The Mirage, an iconic hotel-casino located on the Las Vegas Strip, is preparing to close its doors for good on Wednesday. The establishment, which opened in 1989 and was known for its tropical island theme featuring a fire-spewing volcano outside and attractions like Siegfried & Roy’s lions and dolphins inside, will see the end of gambling and operations as it makes way for a significant transformation of the property.
In its final days, The Mirage has been bustling with crowds of visitors hoping to win a share of $1.6 million in slot machine progressive jackpot winnings, as per state regulations requiring the prize money to be distributed before the closure. The once vibrant guest rooms now sit empty, and entertainment shows such as the long-running Beatles-themed Cirque du Soleil show “Love” have already concluded their runs.
As The Mirage fades into memory, new operators Hard Rock International and Seminole Gaming are gearing up to introduce a fresh concept to the Las Vegas skyline. Plans include adding 600 rooms to the existing 3,044, within a new guitar-shaped hotel design that promises a striking presence with guitar string-like beams reaching into the nighttime sky from a 660-foot tower.
Joe Lupo, president of The Mirage, expressed confidence that the new Hard Rock Las Vegas resort will follow in the footsteps of its predecessor and leave an indelible mark on the city. Unlike the explosive demolition witnessed at the now-closed Tropicana casino-hotel, The Mirage will not undergo such a spectacle. Instead, it will gradually transform into the envisioned guitar-shaped Hard Rock hotel.
Reflecting on its impact, those who have been a part of The Mirage’s history will gather to commemorate its legacy. Alan Feldman, a former publicist for the resort and a casino industry veteran, highlighted the revolutionary shift that The Mirage brought to Las Vegas, transforming it into more than just a place for gambling and entertainment.
Costing a staggering $630 million at the time of its construction, The Mirage was more than just a gambling hall; it set new standards for luxury and entertainment in Las Vegas. With its elaborate design, amenities, and entertainment offerings, The Mirage played a pivotal role in the city’s evolution into a world-renowned entertainment destination.
As Las Vegas bids farewell to The Mirage, the city continues to evolve and reinvent itself, a testament to its enduring appeal and ability to adapt to changing times.
