Legendary Las Vegas establishment, The Mirage Hotel and Casino, shutters its operations in July, marking an end to a 34-year run.
The Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Las Vegas and Guitar Hotel Las Vegas are set to take over the iconic Mirage footprint on the Las Vegas Strip, with construction commencing on July 18, 2024, following the closure of the Mirage Hotel & Casino on July 17, 2024.
Hard Rock International, the new operators of the Mirage, took over in 2022 and immediately initiated plans to renovate and rebrand the property. The project, known as the HRHCLV, is a significant investment, estimated to cost over $1 billion, and is seen as a major move to reinforce Hard Rock’s presence on the Strip amid shifting economic conditions.
The HRHCLV project involves a complete redevelopment of the former Mirage site, preserving and restoring historic elements like the Siegfried & Roy sculpture and a 30-foot entry archway. The new casino will roughly double the casino floor space compared to the Mirage, spanning 174,000 square feet. The expanded resort will also feature 675 rooms, a larger pool complex, and dual spas.
One of the most striking features of the new property will be the 213-meter tall guitar-shaped hotel complex, a distinctive addition to the Las Vegas skyline. The project is on schedule and within budget, with a targeted grand opening in early fourth quarter of 2027 (around October to December 2027).
The renovation of the Mirage is expected to create up to 2,500 construction jobs. Former Mirage employees affected by unemployment will enjoy full union protection, as announced by Ted Pappageorge, secretary-treasurer of the Culinary Union. Hard Rock plans to offer severance packages totaling $80 million (€73.8 million) for Mirage employees.
The Mirage, which opened on November 22, 1989, was one of the most expensive casino resorts in the world, with construction costs of around $630 million (€581 million). It was known for its diverse gaming options, world-renowned magicians, and unique entertainment features such as a man-made volcano. However, after the closure on July 17, 2024, all reservations will be cancelled, and funds refunded.
Meanwhile, the Tropicana Casino Resort, one of the oldest casinos on the Las Vegas Strip, has closed its doors after 67 years and will not reopen. It will be demolished to make way for a new baseball stadium.
As the construction of the HRHCLV progresses well, with ongoing preservation of iconic elements and expansion of property offerings, it promises to be a significant addition to the vibrant Las Vegas Strip.
