Las Vegas has established itself as a “sports city” in recent years, which was built a few days ago after the Las Vegas Golden Knights captured the Stanley Cup after six years as an NHL team.
But now, as the city doubles down on the development of its presence in professional sports, the old signs of history are facing destruction and erasure.
The city of Las Vegas has approved a $1.5 billion stadium ($380 million to come from state funds) to be built on the famous Las Vegas Strip, as approved by Nevada Governor Joe Lombardo. It will be the home stadium of Sin City’s new MLB team, formerly known as the Oakland Athletics.
However, the site where the stadium is to be built is on top of one of the oldest and most famous Vegas hotels on the strip – The Tropicana, which will soon be demolished.
The rights to operate the facility were purchased by hospitality behemoth Bally’s Corp last September in an all-cash deal that cost about $148 million.
The Tropicana currently has a large casino and several popular shows including, Purple Reign: The Prince Tribute Show, MJ Live: Michael Jackson Tribute Concert, Murray the Magician, and Rich Little.
Many famous restaurants also call the Tropicana home, such as Robert Irvine’s Public House and Oakville Tuscan Grill.
We don’t know if the shows and restaurants will move or close.
The Tropicana first opened its doors in 1957 and was originally one of the most successful hotels on The Strip, attracting the rich and famous in its heyday and featured in films from “James Bond” to Elvis Presley hits. He was also known for his infamous Paris cabaret show.
Bally’s Corp is down 20% in the year since Monday morning.
