The Tropicana Las Vegas, a legendary casino on the Las Vegas Strip, will be closing its doors after 67 years to make way for a $1.5 billion Major League Baseball stadium. The casino, which was frequented by the Rat Pack and had ties to the mob, will be demolished in October. The closure of the Tropicana marks the end of an era for the iconic Las Vegas landmark. Many longtime employees, such as bartender Charlie Granado, are saddened by the closure but understand that it is time for a new chapter for the city.
When the Tropicana first opened in 1957, Las Vegas was a much smaller city with a population of just over 100,000. The casino quickly became a popular destination, known for its lavish decor, A-list entertainment, and elegant showroom. Over the years, the Tropicana underwent various renovations and expansions, most notably the addition of two hotel towers and a stained glass ceiling in the casino. The Tropicana was a staple of vintage Vegas, hosting iconic performers such as Elizabeth Taylor, Frank Sinatra, and Gladys Knight.
Barbara Boggess, who started working at the Tropicana in 1978, recalls a time when the casino was surrounded by desert and was known as the “Tiffany of the Strip.” She has seen the Tropicana go through many changes, including a rebranding as “The Island of Las Vegas” in the 1980s and a South Beach-themed renovation in 2011. Today, only the original low-rise hotel wings remain, but the casino still exudes an old-world charm that transports visitors back in time. Despite its closure, the Tropicana continues to hold a special place in the hearts of those who have memories of the famed establishment.
Behind the scenes, the Tropicana had ties to organized crime, particularly through reputed mobster Frank Costello. However, the casino also saw many years of success, hosting the city’s longest-running show, “Folies Bergere.” The cabaret show featured elaborate costumes, original music, magic acts, and comedy, becoming a quintessential Las Vegas experience. The Tropicana’s legacy lives on in popular culture, with references in films like “Diamonds Are Forever” and “Viva Las Vegas.” The upcoming demolition of the Tropicana marks the end of an era but also paves the way for the future of Las Vegas as a sports and entertainment hub.
The site of the Tropicana will soon be home to a Major League Baseball stadium, adding to the growing sports presence in Las Vegas. The city is known for its constant reinvention, with new developments reshaping the landscape of the Strip. While there is controversy surrounding the closure of the Tropicana, many see it as a necessary step in the evolution of Las Vegas as a major entertainment destination. The city continues to attract visitors with its mix of nostalgia and innovation, ensuring that it remains a top destination for tourists and sports fans alike.
