After years of being a staple of the Las Vegas Strip, the iconic Mirage Hotel and Casino is set to close its doors this summer. The news has sent shockwaves through the city’s tourism industry, as the Mirage has long been a popular destination for both locals and visitors alike.
First opened in 1989 by developer Steve Wynn, the Mirage was the first resort on the Strip to feature a volcano that erupts nightly, as well as a large aquarium filled with exotic marine life. Over the years, the property has undergone several renovations and expansions, including the addition of a bustling casino floor, multiple restaurants, bars, and live entertainment venues.
Despite its popularity and history, the decision to close the Mirage was made by MGM Resorts International, the current owner of the property. In a statement released to the press, MGM cited the changing landscape of the Las Vegas tourism market as one of the main reasons for the closure.
“With the rise of online gambling and the increasing competition from newer, more modern resorts on the Strip, we have made the difficult decision to close the Mirage,” said MGM Resorts CEO Bill Hornbuckle. “We are grateful to all of our employees and guests who have supported us throughout the years, and we are committed to assisting them in finding new opportunities within our company.”
The closure of the Mirage is expected to have a significant impact on the local economy, as the resort employs thousands of workers and attracts millions of visitors each year. Local businesses that rely on the foot traffic generated by the Mirage are also bracing for the impact of its closure.
Many longtime patrons of the Mirage are mourning the loss of the beloved resort, with some expressing sadness and nostalgia for the memories they have made there over the years.
“I’ve been coming to the Mirage for as long as I can remember,” said longtime visitor Sarah Johnson. “It’s sad to see such an iconic place close its doors, but I hope that whatever comes next will be just as special.”
As the summer months approach, the Mirage is expected to host a series of farewell events and promotions to give patrons one last chance to experience the magic of the resort before it shuts down for good. The closure date has not yet been announced, but sources close to MGM Resorts say that it is likely to happen sometime in late August.
For now, the future of the Mirage remains uncertain, but one thing is certain: its legacy as a cornerstone of the Las Vegas Strip will always be remembered.
