Las Vegas is set to say goodbye to another landmark hotel as The Mirage Hotel & Casino prepares to close its doors on July 17th. This closure marks the end of an era for the iconic property, which has been a fixture on the Las Vegas Strip for 34 years since opening in 1989.
Hard Rock International (HRI), who acquired The Mirage in 2022, has announced the official closing date as part of a significant transformation plan. The last day for hotel guests will be July 14th, signaling the start of a major redevelopment project.
Transformation into Hard Rock Las Vegas and Guitar Hotel
The primary reason for The Mirage closing is to pave the way for a new and ambitious project: the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino and Guitar Hotel Las Vegas. HRI is investing significantly to reimagine the property, aiming to create a new landmark on the Strip.
This transformation will feature a striking, nearly 700-foot guitar-shaped hotel tower as its centerpiece. The Guitar Hotel, reminiscent of the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood in Florida, is expected to become a major attraction in Las Vegas. The company anticipates opening the new integrated resort in 2027.
According to Jim Allen, chairman of HRI, the transformation reflects a forward-looking vision for the location. In a statement, Allen expressed gratitude to “the Las Vegas community and team members for warmly welcoming Hard Rock,” acknowledging The Mirage’s legacy while emphasizing the excitement for the new venture.
The Mirage’s Legacy and Las Vegas Evolution
The Mirage played a pivotal role in shaping modern Las Vegas. When it opened in 1989, it ushered in an era of megaresorts and luxury experiences. Its success inspired the development of other iconic properties like Excalibur, Luxor, and the MGM Grand, all of which emerged in the following years, transforming the Las Vegas Strip into the entertainment destination it is today.
However, Las Vegas is a city of constant evolution. The closure of The Mirage, following closely on the heels of The Tropicana Las Vegas shutting down in April, highlights a trend of renewal and redevelopment. The Tropicana’s site is also slated for demolition to potentially make way for a new baseball stadium, reflecting the city’s dynamic landscape where the old makes way for the new.
While The Mirage’s closure marks a significant change, it also signals a new chapter for the Las Vegas Strip. The Hard Rock Hotel & Casino and Guitar Hotel Las Vegas promises to bring a fresh wave of excitement and innovation, continuing the city’s tradition of reinvention and offering visitors new and spectacular experiences. For those who have cherished memories of The Mirage, it’s a bittersweet moment, but also a glimpse into the ever-evolving future of Las Vegas.
