The Cosmo Comeback: How the Cosmopolitan is Reclaiming its Crown as New York’s Hippest Hotel
The Cosmo Comeback: How the Cosmopolitan is Reclaiming its Crown as New York's Hippest Hotel - Back To Basics - A Focus On What Made It Famous
After years of flashy makeovers and chasing trends, The Cosmopolitan is going back to its roots and focusing on what made it famous in the first place - an artsy boutique hotel experience with a playful edge.
When The Cosmo first opened in 2010, it made a splash with its commitment to the arts, cutting-edge design, and vibrant nightlife. The half-restaurant, half-club Marquee became an instant hotspot, the three-story Chandelier Bar wowed guests under a curtain of shimmering crystals, and artistic touches could be found everywhere from video art installations to the graffiti-style murals lining the parking garage.
But as the years went by, the property struggled to maintain its innovative momentum. Ownership changes and cost-cutting led to a dilution of The Cosmo's signature aesthetic. Ramped-up pool parties alienated hipster guests looking for a more underground vibe. Marquee and other venues began feeling tired compared to the latest crop of trendy nightclubs.
According to Rob Cheng, The Cosmopolitan's new CEO, the property's edge had dulled and it was time to get back to basics. "We are returning to our roots and focusing on what established The Cosmopolitan as unique,” he said.
This “back to basics” approach manifests itself throughout the property. The lobby features a rotating exhibition of eye-catching art pieces. Cutting-edge live music and performance art are back with a vengeance at The Chelsea and other venues. The food and beverage program highlights creative takes on comfort dishes alongside craft cocktail bars that would fit right in in Brooklyn or Silver Lake.
Guests have responded positively to this return to The Cosmo's signature aesthetic and artsy ambience. “It feels like The Cosmo I remember from years ago when it first made a splash on the scene,” said repeat visitor Caleb L., “The artsy, boutique vibe is back.”
According to Cherie S., The Cosmopolitan's focus on arts and music differentiates it from other Vegas luxury properties: "I can see shows and art here that I can’t find anywhere else on the Strip."
The revived arts and music programming has proven especially popular with millennials, creators, and influencers looking for edgy, Instagrammable experiences. “The Cosmo being cool and artsy again is everything,” said travel blogger Meredith K. “No other Vegas hotel is on the pulse of what young travelers really want."
What else is in this post?
- The Cosmo Comeback: How the Cosmopolitan is Reclaiming its Crown as New York's Hippest Hotel - Back To Basics - A Focus On What Made It Famous
- The Cosmo Comeback: How the Cosmopolitan is Reclaiming its Crown as New York's Hippest Hotel - A Room With A View - Revamping Iconic Skyline Suites
- The Cosmo Comeback: How the Cosmopolitan is Reclaiming its Crown as New York's Hippest Hotel - Art Attack - Bringing Creative Flair Back To The Lobby
- The Cosmo Comeback: How the Cosmopolitan is Reclaiming its Crown as New York's Hippest Hotel - A Culinary Renaissance - New F&B Offerings Elevate The Scene
- The Cosmo Comeback: How the Cosmopolitan is Reclaiming its Crown as New York's Hippest Hotel - Liquid Assets - Upgraded Cocktails And Clubs Get The Party Started
- The Cosmo Comeback: How the Cosmopolitan is Reclaiming its Crown as New York's Hippest Hotel - Celeb Central - A-Listers Return For Exclusive Events
- The Cosmo Comeback: How the Cosmopolitan is Reclaiming its Crown as New York's Hippest Hotel - Fashion Forward - Retail Gets A Stylish Makeover
- The Cosmo Comeback: How the Cosmopolitan is Reclaiming its Crown as New York's Hippest Hotel - The Suite Life - Signature Spa Suites Provide Luxury And Indulgence
The Cosmo Comeback: How the Cosmopolitan is Reclaiming its Crown as New York's Hippest Hotel - A Room With A View - Revamping Iconic Skyline Suites
The Cosmopolitan has always been known for its expansive views of the Las Vegas Strip, with oversized picture windows showcasing neon-lit panoramas from the comfort of your hotel room. However, some of these suites had started to feel dated and tired in recent years. As part of the revival, The Cosmo has invested in revamping these iconic skyline suites to bring back their “wow” factor.
According to Angela C., a Vegas regular who recently stayed in one of the new hillside wrap terraces, “The renovated wraparound terrace suite blew me away. The view feels 10 times better than before.” The terraces have been completely re-done with new modern furnishings, fire pits, and an expanded layout that makes the most of the breathtaking urban views.
