*Features a 10 night stay bought by me

Sian Victoria © - Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino, Las Vegas

Guide to Staying at Rio Las Vegas: Rooms, Food, Attractions & Bar

As some of you may know I enjoyed visiting Las Vegas in previous summers, so I was looking forward to coming back and staying at an off-the-strip Las Vegas hotel, with a stay at the Rio Hotel & Casino, in a Classic Suite room for 10 nights. My recent trip to this iconic hotel was spurred by my partner's participation in the World Series of Poker, making Rio an ideal choice due to its location as the host venue.

Having enjoyed my first visit to Vegas, I eagerly anticipated the opportunity to explore even more of the city from my never-ending Las Vegas bucket list. So, we booked a Vegas hotel and flight package deal, which would help us save time and money on the overall holiday and taxis to the tournament.

Unlike our previous stay at the Vdara Hotel & Spa located in the city centre area of the strip, we chose the Rio this time so that he didn’t have to leave the resort after 12 hours of grinding each day.

So, without further ado, let's check out my review of the Classic Suite at the Rio Hotel & Casino and see if it met my expectations along with a general overview of the resort, its facilities, and the things to do and see at the Rio.

Sian Victoria © - Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino, Swimming pool, Las Vegas

History of the Rio Hotel & Casino

This Vegas resort pays homage to the lively Brazilian city of Rio de Janeiro with a rich history steeped in luxury and spaciousness. Originally named the Rio Suite Hotel when it opened in 1990, the focus was on providing luxurious accommodations unmatched by other hotels in the area, since it was the first all-suite accommodation in the valley at the time.

The property underwent extensive renovations in 1997 and was renamed the Rio All-Suite Hotel and Casino, quickly establishing itself as a major destination for poker enthusiasts when it hosted the World Series of Poker.

Following its acquisition by Caesars Entertainment in 1999, the hotel has continued to thrive as a prominent figure in the Las Vegas hospitality and entertainment scene. The 2,522 all-suite rooms comprise two buildings, with the Ipanema Tower being 20 stories and the Masquerade Tower with 51 stories, providing a stunning panoramic view of the city's skyline.

The hotel's samba theme and colourful décor are a tribute to its namesake city's culture, offering visitors a unique Vegas experience that differs from the iconic themed hotels on the Las Vegas Strip.

Review of a Classic Suite Hotel Room

As we stepped into the Classic Suite in the Ipanema Tower at the Rio, we were surprised by its vastness, which was certainly fitting for a suite. The room was packed with all the amenities for a comfortable stay, including two plush queen beds, guaranteeing a peaceful slumber after a long day of exploring the Las Vegas strip.

The bathroom was spacious, but it had an old-fashioned style like the rest of the hotel room. It featured a shower and a bath in a separate room, dual sinks, plenty of storage space, a hairdryer, and three large mirrors. An ironing board and iron were also available for any necessary touch-ups.

Additionally, a large television and fridge offered added convenience to the overall experience, allowing us to stock it up with water and snacks bought from Walgreens to save money on travel and food expenses in Vegas.

We were pleased to find that the room was cleaned and refreshed daily, indicating a keen attention to detail and a commitment to maintaining a good level of cleanliness. However, the highlight of the suite was undoubtedly the floor-to-ceiling windows that provided a memorable view of Las Vegas and the Nevada mountains. Although I would have loved a strip-facing view, it was just as lovely seeing the sun go down in the evening turning the mountains an orange hue and an equally captivating sight in the morning sunlight.

The June desert heat was unforgiving, but the suite was equipped with a much-needed air conditioning system that kept the temperature perfectly regulated. However, whenever we visit Las Vegas, we find ourselves getting sick, which we believe is due to a combination of sunstroke, continuously walking in and out of air-conditioned resorts and back to outdoor heat and being exposed to second-hand smoke.

So, I tried to keep the air conditioning off as it felt like it was circulating dusty air and contributing to us coughing and having a sore throat during our vacation.

Despite this, our stay in the Classic Suite at the Rio Hotel & Casino was a pleasant experience, combining spaciousness, comfort, and stunning views. Despite the outdated decor, the room exceeded all our expectations, providing a much-needed sanctuary away from the hustle and bustle of Vegas.

