MGM Shanghai West Bund
Modern, bold and filled with art, MGM Shanghai West Bund injects a huge dose of showbiz glitz into one of the hippest new areas of Shanghai. The West Bund was once home to an airport, wharves and heavy industry. Today, it not only plays host to Shanghai’s richest art scene but also a burgeoning AI industry.
MGM Shanghai has a commanding view over the area and is within easy walking distance of top attractions along a new Huangpu River promenade, which has helped transform Shanghai into a more outdoor leisure-oriented city.
Given the area’s emphasis on art, it is fitting that the hotel, MGM’s first non-gaming urban property, should have such an emphasis on design and creativity. Unlike many hotels, where art is just to be admired, MGM’s pieces are meant to be interacted with. Opened in 2023, MGM Shanghai West Bund has 219 generously proportioned rooms and suites along with world-class dining and a revitalizing spa.
- Art-infused offerings extend to the Shanghai hotel having its own theme song. Artists also work with chefs on food and beverage choices and there is a strong emphasis on cross-medium artwork, bringing hotel guests an intimate connection with the pieces. Catch the nightly light show focused on the iconic MGM lion at the entrance.
- The lobby is on the 57th floor, ensuring that all guests can share some of the best views of the area.
- Menus change frequently around here. In the bar, for example, things switch up every six months with each edition having a theme. The bar menu itself is augmented reality with pictures appearing differently when seen through a phone. Parts of the menu of the lounge are written on the windows.
- Rooms are large by Shanghai standards, with some regular accommodations measuring 645 square feet. Most units, no matter the level, are filled with natural woods, pops of soft orange and outstanding views. Additionally, many rooms have a view over the busy Huangpu River, which is the city’s defining waterway.
- The West Bund has a distinct vibe and is used by fashion and car brands for launches. Although it may feel a bit laid-back compared to the bustle of the city center, the area is just a few subway stops from some of the busiest parts of the city.
- The pizza ovens at Riva Italian form a focal point and blend East and West thanks to the porcelain patterns. The bright, airy restaurant doubles as home to the breakfast buffet. At other times, it serves Mediterranean cuisine made with the finest, locally sourced ingredients.
- Unusual for a Chinese restaurant, Royal Court has a small bar at the entrance where diners can get baijiu-based (China’s national spirit) cocktails. Outside of the dynamic drinks, the restaurant specializes in Cantonese fare such as deep-fried crispy pigeon. The Royal Copenhagen plates on display are reason enough to pay a visit.
- Those with a sweet tooth should head to Emerald Lounge, which has specially curated cakes that change regularly. Just off from the lobby, the space has a deliciously relaxed feel.
- Sky 59 rooftop bar takes its name from both the floor number and the fact the area where the hotel stands used to host Longhua Airport. This theme extends to the drink-delivering airline trolley and an airline-type sign to assist those who want tipple-ordering tips. Weather permitting, there is a terrace area.
24-hour room service 
Bar
Fitness classes
House car
Indoor pool
Meeting rooms
Restaurants
Spa
