Using a different hotel's pool

Question

I have never understood going off property for the pool. After a day in the sun and pool, walking all the way up/down/across the strip with damp beach clothes etc? Pick your hotel for its pool if otherwise you hike to one. At least using another spa you have a locker and showers etc. Maybe it's just me. I actually look forward to both housekeeping and turndown, would never forgoe them.

Answer

It sounds like you really value the full resort experience, and I completely understand where you're coming from! Using another hotel’s pool while on vacation can be a bit of a hassle, especially when you factor in the discomfort of walking around in damp clothes, and not having the amenities you’d typically expect from your own hotel. Let’s break down the pros and cons of using a different hotel’s pool, as well as why staying at a hotel with a great pool is so important:

Convenience and Comfort: Staying at a hotel with a fantastic pool means you have everything you need right there—no need to trek across the Strip with wet clothes. You can simply head back to your room to shower, change, and relax without the inconvenience of hauling your stuff across town. Plus, if you’re staying somewhere that offers towel service, lounges, and poolside food or drinks, it’s all right at your fingertips.
Facilities and Amenities: A major perk of sticking to your hotel pool is the access to additional amenities. As you mentioned, the ability to use the hotel’s spa, locker rooms, and showers makes it more comfortable. After a day at the pool, you can freshen up before heading out for dinner or enjoying other resort services like turndown service and housekeeping. Using another hotel’s pool may not offer the same level of convenience or comfort, and you might not have access to their changing rooms or locker areas unless you book a spa treatment or buy a day pass.
Avoiding the Strip Trek: As you pointed out, walking all over the Strip in damp clothes is uncomfortable, and it can definitely take away from the relaxation that you’ve just enjoyed at the pool. The distance between hotels in Las Vegas can be longer than you think, and by the time you’re back in your room, you might be feeling less refreshed and more exhausted.

That said, there are times when using another hotel’s pool makes sense, especially if the hotel you’re staying at doesn’t have a pool that meets your expectations or if you’re staying somewhere that doesn't offer great amenities. In those cases, booking access to another hotel’s pool (or spa facilities) for a day can be worth the cost if it offers a better experience. But, as you noted, it’s not the same as having everything you need right where you're staying.

Hotel Pools Worth Leaving for: If you’re looking to explore other pools, some hotels like the Venetian, Bellagio, or the Cosmopolitan are famous for their pool areas, and they do offer luxurious poolside experiences. However, it’s important to weigh the convenience factor—especially when you're thinking about how much you’ll enjoy the experience versus how much effort it takes to get there.
Day Passes: Some Las Vegas resorts offer day passes for their pools, but as you pointed out, unless you have access to locker rooms, showers, or spa services, the experience might not be worth it. If you do decide to use another hotel's pool, it’s a good idea to double-check the rules for towel service, amenities, and the overall convenience before making the trip.

Ultimately, if a hotel’s pool is important to you, it makes perfect sense to choose a resort where the pool and amenities align with your expectations. You won’t have to worry about trekking across the Strip, and you’ll have a much more enjoyable, comfortable experience.

Enjoy your vacation and the poolside relaxation at your hotel of choice!