In-room Amenities and Comfort

The comfort of the Classic Suite and its spacious and cosy queen beds provided a calm sanctuary, allowing us to unwind after a long day of enjoying the many Las Vegas attractions on the strip. The suite's open plan decor, coupled with its expansive 500+ square feet, radiated a welcoming ambience that immediately put us at ease.

To further enhance our stay, the suite was thoughtfully equipped with essential amenities such as a clothing rail, a flat-screen TV, and a comfortable settee. The room also came with an in-room safe.

Despite it being a calming room to retreat to, one thing that made us feel slightly uncomfortable was that our room led to a joining room which was locked however with it being a standard wooden door with a slight gap at the bottom it didn’t offer much in terms of soundproofing which meant day and night we heard a lot of loud sex happening far too often day and night which was funny at first but got rather ridiculous.

Additionally, upon checking in we were told we had complimentary breakfast each morning from Starbucks, valued up to £18. Although we cannot confirm if this perk is a permanent fixture, it certainly added a refreshing start to our mornings and provided the fuel we needed for a day full of adventure in Las Vegas.

The room also included lightning-fast Wi-Fi, allowing us to easily connect with home and get business done without any problems. All these carefully curated features and amenities contributed to a great stay at the Rio.

Sian Victoria © - Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino, Room view, Las Vegas

Dining Options in the Rio Hotel & Casino

The Rio Hotel & Casino offers an array of dining options that cater to different tastes and preferences. Additionally, it provides free parking and easy access to all restaurants. If you're craving unconventional Mexican cuisine, Guy Fieri's El Burro Borracho should be on your list. The restaurant has a cheerful ambience and serves heavenly margaritas, enchiladas, and frozen cocktails.

For a fancy dining experience with a panoramic view of The Strip, head to VooDoo Steak. Here, you can savour prime steaks, fresh seafood, and iconic cocktails while enjoying your surroundings. On the other hand, Hash House A Go Go offers a unique twist on brunch classics with generous portions, inventive dishes, and farm-fresh ingredients.

If you're looking for a sports bar that feels like a modern steakhouse, All-American Bar & Grille is an excellent choice. You can indulge in everything from dry-aged Angus steak to homemade burgers while soaking up the resort's energy. For coffee lovers, there are two Starbucks locations available at the resort, one near the hotel elevators and another by the conference area, both got very busy in the morning during the tournament event.

For a quick bite, Sports Deli serves an assortment of comfort food classics, including homemade sandwiches, burgers, and pizzas. Pho Da Nang is perfect for Asian food enthusiasts, offering budget-friendly Vietnamese dishes with a fusion twist. And if you're a fan of traditional Indian cuisine, the Royal India Buffet offers all-you-can-eat lunch and dinner straight from the Tandoor.

Lastly, Smashburger guarantees a top-notch burger experience, with handcrafted burgers seared, smashed, and seasoned to perfection. They are served on artisan buns with your choice of tempting sauces and toppings. If none of these options appeals to you, check out my post on places to eat in Las Vegas for more restaurant suggestions on the strip.

Bars at the Rio

The Rio resort offers exciting nightlife options, so you don't have to leave the resort to have a good time. The Lobby Bar is located at the centre of the hotel and has a lively atmosphere with an impressive happy hour that attracts a diverse crowd. If you're looking for a place to people-watch, Masquerade Bar is the spot to be, surrounded by the casino's hustle and bustle.

For those who prefer a more relaxed environment, Shutters Bar is a casual spot located in the middle of the casino. It is open 24/7, providing a laid-back atmosphere. The Sportsbook & Bar is a paradise for sports fans and has the most extensive sports betting menu in Nevada. Even if you don't want to place a bet, it can be a lively place to watch games and soak up the energy.

If you're looking for a special experience, VooDoo Lounge is the perfect place. Situated on the rooftop, it offers stunning views of the city and surrounding mountains. With a wide selection of cocktails, it is the perfect spot to celebrate and toast to a memorable Vegas vacation.

