options

For those seeking more affordable options, ARIA offers several “fast casual options that (mostly) won’t break the bank.” Fast casual options include Lola’s (where I grabbed a burger, fries and soft drink for $33.81), The Buffet, ARIA Café, and Proper Eats—a 24,000-square-foot food hall that reopened in late 2022 featuring a dozen options including a pizza restaurant by DJ Steve Aoki.

The hotel has signs everywhere noting how easy it is to order via your phone or from self-service kiosks to cut down on wait times—though during peak hours, these features were turned off, and you still had to wait in long lines. I purposefully didn’t make reservations in advance to test the “Fine Dining Priority Reservations” benefit of MGM Gold status, which worked well for last-minute bookings.

Bars & Lounges

ARIA’s bar scene offers diverse experiences from sophisticated lounges to high-energy nightclubs. For intimate evenings, the resort features sophisticated lounges where you can enjoy craft cocktails. Don’t miss attending live performances at the hotel’s JEWEL Nightclub, which features world-class DJs and a vibrant atmosphere despite its relatively small size compared to other Las Vegas resort nightclubs (1,923-person capacity).

Does ARIA Resort & Casino have any special lounges?

Yes, ARIA includes exclusive lounges for premium guests including the Gold Lounge by Cirque du Soleil (3,756 sq ft), which was built to accompany the resort’s Viva Elvis show. The show premiered on February 17, 2010 and consisted of music, singers, dancers, acrobats and multimedia components that paid tribute to Presley before closing in April 2016 for convention center expansion.

Accommodations at ARIA Resort & Casino

ARIA offers one of the most diverse room and suite portfolios on the Las Vegas Strip, with options ranging from standard rooms to extravagant Sky Villas. Rooms and suites feature oversized interiors with contemporary furnishings, muted gold hues, and floor-to-ceiling windows with city views. The sprawling layout for a non-suite guest room plus the impeccable views puts ARIA in the higher category of resorts I’ve stayed at in Vegas.

Types of Rooms and Suites

ARIA’s accommodations include:

• Deluxe Strip View King – Perfect for couples with panoramic city views
• Deluxe Strip View Two Queen – Ideal for groups or families
• Stay Well Deluxe King Room – Health-focused accommodations with air purification
• Center Tower Suite – Strip View – Enhanced space for business or pleasure
• Corner Suite Strip View – Generous corner location with dual perspectives
• Sky Suites One Bedroom – Mountain View/Sky Suites One Bedroom Penthouse – Strip View – Exclusive access to private lounges and services
• Sky Villas – Ranging from 2,000 to 7,000 sq ft for ultimate luxury

Some of ARIA’s suites are referred to as Sky Suites, ranging in size from 1,050 to 2,060 sq ft. Based on room count, ARIA is among the largest hotels in Las Vegas. My panoramic room had ample space for stowing luggage—two closets plus a dedicated, built-in shelf for storage—and a marble bathroom that was great for couples thanks to the double vanity.

Does ARIA Resort & Casino offer accessible rooms?

Yes, ARIA features accessible room options designed to accommodate guests with special needs. The hotel includes rooms with mobility features, communication access, and specially designed bathrooms. The accessible rooms maintain the same elegant design elements as standard accommodations while incorporating necessary accessibility features. When booking, specify your accessibility requirements to ensure the appropriate room assignment.

As a World of Hyatt Explorist member, I booked a Deluxe Strip View King guest room that averaged $435.44 per night, including taxes and fees. Because of the reciprocity between MGM Resorts and Hyatt, there are various ways to book a stay at ARIA and earn loyalty points and on-property elite benefits. That stay included waived resort fees and a room upgrade to the 33rd floor instead of a room on the 21st floor, saving me approximately $90 over my two-night stay. The minimum stay of 1 consecutive night is required for special offers, with benefits applied per room, per stay (up to three rooms).

Thrilling Casino Gaming

ARIA Resort & Casino features 150,000 square feet of gaming space with everything from slots to high-stakes tables. Unlike competing Las Vegas resorts, ARIA doesn’t feature a theme—it concentrates solely on delivering a sophisticated gaming environment. It houses the only casino at CityCenter, making it the central gaming destination within the complex.

Does ARIA Resort & Casino have a pool?

Yes, ARIA features three distinct pools. One is a private pool exclusively for Sky Suites guests, while the other two are available for regular hotel guests. The pool deck measures 215,000 square feet and features acacia, bottle, palm and pine trees. ARIA Pool offers a more relaxed atmosphere compared to the infamous Las Vegas pool parties, making it a serene oasis. While you might hear about Sin City’s pool scene, ARIA’s pool area was perfect for reading a book and sipping a margarita ($21.82)—albeit quite expensive.

