Located just off the Strip on Flamingo Road , the Rio offers a 24-hour party atmosphere with stunning views, large suites, abundant entertainment, popular dining destinations and a Carnaval spirit that makes it one of the most exciting resorts in Las Vegas.

The vibrant red-and-purple neon towers of the Rio Hotel and Casino house high-energy fun, exemplified by the Carnaval festivities. Hanging from the ceiling above the casino floor, gigantic masks set the mood for the celebration.

Suspended parade floats form the Masquerade Show in the Sky, transporting dancers and maraca-carrying guests around the casino several times daily. A cast of "bevertainers" serves Brazilian-inspired drinks with a smile, song and dance, drawing upon the spirit of Cariocas -- Rio de Janeiro natives.

The state-of-the-art nightclub Club Rio keeps visitors moving until the wee hours, and the VooDoo Lounge -- located 51 stories above the Strip -- offers live music and dancing nightly as well as some of the best views of Vegas. Magicians Penn & Teller, the comic antics and singing of the Scintas and the fishnet stockings, erotic dancers and loud rock 'n' roll of Greg Thompson's Erocktica Live! also are part of this parade of never-ending entertainment.

Meals are as exciting and rich as the colorful surroundings. One of the many fine restaurants, Búzios, named for a small, picturesque fishing village in Brazil , offers the freshest seafood dishes. Coffee shops, snack stands and one of the most popular buffets in Las Vegas -- the Carnival World Buffet -- complete the list of dining options.

The pool area looks like a tropical paradise -- as close as you'll get to Copacabana beach -- and the Rio Spa will soothe your senses after a long night of dancing to Latin rhythms.

If you've come to Vegas for a night with your gal pals, head to the Flirt Lounge before or after you watch the titillating Chippendales -- all part of Rio 's "Ultimate Girls Night Out."

Although you may be here to party, the staff at the Rio takes customer service very seriously, and the hotel's commitment to guest satisfaction has garnered national praise. Its suite-sized rooms are among the largest in town, with amenities ranging from a refrigerator to an in-room safe.

Like its namesake in South America , this is a true cidade maravilhosa -- a marvelous city -- in the middle of the desert.