The iconic Tropicana Las Vegas, one of the most historic hotels in Sin City, has officially closed its doors after nearly 67 years of operation. The closure was announced as the first step in making way for the construction of a new Major League Baseball (MLB) stadium, with an estimated investment of $1.5 billion. The Tropicana was acquired by Bally’s Corp. for $148 million in 2022.
The hotel, which opened on April 4, 1957, was known for its luxury and opulence, earning the nickname “Tiffany of the Strip.” Over the years, the Tropicana underwent two major expansions, adding more rooms and amenities to become a staple in the Las Vegas entertainment scene.
The Tropicana was not only a renowned hotel but also a hub for entertainment and culture. It was the starting place for famous magicians like Siegfried Fischbacher and Roy Horn, as well as Lance Burton. The hotel even made appearances in popular films like Viva Las Vegas and The Godfather, solidifying its place in popular culture.
Despite its glamour, the Tropicana also had a dark side, with ties to organized crime. A close relationship with mobster Frank Costello was revealed shortly after its opening, leading to federal investigations and the conviction of several mob operatives in the 1970s for diverting gambling revenues from Las Vegas casinos, including the Tropicana.
The closure of the Tropicana marks the end of an era in Las Vegas, as the iconic hotel makes way for a new chapter in the city’s history with the construction of a MLB stadium. Demolition of the Tropicana is scheduled for October 2024, bringing an end to a storied legacy in the heart of the Strip.