The Eagles continue their residency at the Sphere Las Vegas through Nov. 8. PHOTO BY CHLOE WEIR
BEST VISITOR ATTRACTION
From U2 and the Eagles to Kenny Chesney and the Backstreet Boys, the stage at the world-famous Sphere is playing host to some of music’s biggest names. As the world’s largest spherical structure, it features a 160,000-square-foot, 16K resolution wraparound screen that delivers unparalleled visual spectacles. Concerts and screenings become a multi-sensory journey with ultrahigh-resolution visuals and environmental effects like heat, wind and scents.
BEST NEW HOTEL RESTAURANT
BOURBON STEAK AT THE FOUR SEASONS RESORT LAS VEGAS
With Michelin stars and James Beard Awards under his belt, chef Michael Mina continues to build his culinary empire in Las Vegas with the debut of Bourbon Steak at the Four Seasons. Marking his fifth restaurant in the region, Bourbon Steak caters to meat lovers, marrying the flavors, feeling and nostalgia of a traditional American steakhouse with inventive takes on classic dishes. Don’t miss the bourbon-flamed tomahawk created exclusively for Las Vegas diners.
See Vegas’ famous illuminated signs at The Neon Museum. PHOTO COURTESY OF BRAND
BEST MUSEUM
The Neon Museum is one of Las Vegas’ most captivating cultural attractions, offering a one-of-a-kind experience through its iconic Neon Boneyard. Th is outdoor collection of more than 250 vintage signs tells the visual history of the city’s legendary past, from old casinos to beloved local businesses. Step into a glowing time capsule, where each sign has a story and a place in local lore. It’s a must-visit for anyone looking to explore the artistic and historical soul of Las Vegas.
BEST LUXURY TOUR
Take to the skies with Maverick Helicopters, the perfect way to see Vegas from above. Opt for the Neon and Nature package to soar over the iconic Las Vegas Strip and Red Rock Canyon’s fiery cliffs before landing at a secluded 2,900-foot overlook for a Champagne toast and panoramic views. The Maverick team can also provide VIP transportation to EDC Las Vegas and NASCAR events at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway.
Lounge poolside at The Red Cliffs Lodge Zion. PHOTO COURTESY OF BRAND
BEST DRIVABLE DESTINATION
The Red Cliffs Lodge Zion, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel near Zion National Park, is the perfect drivable getaway for Las Vegas locals seeking a stunning escape into nature. Just a few hours from the city, it offers dramatic red rock views, riverside cabins and easy access to outdoor adventures like hiking, horseback riding and stargazing. Enjoy peace, privacy and authentic Southwestern charm—close to home but a world away.
BEST HOTEL FOR A STAYCATION
GREEN VALLEY RANCH RESORT SPA & CASINO
Green Valley Ranch Resort Spa & Casino offers Las Vegas locals an exceptional staycation with its luxurious accommodations, award-winning dining options and serene spa. The resort’s Mediterranean-inspired design and tranquil atmosphere provide a refreshing escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. Locals can enjoy exclusive promotions, including waived resort fees and the best available rates, making a much-needed getaway both accessible and affordable. Head to the nearby District at Green Valley Ranch for convenient access to upscale shopping and entertainment.
BEST SKI GETAWAY
A short plane ride from Las Vegas, Montage Deer Valley delights with luxurious amenities, world-class ski slopes and stunning mountain views. With a prime location in the heart of Deer Valley Resort, its ski-in and ski-out accommodations score guests exceptional access to some of the best skiing in North America, including groomed runs and expert-level terrain. Fine dining, a premium spa and exclusive services ensure experiences rich in both adventure and relaxation.
BEST FAMILY EXPERIENCE
Silverton Casino Lodge offers a unique local getaway, seamlessly blending entertainment for adults and little ones alike. The whole crew will be dazzled by the 117,000-gallon aquarium, home to thousands of tropical fish, stingrays and sharks, where mesmerizing mermaid shows captivate audiences of all ages. For a hands-on experience, the Mermaid School invites both kids and adults to don tails and swim alongside marine life. Adults can enjoy the casino’s gaming options and live entertainment, while the whole family will love splashing around at The Swimmin’ Hole, a new $10-million project that debuted in May.
BEST WEEKEND GETAWAY
Brian Head Resort, located roughly 200 miles northeast of Las Vegas in Utah, provides an ideal weekend escape for residents seeking a change of scenery. In the winter, the resort boasts over 360 inches of annual snowfall, ensuring top-notch conditions for skiing and snowboarding. During summer, visitors can explore myriad activities, such as mountain biking, scenic lift rides and hiking amid the stunning red rock vistas.
