ARIA vs. Cosmopolitan Las Vegas: Which Is Better?

Deciding between the ARIA vs. Cosmopolitan in Las Vegas can be challenging!

They are both luxurious properties with similar amenities and are right near each other in the middle of the Vegas Strip.

So what are the pros and cons of each?

Keep reading to find out the differences and help decide between the two.

ARIA vs Cosmopolitan Las Vegas

ARIA vs. Cosmpolitan Standard Room Comparison/ Suite Offerings

Each hotel offers various room options, from standard to deluxe, with different amenities. As an easier way to compare the two hotel rooms, we will look at a comparison of the standard rooms.

Cosmopolitan Standard Room (City Room)

The Cosmopolitan’s standard room ( City Room) is 460 sq ft offering two queen beds, and features many technology offerings like high-speed internet, plasma TVs, and access to streaming services like Netflix.

Along with the two queen beds is a large elegant bathroom with double sinks and a lounging area with multiple seats.

View of the fountains at Cosmopolitan - ARIA vs Cosmo room choies
View of the Bellagio Fountains at Cosmopolitan – Terrace Suite Room

Tip: The city Room does not offer a balcony, so you would need to spend more to upgrade to a different suite for those amazing balcony views of Vegas.

This hotel has a majority of rooms with balconies, which provide exquisite views of the Strip and surrounding mountains. You can also enjoy views from the large floor-to-ceiling windows.

ARIA vs Cosmopolitan Room Choices and Fees

ARIA Standard Room (Deluxe Room)

Beyond its luxurious feel, the ARIA holds a title as the biggest resort to receive the LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) gold certification. Its sleek glass architecture aids in distinguishing this top-tier hotel from the surrounding options.

The standard rooms at the ARIA are slightly larger, encompassing 520-square feet. Like the standard rooms at the Cosmo, the Deluxe Rooms at the ARIA boast impressive high-tech amenities. In each room, you’ll find 42-inch LCD TVs and a tablet that controls nearly everything in the room, from the curtains to the lights.

Deluxe rooms also feature stunning views from the floor-to-ceiling windows and other luxe features like 300-thread count bed sheets, a plush robe, a minifridge packed with drinks, and a seating area to hang out in.

ARIA vs. Cosmopolitan Suite Comparisons

Both hotels offer a larger variety of suites and many options

Cosmopolitan Suite Features:

  • Balconies in most of the suites with potential views of Bellagio Fountains
  • Suites with direct pool access
  • Bungalow suite options

ARIA Suite Features

Exclusive 5-star Sky Suites access with special privileges such as personal concierge, sky lounge access, private pool, luxury transportation, and more.

Cosmopolitan offers a larger variety of over-the-top suites, perfect for events like Bachelor parties. However, if you are looking for unrivaled service, then the AAA 5 diamond Sky Suites are the preferred option.

See other hotel comparisons:

Cosmopolitan Prices vs ARIA hotel prices

Cosmopolitan vs. ARIA Prices and Fees

Part of deciding between the ARIA vs. the Cosmopolitan Las Vegas is deciphering which hotel best fits your budget. Both are fairly similar overall.

Cosmopolitan Pricing

ARIA Resort Pricing

Pricing Verdict: Overall, ARIA rooms will likely be cheaper, especially during the summer. Parking, resort fees, and other fees are fairly similar, though.

ARIA vs Cosmopolitan dining choices

Dining Options Between Cosmopolitan and ARIA

Both hotels offer an extensive list of restaurants you can choose from, providing ample dining choices. Here are some of the restaurants you can expect at each hotel.

Cosmo Dining Options

  • Overlook Grill – offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner in a casual setting.
  • Wicked Spoon – delicious offerings of popular and new international food items.
  • Eggslut – a restaurant that serves egg-based breakfast items all day.
  • Blue Ribbon – elegant, upscale restaurant featuring elevated American cuisine.
  • The Henry – offers American food in an environment that’s between casual and upscale.
  • Lardo – flavorful oversized sandwiches with fun toppings.

ARIA Dining Options

  • ARIA Pattiserie – seasonal bakery goods with French pastries, fruit, juices, and more.
  • Din Tai Fung – mouthwatering Taiwanese food featuring tasty noodle dishes.
  • Salt & Ivy – American cuisine in a casual setting.
  • Lemongrass – where authentic Thai cuisine meets a modern style.
  • Julian Serrano Tapas – ideal for couples and friend groups featuring Spanish-style small plates.
buffet and dining options ARIA and Cosmopolitan las vegas

Buffet Options?

Only Cosmopolitan offers a buffet with Wicked Spoon.

Dining Verdict: With each hotel next to the other, dining options should not be a factor in choosing which hotel to stay at. Cosmopolitan is next to Planet Hollywood and the Miracle Mile shops, which offer cheaper food options like a food court.

