Best Las Vegas Nightclubs in 2021

Zouk is the centerpiece of the nightlife scene at the all-new Resorts World on the Strip. The nightclub signed Tiesto and Zedd as resident headliners with 30 video panels underneath the ceiling and a massive high-tech LED light fixture known as the “Mothership” over the dance floor. The venue also includes the 360-degree Capital Bar (with a strong focus on craft cocktails that’s unique for a nightclub) and Empire, an extension of the main room that can also be closed off for private events. The general admission dance areas are relatively small, so reserving a VIP table is strongly recommended.

Chateau is almost two clubs in one: a relatively plain indoor dancefloor plus an upper outdoor level that has spectacular views of the Bellagio fountains across the street. The club has quietly reopened for sporadic evenings and is hosting pop-up events at Alexxa’s, a sister bar on the ground level. Expect the pace to pick up soon.

A massive space with an outdoor pool, XS has a reputation for hosting high-energy parties in an upscale environment. Big-name DJs like the Chainsmokers are currently on hold while the club operates in a lounge format. Look for major events to return over the summer, including Nightswim parties at the pool Regardless, VIP tables are in high-demand and worth every penny.

A true East-meets-West experience, Tao brings some welcome Asian style to the heart of the Strip. Located above Tao restaurant, the 10,000-square-foot nightclub features multiple rooms with a different DJ in each one. Lots of space, although the balcony overlooking the Strip is a little smaller than it should be. Currently operating as a lounge, there’s less dancing than there used to be, but the vibe hasn’t changed much.

Drai’s sat out most of 2020, but reopened recently as a poolside lounge. Located 11 stories above Las Vegas Boulevard on the rooftop of The Cromwell, the views are spectacular. The regular lineup of rappers and hip-hop stars is currently paused in favor of local DJs. For a night that never ends, venture downstairs to Drai’s Afterhours in the basement of the hotel.

Hakkasn was closed for most of 2020 and only recently returned as a relatively quiet lounge. The massive multi-level space should pick up the pace once headline EDM stars like Steve Aoki return. The Ling Ling Club is a more intimate club-within-a-club. A sister restaurant of the same name served elevated Cantonese cuisine next door, but remains closed during the pandemic.

Although more of a lounge than a nightclub, Apex Social Club is the most intriguing new addition for the late-night crowd at the newly remodeled Palms. There’s also plenty of room for dancing, both indoors and out on the patio. So grab a drink and enjoy the incredible strip views from the 55th floor of the Palms. The 3D humanoid art displays are a fun futuristic touch.

This dark and seductive downstairs space at the Aria features a tight dancefloor, hot servers in skimpy clothings and five themed VIP rooms. However, the intimacy works against it right now. The club remains closed.

Omnia is modern and high-tech in every way, from the digitally-enhanced images on the walls to a massive chandelier that moves to the music over the dancefloor. The venue traditionally hosts a Calvin Harris residency, but is operating on a more low-key scale with an emphasis on the outdoor terrace.

Marquee weathered the pandemic better than other clubs. The rooftop pool deck lends well to a lounge atmosphere with plenty of beats, food, and bottle service to enjoy. Take advantage of the fun before or after the sun goes down. Drenched After Dark is a new late-night Sunday pool party that encourages guests to hop in the water.

On the Record is a dance club and lounge with a rock n’ roll vibe. The walls are covered in vintage concert posters with an outdoor patio, speakeasy and karaoke rooms among its secluded areas. Retro 80s tends to be the music of choice. Unfortunately, the venue shut down during the pandemic. We hope it reopens soon.