BEST PLACE TO BEAT THE HEAT
When temps soar, skip town to Lee Canyon. Situated in the Spring Mountains at an elevation of 8,660 feet, the area enjoys temperatures consistently 30 to 40 degrees cooler than those in the Las Vegas Valley. Year-round, locals can hit the slopes for skiing and snowboarding, hiking, taking scenic chair rides and playing disc golf. Dine at local favorites, including Brewin’ Burro, Bighorn Grill and Bristlecone Bar, or shop like the locals at Lee Canyon Sports.
BEST NEW DAYCLUB DESTINATION
PALM TREE BEACH CLUB AT MGM GRAND
Opening in May at the MGM Grand, Palm Tree Beach Club is set to transform Las Vegas’ dayclub scene with its vibrant tropical atmosphere, private cabanas and world-class entertainment thanks to Palm Tree Crew co-founder Kygo and Tao Group Hospitality. Designed by the award-winning Rockwell Group, the nearly 60,000-square-foot venue features a ground-level stage where Tiësto, Martin Garrix, Zedd, Steve Aoki and Alesso—among many others—will spin for up to 3,000 revelers.
BEST GIRLS GETAWAY
Round up your gal pals and head to SAHARA Las Vegas for an unforgettable getaway featuring luxe accommodations and vibrant entertainment. Reserve tickets for Magic Mike Live, a seductive 90-minute show inspired by the popular film series, before exploring the property’s myriad drinking and dining options. Indulge in Italian coastal cuisine at Balla Italian Soul, hand-pulled noodles and pillowy dumplings at The Noodle Den and spirited cocktails at the Casbar Lounge or The Tangier. Later this year, James Beard Award-winning chef Kwame Onwuachi will open a new original restaurant, his first on the West Coast.
BEST HOTEL TO SEE A SHOW
Outside of its exceptional accommodations, dining options and nightlife—see Omnia Nightclub—Caesars Palace hosts some of the world’s biggest stars at The Colosseum. This year, laughs await with Jerry Seinfeld while Kelly Clarkson, Rod Stewart, Josh Groban and Alanis Morrissette will all deliver Las Vegas-exclusive engagements on a stage graced by everyone from Adele to Garth Brooks.
ARIA Resort & Casino’s campus. PHOTO COURTESY OF MGM RESORTS INTERNATIONAL
BEST CULINARY TOUR
Global flavors converge at ARIA Resort & Casino. While its proximity to The Shops at Crystals ensures your every retail desire is satiated, its myriad restaurants are equally fantastic to savor. From Carbone’s heaping Italian plates and Jean Georges Steakhouse’s carnivorous cuts to Din Tai Fung’s steamed dumplings and Lemongrass’ Thai delicacies, gourmands of every background will find world-class creations to indulge in at ARIA. aria.
BEST PET-FRIENDLY HOTEL
Vdara Hotel & Spa distinguishes itself as an exceptional destination for both guests and their canine companions. Book the V Dog Suite to ensure comfortable surroundings for your furry friend, as they’re catered to with blankets, treats and an in-suite dining menu. Outdoors, a fenced dog park allows pups to roam freely, while the Doggie Butler is happy to arrange walking and pet-sitting services and a specialty Buddy’s Box of three treats, two toys and a bandana for an additional fee.
BEST HOTEL FOR DOWNTOWN DWELLERS
When staying downtown, Circa Resort & Casino is the place to be. Book the Circa Suite to relax in luxe surroundings before making a splash at the six-pool Stadium Swim complex. Guests will also discover a variety of dining and entertainment options, from the upscale Barry’s Downtown Prime steakhouse to the 24-hour Saginaw’s Delicatessen. For sky-high views, head to the Legacy Club, a rooftop bar offering panoramas of the city and themed parties.
BEST HOTEL FOR SPORTS AFICIONADOS
Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino is the ultimate destination for sports fans, thanks to its prime location just minutes from Allegiant Stadium, home to the NFL’s Las Vegas Raiders. The property is also home to the Michelob Ultra Arena, where the two-time WNBA champions, the Las Vegas Aces, show off on the court. If you can’t make it to game day in person, stop by Flanker Kitchen + Sports Bar or the world-famous Mandalay Bay Sportsbook. Feeling competitive? Get in on the action at the new Swingers Crazy Golf Club.
An exterior look at the new Zimmermann boutique at Fontainebleau Las Vegas. PHOTO COURTESY OF ZIMMERMANN
BEST NEW RETAIL PORTFOLIO
Since its opening in December 2023, Fontainebleau Las Vegas has become a mecca for designer brands, many of which are opening boutiques for the first time on the Strip at the posh property. Alaïa, Alexanderwang, Bottega Veneta and Gucci joined the luxury retail portfolio in 2024, while 2025 ushers in new homes for Zimmermann, Graff, Rick Owens, The Webster, Santa Maria Novella and the largest store in the United States for Saint Laurent.