Cosmopolitan las vegas BLVD pool
A view from the Blvd poll at the Cosmopolitan. via flickr @bayareaag

ARIA vs Cosmopolitan Pool Differences

While the number of pools and pool amenities vary between the ARIA and the Cosmo, they both provide the feeling of luxury as you swim and lounge in onsite pool options.

Cosmo Pools

The Cosmo features three distinct pools, each with a varying atmosphere. A stop by Boulevard Pool provides guests with a party-like setting, views of the Strip, and live music.

Chelsea Pool Vegas -
Chelsea pool at Cosmopolitan

The Chelsea Pool offers a relaxed environment with soothing music, perfect for sunbathing and lounging.

For a club pool party experience, visit Marque Dayclub.

ARIA Pools

There ARIA has three pools, plus an additional option for those over 21. The three outdoor pools are situated next to a bar, providing a relaxing setting for guests.

Liquid Pool Lounge is a livelier area with a DJ, bar, special VIP seating, and cabanas.

ARIA vs Cosmpolitan Pool Verdict – Cosmopolitan has the better pool options (some of the best pools in vegas) and choices depending on your preference. The view of the Strip from the Boulevard pool is great!

Which is Better – Gambling at ARIA or Cosmopolitan?

While both hotels offer a big casino area with table games and slots, ARIA is the clear winner here.

  • ARIA has one of the best poker rooms in Vegas, with many high-limit games.
  • ARIA’s sportsbook is larger, with many more TVs and viewing options.
  • ARIA has a larger gaming area, 150,000 sq ft versus 100,000 sq ft at Cosmopolitan
Aria Express Tram in Las Vegas
Aria Express Tram

ARIA vs Cosmpolitan Location

Both hotels are right in the heart of The Strip, providing easy access to top attractions, casinos, and bars.

They’ve situated in a pedestrian-friendly area nearby walkable bridges for convenient access to both sides of The Strip. Several attractions are nearby, including the Bellagio, Caesar’s Palace, and the Eiffel Tower Viewing Deck.

ARIA does have a free Tram that connects ARIA to Vdara and Bellagio.

Verdict: Tie

ARIA vs. Cosmopolitan Shows and Entertainment

ARIA vs Cosmopolitan - Show and Entertainment Differences
Skating at the Cosmo

Cosmopolitan Shows and Entertainment

  • OPIUM – 21+ spaceship show occurring in the OPIUM Theater.
  • The Chelsea – a large entertainment venue with various entertainment options, from concerts to comedy shows.
  • Depending on the season, The Boulevard pool hosts ice skating and movies.

ARIA Shows and Entertainment

ARIA does not offer any exclusive show or entertainment venue. They are near the Dolby Live Theater, though, which hosts many sold-out concerts.

marquee vegas club - ARIA vs Cosmopolitan nightlife differences

Bars & Nightlife Differences Between ARIA and Cosmopolitan

Each hotel provides seven bar and Las Vegas nightlife options, ensuring you find nightly entertainment that fits your interests. Below are a few options for each accommodation.

Cosmopolitan vs ARIA bars, clubs, and nightlife

Cosmo Bars/Nightlife

  • The Chandelier – set inside a large-scale chandelier, this whimsical bar is the largest option at the hotel spanning three levels.
  • Vesper Bar – this lounge offers a more sophisticated experience with tasty cocktails.
  • Race & Sports Book – fun cocktails and the option to watch sporting events on large LED TVs.
  • Marquee Nightclub – This is one of the top nightclubs in Vegas on Friday and Saturday nights.

ARIA Bars/Nightlife

  • Lift Bar – a casual bar open 24 hours a day.
  • Gem Bar – located on the casino floor, this bar offers craft beers and elegant cocktails.
  • Sports Bar – take in the various sports games via the TVs spread around the bar.
  • Jewel – this is ARIA’s big dance club with resident DJs like Steve Aoki and Lil Jon.

Overall Verdict – Which to Stay at?

Both of these hotels are extraordinary places to stay, offering luxe accommodations right in the middle of the Strip.

Deciding between the hotels depends on whether you prefer a trendier option or a luxury stay.

Visitors who want a trendy hotel with a younger crowd and better nightlife and pools should choose Cosmopolitan. You can’t beat the balcony views of the Bellagio fountains, either.

Visitors that prefer gambling more often, enjoy shopping, and want a more upscale or romantic experience should choose ARIA. If you also prefer top-of-the-line accommodations, then choose the Sky Suites at ARIA as well.


Author - Tom at Vegas Unzipped

Tom Hamilton - Author

Hi, I am Tom, and I love Las Vegas. You may see me lounging at the pool, catching a late-night show, or trying my luck at craps while out in Las Vegas.

I hope my tips and information can help people plan an enjoyable vacation and do so while saving money.

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