Cosmo has lower ceilings and tends to be a bit too smoky for my taste. I do find Aria to be quite a bit more subdued, but certainly not dead. Aria is fun, but not bonkers, whereas Cosmo can get a bit crazy. I do have to say, the hotness factor at Aria was great back when Haze was open, but the location of the club meant that it was a lot of walk-through traffic without impacting the overall scene. I'm hoping that Jewel continues that trend.

As far as blackjack, Aria only has one pit left of "good" (i.e., non-6:5) blackjack, but the limits are usually no worse than $100. It varies a ton, though; I've had times where H17 was $25 and S17 was $50, and times where H17 was $100 and S17 was $300.

 

There's a shorter walk. Walk out of the Cosmo valet area, take a right. There is a staircase and elevator right next to the fire station garage. Go up and take a left. It will put you in the Aria in no time flat. Quicker than cutting through crystals typically.

 

Good tip. Quicker for sure, but not cooler. I was sweating my ass off after that staircase. If it's over 90 degrees, take the elevator. This is also a great route when the wife is in tow - keeps her from wanting to shop at crystals

 

I've been in that elevator and it's like a convection oven full of farts.

 

I prefer the Wicked Spoon buffet at the Cosmopolitan over Arias buffet. All of the non buffet restaurants at Aria are good. There is also the Secret Pizza on the third floor of the Cosmopolitan that is excellent if you are just wanting a quick bite.