Glendale, Arizona, September 30, 2025
News Summary
The highly anticipated VAI Resort hotel in Glendale, Arizona, has experienced an indefinite delay in its opening. Initially scheduled for 2023, the project is now tentatively pushed to 2025, with no specific date provided. The $1.2 billion investment continues to face challenges due to local political decisions impacting construction. Once complete, the resort will feature 1,100 rooms across multiple towers, a large amphitheater, and numerous luxury amenities aimed at attracting visitors and redefining hospitality in the area.
Glendale, AZ – The launch of the much-anticipated VAI Resort, initially slated for 2023, has now been delayed indefinitely as construction continues in Glendale. The entire project, which represents a significant investment of $1.2 billion, has seen its opening date pushed back to 2025 and is now without any specific date for completion or opening on the resort’s official website.
The VAI Resort’s FAQ section today confirms that the title holders are “not ready to provide a specific opening date,” indicating that a date will be announced only 9-12 months prior to the opening. Despite this uncertainty, mass-hiring for up to 2,000 employees is expected to begin six months prior to the opening; however, currently, the careers section of the resort’s website lists no available job openings.
The project’s timeline has been further complicated by local political decisions. In May 2023, Glendale voters narrowly rejected Proposition 401, which would have expedited construction related to additional office buildings and parking facilities linked to the resort. However, Proposition 402 was approved, allowing an updated development plan to proceed, and the Glendale City Council unanimously approved the rezoning of surrounding land for office space and parking in 2024, facilitating the ongoing construction.
Resort Features and Amenities
Once completed, the VAI Resort is set to become the largest in Arizona, boasting 1,100 rooms across four distinctive hotel towers: Amphitheater Tower, Rhythm Tower, Cadence Tower, and VAI Villas. Guests will have access to luxury amenities, including an 11,000-seat amphitheater, sandy beaches, and a unique 50,000-square-foot “party island” known as Konos Island. A total of 11 to 12 on-site restaurants are planned, with the first confirmed venue being Bar Mar, which will be led by Michelin-starred chef José Andrés.
In terms of entertainment, the resort aims to compete with Las Vegas for musical and comedic acts, while targeting family visitors to the adjacent Mattel Adventure Park. Construction is proceeding, although developers are encountering challenges, such as public referendums and water supply issues needed for the resort’s expansive pool facilities. The resort has obtained approval from the Glendale City Council for purchasing water to address these concerns.
Future expansion plans for the resort include tethered hot-air balloon rides and an additional concert venue with a capacity for 2,000 attendees as part of the second phase. Unique room designs will feature options overlooking the main stage of the amphitheater, as well as underground passageways providing VIP access.
Room rates for the VAI Resort are projected to fall between $500 to $900 per night, but specific details and booking options remain unavailable as of now. The indoor/outdoor Mattel Adventure Park will also feature attractions like Barbie’s Dream Closet Experience and Hot Wheels-themed roller coasters, enhancing the resort’s appeal to family-oriented guests.
The VAI Resort is strategically located near State Farm Stadium at the intersection of Cardinals Way and 95th Avenue in Glendale, aiming to foster a family-friendly atmosphere that encourages multi-generational travel.
Background Context
The construction company behind the VAI Resort, Fisher Industries, is owned by Grant Fisher, who is involved in resolving construction workforce challenges. As the project moves forward, staunch hopes remain for its opening to redefine entertainment and hospitality options in the Glendale area.
FAQ
What is the current opening date for the VAI Resort?
The resort’s website has removed any mention of an opening date and now states, “we are not ready to provide a specific opening date” and that a date will be announced 9-12 months prior to opening.
How many employees does the VAI Resort plan to hire?
Up to 2,000 employees are expected to be hired once the resort opens, with mass-hiring to begin 6 months before opening.
What amenities can guests expect at the VAI Resort?
The resort will boast 1,100 rooms, an 11,000-seat amphitheater, sandy beaches, a 50,000-square-foot “party island,” and 11-12 on-site restaurants, including Bar Mar led by Michelin-starred chef José Andrés.
What are the projected room rates for the VAI Resort?
Room rates are expected to range from $500 to $900 per night, though specifics have not yet been disclosed.
Where is the VAI Resort located?
The VAI Resort is located near State Farm Stadium on Cardinals Way and 95th Avenue in Glendale, Arizona.
Key Features of the VAI Resort
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Investment | $1.2 billion |
| Initial Opening Year | 2023 (Delayed to 2025) |
| Rooms | 1,100 rooms across 4 towers |
| Amenities | 11,000-seat amphitheater, sandy beaches, party island, 11-12 restaurants |
| First Restaurant | Bar Mar by José Andrés |
| Expected Room Rates | $500 to $900 per night |
| Location | Near State Farm Stadium in Glendale, AZ |
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Additional Resources
- Arizona Central
- AZ Family
- 12 News
- Axios
- Fox 10 Phoenix
- Wikipedia: Arizona
- Google Search: VAI Resort Arizona
- Google Scholar: VAI Resort
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Arizona
- Google News: VAI Resort
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