Fontainebleau Las Vegas

The Fontainebleau brand has been synonymous with luxury and grandeur since its inception in 1954 with the opening of Fontainebleau Miami Beach. Originally designed by Morris Lapidus, the Miami resort quickly became a cultural icon, revered for its lavish décor and frequented by celebrities like Frank Sinatra and Elvis Presley. Known for pushing the boundaries of luxury hospitality, Fontainebleau Miami Beach set a high bar for what a luxury hotel could offer.

Building on this illustrious heritage, Fontainebleau Development has brought this brand to the heart of Las Vegas with the opening of Fontainebleau Las Vegas in December 2023. Located at 2777 South Las Vegas Boulevard, this new addition stands as the tallest occupiable building in Nevada and promises to redefine luxury on the Las Vegas Strip. Fontainebleau Las Vegas not only extends the storied legacy of its Miami counterpart but also introduces a new era of luxury, tailored to meet the opulence and excitement of its Las Vegas setting.

The Design and Architecture

The Fontainebleau Las Vegas is a marvel of contemporary architecture, skillfully designed to weave the opulence of its Miami Beach roots with the vibrant, modern aesthetic expected of a Las Vegas landmark. Rising as the tallest occupiable building in Nevada, this 67-story resort was crafted by Fontainebleau Development’s in-house design team. They have meticulously combined grandeur with innovative design techniques to create a standout structure on the Las Vegas skyline.

The designers at Fontainebleau Development drew inspiration from the rich history and iconic status of the Fontainebleau Miami Beach, infusing elements that reflect its mid-century modern elegance while embracing a fresh, avant-garde approach suited to the Las Vegas Strip. The aesthetic is characterized by a sophisticated palette of blues, silvers, and coral-pinks, with intricate details like custom brass bowtie-shaped drawer pulls that pay homage to the brand’s heritage. These design choices not only honor the legacy of the Fontainebleau brand but also add a touch of nostalgic luxury to the modern-day traveler’s experience.

Key architectural features of Fontainebleau Las Vegas include its impressive height, which offers panoramic views of the city, and its dynamic, curved façade, which mirrors the iconic curvilinear design of its Miami counterpart. The resort’s exterior is further enhanced by state-of-the-art lighting that highlights its architectural contours, making it a visually stunning beacon on the Northern Strip. Inside, the design continues to impress with expansive floor-to-ceiling windows in the rooms, opulent fixtures, and a layout that emphasizes both comfort and style, ensuring every guest’s stay is nothing short of spectacular.

Luxury Accommodations

Fontainebleau Las Vegas sets a new standard for luxury accommodations on the Strip, offering a diverse array of rooms and suites designed to cater to the discerning tastes of its guests. From elegantly appointed guest rooms to extravagant suites, each space is crafted to provide an unparalleled experience of comfort and luxury.

The resort boasts over 3,644 rooms and suites, each designed with a sophisticated blend of modern aesthetics and luxurious comfort. The interior design reflects a serene yet opulent atmosphere, using a calming palette of blue, silver, and coral-pink hues. Design elements such as mercury-glass mirrors and custom brass bowtie-shaped drawer pulls add a touch of refined elegance, reminiscent of the glamorous era of Fontainebleau Miami Beach. Rooms are equipped with state-of-the-art technology and feature expansive floor-to-ceiling windows that offer stunning views of the Las Vegas skyline.

Among the myriad of accommodations, the signature suites stand out for their exclusive features and bespoke services. These suites, including the lavish Skyline Penthouse and the expansive Presidential Suite, offer spacious layouts that include separate living areas, grand pianos, and in-suite spas. Highlights include marble entryways, deep soaking tubs, and bespoke furnishings. The attention to detail extends to personalized concierge services, ensuring that every need is met with the highest level of care and attention.

These luxury accommodations are more than just a place to stay; they are a haven of comfort and style, designed to make every visit to Fontainebleau Las Vegas unforgettable. Whether you are visiting for business or leisure, the rooms and suites at Fontainebleau Las Vegas promise a stay that is as luxurious as it is memorable.

Dining and Cuisine

Fontainebleau Las Vegas elevates the culinary experience on the Strip with an impressive array of dining options designed to cater to every palate. The resort is a gastronomic haven, featuring a collection of 36 restaurant concepts that showcase both innovation and tradition, drawing culinary inspiration from across the globe.

The dining landscape at Fontainebleau Las Vegas is diverse, ranging from fine dining to casual eateries, each helmed by celebrated chefs. Among the standout offerings is “Don’s Prime,” an upscale steakhouse named after Fontainebleau founder Jeff Soffer’s father. This venue reflects a commitment to quality and tradition, offering prime cuts and a refined atmosphere. Another highlight is “Washing Potato,” a playful, casual spot specializing in dim sum, providing a contrast to the more formal dining settings.

