Velvet Lounge   

Sure it looks like Aerosmith exploded all over the place, but this swank watering hole inside the Hard Rock Hotel elicits some sweet emotion from cuddling couples and simpering singles. The lounge is a sanctuary from the lobby bustle, its plush zebra-striped and leopard-patterned furnishings beckoning aspiring groupies and musicians to slink back and enjoy a silky smooth libation or two. Walls of memorabilia, abstract art and plasma TVs provide additional eye candy to the leggy sylphs roaming the bar, but there's plenty of space for a pre- or post-dinner cocktail schmooze and enough carpeted nooks for quiet conversation. A selection of appetizers and hors d'ouvres are served well into the night, and signature drinks (try the pop-rocks martini) keep the kids pleasantly pie-eyed while they roast marshmallows tableside for do-it-yourself smores. If the scene inside bores you, head to the balcony and enjoy your drink while overlooking the hotel's guitar-shaped pool. On the last Thursday of each month, the lounge hosts 'Velvet Sessions' -- a cocktail party overflowing into the lobby and featuring a retro band every month.