ARIZONA NEWS

Here’s what we know about Glendale’s blockbuster VAI Resort project

Apr 26, 2023, 9:50 AM | Updated: 9:54 am

PHOENIX – Developers have revealed new details about VAI Resort, the blockbuster hotel and entertainment destination taking shape in Glendale.

After several delays and a change in ownership, the venue on 60 acres just south of State Farm Stadium and the Westgate Entertainment District is now expected to open at some point in 2024.

The $1 billion project includes the first Mattel Adventure Park, a theme park featuring Hot Wheels, Barbie and Thomas the Tank Engine attractions.

“Our mission is to redefine the luxury hospitality experience while incorporating the thrill of live entertainment,” Grant Fisher, president and CEO of VAI Global Development, said in a press release Wednesday.

“VAI is a one-of-a-kind destination set to exceed all expectations and leave a lasting impression on our guests.”

VAI Resort will be Arizona’s largest hotel, with more than 1,100 rooms, suites and villas housed in four distinct towers.

The 328-room Muse Tower will feature 160 rooms with balconies that double as VIP skyboxes for concerts at the resort’s amphitheater, which has space for over 8,000 fans.

When it comes to entertainment options, the theme park and amphitheater are just a start.

Visitors can also swim and sun at a 5-acre, temperature-controlled lagoon lined by nearly a mile of sand beaches.

At 52,000 square feet, Konos Island is being billed as the country’s largest man-made party island. It will have a restaurant, private cabanas and a DJ booth, plus a 150-foot-high aerial bar with space for 16 guests.

Here’s a by-the-numbers look at some of VAI Resort’s other features:

  • 12 restaurants, including seven with waterfront views.
  • 10 bar and cocktail experiences.
  • 80,000 square feet of shopping with about 40 luxury retailers.
  • 50,000 square feet of meeting and event space.
  • A 20,000-square-foot spa and fitness center.
  • An 18,000-square-foot, two-story nightclub.
  • A 2,500-square-foot wedding venue.
  • A 4D interactive theater.

When the development was announced in 2020, it was known as Crystal Lagoons Island Resort. The original aim was to open in time for Super Bowl held in Glendale earlier this year.

A groundbreaking ceremony was held in June 2021 at the site at Cardinals Way and 95th Avenue, just east of the Loop 101 Agua Fria Freeway.

We want to hear from you.

Have a story idea or tip? Pass it along to the KTAR News team here.

Arizona News

The evacuation order for the Brady Fire was lifte on Wednesday....

KTAR.com

Evacuation order lifted for residents near Brady Fire south of Prescott

The evacuation order for a community threatened by the Brady Fire south of Prescott was lifted on Wednesday evening, authorities said.

54 minutes ago

off-road vehicle crash...

Kevin Stone

2nd teen in off-road vehicle crash at Phoenix canal has died

The second teen involved in an off-road vehicle crash at a Phoenix canal last week has died, authorities announced Wednesday.

2 hours ago

Two men were injured on Wednesday night when a suspect opened fire at a group of unsheltered people...

Kevin Stone

Suspect opens fire at unsheltered people at Tempe park, injuring 3

Three people were injured on Wednesday night when a suspect opened fire at a group of unsheltered people in Tempe, authorities said.

2 hours ago

A confiscated firearm is seen sitting on a table at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport on Feb...

Serena O'Sullivan

Phoenix Sky Harbor hopes to cut down on amount of firearms in security checkpoints this year

Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport officials are trying to educate passengers on how to at properly travel with firearms.

3 hours ago

The Phoenix Zoo announced a new habitat 'Big Cats of Arizona: A Bridge to Arizona Wilderness' will ...

Bailey Leasure

Big cats of Arizona habitat set to open at Phoenix Zoo

The Phoenix Zoo announced a new habitat 'Big Cats of Arizona: A Bridge to Arizona Wilderness' will be opening at the zoo in April. 

4 hours ago

I-10 Broadway Curve Improvement Project...

Danny Shapiro

New lanes open to motorists as part of I-10 Broadway Curve Improvement Project

The I-10 Broadway Curve Improvement Project is one step closer to completion after new lanes on the highway recently opened, transportation officials announced Wednesday.

4 hours ago

Sponsored Articles

...

Asset Preservation Wealth & Tax

How to optimize the most money in 2024 tax returns

As tax season begins, getting your financials in order is important to maximize your tax return.

...

Bright Wealth Management

How IRAs are a helpful tool in retirement planning

When it comes to retirement planning, individual retirement accounts (IRAs) can be a great tool for income growth.

...

Bright Wealth Management

How to start your retirement planning early and avoid costly mistakes

Retirement planning can feel overwhelming, but with the right guidance, you can avoid costly pitfalls.

Here’s what we know about Glendale’s blockbuster VAI Resort project