The resort also hosts a range of original concepts that are firsts on the Las Vegas Strip. This includes a unique collaboration with Chef Gabriela Cámara, known for her influence in modern Mexican cuisine. The restaurant, Cantina Contramar, brings Cámara’s renowned seafood dishes to Las Vegas, coupled with the architectural design of Frida Escobedo. This venue not only serves up exquisite food but also offers the first Casa Dragones tasting room in the United States, creating a unique dining and sipping experience.

Fontainebleau Las Vegas’s culinary offerings are distinguished by their creativity and the caliber of their chefs. Michelin-starred chefs Masa Ito and Kevin Kim bring their expertise to ITO, a sushi and omakase restaurant renowned for its intimate setting and exquisite offerings. Similarly, Mother Wolf, from celebrated Los Angeles chef Evan Funke, transports guests to a Roman trattoria with its authentic Italian dishes.

These unique dining concepts set Fontainebleau Las Vegas apart from other resorts, not just by the range of cuisines offered, but by the immersive experiences they provide. Guests can enjoy not just a meal, but a culinary journey that reflects the highest standards of quality and innovation that are hallmarks of the Fontainebleau brand.

Entertainment and Nightlife

Fontainebleau Las Vegas redefines entertainment and nightlife on the Strip, offering a wide range of exhilarating options that cater to every taste and preference. From high-energy nightclubs to sophisticated bars and world-class live shows, the resort ensures that entertainment is seamlessly woven into the fabric of guest experiences.

Nightclubs and Bars: The nightlife at Fontainebleau Las Vegas is anchored by several high-profile venues. The highlight is LIV, a renowned Miami nightclub that has expanded to Las Vegas, bringing its energetic vibe and top-tier DJ performances to the resort. This nightclub is designed to offer an immersive audiovisual experience, featuring state-of-the-art sound and lighting systems that create a vibrant party atmosphere. Additionally, the resort hosts a variety of bars, each with its own unique theme and menu. These range from high-end cocktail lounges to relaxed, intimate settings, providing something for every mood and occasion.

Live Show Venues: Fontainebleau Las Vegas is home to several live show venues that feature a mix of resident and touring performances. The resort’s theaters are equipped with the latest technology to host a variety of shows, including concerts, musicals, and exclusive performances that are tailored to an upscale audience. Details on the specific resident performers or special shows are regularly updated, offering guests new and exciting entertainment options with each visit.

Special Shows and Performances: Fontainebleau Las Vegas occasionally hosts special shows and performances that are exclusive to the resort. These events often feature well-known artists and entertainers, drawing crowds both from Las Vegas and internationally. The resort’s commitment to providing exceptional entertainment experiences is evident in its curation of these unique events, which contribute to making Fontainebleau a key entertainment destination on the Strip.

Each entertainment venue within Fontainebleau Las Vegas is designed to offer guests an unforgettable night out, blending luxury and fun in a way that only Las Vegas can. Whether you are looking for a night of dancing, an evening of cocktails, or a live show, Fontainebleau Las Vegas delivers with flair and sophistication.

Luxurious Amenities

Fontainebleau Las Vegas is not just a hotel; it’s a sanctuary of luxury and relaxation, offering an array of top-tier amenities designed to cater to every facet of guest comfort and enjoyment.

Spa and Fitness Center: The resort’s 55,000-square-foot Lapis Spa takes wellness to a new level with its comprehensive menu of treatments and therapies inspired by techniques from around the world. The spa features 44 treatment rooms, a purifying salt cave, an infrared sauna, and a variety of hydrotherapy options. Guests can enjoy personalized treatments in a serene environment that promotes relaxation and rejuvenation. 

Complementing the spa, the 14,000-square-foot fitness center is outfitted with the latest equipment and offers a range of classes and personal training services, ensuring guests can maintain their wellness routines while away from home.

Pool Areas: Fontainebleau Las Vegas boasts a six-acre pool district that offers a luxurious escape from the hustle and bustle of the Strip. This expansive area includes multiple pools, private cabanas equipped with modern amenities, and a lazy river, all set against a backdrop of meticulous landscaping and stunning architecture. The pool area is designed for relaxation and entertainment, hosting live DJs and events that transform the space into a vibrant social hub.

Shopping Options: The luxury doesn’t end with wellness and relaxation. Fontainebleau Las Vegas also features a 96,500-square-foot retail district, housing a collection of high-end boutiques and exclusive shops. This shopping haven offers everything from designer fashion and jewelry to unique gifts and souvenirs, making it a premier destination for shoppers seeking luxury goods.

