Review: Virgin Hotels Las Vegas, Curio Collection By Hilton [Third-Party Booking] (Nevada)

Review: Virgin Hotels Las Vegas, Curio Collection By Hilton [Third-Party Booking]

Over the years, I stayed countless times at the Hard Rock Las Vegas, and I’ve always had a fond place in my heart for it. I mean, Center Bar? Mr. Lucky’s “Gambler’s Special”? Pink Taco? Ahh, the good ole days.

Now that Virgin Hotels Las Vegas, Curio Collection By Hilton, has been open for a little while, I wanted to check it out while is was still newish. Does it measure up to the legendary Hard Rock?

Image: hilton.com

About Virgin Hotels Las Vegas, Curio Collection By Hilton

Once known as the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, this iconic resort underwent a dramatic transformation in 2020. What emerged from the remodel was The Virgin Hotels Las Vegas, Curio Collection By Hilton, and a goal of preserving its rock ‘n’ roll legacy while infusing it with a fresh, young and rebellious spirit.

At A Glance:

• Average Nightly Cost During Stay: $176.88
• Loyalty Program: Hilton Honors – Although this reservation was booked through Chase Travel
• Loyalty Category: N/A
• Discount Applied: $50 Chase Sapphire Preferred Credit
• Room Type as Booked: 2 Queens Chamber
• Room Upgrade: None
• Resort Fee: $51.02
• Parking Fee: $10 (self); $20 (valet)

Booking/Redemption

Location & Parking

Virgin Hotels Las Vegas enjoys a good spot just off the famous Las Vegas Strip, close enough to feel the pulse of the city, yet far enough to escape the frenzy when needed. The hotel is located on the corner of Harmon Avenue and Paradise Road.

Self-Parking is available in a adjacent parking garage for $10 per day, or guests can choose Valet Parking for $20 per day.

Image: hilton.com

Loyalty Program Benefits

Hilton Honors Benefits for my Diamond Elite status did not officially apply to this stay as I booked it through Chase Travel so I could burn my annual $50 Chase Sapphire Preferred credit.

However, if I had book directly through Hilton, I would have been eligible for the following benefits:

Room Upgrade

I didn’t receive a room upgrade during this stay. I was notified at the front desk that direct booking have a far better change of being upgraded.

Elevator Area

Hallway

Room Walkthrough Tour

Room Entrance

Our Canyon 2 Queen Chamber room was spaciaous, well-lit, and clean (with tons of natural light) and a decor that could be called “California desert chic”. Earthy tones, plush bedding, and mix of retro/modern design worked to create a relaxing atmosphere. I found it screamed “Palm Springs” much more than “Las Vegas” through.

Bedroom

Living Area

Room Amenities

Closet(s)

Bathroom

The bathroom was cleaned to a shine and very brightly lit with strong white light (which may not be great for a Sunday morning hangover).

The bathroom boasts the organic and aromatic Red Flower amenity brand. I found the jasmine-scented shampoo and the orange blossom body lotion to smell clean and subtle while appearing to be of good quality.

View From The Room

Room Condition

Vegas being Vegas, I of course had to check for “mystery stains”. Sure enough, I found some on the “couch area” between the beds. Definitely both  “sus” and “cringe”.

Yeah, I’m not sitting over there, jus’ saying

And yeah, not sitting over there either

Breakfast At Dunkin’ Doughnuts

As this was a quick 1-night stay, we were just trying to get in and out. With that said, we didn’t have time for a sit down breakfast, instead we opted for breakfast at Dunkin’ Doughnuts. The food was actually fresher and more delicious than I expected from DD.

Other Dining Options:

Bars And Lounges

The Commons Club

The former Center Bar

The Shag Room

 Swimming Pool

The completely redesigned pool area was great – but I couldn’t help but to this it wasn’t much better than the old design.

Image: hilton.com

FHOP Tip: What’s Nearby

The FHOP Bottom-Line 10 Ratings

The Bottom-Line Review: Virgin Hotels Las Vegas, Curio Collection By Hilton

I’ll admit it, I’ve had so many good times at the former Hard Rock Las Vegas that I was biased against liking the Virgin Hotels Las Vegas, Curio Collection By Hilton. Once I got past what it once was, I started “getting” what it currently is – a cool hotel with a reasonable price point and a rich history, modern amenities, and vibrant atmosphere.

The resort’s unique features, such as the laid-back Mohegan Sun Casino and The Commons Club set the vibe for the hotel. Overall, the Canyon 2 Queen Chamber room was comfortable and relaxing, although somebody needs to do something about the questionable mystery stains on the couch area. The Dining options were diverse and good – definitely reasonably priced for Las Vegas. I think this stay did exactly what it needed to which was win me over to try again on another stay. Maybe booking direct next time with elevate the experience? Guess we’ll just have to wait and see. With a few minor improvements, Virgin Hotels Las Vegas Curio Collection By Hilton could easily become my go-to “off-the-strip” gem.

Final Rating: 8 out of 10