I still can’t believe it is over for the iconic casino. I spent many weekends there and have fond memories.
The Mirage Hotel and Casino on the Las Vegas Strip is closing its doors today, ending a 34-year run. To mark the occasion, the resort is hosting a farewell event, capping off a weeklong celebration where gamblers had the chance to win part of a $1.6 million cash prize. The hotel, which announced its closure in May, will undergo a three-year renovation after closing, set to reopen in 2027 as Hard Rock Las Vegas, featuring a 700-foot-tall guitar-shaped hotel tower. The iconic volcano attraction will be demolished to make way for new rooms.
Las Vegas locals, tourists gather to watch The Mirage Volcano erupt one last time https://t.co/bqmYexek3w
— KRQE News 13 (@krqe) July 17, 2024
Opened in 1989 by casino mogul Steve Wynn, the Mirage was a pioneer in the era of luxurious resorts on the Strip, becoming the first to feature a sidewalk attraction—the famous volcano. This innovation inspired other resorts like the Bellagio and Venetian to create their own iconic features. The tropical design of the Mirage, meant to evoke an oasis in the bustling Las Vegas environment, was a hallmark of Wynn’s vision.
Las Vegas’ Mirage Hotel and Casino closes down after 34 yearshttps://t.co/lbmD7BDeY5
— The US Sun (@TheSunUS) July 17, 2024
Architect Paul Steelman, who worked on the Mirage, recalled how the design was intended to transport guests away from the typical casino atmosphere into a tropical paradise. This unique approach contributed to the Mirage’s long-standing appeal.
The Mirage closed its doors this morning after 34 years on the Las Vegas strip🥹 https://t.co/wCWbaaC5KK pic.twitter.com/C3fsM9ROTT
— Office & Retail Guy (@LVOfficeBroker) July 17, 2024
Beyond the volcano, the Mirage was known for hosting popular Las Vegas shows such as Siegfried and Roy’s white tiger performances and a Cirque du Soleil show set to Beatles music. MGM Resorts acquired the Mirage from Wynn in 2000 and sold it to Hard Rock International in 2022 for over $1 billion. This marks the second time Hard Rock will have a presence in Las Vegas, previously owning the now-Virgin Hotel off the Strip.
Key Points:
- The Mirage Hotel and Casino on the Las Vegas Strip is closing today after 34 years.
- The resort will reopen in 2027 as Hard Rock Las Vegas, featuring a 700-foot-tall guitar-shaped hotel tower.
- Opened in 1989 by Steve Wynn, the Mirage was a pioneer in luxurious Strip resorts and introduced the first sidewalk attraction.
- Known for its volcano, Siegfried and Roy’s white tiger shows, and a Beatles-themed Cirque du Soleil show, the Mirage has been an iconic destination.
- MGM Resorts sold the Mirage to Hard Rock International in 2022 for over $1 billion.
Lap Fu Ip – Reprinted with permission of Whatfinger News
