Encore Las Vegas

Though smaller than its neighbor, Encore combines the very best of all of Wynn's masterpieces. Sunlit corridors with flower-filled atriums and sprawling pools are visible from throughout the property; there also are a number of signature mosaics. The casino itself, which is separated by columns and curtains into freestanding salons, was designed by renowned interior designer Roger Thomas, and it features a number of antiques from Paris and Hong Kong. Five restaurants, including the Frank Sinatra-themed Sinatra, pair master chefs with gourmet fare. Encore also brings a new nightclub to the scene: at XS, after-dark impresario Victor Drai combines an outdoor pool environment with a sizzling club atmosphere. Like all Wynn properties, Encore has great shopping—the Esplanade consists of 11 boutiques. As far as luxury is concerned, Las Vegas simply doesn't get much better.

The History

Considering that Encore is among the newest Las Vegas casino resorts, it doesn't have much history to speak of just yet. That said, the place sure was expensive to build. Hotelier Steve Wynn broke all sorts of Vegas records when he built the $2.3-billion Encore with 2,034 suites that cost more than $1 million apiece. Despite recent economic struggles all over town—a slump that has forced most properties to lower rack rates considerably—Encore remains one of the few properties on the Strip to sell out consistently.