Club Wyndham Grand Desert Review: The Hidden Oasis that Made Us Forget the Strip (2024)
When you think of Las Vegas, the dazzling lights and non-stop action of the Strip probably come to mind. But what if I told you there’s a hidden gem that might make you rethink your Vegas vacation plans? Enter the Club Wyndham Grand Desert, a luxurious resort that offers a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of Sin City. My wife Sarah and I discovered this oasis during our 10th wedding anniversary trip, and it completely changed our perspective on Las Vegas getaways. From spacious apartment-style rooms to multiple pools and endless amenities, this resort had us questioning why we’d ever stay on the Strip in comparison. Join us as we take you through our unforgettable experience at the Club Wyndham Grand Desert and show you why it might be time to venture beyond the neon lights.
1. Location and Transportation: The Best of Both Worlds
Nestled just a mile east of the Las Vegas Strip, the Club Wyndham Grand Desert offers the perfect balance of proximity and tranquility. This strategic location means you’re close enough to enjoy all the excitement of the Strip without being overwhelmed by its constant commotion. During our stay, we found the resort’s free shuttle service to be a game-changer. It runs regularly to popular spots on the Strip, making it incredibly easy to explore famous casinos, shows, and restaurants without the hassle of parking or expensive cab rides.
What really surprised us was how the resort’s location opened up opportunities to explore beyond the typical tourist haunts. We discovered some hidden local gems, like quirky downtown eateries and off-the-beaten-path attractions, that we might have missed if we’d stayed on the Strip. The concierge was incredibly helpful in pointing out these lesser-known spots, adding a unique flavor to our Vegas experience.
For those times when we wanted to venture further afield, major highways were easily accessible, making day trips to places like Red Rock Canyon or the Hoover Dam a breeze. This blend of convenience and flexibility truly set Club Wyndham Grand Desert apart from our previous Vegas accommodations.
2. Accommodations That Feel Like Home (But Better)
Stepping into our suite at Club Wyndham Grand Desert felt like entering a high-end apartment rather than a typical hotel room. The spaciousness was immediately apparent, with separate living and sleeping areas that allowed us to spread out and truly relax. But it was the full kitchen that really caught our attention. Equipped with modern appliances, cookware, and utensils, it offered us the freedom to prepare our own meals when we didn’t feel like dining out.
One of the unexpected luxuries was the in-room washer and dryer. Being able to do laundry during our stay meant we could pack lighter and always have fresh clothes, a real blessing in the desert heat. The bathroom was equally impressive, featuring a large tub perfect for soaking after a long day of exploring.
The cherry on top was the view from our room. Located in Tower 3, we had a breathtaking panorama of the Las Vegas skyline, with the mountains providing a dramatic backdrop. Watching the city transform from day to night from the comfort of our room became a nightly ritual we looked forward to.
3. Pool Paradise: Dive Into Relaxation
If there’s one area where Club Wyndham Grand Desert truly shines, it’s the pool scene. With multiple pools to choose from, each offering a unique atmosphere, we found ourselves spending more time poolside than we ever anticipated. The 24-hour pool near Tower 3 became our go-to spot for late-night swims, offering a serene environment under the stars – a rare find in Vegas.
For ultimate relaxation, we gravitated towards the adults-only pool. Surrounded by swaying palm trees and comfortable loungers, it provided a peaceful retreat where we could unwind without the splash and play of children. The poolside service was impeccable, with attentive staff always ready to bring a fresh towel or take a drink order.
Speaking of drinks, the poolside cactus bar quickly became our favorite spot for frozen cocktails. Sipping on colorful, icy concoctions while lounging by the pool felt like the epitome of vacation indulgence. The bartenders were skilled at crafting both classic and creative drinks, ensuring there was always something new to try.
4. Entertainment Beyond the Casino
While Las Vegas is renowned for its casinos, Club Wyndham Grand Desert proves that entertainment doesn’t always require slot machines or poker tables. The resort offers a diverse range of activities that kept us engaged throughout our stay. One of our favorite spots was the inner courtyard, where we discovered ping pong tables. Sarah and I found ourselves engaged in friendly (and sometimes not-so-friendly) competitions, with Sarah ultimately claiming bragging rights by winning more games.
