It’s no secret that Las Vegas heats up in the summer. The desert destination’s average temperature hovers above 100 degrees Fahrenheit during this time of year, prompting visitors to head for the air-conditioned comfort of the casinos.
But beating the heat doesn’t have to be an indoor endeavor. The Strip is renowned for its pool scene and one Sin City staple, The Venetian Resort Las Vegas, has just reintroduced a spectacular one.
The Forbes Travel Guide Four-Star hotel debuted an overhaul of its spacious pool deck in July. Inspired by the Italian Riviera, the new two-acre complex features sculptural installations, vine-covered lattices and quaint gardens that give off the vibe of a secluded Mediterranean retreat.
The new complex was designed with photo ops in mind. A sleek black-and-white color scheme with pops of yellow and verdant greenery create Instagram-worthy moments from every angle. Chic cabanas with plunge pools and hanging chairs cushioned with boldly patterned accent pillows make for picture-perfect snapshots while customizable cocktail carts serving Aperol spritzes, margaritas and bloody marys offer refreshing, colorful fodder for your feed.
But the upgrades aren’t all aesthetic. Four sparkling pools (three are infinity-edge options) ensure everyone has room to cool off. Extra-large daybeds, ledge loungers perched in the water and 10 newly decked-out cabanas let you luxuriate in style.
For the ultimate respite, book one of the Venetian Plunge Cabanas. Stocked with chilled peppermint-scented towels, vintage games, sun-worshipping necessities (sunscreen, magazines and sunglass-cleaning wipes) and a Polaroid camera to capture the fun, these cozy, air-conditioned hideaways are just the daytime complement to the Strip’s hot nightlife scene.
Following the lead of the resort’s new collection of bars (The Dorsey, Rosina and Electra Cocktail Club), the poolside libations are anything but boring. Seasonal sips developed by renowned mixologist Sam Ross of NYC speakeasy Attaboy might include the Well Dressed Cider Can (dry apple cider, spiced rum and allspice) or the Bulletin Board slushy (cucumber vodka, lime, Aperol and Red Bull).
Though not part of the renovation, recently opened Truth & Tonic (sitting next to the pool deck) serves up colorful, healthy fare developed in collaboration with Four-Star Canyon Ranch Spa & Fitness’ nutrition team. Dig into diet-friendly dishes like organic cashew butter toast, caramelized curry cauliflower frittata, or whole grain banana and avocado pancakes.
If you feel like drinking your brunch, Truth & Tonic has a full menu of morning tipples (including spiked strawberry-blood-orange kombucha) alongside a list of smoothies, fresh-pressed juices and coffee creations that can be customized with housemade flavored syrups, milk alternatives (think almond and coconut) and even a shot of mushroom extract — a natural focus booster.
Complete a day of detoxing with some alfresco self-care. Whether you’re craving a full-body massage in the comfort of your cabana or a private poolside yoga class for your crew, you won’t have to tear yourself away from your waterside spot. But whatever you do, don’t forget to add the sunscreen shot enhancement for good measure — you are still in Vegas, after all.
