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It's been almost two years since I've visited Las Vegas, and the points and miles landscape has changed drastically since. MGM Resorts, once a long-time partner of the World of Hyatt program, has now aligned with Marriott Bonvoy — a move that left a big gap for Hyatt Globalists in Las Vegas. Over a year later, Hyatt members now have just two full-service resort options — the Rio Las Vegas Hotel & Casino and the Venetian Las Vegas.
I've already written a comprehensive review of the Venetian as a Globalist, but how does it compare to the Rio Las Vegas? Let’s break down what it’s like being a Hyatt Globalist in Las Vegas in 2025.
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Venetian vs. Rio Las Vegas as a Hyatt Globalist
For this comparison, I’m focusing on the categories that matter most to Hyatt Globalist members.
As a quick primer, Globalist is the highest tier of Hyatt elite status that one can earn. The benefits on offer for Globalists far outpace those offered to Discoverist or Explorist members. And these benefits can make all the difference in a place like Las Vegas.
You'll unlock Hyatt Globalist status after earning 60 Hyatt Elite Night Credits — or 100,000 base points — in a calendar year. It's a tall task, but benefits such as complimentary breakfast, Club Lounge access, and suite upgrades are worth going out of your way for, in my opinion.
Related: Use These Shortcuts To Get World of Hyatt Elite Status Faster
Location
Location is a huge factor when picking a resort in Las Vegas. The Strip is the heart of the action, and being close to it makes a big difference.
The Venetian Las Vegas sits on 36 acres at the northern end of the Strip and is bordered by Wynn and Encore to the north and Harrah’s to the south. Across the street is the former Mirage, which is currently being redeveloped into Hard Rock Las Vegas. This is a prime location and is walkable to many major resorts like Caesars Palace and the Bellagio.
The Rio Las Vegas, on the other hand, is off the Strip. Located on Flamingo Boulevard, it's about a two-mile drive from the Rio to the Venetian, crossing Interstate 15. The Rio sits on 90 acres — much of which is just parking. While it’s near off-strip properties like the Palms and Gold Coast, it’s still pretty removed from the main attractions.
For first-time or repeat visitors or those looking to be in the middle of everything, the Venetian easily wins this round.
Check-in experience
Checking in as a Globalist at both properties was interesting. Long lines are the norm at Las Vegas resorts, so I always try to avoid them.
At the Venetian, Globalists (along with any other Hyatt elites) can check in at the Invited Guest desk, which had a short wait. My check-in agent was incredibly helpful, walking me through my Hyatt perks and helping me choose my room. Since the Hyatt partnership was still new, he made sure I got everything I was entitled to.
At the Rio, the main check-in desk was packed. I found the VIP Guest desk, which is a separate room off the main casino floor. The agent there was friendly and well-informed about World of Hyatt benefits. All Hyatt elites can use this desk, which is a nice perk.
Both properties delivered a smooth check-in experience for Hyatt elites, so I’d call this one a tie.
Related: Do Any Credit Cards Provide Top-Tier Hotel Elite Status?
Globalist perks
Elite status recognition is a big deal, especially in a city where costs can add up quickly.
The Venetian is an affiliated property in the World of Hyatt program, so it doesn’t fully participate in all the usual Hyatt elite perks. At check-in, I received a paper outlining my benefits.
But the biggest disappointment? Resort fees weren’t waived on cash bookings; it’s $50 plus tax per night. Points bookings get the fees waived, but considering that award nights at the Venetian are dynamically priced and present generally poor value, that’s not always a viable option.
I was offered a 2 p.m. late checkout, which is helpful since late checkout in Las Vegas can be hard to come by. As for upgrades, all rooms at the Venetian are technically suites, so it’s tough to gauge what to expect. I booked a base-level suite and was upgraded to a renovated strip-view suite, which was great.
