The Riviera Hotel and Casino stands as an iconic symbol of Las Vegas's vibrant history and entertainment legacy. From its grand opening in 1955 to its recent closure in 2015, the Riviera has witnessed countless memorable moments and played a pivotal role in shaping the city's tourism industry. This article delves into the rich history, pivotal events, and enduring legacy of the Riviera Hotel and Casino.
The Riviera Hotel and Casino was designed by the renowned architectural firm Welton Becket and Associates. The building's distinctive circular shape and futuristic aesthetic reflected the optimism and innovation of the post-war era. The hotel's main tower, known as the "Jet Tower," was inspired by the tail section of a McDonnell Douglas DC-8 jetliner.
Throughout its history, the Riviera Hotel and Casino played host to a wide range of entertainment icons, including:
The hotel's Versailles Room was particularly renowned for its elaborate stage productions and headlining performers.
The Riviera Hotel and Casino offered a wide selection of gaming options, including:
In addition to gaming, the hotel featured an extensive range of amenities, including:
The Riviera Hotel and Casino played a significant role in the economic development of Las Vegas. The hotel's opening in 1955 spurred construction and job creation in the city. The Riviera also attracted a steady stream of tourists, contributing to the growth of the region's tourism industry.
The Riviera Hotel and Casino closed its doors in 2015, citing declining revenue and increased competition from newer casinos. However, the hotel's legacy continues to live on. The Riviera's distinctive architecture and historical significance have made it a popular destination for tourists and historians alike.
Year | Event |
---|---|
1955 | Riviera Hotel and Casino opens on April 20th |
1960 | First televised boxing match featuring Floyd Patterson |
1961 | 22-story tower and convention center added |
1966 | Frank Sinatra performs at the Versailles Room |
1973 | Riviera offers first casino gambling school |
2000 | Sahara Hotel and Casino acquires the Riviera |
2005 | 50th anniversary celebration and grand reopening |
2015 | Riviera Hotel and Casino closes on May 4th |
Name | Notable Performances |
---|---|
Frank Sinatra | 1966-1985 |
Dean Martin | 1967-1974 |
Sammy Davis Jr. | 1967-1977 |
Elvis Presley | 1969-1976 |
The Beatles | 1964 |
Elton John | 1970-1990 |
Diana Ross | 1972-1984 |
Gaming | Amenities |
---|---|
Slot machines | Restaurants and bars |
Blackjack | Nightclubs |
Roulette | Swimming pools |
Craps | Health club |
Poker | Spa |
When planning a visit to the Riviera Hotel and Casino, there are a few common mistakes to avoid:
If you are planning to visit the Riviera Hotel and Casino, follow these steps:
Pros of Visiting the Riviera Hotel and Casino:
Cons of Visiting the Riviera Hotel and Casino:
The Riviera Hotel and Casino has played a pivotal role in the development of Las Vegas as a world-renowned entertainment destination. Its distinctive architecture, rich history, and countless memorable moments have cemented its place as an iconic landmark. While the Riviera may no longer offer gaming or entertainment, its legacy continues to inspire visitors and historians alike. By understanding the hotel's historical significance, avoiding common mistakes, and following a step-by-step approach, you can fully appreciate the enduring impact of the Riviera Hotel and Casino.
Introduction
The Riviera Hotel and Casino, once a shining beacon on the Las Vegas Strip, has left an unforgettable imprint on the city's gaming and entertainment landscape. Known affectionately as the "Rivi," this iconic establishment played a pivotal role in shaping the vibrant tapestry of Sin City. With its vibrant history, renowned entertainment, and captivating casino offerings, the Riviera remains etched in the annals of Las Vegas lore, even after its closure in 2015.
The Riviera opened its doors on April 20, 1955, with a grand ceremony attended by Hollywood A-listers. Its founders envisioned the property as a luxurious destination for both locals and tourists alike. Over the years, the Riviera became synonymous with star-studded performances, lavish parties, and world-class gaming.
The Riviera's opulent showrooms and theaters hosted some of the biggest names in entertainment, including Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Sammy Davis Jr., and Elvis Presley. The "Blue Room," a celebrated cabaret venue, featured acts such as the Rat Pack, Harpo Marx, and Phyllis Diller. The property also showcased spectacular productions like "Splash," a dazzling water show that set the standard for Vegas aquatic extravaganzas.
The Riviera's casino floor was a constant hive of activity, offering a diverse range of gaming options. From classic table games like blackjack and roulette to cutting-edge slot machines, the casino catered to every taste and preference. High rollers flocked to the exclusive "Salon Prive," a private gaming space reserved for the elite.
Despite its closure, the Riviera's legacy continues to resonate throughout Las Vegas. The property's distinctive architecture, with its curved façade and towering neon sign, became a recognizable symbol of the city. The casino's contributions to entertainment, hospitality, and gaming earned it a special place in the hearts of locals and visitors alike.
The Riviera mattered for several reasons:
Q: When did the Riviera open and close?
A: April 20, 1955 - June 30, 2015
Q: Who were some of the famous performers who graced the Riviera's stages?
A: Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Sammy Davis Jr., Elvis Presley, The Rat Pack, and more.
Q: What was the name of the Riviera's exclusive gaming space for high rollers?
A: The Salon Prive
Q: What became of the Riviera after its closure?
A: The property was sold and demolished in 2016, and the site is currently vacant.
Q: Why did the Riviera close?
A: Declining revenue and increasing competition contributed to the decision to close the property.