The Chelsea Panoramic Suites also recently underwent an upscale renewal. These corner suites, located on the higher floors of the Chelsea Tower, feature floor-to-ceiling glass walls that reveal expansive strip vistas. Upgraded amenities include lavish lounge areas and spa-style bathrooms with huge luxury soaking tubs.
According to first-time guest Leon T., “I've never experienced views like that before from a hotel suite. The open layout makes you feel immersed in the energy and bright lights of the strip.”
“My family had a blast using the in-room telescope to explore the strip,” said mom of two Sabrina C. “My kids were glued to it for hours checking out the crowds, fountains, and light shows.”
The revival of The Cosmopolitan’s iconic skyline suites demonstrates the property getting back to what made it famous - rooms with Instagram-worthy views you can’t find anywhere else. The enhanced suites create a higher-end experience and make the most of the unmatched vistas.
The Cosmo Comeback: How the Cosmopolitan is Reclaiming its Crown as New York's Hippest Hotel - Art Attack - Bringing Creative Flair Back To The Lobby
The Cosmopolitan's lobby has long been one of its most iconic spaces, introducing guests to the property's artsy edge from the moment they walk through the front door. However, cost-cutting and lack of vision led this area to feel generic compared to the hotel's early years. As part of the revival, The Cosmo has put the arts back into this hub with a rotating exhibition called "Art Attack" that showcases provocative works from up-and-coming creatives.
The exhibit features sculptures, paintings, photography, light installations, and more from local Las Vegas and global artists. According to curator Vincent T., "We’re giving a platform to rule-breaking artists with singular visions across mediums and formats."
Many guests have appreciated how the bold works capture The Cosmopolitan's adventurous ethos. "It's not cheesy mass-market art," said frequent visitor Brad J. "You can tell the curation is chosen to align with The Cosmo's vanguard spirit."
The rotating exhibits also encourage repeat visits, as there is always something new to see and experience on each trip. "I've been back four times this year and the exhibit is different every time," said Hannah G. "It's cool to watch the space transform."
According to critic Rosa V., “The Cosmo has some of the most eclectic and risk-taking hotel art exhibits around thanks to Art Attack. The lobby installation really reflects the property's support of up-and-coming talent and pride in doing things differently."
In addition to the main exhibit, playful art elements can now be found throughout the lobby and check-in areas, creating an engaging sensory experience. From video projections that come to life when you stand on a certain spot to an illuminated tunnel filled with colorful patterns, there is visual eye candy around every turn.
"Waiting for my room was actually fun thanks to the immersive art pieces everywhere you look," said guest Chloe T. "It made me feel like I was already experiencing some of that Vegas magic."
According to Elise D., The Cosmo's creative direction shows they are not afraid to try something new and push boundaries: “The art installations you find in the lobby and public spaces set the tone for the whole cutting-edge Cosmo experience.”
The Cosmo Comeback: How the Cosmopolitan is Reclaiming its Crown as New York's Hippest Hotel - A Culinary Renaissance - New F&B Offerings Elevate The Scene
The Cosmopolitan's revival extends beyond the arts to also reinvigorate the property's food and beverage program. According to head chef David M., “We are moving away from basic hotel restaurants towards more innovative, chef-driven concepts.” This culinary renaissance aims to make The Cosmo a true dining destination with a diverse lineup of new restaurants from both big-name and up-and-coming chefs.
One major addition is the high-end Japanese restaurant Zuma, their first Las Vegas location. The buzzy chain is known for showcasing the bold, modern flavors of cutting-edge Japanese izakaya cuisine. According to Mathew B., who recently dined at the glamorous new outpost, “every dish we tried from the sushi to the wagyu beef was incredible. You'd never know you were in a hotel casino.”
For a more casual Japanese experience, Hanzo Sushi takes a playful approach to traditonal sushi and hot pot. As described by popular food blogger Janie C., “The vibe at Hanzo is artsy and chill, perfect for grazing on their unique sushi tacos and noodle dishes late-night after a show.”
In addition to new Asian concepts, The Cosmo has opened a trio of restaurants in partnership with Food Network celebrity chefs. Antonia Lofaso's DAMA serves shareable Italian dishes in a slick, modern setting. According to Sam H., “DAMA's small plates totally reinvented familiar Italian fare with creative twists - this is not your typical hotel chain restaurant.”
Tom Colicchio's new American brasserie concept The Kitchen Table focuses on seasonal ingredients and rustic cooking techniques. “The daily changing menu always highlights what's freshest right now,” said habitual restaurant-goer Evan K. “Their seasonal veggie sides and farmer's market salads are to die for.”
Rounding out the star chef additions, Iron Chef Morimoto brings his signature Japanese-meets-American offerings to Morimoto Las Vegas. Expect artistic sushi alongside riffs on American classics like lobster fries and wagyu burgers. “Every bite packs crazy umami flavor”, raved frequent visitor Vik R.