The biggest missing perks? No free full breakfast and no lounge access. The Venetian’s Prestige Club Lounge offers a solid lounge experience with free evening cocktails and a full breakfast in the morning, but it’s not included for Globalists. Parking is $20 per night unless you have status with Venetian Rewards. Ultimately, Globalists don’t get much more than Discoverists here.
At the Rio, the experience was totally different. The property is fully integrated into Hyatt as part of the “Destination By Hyatt” brand, meaning full Globalist perks apply. I was upgraded to a one-bedroom suite at check-in, and breakfast at Hash House A Go Go was fully comped. While resorts aren’t required to offer late checkout, I was able to get 4 p.m. on request. Plus, parking is free for all guests.
For elite perks, the Rio wins out, hands-down.
Related: How To Get Hotel Elite Status for Free (or Almost Free)
Rooms and suites
Las Vegas receives a lot of visitors each year, so the rooms can become quite worn quickly. If you plan on spending a fair amount of time in yours, look for properties that have recently undergone renovations. The good news for Hyatt Globalists in Vegas is both properties are undergoing gigantic renovations that are refreshing every room.
At the Venetian, the renovations are ongoing. If you book a base-level suite, you’ll likely get an older, non-renovated room. I was lucky enough to get a renovated suite, which didn’t disappoint. Venetian’s standard suites are massive — around 650 square feet — with modern tech, a marble bathroom with a soaking tub and shower, and a sunken living room.
The Rio was the first all-suite hotel in Las Vegas. So, in a way, the Rio set the stage for the Venetian. My upgraded executive one-bedroom suite was over 1,000 square feet, featuring a separate living space with a wet bar and retro-chic decor that fits the property’s Brazilian theme. The bedroom had a plush king bed, and while the bathroom was spacious, it wasn’t quite as impressive as the Venetian’s.
For style and luxury, the Venetian wins — if you score a renovated suite. That said, if space is your priority, the Rio’s one-bedroom suites are significantly larger and feel more residential. While they have a retro touch, they’re spacious enough to make a difference if you stay for multiple nights or travel with others. The Venetian is more modern and sleek, while the Rio offers a more laid-back, nostalgic vibe that some travelers may appreciate.
Related: The Most Incredible Suites Bookable With World of Hyatt Points
Amenities
Las Vegas resorts are all about amenities — think pools, dining, and entertainment. And this is where the Venetian really shines.
The Venetian has an expansive pool complex shared with the Palazzo, which is open year-round, with a poolside casino. The Grand Canal Shoppes offer dozens of dining and shopping options, complete with gondola rides. The Sphere is connected via a sky bridge, and the Venetian Theater hosts top-tier performances like Shin Lim’s magic show. In addition, the Canyon Ranch Spa and Fitness Center is a value-add for those who value health and wellness.
On the other hand, the Rio has some work to do. The pool was closed during my visit. Shopping is pretty much nonexistent and requires a trip to the Strip. There are a few entertainment options, like Penn & Teller’s show and a Kiss-themed mini golf course, but much of the property still feels stuck in the past. While dining has improved with a new food hall, parts of the casino floor and the Masquerade Tower don't give much to write home about.
For amenities, the Venetian is the clear winner.
Points and elite night-earning
Both properties fully participate in Hyatt’s points and elite night earning. My stays posted correctly, and both counted toward Brand Explorer progress. Charges at both hotels earned 4x points per dollar on The World of Hyatt Credit Card. So, for me, this is effectively a tie.
Related: Our Full Review of The World of Hyatt Credit Card
Final Thoughts
Choosing the winner in Las Vegas is a tough decision for a Globalist in Vegas. What ultimately matters are your preferences for your visit.
Do you want to maximize your elite benefits while in Las Vegas? The Rio is the pick, hands down, with free breakfast for Globalists, superb suite upgrades, and the potential for 4 p.m. late checkout.
However, the Venetian is the pick for Hyatt members who value luxury, location, and amenities — especially if you're planning to spend most of your visit on the Strip.
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