Special Services and Amenities: To enhance the luxury experience, Fontainebleau Las Vegas provides a range of special services and amenities. These include a personal concierge service to assist with everything from dining reservations to show tickets, and a limousine service for stylish transport around the city. Additionally, the hotel offers exclusive access to some of its most private spaces and experiences, ensuring that every guest’s stay is as indulgent as it is unforgettable.

Together, these luxurious amenities at Fontainebleau Las Vegas create a comprehensive environment of indulgence, setting the resort apart as a pinnacle of luxury in Las Vegas. Whether through relaxation, fitness, shopping, or personalized services, Fontainebleau ensures that every guest enjoys a premium experience that’s second to none.

Events and Conferences

Fontainebleau Las Vegas not only excels in luxury accommodation and entertainment but also stands out as a premier venue for hosting a wide range of events and conferences. The resort’s facilities are designed to accommodate everything from large-scale business conferences to intimate weddings, all supported by state-of-the-art technology and exceptional service.

Conference and Meeting Spaces: Fontainebleau Las Vegas offers 550,000 square feet of customizable indoor-outdoor meeting and event space, making it one of the largest and most versatile venues on the Strip​​. These spaces are equipped with cutting-edge audiovisual technology, including high-definition screens, digital projectors, and advanced sound systems, ensuring that every presentation and speech is delivered with clarity and impact.

Types of Events: The resort is equipped to host a variety of events:

  • Business Conferences: With ample space and flexible room configurations, Fontainebleau can accommodate large conventions, exhibitions, and corporate meetings. Dedicated event planners on-site ensure that all business needs are met, from breakout sessions to gala dinners.
  • Weddings and Social Events: Fontainebleau Las Vegas is a dream destination for weddings, offering luxurious ballrooms, exquisite catering options, and breathtaking venues. The resort’s event team specializes in creating personalized experiences, ensuring that each event is unique and memorable.
  • Special Celebrations: Whether it’s a milestone birthday, an anniversary, or a charity gala, Fontainebleau provides the perfect setting, complete with custom décor options and expert event coordination.

State-of-the-Art Technology and Facilities: Fontainebleau Las Vegas prides itself on its technological capabilities, which include:

  • Integrated Technology Solutions: The conference spaces are equipped with the latest in connectivity and multimedia technology, allowing for seamless presentations and global teleconferencing.
  • Customizable Lighting and Sound Systems: Advanced lighting systems can be adjusted to create the desired ambiance for any event, while superior sound systems offer clear audio, whether for a DJ, live band, or keynote speaker.

Fontainebleau Las Vegas not only offers expansive and flexible event spaces but also provides the technology and expertise to ensure that each event is executed flawlessly, making it a top choice for event planners and attendees seeking a prestigious and accommodating venue.

Challenges and Triumphs

The journey to opening Fontainebleau Las Vegas is a story marked by significant challenges and remarkable resilience, illustrating the complexities of large-scale hospitality projects and the determination required to bring them to fruition.

Brief History and Development Challenges: Fontainebleau Las Vegas’ story began in 2007, during a time of economic prosperity that seemed ideal for launching a grand new venture on the Las Vegas Strip. However, the project soon encountered severe headwinds with the onset of the Great Recession. Financial struggles hit as banks pulled funding, leading to a halt in construction with the building partially completed. This period was fraught with legal battles, ownership changes, and years of uncertainty, casting doubt on whether the resort would ever open​​.

Overcoming the Challenges: The turning point for Fontainebleau Las Vegas came when the original developers reacquired the property, bringing renewed energy and commitment to complete the vision they had started. Investments were secured, designs were revised, and construction resumed with a clear focus on achieving a new standard of luxury on the Strip. The completion of the resort was not just a construction triumph but a significant financial and strategic achievement, reflecting the developers’ dedication and the labor of thousands of workers​​.

Implications for the Resort’s Future: The successful opening of Fontainebleau Las Vegas in December 2023 marked the end of a long-standing saga and the beginning of a promising new era. The challenges faced and overcome have not only tested the resilience and adaptability of the Fontainebleau team but also endowed the resort with a unique legacy that enriches its brand story. Today, Fontainebleau Las Vegas stands as a testament to perseverance in the face of adversity, setting a precedent for future developments in the hospitality industry​.

This history of overcoming obstacles not only enhances the allure of Fontainebleau Las Vegas but also positions it as a beacon of innovation and luxury on the Las Vegas Strip, promising to attract guests and events from around the world who are drawn to its triumphant story and exceptional offerings.

