The Riviera Hotel and Casino: A Las Vegas Icon Lost in Time

Introduction:

Las Vegas, the glittering city of lights and entertainment, is constantly evolving. While new casinos and hotels rise to prominence, others fade into the annals of history. One such establishment is the Riviera Hotel and Casino, a once-grand property that stood as a mainstay on the Las Vegas Strip for over five decades. Its closure in 2015 marked the end of an era, leaving behind a legacy of glamour, excess, and untold stories.

A Brief History

The Riviera Hotel and Casino opened its doors on April 20, 1955. It was one of the first high-rise hotels in Las Vegas and quickly became known for its luxurious accommodations, lavish entertainment, and world-class dining. The hotel's iconic "Blue Moon" lounge was a famous spot for celebrities and high rollers alike.

Over the years, the Riviera underwent several renovations and expansions. In 1981, a towering 26-story tower was added, bringing the total number of rooms to 2,075. In 2000, the resort received a $100 million makeover, which included a new casino floor, restaurants, and nightclubs.

The Decline and Closure

Despite its past glory, the Riviera faced mounting financial struggles in the 2000s. The hotel's aging infrastructure and outdated amenities could no longer compete with the newer and more modern resorts that were emerging on the Strip.

In 2015, the Riviera Hotel and Casino officially closed its doors. The closure came after a failed attempt to sell the property to a Chinese investment group. The iconic hotel was demolished in 2016, making way for a future mixed-use development.

Legacy and Impact

The Riviera Hotel and Casino played a significant role in the development of Las Vegas as a premier entertainment destination. It was home to some of the biggest names in entertainment, including Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Cher, and Elvis Presley.

The Riviera was also a popular filming location for movies and television shows, including "Ocean's Eleven" (1960), "Diamonds Are Forever" (1971), and "Casino" (1995).

The Future of the Riviera Site

The site of the former Riviera Hotel and Casino is now owned by a development company, which has plans to build a new mixed-use project. The project will include a hotel, casino, residences, and retail space.

The new development is expected to open in phases, with the first phase scheduled to be completed in 2023. The project is expected to create thousands of jobs and revitalize the area around the former Riviera site.

Tables:

Table 1: Riviera Hotel and Casino Timeline

Table 2: Notable Entertainers at the Riviera

Table 3: Economic Impact of the Riviera's Closure

Tips and Tricks for Planning a Trip to Las Vegas

• Book your accommodations and flights in advance, especially if you're traveling during peak season.
• Consider purchasing a Las Vegas Pass to save money on attractions and entertainment.
• Make reservations for restaurants and shows in advance to avoid disappointment.
• Dress appropriately for the Las Vegas heat.
• Remember to stay hydrated and avoid excessive alcohol consumption.

FAQs

1. When did the Riviera Hotel and Casino close?
   - The Riviera Hotel and Casino closed on May 4, 2015.
2. Why did the Riviera Hotel and Casino close?
   - The Riviera faced mounting financial struggles and could no longer compete with newer and more modern resorts on the Strip.
3. What will be built on the site of the Riviera Hotel and Casino?
   - A mixed-use development, including a hotel, casino, residences, and retail space.
4. When is the new development at the Riviera site expected to open?
   - The first phase of the project is expected to open in 2023.
5. Who owned the Riviera Hotel and Casino?
   - The Riviera Hotel and Casino was owned by a partnership of investors, including Donald Trump.
6. What is the "Blue Moon" lounge?
   - The "Blue Moon" lounge was a famous spot for celebrities and high rollers at the Riviera Hotel and Casino.
7. What movies were filmed at the Riviera Hotel and Casino?
   - Some of the movies filmed at the Riviera include "Ocean's Eleven" (1960), "Diamonds Are Forever" (1971), and "Casino" (1995).
8. What impact did the closure of the Riviera have on Las Vegas?
   - The closure of the Riviera resulted in the loss of 1,600 jobs, $50 million in tax revenue, and $1 billion in tourism revenue.