For movie buffs, the on-site theater was a pleasant surprise. We enjoyed a couple of evenings watching recent releases in a comfortable, intimate setting – a perfect way to unwind after a day of exploration. The resort also hosts special events that add a touch of fun to your stay. We particularly enjoyed Margarita Mondays and Wine Down Wednesdays, where complimentary drinks helped us mingle with other guests and create lasting memories.
Although we didn’t attend, the resort offers a magic show that many guests raved about. It was initially scheduled in a larger venue but was moved to a smaller, more intimate room. While the close-up nature of the performance didn’t appeal to us, other guests mentioned that it added to the magical experience.
5. Amenities for Extended Stays
Club Wyndham Grand Desert truly shines when it comes to amenities that cater to longer stays. The fully-equipped fitness center allowed us to maintain our workout routines, featuring modern cardio machines and a good selection of weights. For those seeking relaxation, the on-site spa offers a range of treatments that can help melt away any lingering stress.
While we enjoyed cooking in our suite’s kitchen, the resort also offers convenient dining options for days when you don’t feel like preparing meals. The on-site marketplace proved invaluable for quick snacks and essentials. What truly impressed us was the grocery shopping service – a godsend for longer stays. We simply provided a list, and the staff took care of the rest, ensuring our kitchen was stocked with our favorite items.
The combination of these amenities made our stay feel less like a typical vacation and more like a luxurious home away from home. It’s clear that Club Wyndham Grand Desert has put thought into creating an environment where guests can comfortably settle in, whether for a weekend getaway or an extended vacation.
6. The Wyndham Difference: A Surprising Twist
Our stay at Club Wyndham Grand Desert revealed a surprising twist in the world of vacation accommodations. While Wyndham offers its own timeshare program, we discovered a far more advantageous option through our travel club. Thanks to this membership, Sarah and I enjoyed a luxurious 7-night stay completely free of charge.
This stark contrast to Wyndham’s timeshare program and its associated costs was eye-opening. Our travel club provided us with all the benefits of staying at this high-end resort without the financial burden and long-term commitment typically associated with timeshares. We had access to the same spacious suites, excellent amenities, and prime location, but at a fraction of the cost – or in our case, no cost at all.
The flexibility of our travel club membership allowed us to book this extended stay without worrying about point systems, maintenance fees, or the other complexities often tied to traditional timeshare ownership. This experience made us appreciate the value of exploring alternative vacation ownership options that can offer significant savings and greater flexibility.
While the Club Wyndham Grand Desert itself impressed us, it was clear that our method of booking through our travel club was the real game-changer. It opened our eyes to the possibility of enjoying luxury accommodations and extended stays in popular destinations without the hefty price tag or long-term obligations of a timeshare.
7. Family-Friendly vs. Adults-Only Experiences
Club Wyndham Grand Desert strikes an impressive balance between catering to families and providing serene spaces for adults. As a couple celebrating our anniversary, Sarah and I particularly appreciated the adults-only areas. The adults-only pool became our go-to spot for relaxation, offering a peaceful environment where we could unwind under palm trees without the enthusiastic splashing of children.
However, we couldn’t help but notice how well the resort accommodates families too. The main pool area was vibrant with the sounds of kids enjoying their vacation. We observed families participating in various activities like movie nights and poolside games. The spacious suites, with their separate bedrooms and full kitchens, seemed perfect for family stays, providing both togetherness and privacy.
This careful balance ensures that Club Wyndham Grand Desert can be an ideal choice for various types of travelers, from couples seeking a romantic getaway to families looking for a comfortable and entertaining base for their Vegas adventure.
8. Culinary Experiences
Our culinary journey at Club Wyndham Grand Desert was surprisingly diverse. The fully-equipped kitchen in our suite allowed us to prepare intimate meals, which we especially enjoyed on our living area overlooking the Las Vegas skyline. It was a romantic way to start our days and a cost-effective alternative to dining out for every meal.
When we did venture out, we found that the resort’s location provided easy access to a variety of dining options. Nearby grocery stores allowed us to stock up on local specialties and fresh ingredients. The resort’s concierge was invaluable in recommending off-the-beaten-path restaurants, helping us discover local flavors we might have missed otherwise.