Opening time brings an extraordinarily long line of guests jockeying for lounge chairs. I came out of the gym each morning just before the pool opened at 9 a.m. to avoid the crowd. After experiencing early-afternoon chaos, I stopped checking out the pool daily until mid-afternoon when things calmed down—my trick for enjoying ARIA’s aquatic amenities without the stress.

ARIA Pool Cabanas and Amenities

The resort offers pool cabanas that provide privacy and enhanced service, though “Pool Cabanas Without Breaking the Bank” requires strategic booking during off-peak times. The hotel also features a dedicated fitness center overlooking the pool area. ARIA Fitness Center is where state-of-the-art facilities converge with personal service, and both spaces are modern and sleek with an inviting seating area with a fireplace just outside the gym.

Gaming Highlights at ARIA

ARIA’s gaming floor features:

• Luxury high-limit gaming areas with private service
• Designer-designed poker room (10,000 sq ft facility built to host live poker events for PokerGO)
• World-class race and sports book for betting enthusiasts
• Diverse slot machine selection including the latest video slots
• Premium table games with generous limits
• Advanced air filtration system eliminating smoke on the casino floor

The hotel includes another room category known as Sky Villas, which feature private gaming areas for high rollers. Although ARIA casinos allow cigarette smoking, the advanced air filtration system effectively manages air quality throughout the casino floor. ARIA’s casino is notably not included in the property’s LEED Gold certification because it permits smoking—a technicality that doesn’t detract from the overall guest experience.

Spa Services & Wellness Facilities

ARIA Spa & Salon represents one of the most comprehensive wellness facilities in Las Vegas. The 80,000-square-foot spa and salon covers two floors, and a coed balcony attached to the spa overlooks an outdoor infinity-edge pool. When ARIA opened, it featured the largest spa of any MGM resort, setting a new standard for luxury pampering.

The Spa & Salon at ARIA

What services are offered at the ARIA Resort & Casino spa? The award-winning Spa & Salon at ARIA offers a variety of treatments, including massages, facials, and body therapies, designed to rejuvenate and refresh. The full-service spa infuses Earth’s elements into a menu of skincare and massage treatments. Specific amenities include:

• Japanese stone beds for unique therapeutic experiences
• Multiple therapy pools for hydrotherapy sessions
• Shio salt room for respiratory and skin benefits
• Experienced aestheticians specializing in personalized facials
• Advanced body treatments targeting specific wellness concerns
• Coed balcony overlooking outdoor infinity-edge pool

I didn’t book a treatment at the ARIA Spa & Salon but passed through daily en route to the gym. Interior designer Peter Marino worked on several areas of the resort, including creating the spaces that house these premium wellness offerings. The tranquil environment stands in contrast to the energy of the casino floor just a short walk away.

ARIA Fitness Center

Does ARIA Resort & Casino have a gym or fitness center? Absolutely. The state-of-the-art fitness center features advanced equipment and personal training services. The hotel fitness center overlooking the pool area was spacious and had all the cardio and weightlifting equipment one needs for various workouts. I found the equipment modern and well-maintained during my stay, with plenty of space even during peak morning hours.

Our full-service spa and fitness facilities are designed to cater to guests seeking both relaxation and active wellness experiences. Unlike some hotels where fitness centers feel like an afterthought, ARIA treats wellness as an essential component of the guest experience.

Location, Transportation & Nearby Attractions

ARIA Resort & Casino sits at the heart of the Las Vegas Strip—offering prime access to all major attractions while maintaining a sophisticated, contemporary environment. Its strategic positioning makes it one of the most convenient locations for exploring everything Las Vegas offers.

How close is ARIA Resort & Casino from Las Vegas Harry Reid International Airport?

What’s the best way to get to ARIA Resort & Casino from the airport? ARIA is located approximately 5 miles from Harry Reid International Airport (formerly McCarran). The drive typically takes 15-20 minutes depending on traffic. The best way for guests to get from Las Vegas Harry Reid International Airport to ARIA Resort & Casino includes:

1. Ride-sharing services (Uber/Lyft) – $20-$35, most convenient option
2. Taxis – $25-$40, readily available at airport
3. MGM Airport Express – Complimentary shuttle service for MGM properties
4. Rental cars – Approx. 15 minutes from airport to hotel, but factor in parking costs
5. Luxury car services – $75-$125 for premium experience

When planning your arrival, consider traffic patterns—rush hours (7-9 AM and 4-6 PM) can significantly increase travel time from the airport. For the most seamless experience, pre-book your transportation through ARIA’s concierge.

How far is ARIA Resort & Casino from MGM Grand Garden Arena?

ARIA is conveniently located approximately 2.5 miles from the MGM Grand Garden Arena. The drive typically takes 10-15 minutes, but consider traffic on event nights. For arena events, many guests opt for ride-sharing services ($15-$25) or the Las Vegas Monorail (accessible via the Las Vegas Convention Center stop), which runs along the east side of the Strip.

