Fodor's Expert Review The M Resort

Built by the Marnells, the same family that created the Rio, this resort is 6 miles south of McCarran Airport and is a destination unto itself. Sitting at an elevation 400 feet higher than the majority of Strip hotels, The M literally looks down on the rest of Las Vegas. Standard rooms are spacious and modern, with chocolate-brown carpet and dark-wood furniture. Floor-to-ceiling windows offer picture-perfect views of the desert. All rooms come with electronic sensors that dim the lights when guests are absent, to conserve energy. Downstairs, at Spa Mio, the focus is on personal luxury—therapists offer everything from facials to massages and haircuts. Relaxation continues by the pool, which is small but feels ultra-exclusive. The casino, which has windows to let in natural light, hums with excitement—a live-action poker room and spacious race and sports book with mobile gaming technology are among the most popular attractions. Out back, the Entertainment Piazza hosts live concerts under the desert night sky.

room

M Resort shines like a blue beacon on St. Rose Parkway on the outskirts of town, with seemingly nothing around it. But what’s inside will surprise you--it’s a wonderful destination for the discerning traveler, with modern amenities and a tranquil vibe. Rooms start at 550 square feet and afford views of both the desert landscape and Strip with floor-to-ceiling windows.

The M Resort has a free shuttle service to and from the airport and to and from Fashion Show mall on the Strip.

Photo: Flat Suite Living and Bedroom Area

Photo: King Bedroom Mountain View

Photo: Two Queen Room Strip View

bathroom

Marble vanity with double sinks, vanity stool, inlaid mirror, a television and separate tub and shower.

Photo: Hotel Lobby

lobby

The M Resort’s lobby sets the tone, with a gorgeous display of 800 calla lilies in floor-to-ceiling trellises. You might think they’re real but they’re not; they are scented silk flowers that immediately put you in a relaxed mood.

Photo: Hotel Lobby

Photo: Daydream Pool

pool

The M Resort’s pool is a locals secret. It rivals pools on Strip properties and comes with all the amenities like cabanas, but at a fraction of the prices. As a guest, you’ll get to experience it, or you can even upgrade to the VIP pool Daydream.

Photo: Daydream Pool

Photo: Spa Mio at M Resort

spa

Here’s another locals secret: Spa Mio at The M is one of the best spas for the money. There are 16 treatment rooms and a sauna, steam, and Jacuzzi wet areas. A full-service salon is also on hand.

Photo: Spa Mio at M Resort

gym

Yes, there’s a fitness facility with cardio and strength equipment at the spa, as well as hot tubs to ease those sore muscles.

dining

A few options stand out, such as Jayde Fuzion with its signature sushi rolls, and Anthony’s Steakhouse for its American fare. Baby Cakes, with its colorful treats and gelato beckoning from their glass cases, is open 24 hours.

drinking

Hostile Grape, located a floor below the casino, is a novel wine cellar. You buy a prepaid card at the bar, grab a glass and start serving yourself from the 160 wines available through the special dispensing system. Each portion is by the ounce so you can buy as much as or as little as you want. There are also more than 400 wines by the bottles. If you’re not a wine drinker, head to 32 Degrees, where you’ll find 96 of the coldest beers on tap.

YOU SHOULD KNOW The Strip is a good 20-25 minutes away by car, so if you plant to stay at The M, it’s best to rent one. The has live entertainment at its lounge, Ravello, as well as a casino, but in general, it’s a low-key resort that encourages more relaxation than partying.

Photo: Ravello Lounge

Photo: 32 Degrees Dining