When you want luxury in Las Vegas, there are several resorts and hotels that always deliver.
The Bellagio Hotel & Casino and the ARIA Resort & Casino are a pairing among the various options that don’t have much in common—save that they’re poised to provide guests with a high-end Sin City stay.
Located a short walk from one another, the Bellagio and ARIA are relatively close on the spectrum of opulence in Las Vegas, though one does have an edge over the other.
In this article, we will compare Bellagio vs. ARIA and look at how each hotel differs and what you can expect from both.
ARIA vs. Bellagio at a Glance
| ARIA | Bellagio | |
|---|---|---|
| Base Room Size | 520 sq ft | 510 sq ft |
| Cheapest Room Price | $139 | $150 |
| Self Parking Fee | Free to $23 daily | Free to $23 daily |
| Resort Fee | $45 + tax | $45 + tax |
| Pools | Three resort pools plus Liquid Pool Lounge | Three different pools |
| Shows & Entertainment | None onsite, near T-Mobile Arena and Dolby Live | “O” by Cirque du Soleil, Fountains of Bellagio |
| Location | South of Cosmo, next to Park MGM | Next to ARIA and Caesars Palace, center strip |
| Check Prices | Check Prices |
Bellagio vs. ARIA – Room Choices
The Bellagio and ARIA were built with two different experiences in mind. The former is an Italian-themed escape in the middle of Sin City, constructed more than 20 years ago when hints of classic Vegas were still evident.
ARIA was constructed at the start of the city’s shift into sheer extravagance. This is quite evident in the accommodations at both.
That’s not to say Bellagio’s rooms are subpar.
Far from it, in fact, as the smallest 510 square foot king is marked by contemporary touches with mountain views. All of Bellagio’s rooms show that shift into a modern style, though the old Italian flair creeps in with some of the furnishings and decor. For a most exquisite stay, consider any of the 12 suites, from the 853-square-foot Salone Suite to the 3,001-square-foot Two-Bedroom Grand Lakeview Suite.
What Bellagio does have over ARIA is the potential view, which includes the signature Fountains of Bellagio.
At ARIA, you have two base rooms to choose from, both at 520 square feet. The rest of the 14 suites are lavish spaces with a number of view options, including The Strip, the mountains, or a panoramic view of the very best the valley has to offer. ARIA’s Sky Suites and Vdara studios and lofts are peak comfort, with a fully contemporary style that is unmistakable as New Vegas.
With that upgraded furnishings and decor, you do pay a premium. While the base rooms are on par with Bellagio’s rates, the suites are quite a bit higher.
Bellagio and ARIA Prices & Fees
The resort fee at Bellagio and ARIA cover fitness center access, local and toll-free calls, and Internet access.
It’s the same at both resorts, as are the self- and valet parking rates. For guests staying on the property with a car, the daily rate will be billed as part of the nightly rate.
Both hotels have the same fees.
- Resort Fees: $45+ tax at each.
- Self-Parking Fee: Free for the first hour and up to $23 for daily self-parking at each resort.
- Valet Parking: $18 to $24.
Other Hotel Comparisons:
ARIA and Bellagio Restaurant & Dining Differences
While the fine Italian dining of Julian Serrano’s LAGO may sound like the only place worth checking out in an Italian-themed resort, Bellagio’s robust selection of restaurants is nothing to scoff at.
One of the best ways to start your day at the Bellagio is with a pastry and coffee from Sadelle’s Cafe. Alternatively, you may consider wrapping up the evening at PRIME Steakhouse, Wolfgang Puck’s Spago, or the French-inspired Le Cirque or Picasso.
Tip: Bellagio offers several restaurants overlooking the Fountains, including Spago, Lago, and others.
ARIA is not afraid to cross cultural borders and does so comfortably with the Pan-Asian cuisine of Din Tai Fung, the Italian menu of Carbone, the French fare of Bardot Brasserie, and the Spanish delights of Julian Serrano’s Tapas. There are plenty of American options, like Posh Burger, CATCH, Salt & Ivy, Moneyline Pizza & Bar, and Jean Georges Steakhouse.
Expect to spend a little more on food at ARIA than at Bellagio, especially if you want to dine at Jean Georges over PRIME.
Related: Where to find cheap breakfast on the Vegas Strip
Which resort has the better pool?