EXPLORE NEARBY ATTRACTIONS, ACTIVITIES AND LOCAL EXPERIENCES

ARIA’s central location puts you within easy reach of all major Strip attractions. The Shops at Crystals—a luxe shopping mall featuring retailers like Dior and Gucci—connect directly to the hotel. Within walking distance, you’ll find:

• Bellagio – 5-minute walk south (famous fountains)
• The Cosmopolitan – 5-minute walk north
• Venetian/Palazzo – 10-minute walk north
• Wynn/Encore – 15-minute walk north
• Caesars Palace – 12-minute walk south
• Linq Promenade/Ferris wheel – 20-minute walk south

Free Things to Do in Las Vegas grant easy access to famous sights. While you’re at ARIA, explore these nearby free attractions:

1. Wander through The Shops at Crystals for luxury window shopping
2. View the famous Bellagio fountain show (5-minute walk)
3. Explore the Bellagio Conservatory’s seasonal displays
4. Walk along the Strip for architecture viewing
5. Visit the Mirage volcano show (15-minute walk)
6. Experience the High Roller observation wheel at Linq (paid attraction but worth it)

For family-friendly travelers, ARIA is well-positioned near attractions like the Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay (15-20 minute walk or short ride) and the Mob Museum downtown (10-minute drive).

Hotel Deals & Insider Tips for a Memorable Stay

Understanding ARIA’s pricing structure and insider tips can significantly enhance your experience while minimizing costs. Despite its luxurious reputation, strategic planning allows you to enjoy ARIA without breaking the bank.

What is the cheapest month to stay at ARIA Resort & Casino?

The most affordable times to book ARIA typically fall during June, August, and September—when summer heat deters many visitors but resort pools remain excellent. January (after New Year’s) and May (pre-summer) also often offer competitive rates. Avoid major holidays, conventions, and weekends when possible, as Las Vegas hotel rates spike dramatically during these periods.

Latest deals for ARIA Resort & Casino

Special offer percentage discounts apply solely to the nightly room rate, excluding any property-imposed fees. Recent promotions have included:

• Weekend getaway packages with room credits
• Advance purchase discounts (book 21+ days ahead)
• Loyalty member exclusive rates (MGM Rewards, Marriott Bonvoy)
• Seasonal promotions like summer pool packages
• Convention center packages for business travelers

“Book mid-week stays (Sunday-Wednesday) even during peak seasons—hotel occupancy drops significantly, triggering rate reductions while still allowing access to all amenities. I’ve scored ARIA’s Strip View rooms for less than regular city view rates by booking Tuesday nights when others flood the casino for weekend action.”

Utilizing Room Service & Amenities

Utilizing Room Service effectively enhances your ARIA experience. The hotel’s room service menu offers diverse options, though prices reflect the luxury positioning. To maximize value:

• Take advantage of amenity credits if booking through American Express (FHR) or loyalty programs
• Use the in-room tablet (when functioning properly) for digital ordering
• Consider group bookings for better rates if traveling with multiple rooms
• Book spa treatments early in your stay to secure preferred times

Insider Tips for a Memorable Stay

For Guests seeking the optimal ARIA experience, consider these non-obvious tips:

1. Request higher floors – Rooms above the 30th floor offer fewer distractions and better views
2. Check availability across platforms – Compare rates directly with ARIA, MGM website, and major OTAs
3. Time pool usage carefully – Arrive 30 minutes after opening to avoid longchair scrambles
4. Take advantage of free experiences – Like the artistic water fountain in front of ARIA’s south entrance, measuring 280 feet long and 18 feet tall, featuring more than 200 “Truisms” by Holzer that scroll by
5. Explore the artwork – Hung behind the check-in desk is Maya Lin’s Silver River sculpture, with additional works by Tony Cragg and Antony Gormley throughout
6. Use casino comp strategy – Moderate play can earn dining and amenity credits

The hotel room’s TV offered device connectivity, though I preferred reading from my phone or laptop. Google proved more reliable than ARIA’s digital concierge infrastructure during my stay—a cautionary note about the resort’s technological promises versus reality. Overall, despite minor glitches like the one affecting breakfast options on the room tablet, ARIA delivers a premium experience that justifies its position among Las Vegas’s elite properties—though certain areas show their age nearly 15 years after opening.

What Experts Say About ARIA Resort & Casino

Industry professionals consistently praise ARIA for its innovative approach to luxury hospitality. Unlike traditional Vegas resorts that lean heavily on themes, ARIA established itself through sophisticated design, emerging as one of the first to rely less on a theme. In a positive review, Fred A. Bernstein of The New York Times praised the hotel’s technological features and luxury, further writing, “The hotel is huge, and it feels that way, but thanks to thoughtful design, it also feels luxurious and, at times, even cozy.”

