Most Iconic Hotels in Las Vegas

Las Vegas is known for its extravagant and luxurious hotels that attract millions of visitors every year. However, these iconic hotels didn’t just appear overnight – they have a rich and fascinating history that dates back several decades. In this article, we’ll take a look at the history of Las Vegas’ most iconic hotels.

1. The Flamingo Las Vegas The Flamingo Las Vegas opened its doors in 1946 and was the first hotel and casino on the famous Las Vegas Strip. The hotel was founded by notorious mobster Bugsy Siegel, who had a vision of creating a luxurious resort in the desert. The Flamingo was an instant success, and it quickly became a hotspot for celebrities and high rollers.
2. The Sahara Las Vegas The Sahara Las Vegas opened in 1952 and was one of the first hotels on the Las Vegas Strip to have a high-rise tower. The hotel was known for its iconic sign, which featured a camel and palm trees. The Sahara was a popular destination for celebrities, including Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, and Sammy Davis Jr.
3. The Sands Hotel and Casino The Sands Hotel and Casino opened in 1952 and quickly became one of the most popular destinations on the Las Vegas Strip. The hotel was known for its luxurious accommodations and its famous Copa Room, which hosted performances by legendary entertainers such as Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin. The Sands was also the site of the infamous 1960 presidential debate between John F. Kennedy and Richard Nixon.
4. The Stardust Resort and Casino The Stardust Resort and Casino opened in 1958 and was one of the largest hotels on the Las Vegas Strip. The hotel was known for its lavish accommodations, including its 32-story tower, which was the tallest building in Nevada at the time. The Stardust was also famous for its iconic sign, which featured a neon-lit cowboy.
5. The Riviera Hotel and Casino The Riviera Hotel and Casino opened in 1955 and was known for its luxurious accommodations and its famous stage shows. The hotel hosted performances by Elvis Presley, Liberace, and Barbra Streisand, among others. The Riviera was also a popular filming location, with scenes from movies such as Casino and The Hangover being filmed on the property.
6. Caesars Palace Caesars Palace opened in 1966 and quickly became one of the most iconic hotels on the Las Vegas Strip. The hotel was known for its opulent Roman theme, which included features such as a grand colosseum and a replica of Michelangelo’s David. Caesars Palace was also famous for its luxurious accommodations and its world-class entertainment, including performances by Elton John and Celine Dion.
7. The Mirage The Mirage opened in 1989 and was the first hotel on the Las Vegas Strip to feature a volcano, which erupted every hour. The hotel was also known for its tropical theme, which included a massive indoor rainforest and a dolphin habitat. The Mirage was a popular destination for families, as well as high rollers.

In conclusion, Las Vegas’ iconic hotels have a rich and fascinating history that dates back several decades. From the Flamingo, which was the first hotel on the Las Vegas Strip, to the Mirage, which introduced a new era of themed resorts, these hotels have played a significant role in the development of Las Vegas as a tourist destination. Today, they continue to attract millions of visitors from around the world, eager to experience the glamour and excitement of this iconic city.