Saying Goodbye To The Iconic Tropicana Hotel Las Vegas

 Since relocating to Las Vegas in the summer of 1999.  The Las Vegas skyline has definitely changed!

The latest change came this week with the Tropicana Hotel being demolished to make room for the major league A's baseball stadium.

 Here are some interesting facts and a bit of history behind the Tropicana Hotel Las Vegas.

The Tropicana Hotel first opened on April 4, 1957, and was one of the last remaining original resorts from the golden age of the Las Vegas Strip. It was developed by Ben Jaffe, a Miami hotelier, who wanted to bring a South Beach-inspired vibe to Las Vegas. 

When it opened, the Tropicana was known for its luxurious ambiance and tropical theme. It quickly earned the nickname “The Tiffany of the Strip” due to its upscale atmosphere, which set it apart from the glitzier, mob-influenced casinos of the time.

The Tropicana was designed to transport guests to a tropical paradise, with lush landscaping, palm trees, and pools that evoked a South Seas or Caribbean setting. The original design also featured a large "Tropicana Pavilion," where visitors could enjoy entertainment and shows.

Over the decades, the Tropicana changed ownership several times, including prominent operators like the Hilton Corporation, Aztar Corporation, and Penn National Gaming. Each ownership brought renovations and new features, but the hotel retained its tropical theme.

The Tropicana had a long history of hosting world-class entertainers and shows. Notable performers have included legends like Sammy Davis Jr. and Dean Martin. The hotel was also known for its "Folies Bergère" revue, which ran for nearly 50 years, from 1959 to 2009, making it one of the longest-running shows in Las Vegas history. 

Other engagements included "Raiding The Rock Vault" and "Legends In Concert"

The Tropicana was featured in Viva Las Vegas (1964) with Elvis Presley, Diamonds Are Forever (1971) from the James Bond franchise, and The Godfather (1972), adding to its iconic status.

Despite changes, the Tropicana was considered a piece of Las Vegas history. Its longevity, its connection to classic Vegas entertainment, and its tropical-themed architecture earned it a special place in the city’s cultural landscape. 

As of 2:30am on October 9th, 2024. The Tropicana was no more... Demolished but not forgotten. 

Thanks for the Memories!

GE