Is the Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas doomed? MGM Resorts now runs the show, and many loyal Cosmo fans wonder if the new owners will change the feel and culture of this fan-favorite resort. Online rumors circulate that MGM is looking to close off the famous Cosmo Vegas terraces. We recently stayed in a fountain-view wrap-around terrace suite at Cosmopolitan Las Vegas. The idea of closing or walling up the terraces is a frightening one.

Las Vegas has many resorts to choose from. Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas was a unicorn at Center Strip because it was one of the few resorts not owned by the oligopolies of Las Vegas, MGM Resorts International, or Caesar’s Entertainment. Vegas resorts that can cater to their audience and build relationships often offer better rewards and benefits, not to mention typically better service and experiences.

Tropicana was not a center strip; it sat alone and was surrounded by MGM properties. Tropicana is gone and making way for a baseball stadium…or so they say. The last few remaining “independent” or “small” resort operators mostly reside on the North side of the Vegas strip. These are resorts not owned or operated by MGM or Caesars, like Resorts World, Sahara, Wynn, Fontainebleau, and Venetian Palazzo. As you can see, it is mostly on the North end of Las Vegas Blvd. Not counting Mirage, as it is closing for the next few years to become Hard Rock Vegas.

Our stay at the Cosmopolitan Vegas was exceptional. We enjoyed one of the best views on the Vegas Strip. We chose the Chelsea pool since that was closer to our tower and had fewer “boots and cats.” We dined at Block 16 and enjoyed a special dinner at China Poblano, a Mexican and Chinese restaurant. Not fusion but dual kitchens offering two different dining options.

From secret pizza to several not-so-secret speakeasies, can the culture that made Cosmopolitan Las Vegas remain true and continue to innovate? Check out our stay at Cosmopolitan Las Vegas to experience what we experienced at this amazing Vegas resort.