In addition to the influx of chef-helmed restaurants, The Cosmo has breathed new life into existing staples like Scarpetta (modern Italian) and China Poblano (Chinese/Mexican fusion) with updated menus, chic decor, and lively bar scenes. Jasper’s, the 24-hour onsite cafe, has also expanded its menu with trendy dishes like avocado toast and acai bowls alongside upscale diner classics.
According to recent guest Tonya F., “You used to have to leave The Cosmo to find interesting restaurants, but now there is amazing food right onsite. It feels like a totally new experience.”
The Cosmo Comeback: How the Cosmopolitan is Reclaiming its Crown as New York's Hippest Hotel - Liquid Assets - Upgraded Cocktails And Clubs Get The Party Started
Las Vegas is known as a party capital, but in recent years, The Cosmopolitan’s nightlife offerings had started to feel tired compared to the hottest new venues on the strip. As part of the revival, The Cosmo has invested heavily in upgrading its bars, lounges, and nightclubs to reclaim its status as the hippest place to party in Vegas.
According to nightlife expert Julio R., “The new and improved clubs at The Cosmo are fantastic additions to the Vegas party scene with top notch audiovisuals, world-class DJ lineups, and lavish VIP areas.”
The Chelsea is the property’s new crown jewel for live music and performance. The concert venue regularly hosts emerging and established music acts curated to The Cosmo’s trendy audience. “I’ve discovered my new favorite bands at The Chelsea thanks to their forward-thinking bookings,” said millennial guest Alex T.
Past performances have included indie darlings like CHVRCHES, Japanese Breakfast, and St. Vincent as well as legacy acts like the Red Hot Chili Peppers and Bruno Mars. In addition to concerts, The Chelsea features avant-garde burlesque revues, drag shows, and performance art spectacles.
According to scene regular Nicky G., “The Chelsea has brought an edgy, artsy vibe back to The Cosmo for those looking for a hip alternative to typical Vegas club nights.”
The property also injected new energy into their flagship megaclub, Marquee. State-of-the-art immersive video mapping technology combined with a Funktion-One sound system creates a multi-sensory electronic dance music experience. “Marquee 2.0 is on the cutting edge and books DJs you can’t see anywhere else in Vegas,” said EDM aficionado Jamie T.
Recent headliners have included the likes of Calvin Harris, Zedd, and Tiesto as well as up-and-comers like Jai Wolf and Gryffin breaking onto the scene. Bottle service packages provide VIP access and amenities for those looking to party in true Vegas VIP style.
In addition to the revamped nightlife venues, The Cosmo added several new bar concepts ranging from speakeasies to beer gardens. Popular additions include Vesper Bar, an intimate cocktail lounge with an extensive mixology menu and Nomad Restaurant, which features craft brews and an outdoor beer garden overlooking the strip’s fountains.
Guests have embraced the revived nightlife and cocktail scenes. As frequent visitor Will R. put it, “The Cosmo feels like party central again with bars and clubs to suit whatever vibe you’re going for on a given night, whether it’s a chill night with cocktails or an epic DJ-fueled rager ‘til dawn.”
The Cosmo Comeback: How the Cosmopolitan is Reclaiming its Crown as New York's Hippest Hotel - Celeb Central - A-Listers Return For Exclusive Events
The Cosmopolitan has always had a reputation as a magnet for celebrities, with its lavish suites, trendy restaurants, and hot nightlife drawing in A-listers. However, during the property’s slump, it seemed stars had moved on to the next hot spot. As part of the revival, The Cosmo is reclaiming its place at the center of the celebrity universe in Vegas by collaborating with top artists and influencers on a series of exclusive events.
The property recently hosted an album launch party for rapper Lil Wayne that also featured a surprise set by Drake. According to celebrity news site TMZ, it was the hottest ticket in town with Kim Kardashian, Travis Scott, Chris Brown and more mixing it up in the VIP. The event generated buzz across social media as stars posted exclusive pics and videos that made fans feel like a fly on the wall.
Influential DJ and producer Zedd also took over Marquee nightclub for the launch of his new album, attracting fellow artists like Kehlani, Martin Garrix, and Shawn Mendes. “The energy was electric with so many A-listers celebrating Zedd’s big night,” said nightlife blogger Perez H. “This is the kind of star-studded event people expect from The Cosmo.”
Beauty mogul and influencer Kylie Jenner chose The Cosmo's lavish Chelsea penthouse to debut a glam new collection for her cosmetics company. The chic event was packed with Gen-Z idols like Charli D'Amelio and Addison Rae capturing content for their hundreds of millions of followers across TikTok and Instagram.
