Hotel Review

With an aura of minimalism, Aria stands tall as a hip resort in the heart of both the Las Vegas Strip and the incredible CityCenter urban complex. Sophisticated and chic, it sports a design that spans modern architecture, but also is environmentally thoughtful. In fact, the U.S. Green Building Council has awarded Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design's Gold certification to Aria’s hotel tower, convention center and theater.

Embodying the excitement of the Entertainment Capital of the World, the resort is packed with hot hangouts -- so many that you'll have trouble deciding where to go first. The colossal Haze Nightclub is among the city's top nightspots. A 25,000-square-foot facility, it boasts plush décor elements complemented by a high-tech atmosphere (imagine state-of-the-art sound and interactive projection screens). The Deuce Lounge, on the other hand, has a more intimate setting being tucked off the casino floor. In addition to providing high-stakes gaming tables, you'll discover a rich, refined ambiance akin to an old English club here. And, like chilled-out cousins, Bar Moderno, City Bar and View Bar all offer wonderfully crafted cocktails and contemporary furnishings -- but with a laid-back vibe.

Cirque du Soleil is presenting its production "Zarkana" at Aria. The modern acrobatic spectacular follows Zark in a quest to regain his powers -- and the love of his life -- in an abandoned theater, where he meets a motley collection of off-the-wall characters and incomparable acrobats.  

Several celebrity chefs have come to Aria to open restaurants that serve creative, mouth-watering cuisine. American Fish by Michael Mina focuses on fresh seafood sourced from America’s lakes, rivers and coastal areas. Designed by chef Masa Takayama, Bar Masa has an interior inspired by natural elements. It remarkably transforms an industrial, airy space into a serene dining experience. Of course, the modern Japanese delicacies on the menu are unforgettable as well. Chef Takayama also recently debuted his intimate teppan dining experience in there called Tetsu. In Jean Georges Steakhouse, by award-winning chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten, meat is king and seafood is queen. From the perfectly prepared steaks to the lobster bisque, your taste buds will be crying out with joy and admiration. The small plates at Julian Serrano, the artisanal meats at Sage from chef Shawn McClain and the Tuscan-style selections at Sirio Ristorante by chefs Sirio and Mario Maccioni round out the extraordinary collection of gourmet venues in Aria.

For a casual bite, guests can head to Café Vettro, which has tranquil surroundings created from hundreds of stacked stones set in frosted glass. With a contemporary setting, The Buffet at Aria is sure to please the eyes and taste buds. Masterfully prepared sweets -- including decadent chocolate molded into every form imaginable -- are available at the Jean Philippe Pâtisserie. In spring 2013, chef Shawn McClain will debut the laid-back FIVE50 Pizza Bar (the name is inspired by the temperature at which the pizza is cooked).

Open during the warmer months, Aria has three pools spread across a 215,000-square-foot deck laden with palm trees and lush landscaping. Guests can also sunbathe in a party-like ambiance at the Liquid Pool Lounge. Along with great music spun by DJs and luxurious private cabanas and daybeds, you can indulge in refreshing cocktails from multiple bars and a mouth-watering menu from chef Brian Massie.

Also during the day, pampering from head to toe can be found at The Spa & Salon. The 80,000-square-foot complex stretches between two levels and includes meditation and relaxation rooms, eucalyptus steam rooms, redwood saunas, a deluxe fitness room and a group exercise studio. Velvety facials, therapeutic massages and hydrotherapy treatments are among the services provided.

Guests who want to do some shopping can check out a collection of specialty boutiques at Aria. Terrene carries one-of-a-kind designer apparel and jewelry for women, while men can get outfitted at Aria Men's store. Also stop by Radiance (an art gallery), Papillon (an accessories store) and Elements (a design and sundries shop).

If you're interested in placing some bets, Aria's casino boasts a unique layout, one that is spacious yet features discrete pockets of action -- like several small high-limit gaming areas. There is a fine sports book with 90 video screens ranging in size from 32 to 103 inches. The elegant poker room, framed by sculptures of playing cards, is one of the best in the city. Located near the entrance to access the tram (which is free and runs between Aria/Monte Carlo, Crystals and Bellagio), there are 24 tables that provide a full range of games -- from seven card stud to Pot Limit Omaha. It also boasts the exclusive one-table "Ivey Room," named in honor of seven-time World Series of Poker champion Phil Ivey.

The design excellence at Aria is embraced in the resort's 4,572 lavish rooms and suites. Natural light streams in through floor-to-ceiling windows. The décor makes use of dramatic colors, expressive artwork and materials that convey relaxation. As part of the high-tech amenities, guests are able to personalize their preferences for the curtains, lights and more by simply touching a menu on the TV screen. Among the standard amenities are custom mattresses, plush robes, a 42-inch LCD television, an in-room safe, a dual vanity and a separate shower and soaking tub.

Aria's fine art collection, which features a mix of prominent and up-and-coming artists, is among the most extensive around. Pieces have been integrated throughout indoor and outdoor public spaces on the property. In the lobby, you'll catch sight of "Silver River" by New York-based artist Maya Lin. The 84-foot sculpture of the Colorado River was made from 100 percent reclaimed silver. Also visible through windows in the lobby is a well-known sculpture by Henry Moore situated in the park between Aria and Crystals at CityCenter. Made from Italian travertine marble, "Reclining Connected Forms" depicts a baby wrapped in its mother's arms. And, at the south entrance by the stairs to the self-parking garage, sit three striking stainless steel sculptures -- "Bolt," "Bent of Mind" and "Untitled/Tall Column" -- by British-born artist Tony Cragg.

Lovely to look at from every angle and filled with unexpected delights, Aria's sophisticated style is sure to wow you -- as will its exquisite dining and relaxation opportunities. Plus, the personalized, high-tech touch service guarantees you'll have an exceptional stay during your Las Vegas visit.

-- By Renée LiButti