PHOTO COURTESY OF MGM RESORTS INTERNATIONAL
BEST AWE-INSPIRING HOTEL
No Vegas property does it quite like Bellagio Resort & Casino. From the moment you step inside the monolithic resort, a feast for the eyes awaits, beginning with artist Dale Chihuly’s hundreds of glass blossoms that line the lobby ceiling. Just beyond that, Bellagio’s Conservatory and Botanical Gardens showcase thousands of stunning florals in rotating seasonal displays. Art lovers will find joy at the on-site Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art, and outdoor dining is taken to a jaw-dropping level when the world-famous Bellagio fountains dance across the water during your meal.
An elegant pool cabana at Wynn Las Vegas. PHOTO COURTESY OF WYNN LAS VEGAS
BEST FIVE-STAR STAY
Wynn Las Vegas offers a range of upscale amenities that cater to every luxury need. The resort features a serene 20,000-square-foot spa, world-class shopping at exclusive boutiques like Chanel, Louis Vuitton, and Cartier, and award-winning dining, including the Michelin-starred Wing Lei and the critically acclaimed Sinatra. Additionally, Wynn is home to two championship golf courses, a lavish pool area with private cabanas, and an opulent art collection. Up next: Bond Hospitality Group will launch the exclusive members-only Zero Bond later this year.
BEST COUPLES GETAWAY
Fan the flames of romance at the Four Seasons Hotel Las Vegas, the ultimate getaway for couples. Relax at the world-renowned spa with personalized treatments such as couples’ massages in private suites or serene outdoor cabanas. After a pampering spa experience, enjoy the peaceful Oasis Pool or retreat to your elegantly appointed room. By night, share a memorable meal at Bourbon Steak or Veranda.
BEST SUSTAINABLE LUXURY RESORT
Resorts World Las Vegas leads the city’s hospitality sector in sustainability, achieving LEED Gold Certification through eco-friendly design and construction practices, including diverting over 80% of construction waste from landfills. In partnership with NV Energy, the resort transitioned to 100% renewable energy sources, reducing its water consumption by over 40% since opening. You can feel good about your time at this eco-chic property, best-spent dining at the new Stubborn Seed, hitting the dance floor at Zouk Nightclub or relaxing at Awana Spa.
BEST HOTEL FOR GOLF LOVERS
JW MARRIOTT LAS VEGAS THE RESORT AT SUMMERLIN
Book a room at JW Marriott to treat the golf lover in your life. Adjacent to the resort is TPC Las Vegas, a premier PGA Tour facility featuring a championship course designed by Bobby Weed and Raymond Floyd, offering challenging fairways and breathtaking views of Red Rock Canyon. Additionally, within a five-minute drive, guests can enjoy courses like Angel Park Golf Club and Bear’s Best, providing a variety of landscapes and challenges for golfers of all levels. The resort’s dedicated concierge service ensures seamless tee times and transportation arrangements, enhancing your stretch on the fairway.
BEST SMOKE-FREE LUXURY RESORT
Skip the casino haze at Park MGM, the only entirely smoke-free resort in Las Vegas. While its clean-air commitment provides a reprieve for non-smokers, all guests will enjoy Park MGM’s exceptional dining offerings—think Eataly and Bavette’s Steakhouse & Bar—and the star-studded entertainment lineup at Dolby Live. Sammy Hagar, Bruno Mars, New Kids on the Block and Lenny Kravitz will all take the stage this summer.
BEST BOUTIQUE VIBE
Virgin Hotels Las Vegas offers a distinctive boutique atmosphere that artfully blends retro Las Vegas flair with modern decor, creating a chic and relaxed environment for guests. Sip cocktails over Mediterranean-inspired fare at Kassi Beach Club or spice things up at the new Lucia Mexican Grill and Lady Like, the property’s exclusive burlesque show at 24 Oxford. End the evening at the groovy Shag Room, where Open Mic Night takes place every Wednesday.
BEST OFF-STRIP LUXURY RESORT
Opened in December 2023, Durango Casino & Resort entices travelers with a luxurious stay in southwest Las Vegas. Over 2,200 slot machines and 60 game tables are sprawled across its 83,000-square-foot casino, while the Bel-Air Backyard provides sun-soaked entertainment, including a new summer concert series featuring The Fray and Thievery Corporation. The 209-room property also impresses with its diverse dining options, from Mijo Modern Mexican and Nicco’s Prime Meats & Fresh Fish to the Bel-Aire Lounge and Eat Your Heart Out Food Hall.