What Sets Fontainebleau Las Vegas Apart

Fontainebleau Las Vegas distinguishes itself in the competitive Las Vegas luxury market through a unique blend of historical legacy, innovative design, and comprehensive luxury offerings that cater to both leisure and business travelers.

Unique Elements in the Las Vegas Luxury Market:

  • Architectural Grandeur and Design: As the tallest occupiable building in Nevada, Fontainebleau Las Vegas offers stunning panoramic views of the city. The design incorporates elements of the original Fontainebleau in Miami Beach but with a contemporary twist that suits the dynamic Las Vegas environment. This unique blend of historical reverence and modern luxury appeals to guests looking for an experience that stands out from the typical Vegas hotel​​.
  • Broad Range of Luxury Amenities: Fontainebleau Las Vegas sets a new standard for luxury with its extensive amenities. From the expansive Lapis Spa to the meticulously designed pool district and a state-of-the-art fitness center, the resort offers more than just accommodation—it offers an experience. Its 96,500-square-foot luxury shopping district and 36 first-to-market restaurant concepts place it at the forefront of luxury and innovation on the Strip​​.

Comparison to Fontainebleau Miami Beach:

  • Shared Legacy, Distinct Identity: While Fontainebleau Las Vegas draws heavily on the legacy of its Miami Beach counterpart, known for its iconic mid-20th-century luxury and celebrity culture, it also carves out its own identity. The Las Vegas version amplifies the luxury with even more lavish amenities and a larger scale, reflecting the city’s “bigger and better” ethos. This includes more guest rooms, an even larger casino floor, and a more diverse range of dining and entertainment options​.

Comparison to Other Vegas Luxury Hotels:

  • Integrated Luxury Experience: Unlike many Vegas resorts that focus heavily on either gaming or entertainment, Fontainebleau Las Vegas integrates all aspects of luxury hospitality. It combines high-end accommodations, fine dining, wellness, and retail with a top-tier entertainment lineup, making it a comprehensive destination. This integration sets it apart from other luxury hotels, which often specialize in one or two areas​​.
  • Innovative Offerings: Fontainebleau Las Vegas’s approach to dining and nightlife, including its partnerships with internationally renowned chefs and entertainment brands, offers a level of exclusivity and innovation that is uncommon in other properties. This not only enhances its appeal to a global audience but also sets a new benchmark for what guests can expect from a luxury resort in Las Vegas​​.

In conclusion, Fontainebleau Las Vegas excels by not only continuing the celebrated tradition of its Miami Beach origins but also by embracing and enhancing the vibrancy and dynamism of Las Vegas. Its commitment to luxury, innovation, and comprehensive guest experiences makes it a standout in one of the world’s most competitive hospitality markets.

Conclusion

Fontainebleau Las Vegas emerges not just as a new player on the Strip but as a transformative force in the luxury hospitality industry. As we’ve explored, this property distinguishes itself through its stunning architecture, luxurious accommodations, comprehensive dining experiences, vibrant nightlife, and expansive event and conference facilities. Each aspect of the resort is meticulously designed to deliver an unparalleled guest experience, setting it apart in a city known for its extravagance.

Recap of Key Points:

  • Architectural Marvel: Fontainebleau Las Vegas stands as the tallest occupiable building in Nevada, with a design that beautifully marries its Miami Beach heritage with Las Vegas’ modernity​.
  • Luxurious Accommodations: The resort offers a variety of rooms and suites, each crafted with exquisite attention to detail and equipped with state-of-the-art amenities​.
  • Culinary Delights: With 36 innovative dining options, Fontainebleau Las Vegas is a paradise for food enthusiasts, featuring cuisines curated by world-renowned chefs​​.
  • Entertainment and Nightlife: The resort hosts a range of entertainment options from high-energy nightclubs like LIV to exclusive performances, setting a new standard for nightlife on the Strip​.
  • Exceptional Amenities: From a 55,000-square-foot spa to a luxurious shopping district, the amenities at Fontainebleau Las Vegas cater to every desire, reinforcing its status as a top luxury destination​​.

Final Thoughts on Its Impact: Fontainebleau Las Vegas not only revitalizes the northern end of the Strip but also significantly influences the landscape of luxury hospitality. By seamlessly integrating diverse luxury experiences under one roof, it not only enhances the competitive edge of Las Vegas but also sets new benchmarks for luxury hotels worldwide. The successful opening and operation of Fontainebleau Las Vegas demonstrate resilience and innovation, offering a model for future developments in the hospitality industry. As it continues to develop, Fontainebleau Las Vegas is poised to become a pivotal cultural and economic landmark, contributing to the evolving narrative of Las Vegas as a global entertainment capital.