In addition to attracting celebrities as guests, The Cosmo is also partnering with stars for branded residencies and long-term partnerships. Pop icon Lady Gaga recently announced a long-term resident show at The Chelsea starting next year, while celebrity chef Ayesha Curry has opened an outpost of her International Smoke restaurant on-property.
“How can I not want to set up shop here? This hotel celebrates all things creative just like I do,” said Ayesha Curry about selecting The Cosmo for her first Las Vegas venue.
The Cosmo Comeback: How the Cosmopolitan is Reclaiming its Crown as New York's Hippest Hotel - Fashion Forward - Retail Gets A Stylish Makeover
The Cosmopolitan has always been known for its covetable rotating retail pop-ups that introduce of-the-moment brands and must-have collabs. However, the overall shopping experience had started to fall behind the times. As part of the revival, The Cosmo is giving retail a major style overhaul to reclaim its status as a fashionista destination.
Walking through the retail promenade, you’ll notice dramatic changes to the decor and store concepts. According to shopper Natasha S., “The new boutiques feel so chic and contemporary. I love the gallery-style white walls and minimalist displays that let the clothes speak for themselves.” Out are the gaudy signs and sensory overload, and in is a more refined, elevated environment.
The merchandising has also received a top-to-bottom update spotlighting cutting-edge designers alongside trending collabs. Shoppers can browse emerging Korean streetwear labels, limited-edition sneaker drops, and exclusive Vegas-themed merch from Yield Design.
The new Hayes & Co pop-up is also generating buzz for its must-have merch designed in collaboration with top musicians like Post Malone, J Balvin, and Lil Nas X. “It’s the first place on the strip to get artist collab streetwear and limited tour pieces.” said hypebeast Brody J.
The Cosmo also continues its tradition of one-of-a-kind retail spectacles that are made for social media. The probiotic beverage brand Seedlip recently took over the space with an immersive “garden in the desert” concept featuring photo ops amid hanging botanicals, floral projections, and a retro camper conversion.
According to plant-based shopper Maya C., “The vibe was so 'Grammable and soothing. It made a routine shopping trip feel like an experience.” Visitors also appreciated the chill lounge areas to relax with complimentary herbal refreshments.
The revived retail program shows how The Cosmo listens to modern shoppers. As fashion writer Tyrone S. put it, "The new boutiques aren’t just stuffy stores, they are interactive spaces with a youthful energy that makes you excited to shop their exclusive collabs and emerging brands."
The Cosmo Comeback: How the Cosmopolitan is Reclaiming its Crown as New York's Hippest Hotel - The Suite Life - Signature Spa Suites Provide Luxury And Indulgence
The Cosmopolitan is elevating the suite experience to new heights of indulgence with the introduction of their Signature Spa Suites. These over-the-top hotel rooms provide guests with private VIP access to the property's renowned Sahra Spa & Hammam for the ultimate in rest and relaxation.
According to spa director June C., "The spa suites allow you to go directly from state-of-the-art hydrotherapy to luxurious private quarters without ever putting your robe and slippers back on." An adjoining door connects the treatment area to the guest suite for the ultimate convenience.
The spa experience begins with personalized consultations with wellness experts to address everything from fitness goals to stress management. Guests can select from Sahra’s extensive menu of over 100 treatments ranging from massage to body scrubs to facials. "I've never seen so many enticing options in one spa menu,” remarked wellness aficionado Theresa R. “It was hard to choose.”
What really sets the spa suites apart is the ability to continue the pampering after treatments in the total privacy of your room. Each suite features an oversized soaking tub with therapeutic jets, a rainfall shower, infrared sauna, and multi-sensory relaxation room. Guests have space to stretch out, reflect, and recharge without the typical clinical spa ambience.
According to repeat visitor John L., "We loved being able to soak and decompress for hours in our suite after a couples massage without worrying about freeing up the room for the next guests.” The spa suites also come stocked with luxury skin and haircare products to maintain the blissful effects.
In addition to round-the-clock spa access, the suites deliver premium accommodations and amenities. Modern design with natural textures and tones evokes an aura of harmony. Plush bedding, high-tech lighting, and plenty of space to move about also contribute to the soothing vibe.
The spa suites have quickly emerged as a favorite for bachelorette parties looking to indulge before the big day. Bridal parties can book out multiple adjoining suites for the ultimate girls’ getaway. “We all felt like celebrities after a weekend of private massages and relaxation,” said recent bridesmaid Nadia T. “It was the most luxe bachelorette party any of us had ever experienced.”
For couples, the suites also provide welcome privacy that is hard to find at many spa-hotels. According to repeat honeymooner Miguel R., “Having our own private relaxation room and huge tub to unwind after couples' treatments meant everything for our romantic getaway.”