When is VAI Resort opening? What to know about the Glendale project’s status

The VAI Resort opening date has been delayed again, extending the wait for Glendale’s $1.2 billion hotel and entertainment complex.

Work continues on the 60-acre project near State Farm Stadium, but its previously announced 2026 debut has been pushed back. The resort, which broke ground in 2021, has missed multiple opening targets, first aiming for 2023 and then 2025.

Last month, VAI officials released a statement saying they are “not ready to provide a specific opening date.” The resort’s website has also deleted any specifics on when it might debut.

Officials also state they’re planning to reveal the specific VAI Resort opening date “approximately 9-12 months in advance” of its arrival. Reasons behind the latest delay were not mentioned.

In short, Valley residents and visitors will have to wait even longer to experience VAI Resort’s high-end and much-anticipated amenities.

The latest in a series of delays

VAI Resort is one of the Valley’s most ambitious projects. The hotel and entertainment complex near 95th Avenue and Cardinals Way will boast high style and over-the-top amenities.

Highlights include artificial beaches, temperature-controlled pools, a massive two-story nightclub and an 11,000-seat concert amphitheater. It will also include a European-style party island complete with a tethered hot air balloon offering panoramic views of the surrounding area.

Another draw is the highly anticipated Mattel Adventure Park next door. The $260-million theme park, described as an “anchor tenant” of the resort, will offer nine acres of rides and attractions based on the toy company’s iconic brands. There will be two Hot Wheels roller coasters, Barbie’s Beach House and a Masters of the Universe laser tag arena.

Both the resort and theme park have been pushed back multiple times since they were announced. VAI Resort, originally known as Crystal Lagoons, has faced repeated construction delays. Acquired by VAI Resort LLC in 2022, the project’s opening was delayed from spring 2023 to 2024 and then into this year.

In May, Glendale voters produced a split decision on two municipal propositions related to the VAI Resort. While narrowly approving one measure supporting a revised development plan for the resort, they rejected another that would have allowed for additional offices and parking.

Meanwhile, Mattel Adventure Park was first slated to open in 2022, but the park’s debut was later pushed back to 2024 and then 2025.

There’s been no word on whether the latest issues with the VAI Resort opening date will cause further delays for the Mattel Adventure Park. Phoenix New Times reached out to a park spokesperson, but was unable to speak with anyone.