Sin City Is About To Lose A Major Landmark … Here’s Why

Las Vegas has been known as one of the world’s premiere gambling destinations for generations, and for much of that time its unmistakable “Strip” has included The Mirage.

But in less than two months, the iconic hotel and casino will permanently shut its doors as the city continues its embrace of professional sports, world-class entertainment, and attractions other than gambling.

What brought us here

The writing has been on the wall for some time now, dating back at least to Hard Rock International’s acquisition of the hotel in 2022. This week, the company confirmed that the final night guests will be allowed to stay in The Mirage will be July 14 and all casino operations will end three days after that.

It’s a disappointing ending for many fans of the hotel, which has been a fixture on the Las Vegas Strip since the 1980s and included a breathtaking atrium that attracted visitors from around the world. After it opened its doors, a string of other upscale resorts — like the MGM Grand, Luxor, and Excalibur — soon made their debut in Sin City.

But unlike some of the other prime real estate that has been transformed into unrelated destinations (like the former site of the Tropicana becoming the likely home of the relocated Oakland A’s), The Mirage will be replaced by another casino.

What the future holds

According to Hard Rock International, plans for the location include a new hotel and casino more in line with the company’s music-themed brand.

“The property will be reimagined and developed into a new integrated resort featuring a nearly 700 ft. guitar-shaped hotel prominently in the center of the famous Las Vegas Strip,” a statement confirmed.

The Hard Rock Hotel & Casino and Guitar Hotel Las Vegas are expected to open in 2027.

Chris Agee May 17th, 2024

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