On-site dining options and special events added to our culinary experience. Margarita Mondays became a favorite, offering not just free drinks but a chance to mingle with other guests in a festive atmosphere. The marketplace on the property was perfect for quick bites and stocking up on snacks for movie nights in our room.
9. The Timeshare Experience
Our stay at Club Wyndham Grand Desert included an encounter with the timeshare aspect of the resort. Intrigued by the offered gift, we decided to attend a presentation. The experience was a mixed bag. The initial part of the presentation was actually quite informative, providing insights into the Wyndham system and potential benefits of ownership.
However, the one-on-one session with a sales representative was less enjoyable. The salesperson was persistent, seeming to have difficulty accepting our polite declinations. While we understand this is part of the timeshare industry, it was the one aspect of our stay that felt uncomfortable.
For future visitors, our advice would be to decide in advance if you’re genuinely interested in a timeshare. If you’re not, it might be best to politely decline the presentation invitation, despite the tempting gifts. If you do attend, be prepared for a sales pitch and don’t feel pressured to make an on-the-spot decision.
10. Tips for Making the Most of Your Stay
Based on our experience, here are some tips to enhance your stay at Club Wyndham Grand Desert:
- Timing is key: If possible, visit during weekdays. We found the resort to be quieter and less crowded, especially around the pools.
- Explore upgrade options: Don’t hesitate to ask about potential room upgrades. We were fortunate to get a room with a fantastic view of the Strip.
- Utilize the shuttle service: The free shuttle to the Strip is convenient and saves on transportation costs. Check the schedule and plan accordingly.
- Take advantage of special events: Events like Margarita Mondays and Wine Down Wednesdays are great for socializing and enjoying complimentary drinks.
- Use the kitchen: Save money and enjoy intimate meals by cooking in your suite. The nearby grocery stores make it easy to stock up.
- Enjoy the 24-hour pool: The pool near Tower 3 is open 24/7, perfect for a refreshing night swim after a day of exploring.
- Book activities through the concierge: They often have insider knowledge and sometimes access to discounts.
- Bring your own pool towels: While the resort provides towels, having your own can be handy for off-site trips to beaches or water parks.
By following these tips, you can maximize your enjoyment of the resort’s amenities and create a memorable Vegas experience that goes beyond the typical Strip vacation.
Ready to Experience Vegas Like Never Before?
If you’re intrigued by our Club Wyndham Grand Desert experience and want to learn how you can enjoy similar luxury accommodations without the commitment of a timeshare, we invite you to watch our “Resort & Vacation Showcase”. This informative presentation will teach you insider tricks to save money on timeshare locations without actually owning one. As a bonus, by attending and participating in our short survey, you’ll receive a free Vegas trip gift! Don’t miss this opportunity to transform your future vacations while scoring a fantastic travel perk. Click below to watch the showcase and claim your free Vegas trip!
Conclusion: Vegas Reimagined – Your Oasis Awaits
Our anniversary at Club Wyndham Grand Desert transformed our view of Las Vegas getaways. This hidden gem offers a perfect blend of relaxation and excitement, just off the Strip. From spacious suites to diverse amenities, it caters to both family fun and adult serenity. While the timeshare presentation was a minor hiccup, it didn’t mar our exceptional experience. Whether seeking a romantic retreat or a family adventure, consider this oasis for your next Vegas trip. It might just become your new favorite way to experience Sin City, beyond the neon lights.
FAQs
- Is Club Wyndham Grand Desert on the Strip?
No, it’s located about a mile east of the Strip, offering a quieter environment with easy access to attractions. - Do I need to own a timeshare to stay at Club Wyndham Grand Desert?
No, the resort is open to both timeshare owners and regular hotel guests. - Are there any additional fees besides the room rate?
There may be a resort fee. It’s best to check with the resort directly for the most up-to-date information. - Is there a casino on-site?
No, Club Wyndham Grand Desert doesn’t have an on-site casino, but it’s close to many casinos on the Strip. - How often does the shuttle to the Strip run?
The shuttle runs regularly throughout the day. Check with the front desk for the current schedule.