BEST TRENDSETTING LUXURY RESORT
When The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas opened in 2010, it set the standard, blending cutting-edge concepts with glamour and seduction. Fifteen years later, The Cosmopolitan continues to dazzle and innovate. This year, the three-story Chandelier revamped its drinking menus, offering distinctive lounge experiences on each level and Rose. Rabbit. Lie.’s April revival hints that the beloved supper club may be coming back for good. Summer also sees the return of Marquee Dayclub and Dive In Movies at the Boulevard Pool. Yes, The Cosmopolitan is still one of the coolest kids on the block.
BEST ON-STRIP RENOVATION
With a $1.5-billion reinvestment, The Venetian Resort Las Vegas is reimagining everything from its iconic lion logo to the resort’s suites, which remain the largest standard rooms on The Strip. This renovation also introduces new gaming offerings, including the Palazzo High Limit Lounge and a redesigned sportsbook with a multi-year partnership with Yahoo Sportsbook. Additionally, the resort is enhancing its Convention Center with a $188 million investment and its dining options with new additions like Gjelina, COTE and the Via Via Food Hall.
BEST RESORT FOR A LUXE DESERT ESCAPE
Red Rock Casino Resort & Spa offers an exceptional desert escape, blending luxury with tranquility just outside the buzz of Las Vegas. The Rouge Room, a Parisian-inspired indoor and outdoor lounge, provides an upscale, intimate atmosphere perfect for sipping crafted cocktails while enjoying live entertainment. For an even more exclusive experience, the Rouge Cabanas offer a private, adults-only poolside retreat, complete with dazzling lounge areas, a dedicated bar and gourmet dining. Whether lounging poolside or indulging in a sophisticated night out, Red Rock delivers a serene yet indulgent oasis.
MOST ANTICIPATED HOTEL OPENING
Caesars Entertainment and Lisa Vanderpump are teaming up once again to bring a bold new concept to the Las Vegas Strip with the transformation of The Cromwell into The Vanderpump Hotel, set to open in early 2026. The project marks Vanderpump’s first hotel venture, following her successful restaurants and lounges, and will feature her signature style and bespoke design across 188 guest rooms. Expect Vanderpump’s design company, Vanderpump Alain, to customize every detail to create a truly magical destination.
BEST TASTE OF EUROPE
PARIS LAS VEGAS HOTEL & CASINO
Take your Vegas vacation to the City of Lights at Paris Las Vegas, which includes replicas of the Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe and the Paris Opera House. Book a suite in the Versailles Tower before indulging in savory crepes and cronuts at Dominique Ansel Marché, elegant cocktails at Vanderpump à Paris or taking a seat on the beloved Mon Ami Gabi patio overlooking the Bellagio fountains and sparkling Strip.
Pinky’s by Vanderpump is now open at Flamingo Las Vegas Hotel & Casino. PHOTO COURTESY OF CAESARS ENTERTAINMENT
BEST NEW UPGRADES
FLAMINGO LAS VEGAS HOTEL & CASINO
The retro-cool Flamingo Las Vegas is stepping into its next era with well-appointed improvements across the property. This summer, sun-seekers will delight in the new GO Pool, a $20-million project that included completely redesigning and rebuilding the pool deck with five distinct pools, a 30-seat swim-up bar and swanky VIP cabanas. Additional upgrades include the new Pinky’s by Vanderpump and Gordon Ramsay Burger and the debut of Spiegelworld’s Disco Show.
BEST OFF-STRIP RENOVATION
Building upon its legacy as the first all-suite hotel in the Las Vegas Valley, Rio Hotel & Casino is cementing its future with a $340-million transformation. Its LED-lit property is now home to Lapa Lounge, Luckley Tavern & Grill, The Wine Cellar Tasting Room and the Canteen Food Hall, which includes six new dining concepts. More than 1,500 of its suites have received a new look and guests are invited to cool off at the remodeled Rio Pool boasting over 500 chaise lounges, 90 umbrellas, 16 daybeds and six cabanas.
BEST NEW HOTEL BAR
HARD SHAKE AT WALDORF ASTORIA LAS VEGAS
Following a multimillion-dollar renovation of its guest rooms and suites and upgrades to its more than 15,000 square feet of meeting and event spaces, Waldorf Astoria Las Vegas unveils its reimagined 23rd floor featuring Peacock Alley, the brand’s signature bar, and Hard Shake, a cocktail lounge in the former SkyBar space. At Hard Shake, The Rockwell Group is leaning into Vegas’ glitz and glamour, outfitting the sky-high lounge with a marbled stone bar and sparkling champagne brass accents. Expect a menu where cocktails are transformed into living works of art.
Photography by: COURTESY OF MGM RESORTS INTERNATIONAL
