Virgin Hotels Las Vegas

Virgin Hotels Las Vegas: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Attractions Guide

Date: 15/06/2025

Introduction

Virgin Hotels Las Vegas stands as a testament to the city’s ability to reinvent itself—merging a storied past with modern luxury, innovative design, and a dynamic hospitality experience. Situated just east of the iconic Las Vegas Strip, the resort occupies the historic site of the former Hard Rock Hotel and Casino. Once a rock-and-roll landmark famed for its legendary performances and vibrant nightlife, the property was transformed by the Virgin Group after a comprehensive $200 million renovation, reopening in March 2021 with 1,504 redesigned guestrooms, a revitalized Mohegan Sun-operated casino, and a host of world-class amenities (Wikipedia; Vegas Always; The Points Guy).

This guide provides detailed information on visiting hours, ticketing, accommodations, amenities, dining, nightlife, entertainment, and practical tips to ensure a memorable visit to this distinctive Las Vegas destination (Feeling Vegas; Hotel Scoop).

History and Transformation
Visiting Information
Accommodations and Design
Resort Amenities
Dining, Nightlife, and Entertainment Guide
Visitor Tips and FAQs
Comparative Advantages
Conclusion
References

History and Transformation

Origins as the Hard Rock Hotel (1995–2020)

The site originally opened as the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino in 1995, led by Peter Morton of Hard Rock Cafe. It quickly became a cultural icon in Las Vegas, celebrated for its extensive music memorabilia, edgy design, and legendary entertainment. The venue, The Joint, hosted renowned acts such as The Rolling Stones and Prince. The hotel was also famous for “Rehab,” its weekly pool party that helped define Vegas daylife (Wikipedia).

Over the years, the Hard Rock underwent multiple expansions and ownership transitions, maintaining its status as a top music and nightlife destination (Wikipedia).

Acquisition and Vision

In 2018, Virgin Hotels, in partnership with JC Hospitality and investment groups, acquired the property for $500 million. Richard Branson’s vision was to create a modern desert oasis, blending Virgin’s signature flair with Las Vegas’ vibrant atmosphere. The decision was made to fully close and renovate the property for a comprehensive transformation (Wikipedia; The Points Guy).

Renovation and Design

The $200 million overhaul was led by Klai Juba Wald Architecture + Interiors, Rockwell Group, and Studio Collective. The new design sought to move beyond the Hard Rock’s rock-and-roll theme, embracing desert modernism and a contemporary, sophisticated aesthetic. Key upgrades included:

Redesign of all guestrooms and suites across three towers
Transformation of the casino (now Mohegan Sun-operated)
Revitalized pool deck and event lawn
Modernized entertainment venues, including The Theater (formerly The Joint)
Introduction of new dining concepts such as Nobu and One Steakhouse (Vegas Always; Las Vegas Then and Now)

Opening Amidst the Pandemic

Originally slated for late 2020, the resort opened in March 2021 after pandemic delays. Opening ceremonies were subdued, and health guidelines were in place. Amenities and venues opened in phases as conditions allowed (Wikipedia; Review Journal).

Visiting Information

Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility

Hotel & Casino: Open 24/7.
Dining & Entertainment: Vary by venue, generally late morning to late night.
Check-in: From 3:00/4:00 PM
Check-out: By 11:00 AM
Minimum Check-in Age: 21 years

Entry to the casino and hotel is free. Tickets are required for select concerts and special events at The Theater and 24 Oxford (Virgin Hotels LV). The property is fully ADA-compliant, with accessible rooms and facilities.

Special Events and Attractions

Virgin Hotels Las Vegas hosts major conventions, music festivals, and annual events like the AVN Expo and curated Las Vegas Grand Prix programming. The Theater features headline concerts, and the pool deck is a hub for daylife and seasonal parties.

Workforce and Community Continuity

Virgin Hotels emphasized workforce retention during the transition, offering pay and job guarantees to former Hard Rock staff. Approximately 1,300 employees returned, maintaining community continuity (The Points Guy; Wikipedia; Review Journal).

Ongoing Developments

A tunnel for the Las Vegas Loop system is underway, aiming to provide direct underground transit access to the resort (Wikipedia). Virgin Hotels continues to invest in guest amenities, sustainability, and entertainment offerings.

Accommodations and Design

Architecture and Interior Vision

The Rockwell Group’s design employs desert modernism, using natural materials, expansive glazing, and seamless indoor-outdoor transitions (Sleeper Magazine; Hotel Designs). The entrance features rammed earth walls and a cactus garden, while the lobby (“The Junction”) boasts a sculptural ceiling and gathering space.

Guestrooms and Towers

The resort offers 1,504 guestrooms and suites across three towers:

Opal Tower: Standard and villa accommodations
Canyon Tower: Spacious chambers and suites, many with Strip views
Ruby Tower: All-suite luxury with panoramic vistas (The Las Vegas Travel Guide)

Rooms feature sliding privacy doors, ergonomic workspaces, modern bathrooms, and high-speed Wi-Fi. All rooms are non-smoking and pet-friendly options are available (Booking.com).