Anthony Curtis – Las Vegas Advisor

“ARIA disrupted the Vegas market by proving that a sophisticated, contemporary design could compete with heavily themed properties. The massive investment in technology at opening positioned it as perhaps the most technologically advanced hotel ever built, according to Popular Mechanics. While newer properties have caught up, ARIA remains admirable for its forward-thinking approach—particularly the environmental systems that earned it LEED Gold certification as the largest hotel globally achieving that distinction.”

Bob Dancer – Video Poker Specialist

Gamers love ARIA’s casino layout—it’s designed for optimal player comfort with clear sight lines and strategically spaced gaming pits. Their video poker offerings consistently rank among the best paytables on the Strip, particularly in the high-limit areas. Be warned though: what makes ARIA excellent for extended play—comfortable environs and good game selection—also makes it easy to lose track of time and spending.”

The Points Guy – Credit Card Expertise

“The Points Guy believes credit cards can transform lives, helping you leverage everyday spending for cash back or travel experiences that might otherwise be out of reach. For ARIA stays, the American Express Gold Card provides 4x points at U.S. restaurants and 3x points on flights booked directly with airlines, effectively offsetting costs. When booking through Amex’s Fine Hotels & Resorts program, guests typically receive valuable benefits including breakfast for two, room upgrades, and early check-in/late check-out.”

Frequently Asked Questions About ARIA Resort & Casino

Does ARIA Resort & Casino have Wi-Fi available?

Yes, ARIA offers complimentary Wi-Fi for all guests. If the cost of Wi-Fi is included in a mandatory property fee, a daily credit of that amount will be applied at check-out. The quality of the connection has improved since renovations, though performance varies by location within the massive resort.

Does ARIA Resort & Casino offer accessible rooms?

Yes, ARIA features accessible room options designed to accommodate guests with special needs, including mobility features, communication electronics, and specially designed bathrooms. These rooms maintain the same elegant design while incorporating necessary accessibility features.

Are there any other MGM Resorts International hotels in Las Vegas?

Yes, MGM Resorts operates several prominent Las Vegas properties including Bellagio, MGM Grand, Mandalay Bay, The Mirage, Park MGM, Luxor, Excalibur, and New York-New York. Vdara Hotel & Spa at Aria Las Vegas is an all-suite, nonsmoking and nongaming hotel that’s part of the CityCenter complex.

How much does it cost to stay at ARIA Resort & Casino, Las Vegas?

Average nightly rates at ARIA typically range from $250 to $800 depending on season, day of week, and room selection. Weekend rates frequently exceed weekday rates, and major events can drive prices significantly higher. Luxury suites and villas begin around $1,200 per night.

Does ARIA Resort & Casino host live shows?

ARIA’s entertainment scene rotates regularly, with Jewel Nightclub featuring live DJ performances and periodic special events. While it doesn’t currently host a permanent large-scale stage production (the Viva Elvis theater closed in 2016), ARIA does host special concerts and performances throughout the year.

What is the best way to book the Aria Resort & Casino?

The best booking method depends on your priorities. Booking directly with ARIA offers maximum flexibility and direct relationship with the hotel. Third-party sites like Reservations.com can offer competitive deals, while loyalty programs (MGM Rewards or Marriott Bonvoy) provide exclusive benefits. Always compare total costs including resort fees ($51 at ARIA), which sometimes offset minor price differences.

Does ARIA Resort & Casino have a spa?

Yes, ARIA features the 80,000-square-foot The Spa at ARIA, which includes Japanese stone beds, therapy pools, and Shio salt room, as well as facials, massages, and body treatments. It was the largest spa of any MGM resort when it opened.

How to maximize value when staying at ARIA?

Booking through American Express Travel with Fine Hotels & Resorts typically provides the strongest value proposition, offering: $100 experience credit applied to eligible charges, daily breakfast for two, room upgrades when available, and early check-in/late check-out. The Fine Dining Priority Reservations benefit is also valuable for securing last-minute table at popular restaurants.

How far is ARIA Resort & Casino from the Las Vegas Strip center?

ARIA is actually at the geographical center of the main Las Vegas Strip—the sweet spot between Bellagio and Cosmopolitan. This central location provides the shortest possible walks to adjacent resorts and attractions compared to properties on the northern or southern extremes of the Strip corridor.

What should I know about room categories at ARIA?

ARIA offers nine main stay options: Deluxe Room Accessible, Deluxe King, Deluxe Two Queen, Deluxe Mountain View, Deluxe Strip View King, Deluxe Strip View Two Queen, Stay Well King, Center Tower Suite, and Sky Suite. Each tier offers progressively more space, better views, and enhanced amenities. Sky Suites feature separate living areas, private whirlpools, and exclusive lounge access.