**The Riviera Hotel & Casino: A Legacy of Glamour and Entertainment on the Las Vegas Strip**

Introduction

The Riviera Hotel & Casino, once a prominent landmark on the glittering Las Vegas Strip, holds a special place in the history of gaming and entertainment. Its iconic exterior, captivating shows, and star-studded clientele left an everlasting mark on the city's vibrant atmosphere.

A History of Legacy and Innovation

The Riviera Hotel & Casino opened its doors on April 20, 1955, becoming one of the first major casinos on the Las Vegas Strip. Its distinctive boomerang-shaped design and towering 21-story hotel tower became instantly recognizable symbols of the city's burgeoning entertainment industry.

Owned by the Wilbur Clark's Desert Inn Corporation, the Riviera quickly established itself as a destination for high rollers and celebrities. Its opulent casino floor featured over 1,000 slot machines and 100 gaming tables, while its luxurious hotel accommodations attracted discerning guests from around the world.

Over the years, the Riviera underwent several renovations and expansions, including the addition of a 32-story hotel tower in 1999. It also played host to a variety of entertainment spectacles, including the legendary "Lido de Paris" show and performances by iconic entertainers such as Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, and Sammy Davis Jr.

A Hub for Entertainment and Culture

Beyond its gaming and hotel offerings, the Riviera Hotel & Casino became a cultural touchstone for Las Vegas. Its "Starlight Club" served as a breeding ground for up-and-coming comedians, while its "Legends in Concert" show paid tribute to legendary musical artists.

The Riviera's "Le Bistro" restaurant was renowned for its classic French cuisine, while its "Top of the Riviera" revolving restaurant provided stunning panoramic views of the Las Vegas skyline.

Change of Hands and Closure

In 2000, the Riviera Hotel & Casino was acquired by the Binion family, who owned it for the next 17 years. During this period, the property underwent further renovations and remained a popular destination for both tourists and locals.

However, in 2017, the Riviera closed its doors permanently due to declining revenues and the emergence of larger and more modern casino resorts on the Las Vegas Strip. Its iconic sign was demolished shortly after, marking the end of an era for one of the Strip's most recognizable landmarks.

The Riviera Hotel & Casino Legacy

Despite its closure, the Riviera Hotel & Casino continues to hold a nostalgic appeal for many who experienced its glamorous and entertaining heyday. Its legacy is evident in the countless memories it created, the performers it showcased, and the indelible mark it left on the Las Vegas entertainment landscape.

Economic Impact

According to the Nevada Gaming Control Board, the Riviera Hotel & Casino generated significant revenue for the Las Vegas economy throughout its operation:

Estimated: The decline in revenue during the later years was primarily due to competition from newer and more modern casino resorts on the Las Vegas Strip.

Employment and Tourism

The Riviera Hotel & Casino provided employment for thousands of people in Las Vegas, including:

Tourism: The Riviera Hotel & Casino attracted a substantial number of tourists to Las Vegas, particularly during its peak years in the 1960s and 1970s. It was estimated that over 10 million guests visited the property during its lifetime.

Effective Strategies for Success

The Riviera Hotel & Casino's success over several decades can be attributed to the following effective strategies:

• Iconic Design and Ambiance: The Riviera's unique boomerang-shaped design and luxurious atmosphere set it apart from other casinos on the Las Vegas Strip.

• High-Quality Entertainment: The Riviera consistently booked top-tier entertainers and shows, including "Lido de Paris" and "Legends in Concert."

• Celebrity Clientele: The Riviera attracted a high-profile clientele, including Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, and Sammy Davis Jr., which added to its glamorous reputation.

• Customer Service: The Riviera staff was known for providing exceptional customer service, which earned the property a loyal following.

• Strategic Marketing: The Riviera's marketing campaigns effectively targeted both local and international audiences, highlighting its unique offerings and amenities.

Tips and Tricks for a Memorable Stay

For those who had the opportunity to stay at the Riviera Hotel & Casino, the following tips could have enhanced their experience:

• Book early: The Riviera Hotel & Casino was a popular destination, so it was advisable to book accommodations well in advance, especially during peak seasons.

• Join a rewards program: The Riviera Rewards program offered perks and discounts to frequent guests, including free rooms, dining credits, and show tickets.

• Explore the casino: The Riviera's casino floor offered a wide range of games, from slot machines to table games, ensuring something for every player.

• Attend a show: The Riviera's entertainment offerings were some of the best on the Las Vegas Strip. Make sure to check the schedule and purchase tickets in advance for the most popular shows.

• Take in the views: The Top of the Riviera revolving restaurant provided stunning panoramic views of the Las Vegas skyline. Enjoy a meal or simply sip a cocktail while admiring the cityscape.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• When did the Riviera Hotel & Casino close?

• The Riviera Hotel & Casino closed its doors permanently on May 4, 2017.

• Who owned the Riviera Hotel & Casino?

• The Riviera Hotel & Casino was owned by the Wilbur Clark's Desert Inn Corporation from 1955 to 2000, and by the Binion family from 2000 to 2017.

• What was the Riviera Hotel & Casino's most famous show?

• The Riviera Hotel & Casino's most famous show was "Lido de Paris," a lavish musical revue that ran for over 30 years.

• Why did the Riviera Hotel & Casino close?

• The Riviera Hotel & Casino closed due to declining revenues and the emergence of larger and more modern casino resorts on the Las Vegas Strip.

• Is the Riviera Hotel & Casino still open?

• No, the Riviera Hotel & Casino is no longer open. It closed its doors permanently in 2017 and was demolished shortly after.

• What was unique about the Riviera Hotel & Casino?

• The Riviera Hotel & Casino was unique for its iconic boomerang-shaped design, luxurious atmosphere, and star-studded clientele.

• What was the Riviera Hotel & Casino's economic impact?

• The Riviera Hotel & Casino generated significant revenue for the Las Vegas economy throughout its operation, providing employment for thousands of people and attracting a substantial number of tourists.

• What were some effective strategies for the Riviera Hotel & Casino's success?

• The Riviera Hotel & Casino's success was attributed to its iconic design, high-quality entertainment, celebrity clientele, exceptional customer service, and strategic marketing.