Resort Amenities

Pools and Outdoor Spaces

Highlights include a multi-pool deck, Kassi Beach Club (21+, Mediterranean-inspired), and Elia Beach Club, each offering cabanas, daybeds, and lively social scenes (The Las Vegas Travel Guide; Kassi Beach Club Press Release).

Spa and Wellness

The Spa at Virgin Hotels offers massages, herbal therapies, and exclusive event treatments (such as the EDC-themed Detox & Retox). A modern fitness center and daily wellness classes are included in the resort fee (Virgin Hotels Las Vegas).

Casino

The Mohegan Sun-operated casino features table games, slots, and a sportsbook. Guests can earn and redeem Hilton Honors rewards while gaming (The Las Vegas Travel Guide).

Event, Meeting, and Wedding Spaces

Flexible venues accommodate conferences, weddings, and private gatherings, with customizable packages (The Las Vegas Travel Guide).

Additional Services

Concierge and 24-hour front desk
Room service
Free high-speed Wi-Fi
Free self-parking and EV charging
Pet-friendly policies
Laundry and notary services (included in resort fee)
Hilton Honors program

Resort Fee

A daily fee (typically $45–$48 plus tax) covers Wi-Fi, wellness classes, spa discounts, streaming, bottled water, and more (The Las Vegas Travel Guide).

Dining, Nightlife, and Entertainment Guide

Dining

Signature Restaurants

Nobu Las Vegas: Renowned Japanese cuisine by Chef Nobu Matsuhisa. Open 5 PM–11 PM (Nobu; Vegas Always).
Kassi Beach House: Mediterranean-inspired, poolside dining, 11 AM–9 PM (Las Vegas Wonders).
Casa Calavera: Authentic Mexican cuisine; lively décor and events, 4 PM–midnight.
One Steakhouse: Premium steaks and seafood, 5 PM–11 PM.
Todd English’s Olives: Wood-fired pizzas and Mediterranean fare, 5 PM–10 PM.

Casual and Quick Bites

Pizza Forte: Custom pizzas and Italian classics, 11 AM–midnight (Pizza Forte).
Afters Ice Cream: Creative desserts, noon–10 PM.
Funny Library Coffee Shop: Specialty coffee and pastries, 7 AM–7 PM.
Dunkin’: Coffee and breakfast, 5 AM–3 PM.

Nightlife

The Shag Room: Retro cocktail lounge with DJs, 5 PM–2 AM (Travels with Bibi).
Commons Club Bar: Central social hub, 11 AM–midnight.
Poolside Bars: Tropical drinks and lively daylife.

All nightlife venues are 21+ (On the Strip).

Entertainment

The Theater: 4,500-seat venue for concerts and events. Tickets from the official site.
Event Lawn: Outdoor concerts and festivals.
Mohegan Sun Casino: 24/7 gaming (Vegas Always).

Check the events calendar for current shows.

Visitor Tips and FAQs

Location and Transportation

Located at 4455 Paradise Rd, about 1.2 miles east of the Strip. Free self-parking, easy access to Harry Reid International Airport (10 minutes by car), and close to the Las Vegas Convention Center (Feeling Vegas; Hotel Scoop).

Booking and Best Times

Book midweek for the best rates
Check for Hilton Honors deals and packages
Avoid peak event periods (CES, EDC) for lower rates and fewer crowds (Lavish Vegas)

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What are the check-in and check-out times?
A: Check-in from 3:00/4:00 PM; check-out by 11:00 AM.

Q: Is parking free?
A: Yes, self-parking is complimentary for guests.

Q: Is Virgin Hotels Las Vegas pet-friendly?
A: Yes, with restrictions on size/breed.

Q: Are resort fees charged?
A: Yes, $45–$48 per night covers Wi-Fi, gym, wellness classes, and more.

Q: Do you need tickets for hotel amenities?
A: No for most amenities; yes for select shows/events.

Q: Is the hotel accessible?
A: Fully ADA-compliant with accessible rooms and facilities.

Comparative Advantages

Off-Strip Tranquility: Quieter, less crowded setting
Dining Diversity: Twelve restaurants and bars, celebrity chef venues
Modern Design: Fresh renovations and desert-modern interiors
Free Parking: Unlike most Strip resorts
Hilton Honors Affiliation: Earn and redeem points (Virgin Hotels LV)
Pet-Friendly: Welcomes pets
Unique Pool Experiences: Kassi and Elia Beach Clubs
High-Quality Event Venues: The Theater and Event Lawn
Value for Money: Competitive rates, especially midweek

Conclusion

Virgin Hotels Las Vegas merges history, luxury, and innovation to create a resort experience unlike any other in Las Vegas. With 24/7 operations, diverse dining, vibrant entertainment, modern accommodations, and thoughtful amenities, it’s an outstanding choice for travelers seeking a distinctive off-Strip destination. Whether you’re attending a concert, lounging by the pool, or enjoying world-class cuisine, Virgin Hotels Las Vegas delivers a complete and memorable Vegas experience.

Ready to plan your stay? Download the Audiala app for exclusive deals, insider tips, and the latest updates. Explore more travel guides on our site and follow us on social media for real-time Las Vegas news!