Wet Republic

Wet Republic Description

Looking for a hot place to chill this summer? One of the trendiest daylife scenes in Las Vegas is at Wet Republic. Part of MGM Grand's pool area, but discreetly tucked away beside the resort's conference center, it caters to the young and affluent as well as to the celebrity crowd.

This space, which also goes by the moniker "the ultra pool," occupies 53,000 square feet and every single inch of it is dedicated to aspects of Wet Republic's exciting vibe.

Remodeled for the 2013 season as part of the "Grand Renovation," partygoers this year are enjoying an expanded DJ booth with a VIP table directly behind the decks to house world-renowned DJs (like EDM superstars Steve Aoki, Tiësto and Calvin Harris) and their special guests. Just above it are even more tricked-out LED displays boasting enhanced installations and special effects. 

Two saltwater pools, the first in Las Vegas, together measure more than 6,000 square feet. Adding to the atmosphere, sculptured horticulture has been strategically placed around the poolscape. Lockers have even been installed for guests at Wet Republic to store their belongings while partying.

Sunbathers will discover oversized cream chaise lounges throughout the deck, with a handful of lime green ones dotting the shallow rim of the main pool. There are also numerous daybeds with brightly colored pillows, a variety of cabanas and six VIP bungalows. The cabanas are swathed in a canvas-like fabric and house sofas, an ottoman, a ceiling fan, a mini fridge and a giant flat-screen TV with a Blu-ray disc player. The bungalows offer similar amenities but have upped the luxury factor in terms of furnishings and finishes. Plus, they provide privacy from the crowds, thanks to security-guarded access points.

There's also a 2,500-square-foot open-air lounge, and the marble-topped bar has been expanded. It's set up to be a pretty great meeting spot. From that bar comes not only frozen drinks and cocktails, but also Wet Republic's "pitcher service" -- pitchers full of fun, summer drinks, like mojitos. Not surprisingly, Wet Republic is for guests 21 and older.

In addition, the bar features a lineup of “Skinny Cocktails” for those who are worrying about their weight. For example, the Skinny Dip is crafted from Absolut Grapevine vodka, Minute Maid Light Lemonade, sugar-free strawberry syrup and soda water. Other favorites include the Skinny Mojito and the Beach Body. Since each one contains under 150 calories, you can indulge in as many as you want guilt-free.

Unique and delicious foods complement the drinks menu. Among the munchies are chips and salsa, a hummus dip with pine nuts and olive oil, quesadillas and soft tacos. Two good choices for hearty appetites are the griddled turkey and Swiss sandwich served on flatbread and the Angus beef and cheddar melt. 

No one ever wants to talk about parking, but it's always there, lurking a 20-minute walk away from your destination, frustrating and inconveniencing you. Clearly the minds behind Wet Republic have made a few parking lot runs in their day because separate parking for the venue is an added bonus. A parking deck and valet located just off Koval Lane is another feather in Wet Republic's cap.

Few pool clubs in Las Vegas have all of these ingredients for a super sexy summer afternoon. Indeed, since its debut in 2008, Wet Republic has brought a high dose of glamorous nightclub style to its pool scene. The sultry-meets-social vibe is hard to match, and the friendly staff makes sure everyone's time here is memorable.

-- Review by Staff Member