Picking a hotel in Las Vegas is a battle between what you want and what you think you want. You crave the 24/7 buzz of the Strip, but you also dream of a quiet place to recharge. That’s the exact puzzle Vdara solves.
I’ve stayed at Vdara more times than I can count, specifically to find that perfect balance. It’s a sleek, modern hotel that feels miles away from the chaos, even though it’s right in the middle of it. It’s not the right fit for everyone, but for a certain type of traveler, it’s the smartest choice on the Strip.
Let’s cut through the hype and look at the honest pros and cons to see if Vdara is right for you.
The Quick Breakdown
- Why You’ll Love It: For starters, it’s a true escape from the usual Vegas scene. As a completely non-smoking and casino-free hotel, it provides a calm, clean-air environment. Better yet, every single room is a suite that comes with its own kitchenette, giving you the freedom to make a quick breakfast or store your own drinks and snacks.
- What Might Annoy You: The biggest perk is also the biggest drawback. With no casino or major restaurants, you have to walk next door to ARIA or Bellagio for most entertainment and dining. That walk, while short, can get old.
The Best Parts of Staying at Vdara
Vdara’s biggest strengths come from what it doesn’t have. Think of Vdara as the filtered version of Vegas. It removes the constant distractions, letting you enjoy a more focused and modern kind of comfort.
1. It’s a True Sanctuary
This is the #1 reason to book a room here. When you walk into the Vdara lobby, you’re not immediately assaulted by the cacophony of slot machines and a thick haze of cigarette smoke. The air is fresh, the vibe is calm, and it feels more like a high-end condo building than a Vegas resort. After a long day or a wild night out, returning to this level of quiet feels like a genuine luxury.
2. Every Room is a Suite with a Kitchenette
You can’t book a standard, shoebox-sized room here—they don’t exist. Even if you book the most basic room, you’re still getting a Studio Suite. Inside, you’ll find a handy kitchenette complete with a two-burner stove, a mini-fridge, and a small table to eat at. Being able to brew a pot of coffee without getting dressed and heading to a packed cafe is a game-changer. It’s a small touch that saves you money and makes your stay feel much more comfortable.
3. The Location is Deceptively Great
While it’s set back from the Strip, Vdara is perfectly positioned within the ARIA Campus. A covered walkway connects you directly to the Bellagio, letting you get to its famous conservatory in five minutes without breaking a sweat. You’re also steps away from the free ARIA Express Tram, which zips you between ARIA, Park MGM, and Bellagio, making it incredibly easy to navigate the southern end of the Strip.
4. It’s Genuinely Dog-Friendly
If you travel with a four-legged friend, Vdara is one of the best choices in the city. They offer designated dog-friendly suites and have a small, gated dog park right on the property—a true rarity on the Strip that shows they actually cater to pet owners.
Want to see exactly what the suites look like? This is a great, no-fluff room tour that shows you what to expect.
The Potential Downsides of Vdara
The very things that make Vdara great can also be its biggest weaknesses. If you’re looking for that classic, “everything under one roof” Vegas trip, this isn’t it.
1. You Have to Leave for Almost Everything
That peaceful, casino-free lobby comes at a price: convenience. Vdara has no major on-site restaurants, production shows, or nightclubs to speak of. The Market Cafe Vdara is solid for coffee and a sandwich, but for a real dinner or a show, you’ll always be walking somewhere else.
2. That Walk Can Get Old
This is the most common complaint you’ll hear.If you want to get to the main sidewalk on Las Vegas Boulevard, you first have to make your way past the valet and rideshare depot, then navigate through the inside of either ARIA or the Cosmopolitan. The walk itself is only 5–10 minutes, but doing it multiple times a day, especially in the 100°F (38°C) summer heat, can feel like a real chore.
3. The Views Are Hit-or-Miss
Vdara is known for its stunning Bellagio Fountain views, but you have to pay for them. If you don’t specifically book a “Fountain View” suite, your window might look out over a parking structure, the I-15 freeway, or another tower. If a great view is a non-negotiable for you, make sure you book the correct room type.
4. The Pool is More “Chic” than “Epic”
The pool at Vdara is clean, stylish, and relaxing, with great service—perfect for lounging with a cocktail. However, it’s a single, fairly compact pool. Don’t expect a sprawling water park with lazy rivers or wave pools like you’d find at Mandalay Bay or MGM Grand. It’s built for relaxation, not for massive pool parties.
Final Verdict: Who is Vdara Perfect For?
Vdara is the ideal choice for seasoned Vegas visitors, couples, or anyone who values a quiet, smoke-free room over immediate casino access. If you want a dose of luxury and don’t mind a short walk to find the action, you will absolutely love it here.
However, if your idea of a perfect trip involves taking an elevator straight down to a bustling casino floor, you’ll be happier staying somewhere else.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Does Vdara charge a resort fee?
Yes. Like almost every hotel on the Strip, Vdara has a mandatory daily resort fee (currently around $50/night plus tax). It covers things like high-speed Wi-Fi, fitness center access, and other amenities.
Is Vdara a 5-star hotel?
It’s officially rated as a Forbes Travel Guide Four-Star hotel. This puts it firmly in the luxury category, on par with many of the top-tier resorts in Las Vegas.
How do you get from Vdara to the Bellagio?
There’s a fully enclosed walkway that connects the Vdara lobby directly to the Bellagio. It’s an easy, air-conditioned 5-minute walk that drops you off near the Bellagio tram station and spa tower.
Is Vdara a good choice for a first-time Vegas visitor?
That’s the million-dollar question. I’d say it depends on the vibe you’re after. For a calmer, less overwhelming introduction to the city, it’s a great chocice. But if you want the quintessential “Vegas movie” experience with a massive casino just an elevator ride away, you’d be better off at ARIA or Bellagio for your first trip.
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