The Riviera Hotel and Casino: A Las Vegas Landmark
History
Early Years (1955-1967)
The Riviera Hotel and Casino opened its doors on April 20, 1955, as the ninth resort on the iconic Las Vegas Strip. Owned by Moe Dalitz, the hotel was designed by Welton Becket, who also designed the Flamingo Hotel and the Tropicana Hotel. The Riviera quickly became a popular destination for celebrities, high rollers, and the general public alike.
In 1957, the hotel added the "Moulin Rouge", a world-famous cabaret that featured showgirls and dancers from around the globe. The Riviera also hosted many notable entertainers, including Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, and Elvis Presley.
Ownership Changes and Renovations (1967-1980)
In 1967, the Riviera was sold to Kirk Kerkorian, who also owned the MGM Grand Hotel and Casino. Kerkorian invested heavily in the hotel, adding a new tower and convention center. The hotel was also renamed the "Riviera Hotel and Casino, a Kirk Kerkorian Resort".
In 1973, the Riviera became the first Las Vegas hotel to offer 24-hour gambling. The hotel also added a new casino, a sports book, and a race and sports book.
Later Years and Closure (1980-2015)
In 1980, the Riviera was sold to Ramada Inns. The hotel was renamed the "Ramada Riviera Hotel and Casino". Ramada invested in the hotel, adding a new pool and fitness center.
In 1999, the Riviera was sold to Harrah's Entertainment. Harrah's invested in the hotel, adding a new poker room and a new casino.
In 2015, Harrah's announced that the Riviera would close its doors on May 4, 2015. The hotel was demolished in 2016.
Attractions
Casino
The Riviera Hotel and Casino had a 111,000-square-foot casino that featured 2,500 slot machines and 125 table games. The casino also had a poker room and a race and sports book.
Hotel
The Riviera Hotel and Casino had 2,075 rooms and suites. The hotel also had a pool, a fitness center, and a spa.
Restaurants
The Riviera Hotel and Casino had a variety of restaurants, including a buffet, a steakhouse, and a sushi restaurant. The hotel also had a coffee shop and a bar.
Entertainment
The Riviera Hotel and Casino had a variety of entertainment options, including a cabaret, a comedy club, and a showroom. The hotel also had a live music venue and a movie theater.
Legacy
The Riviera Hotel and Casino was a Las Vegas landmark for over 60 years. The hotel was known for its luxurious accommodations, world-class casino, and star-studded entertainment. The Riviera was also a popular destination for conventions and trade shows.
The Riviera Hotel and Casino closed its doors in 2015, but its legacy lives on. The hotel was featured in numerous movies and television shows, and it was a popular destination for tourists from around the world.
Conclusion
The Riviera Hotel and Casino was a Las Vegas landmark for over 60 years. The hotel was known for its luxurious accommodations, world-class casino, and star-studded entertainment. The Riviera was also a popular destination for conventions and trade shows. The hotel closed its doors in 2015, but its legacy lives on.
Tables
Riviera Hotel and Casino Timeline
| Date |
Event |
| April 20, 1955 |
Riviera Hotel and Casino opens |
| 1957 |
"Moulin Rouge" cabaret opens |
| 1967 |
Riviera sold to Kirk Kerkorian |
| 1973 |
Riviera becomes the first Las Vegas hotel to offer 24-hour gambling |
| 1980 |
Riviera sold to Ramada Inns |
| 1999 |
Riviera sold to Harrah's Entertainment |
| May 4, 2015 |
Riviera closes its doors |
| 2016 |
Riviera demolished |
Riviera Hotel and Casino Ownership History
| Owner |
Years |
| Moe Dalitz |
1955-1967 |
| Kirk Kerkorian |
1967-1980 |
| Ramada Inns |
1980-1999 |
| Harrah's Entertainment |
1999-2015 |
Riviera Hotel and Casino Vital Statistics
| Feature |
Amount |
| Rooms and suites |
2,075 |
| Casino square footage |
111,000 |
| Slot machines |
2,500 |
| Table games |
125 |
