Las Vegas Hotels with History Stories Behind the Doors
Las Vegas is known for its glitzy casinos, extravagant shows, and vibrant nightlife. But beyond the bright lights and bustling streets lies a rich history that dates back to the early 1900s. Many of the city’s iconic hotels have fascinating stories behind their doors, offering a glimpse into Las Vegas’ past.
One such hotel is The Flamingo, which opened in 1946 and was the brainchild of infamous mobster Bugsy Siegel. The hotel was named after Siegel’s girlfriend Virginia Hill, whose nickname was “The Flamingo.” Despite facing numerous setbacks during construction, including cost overruns and delays, The Flamingo eventually became one of the most popular destinations on the Strip. Today, visitors can still see remnants of its glamorous past in the hotel’s pink exterior and tropical-themed décor.
Another historic Westgate Las Vegas Hotel is The Golden Nugget, which first opened its doors in 1946 as the Hotel Nevada. Over the years, it has undergone several renovations and expansions but has managed to retain its old-school charm. One of the hotel’s most famous features is its legendary swimming pool, known as “The Tank,” which houses live sharks that guests can swim with.
The El Cortez Hotel & Casino is another must-visit destination for history buffs in Las Vegas. Built in 1941 by mobster Bugsy Siegel’s associate J.K Houssels Jr., this classic downtown hotel has been a staple of Las Vegas culture for decades. It boasts an impressive collection of vintage slot machines and memorabilia from its early days as a hotspot for Hollywood celebrities.
For those looking to experience a taste of old-world glamour, The Sahara Hotel & Casino is an ideal choice. Originally opened in 1952 by Milton Prell, this Moroccan-themed resort quickly became a favorite among celebrities like Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin. Although it has undergone several renovations over the years, The Sahara still exudes an air of nostalgia with its retro-chic décor.
Last but not least is The Riviera Hotel & Casino, which first opened in 1955 as one of the first high-rise hotels on the Strip. Known for its iconic sign featuring a woman diving into a martini glass, The Riviera quickly became synonymous with luxury and entertainment in Las Vegas. Despite closing its doors in 2015 after nearly six decades of operation, The Riviera remains a beloved landmark among locals and tourists alike.
Las Vegas’ historic hotels offer more than just luxurious accommodations – they provide a window into the city’s colorful past. From mob connections to celebrity sightings to architectural marvels, these iconic properties have seen it all over the years. Whether you’re interested in exploring Sin City’s seedy underbelly or simply want to soak up some old-school glamour, a visit to one of these storied establishments is sure to leave you feeling nostalgic for a bygone era when Las Vegas was just beginning to make its mark on the world stage.