There’s a touch of Mediterranean character at Bellagio’s resort pool, and it’s so easy to forget you’re in the heart of the desert. The old-school charm of the Bellagio’s architecture and well-manicured courtyards and unique touches at each of the five pools will surely transport you away.
Rent a cabana or kick back and enjoy the sun in a private daybed reserved specifically for you.
Whereas Bellagio’s pool is more on the romantic retreat side, ARIA’s is all about the creature comforts.
hree individual pools are surrounded by comfortable lounge chairs shadowed by healthy palms. Cabanas at ARIA are a little more elaborate, feeling like a poolside apartment than a brief rental. Grab a drink from the bar and enjoy a taste of Vegas’ opulent living.
ARIA guests can reserve their spot at Liquid, an adults-only 16,000-square-foot day club that’s all about the posh lifestyle. Sip drinks, grab a bite, and lay out in the sun on one of the day beds surrounding the 1,200-square-foot pool.
Is one location better than another on the Strip?
ARIA is just south of Bellagio, tucked a little behind The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas. Bellagio is hard to miss, situated right in the middle of the action on the west side of Las Vegas Boulevard.
ARIA is a little more difficult to walk to, though cutting through The Cosmopolitan makes it easier and more comfortable.
Tip: You can grab the free tram between ARIA and Bellagio.
You can walk to Caesars Palace, The Cosmopolitan, and across the street to The Cromwell and Paris Las Vegas from Bellagio, but don’t underestimate the grounds.
Getting off the property takes time, especially since you have to maneuver in front of the Fountains of Bellagio.
Shows and live entertainment at each hotel
One of Bellagio’s greatest and longest-running shows isn’t some Cirque de Soleil production or risque show. It’s the dancing Fountains of Bellagio, which runs Monday through Friday every 30 minutes from 3:00 PM to 6:30 PM and every 15 minutes from 7:00 PM to midnight.
On weekends, the show starts at noon and runs until 6:30 PM every 30 minutes.
The blend of water theatrics and booming music while overlooking the bustle of The Strip makes this a must-see attraction.
Bellagio’s other claim to fame is “O” by Cirque du Soleil. If you enjoy acrobatics and abstract themes, you’re going to love this elaborate stage show that’s full of surrealism and vivid imagery.
Related: How to get discount Vegas Cirque du Soleil tickets
The Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Gardens is less of a show, but seeing the floral arrangements create stunning displays is definitely entertainment (it’s also something to do for free in Vegas!).
ARIA is not the space for live performances. Guests will have to find show tickets at The Cosmopolitan, Park MGM, or the nearby T-Mobile Arena.
Bars & Nightlife Between ARIA and Bellagio
For an evening drink at Bellagio, you’ll want to make a stop at the classic Baccarat Bar, the lavish Petrossian Bar, or the sophisticated Lily Bar & Lounge. Each offers a comfortable space to kick back and enjoy drinks with friends, family, or other patrons.
The nightlife is a bit more active at ARIA, with several lounges and JEWEL Nightclub rounding out the evening’s entertainment. If you don’t want to deal with the crowded dance floor and boisterous live entertainment of JEWEL, you may want to spend your night at Lift Bar, ALIBI Ultra Lounge, the Baccarat Lounge, or the central Lobby Bar.
For a real Vegas party, JEWEL is a 24,000-square-foot venue that’s all about late-night fun. You’ll be immersed in world-class entertainers until the early hours of the morning in this upscale nightclub.
Final Verdict – Which to Choose?
What you’re looking for out of your Las Vegas vacation is going to determine whether you stay at Bellagio or ARIA. Both have their merits and offer something different, from ARIA’s opulent accommodations to Bellagio’s live entertainment.
If you’re favoring a New Vegas experience, from the contemporary furnishings to the high-end accents, ARIA should be on your radar.
If you want that touch of old-school Sin City, you may want to book your stay at the legacy resort, Bellagio.
Tom Hamiliton - Author/Editor Vegas Q&A
Hey there! I'm Tom, and Las Vegas holds a special place in my heart. Whether I'm lounging by the pool, getting lost in captivating shows, or taking a chance at craps, I'm all about embracing the thrilling vibes of Sin City.
Through this website, I aim to be your trusted companion, answering common Vegas Questions and sharing money-saving hacks to ensure you have an unforgettable and wallet-friendly vacation in the dazzling world of Las Vegas.