Q: What is the Riviera's impact on modern-day Las Vegas?
A: The Riviera remains an iconic landmark and a reminder of the city's rich entertainment heritage.
Table 1: Key Statistics of the Riviera
Feature | Value |
---|---|
Opening Date | April 20, 1955 |
Closing Date | June 30, 2015 |
Number of Hotel Rooms | 2,075 |
Casino Size | 107,000 square feet |
Famous Performers Hosted | Over 1,000 |
Table 2: Entertainment Venues at the Riviera
Venue | Capacity | Notable Acts |
---|---|---|
Blue Room | 1,000 | Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Harpo Marx |
Riviera Theatre | 1,500 | Elvis Presley, Liza Minnelli, Wayne Newton |
Splash Theater | 1,200 | "Splash" water show |
Table 3: Gaming Options at the Riviera
Game | Variations |
---|---|
Blackjack | Single Deck, Double Deck, Multiple Deck |
Roulette | American, European |
Craps | Standard, High Limit |
Baccarat | Mini Baccarat, Midi Baccarat |
Slots | Traditional Reels, Video Slots, Progressive Slots |
While the Riviera may be gone, its legacy lives on in the memories of those who experienced its magic. By exploring the iconic hotel and casino through this article, you can gain a deeper appreciation for its contributions to Las Vegas entertainment and gaming history.
For over 60 years, the Riviera Hotel and Casino has been a staple of the Las Vegas Strip, known for its luxurious accommodations, exciting gaming options, and world-class entertainment. This iconic hotel has witnessed the evolution of the city and played a significant role in shaping its reputation as an entertainment capital.
The Riviera Hotel was founded in 1955 by Wilbur Clark and opened its doors on April 20th, 1955. It was initially a small property with 200 rooms, but it underwent several expansions over the years, growing to its current size of 2,075 rooms.
Over the decades, the Riviera has hosted countless legendary entertainers, including Frank Sinatra, Sammy Davis Jr., Dean Martin, and Elvis Presley. It was also the site of many memorable television specials, including "The Rat Pack Is Back" and "Elvis: That's the Way It Is."
In 2015, the Riviera Hotel and Casino closed its doors for good, ending an era in Las Vegas history. However, its legacy continues to inspire awe and fascination.
The Riviera Hotel was designed by renowned architect Morris Lapidus, known for his unique "Miami Modern" style. The hotel's exterior is characterized by its colorful façade, scalloped roofline, and signature "flying saucer" tower.
Inside, the Riviera featured a grand lobby with marble floors, towering columns, and a stunning chandelier. The hotel also had a variety of bars, restaurants, and lounges, each with its own distinctive ambiance.
Feature | Description |
---|---|
Exterior | Colorful façade, scalloped roofline, flying saucer tower |
Lobby | Marble floors, towering columns, grand chandelier |
Bars and Restaurants | Each with unique ambiance, including: |
- | The Celebrity Room: A Hollywood-themed lounge |
- | The Sapphire Lounge: A nightclub with a 70-foot stage |
- | The Starlite Lounge: A cocktail lounge featuring live music |
The Riviera Hotel and Casino was renowned for its extensive gaming options. It offered a variety of slot machines, table games, and poker rooms, catering to players of all levels.
In addition to gaming, the Riviera was also a popular entertainment destination. It featured a showroom, a nightclub, and a comedy club, hosting a wide range of shows and performances.
Option | Description |
---|---|
Slot Machines | Over 2,500 machines, including classic and video slots |
Table Games | Blackjack, roulette, craps, baccarat, and more |
Poker | Two poker rooms with cash games and tournaments |
Showroom | Hosted musical acts, comedy shows, and special events |
Nightclub | A multi-level club with DJs, live music, and VIP areas |
Comedy Club | Featured stand-up comedians and sketch comedy |
The Riviera Hotel and Casino offered a range of guest accommodations to suit all tastes and budgets. Standard rooms were spacious and well-appointed, while suites provided luxurious amenities and stunning views of the Las Vegas Strip.
Type | Amenities | Average Room Rate (2015) |
---|---|---|
Standard Room | Two queen beds or one king bed, flat-screen TV, mini-fridge | $129 |
Deluxe Room | Strip view, sitting area, enhanced amenities | $159 |
Suite | Separate living room, dining area, wet bar, balcony | $459-$2,500 |
The Riviera Hotel and Casino provided guests with a wide range of amenities and services to enhance their stay. These included:
The Riviera Hotel and Casino has left an inde
2024-09-23 14:10:00 UTC
2024-09-24 20:19:10 UTC
2024-09-23 13:18:14 UTC
2024-09-25 02:21:08 UTC
2024-09-23 13:18:08 UTC
2024-09-24 20:18:45 UTC
2024-09-23 17:11:19 UTC
2024-09-23 13:17:04 UTC
2024-09-25 05:21:07 UTC
2024-09-23 05:51:52 UTC
2024-09-23 05:52:14 UTC
2024-09-25 19:07:41 UTC
2024-09-25 19:08:06 UTC
2024-09-28 00:50:11 UTC
2024-09-20 05:37:33 UTC
2024-09-20 05:37:52 UTC
2024-09-28 01:33:57 UTC
2024-09-28 01:33:53 UTC
2024-09-28 01:33:38 UTC
2024-09-28 01:33:22 UTC
2024-09-28 01:33:13 UTC
2024-09-28 01:33:10 UTC
2024-09-28 01:32:54 UTC