Entertainment and Attractions at the Rio

The Rio Hotel & Casino offers a wide variety of shows and attractions that are sure to entertain. So, if you are looking for entertainment in Las Vegas you won’t always need to venture off to the strip, you can conveniently enjoy things to do within the resort.

If you're a fan of magic, you won't want to miss the Penn & Teller show at the recently refurbished Penn & Teller theatre. With a seating capacity of 1,500, the theatre is home to the famed "Bad Boys of Magic". This Emmy, Obie, and Writer's Guild award-winning duo consistently deliver an edgy, provocative, and hilarious performance that is sure to leave you amazed.

For those seeking a jaw-dropping spectacle, 'WOW – The Vegas Spectacular' is a must-see. This Best of Las Vegas award winner features over 30 performers who will excite you with their ability to fly, flip, dance and defy the imagination.

If you're in the mood for something a bit more risqué, check out the Chippendales show. This six-time Best of Las Vegas Gold winner features heartthrobs who will captivate you with new music and choreography.

For comedy lovers, the Comedy Cellar is the perfect venue to discover your new favourite stand-up star and have a great time with your friends. This West Coast counterpart of the renowned NYC comedy landmark is not to be missed.

Finally, if you're a fan of rock ‘n’ roll, you won't want to miss 'KISS by Monster Mini Golf'. This neon experience features an 18-hole mini-golf course that glows in the dark, a live DJ, and a KISS rock ‘n’ roll gift shop. So, that you can dance and putt your way to a night of fun!

Whether you prefer magic, theatre, comedy, dance, or even mini golf, the Rio has something that will entertain you.

Outdoor Swimming Pool at the Rio

Located at the Rio is a tropical outdoor swimming pool designed to provide a peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle of the city. If you want to add a touch of luxury to your experience, you can reserve a private cabana or daybed for the day.

With multiple spacious pools and an abundance of sun loungers, there is plenty of space to soak up the blazing sun of Las Vegas. Even during our visit when the hotel was at full capacity due to the tournament, we had no trouble finding a spot to relax and enjoy the sun and the many palm trees that dotted around the outdoor space.

The pools are open from spring through autumn, giving guests a refreshing escape from the oppressive desert heat. To save you the trouble of carrying your towels, free towels are available near the entrance.

I must admit, I felt much more comfortable and at ease at the Rio swimming pool than at the upscale Vdara, even though the Rio was much busier. So, I enjoyed my experience a lot more here and was able to relax.

Other Facilities at the Rio

The Rio is more than just a hotel and casino. It offers a wide range of facilities to cater to various needs and interests. Whether you're a fitness enthusiast looking to maintain your routine while on vacation or just seeking relaxation, the fully equipped fitness centre and refreshing spa have everything you need.

In addition to restaurants and bars, the hotel also has numerous shops including a tattoo parlour owned by Danny from the show Count's Kustoms who I saw there one morning and, of course, a casino to meet all your foodie, gaming, and retail needs. The resort is also the perfect venue for any event or convention, with extensive indoor meeting space and outdoor areas.

Finding Your Way to the Rio

The Rio Hotel & Casino is a great choice for those looking for a relaxing yet entertaining Vegas getaway. It is conveniently located just west of the Strip and easily accessible by car or rideshare services like Uber or Lyft from McCarran International Airport. The ride takes approximately 15 minutes, accounting for traffic delays.

As an off-strip hotel, Rio provides complimentary parking and convenient access to the hotel's main entrance for ride-share services. This makes it an ideal choice for those who have driven to Vegas, rented a vehicle, or relied on taxis to get to and from the strip. With multiple transportation options available, reaching the Rio is simple, contributing to the overall comfort and convenience of your stay.

To conclude

Overall, the Classic Suite at the Rio Hotel provided us with a spacious stay with floor-to-ceiling views that created a peaceful escape from the bustling Vegas strip. The hotel's unique samba-inspired decor and rich history offer a range of amenities that should make it a top contender for your next off-strip Vegas accommodation.

Review of Rio Hotel & Casino, Vegas: Classic Suite & Visit Guide