The Original Hotels of the Las Vegas Strip: A Legendary History

The allure of Las Vegas has long been tied to glamorous hotel experiences, with the historic Las Vegas Strip boasting a rich history of iconic resorts. However, many of these names are now faded memories, having closed their doors over the years. This article delves into the origins of the original hotel resorts that defined the Strip in its early days, highlighting their significance in shaping the modern gambling mecca.

Historic Hotels of the Las Vegas Strip

Among the many hotels that have contributed to the charm and history of the Las Vegas Strip, the Flamingo Las Vegas remains an enduring symbol. This historic resort, which opened in 1946, marked a significant milestone in the evolution of Las Vegas as a gambling destination. Not only was the Flamingo Las Vegas the largest resort with a whopping 3,626 rooms, but it also transformed the gambling experience in Las Vegas, offering players an extensive and diverse range of options.

The Flamingo Las Vegas: Pioneering the Vegas Experience

The Flamingo Las Vegas was the oldest original resort on the now-famous Strip, setting the stage for what would later become a bustling and vibrant entertainment district. Its grand opening in 1946 marked a turning point in Las Vegas history, drawing in tourists and adventurers alike with its opulent decor and reputation for exciting entertainment options. Over the years, the hotel evolved from a quiet oasis to a bustling hub of activity, reflecting the dynamic growth and transformation of the city.

Other Original Strip Hotels

While the Flamingo Las Vegas stands tall as a landmark of its era, it was not alone in forming the foundation of the Vegas Strip. Other original hotels, such as the Sands Riveria Desert Inn Dunes Stardust, also played crucial roles, contributing to the city's burgeoning reputation as a global gambling capital.

The Dunes and Stardust

Acclaimed for their iconic marquees, which can still be seen in vintage Hollywood films, these properties were not only architectural marvels but also key players in the social and economic fabric of early Las Vegas. The Desert Inn and Sands, along with the Desert Inn (which later became the Sahara), were at the heart of a bustling casino scene. The Riviera and the Dunes were also pivotal, known for their iconic hotel follies and luxury accommodations.

The Golden Age of Casinos: 1950s to 1960s

The early 1950s and 1960s saw the rise of a group of casinos that would come to be known as the Vegas Seven. This group included not only the Flamingo, Sands, Desert Inn, and Riviera but also the Frontier, Dunes, Stardust, and Sahara. These hotels not only competed fiercely for guests but also set the standards for luxury and service, attracting players from around the world.

The Oceans Eleven: A Celebrated Spectacle

A seminal moment in the history of Las Vegas gambling was the film "Oceans Eleven," starring iconic stars like Frank Sinatra, Dan Martin, and Alex Baldwin. The movie, based on a real heist, featured five of the original Las Vegas Strip casinos. The participants in the heist were intended to be five of the most famous casinos on the Strip, including The Sahara, The Riviera, The Sands, The Desert Inn, and the Flamingo. Additional hotels that contributed to the plot were The Frontier, The Dunes, and The Stardust. This period marked the height of the Strip's allure and the intense competition among these legendary hotels.

Current Status of the Original Las Vegas Hotels

While many of the original Las Vegas Strip hotels have closed over the years, leaving behind only their marks in history, two iconic properties, The Sahara and the Flamingo Las Vegas, remain open. These enduring symbols continue to captivate visitors with their timeless charm and rich heritage. Today, the Federal Government is working to preserve these landmarks, recognizing their significant contribution to the cultural and economic history of Las Vegas.

Conclusion

The original hotels of the Las Vegas Strip were not just buildings but living legacies, each telling a unique story of the city's evolution. From the grand opening of the Flamingo in 1946 to the iconic marquees of the Sands, Desert Inn, and Dunes, these establishments played a pivotal role in shaping Las Vegas into the entertainment capital it is today. As we continue to explore the rich history of the Las Vegas Strip, it is important to honor and preserve these original landmarks, which continue to inspire new generations of visitors and locals alike.