After almost 32 years of operation, The Mirage casino, a iconic symbol of the Las Vegas Strip, is set to close its doors permanently. The news of its closure marks the end of an era, as The Mirage was one of the first megaresorts to be built in Las Vegas in the 1990s.
Opened in 1989 by casino mogul Steve Wynn, The Mirage was a pioneering project that revolutionized the concept of a Las Vegas resort. It featured a tropical-themed interior, complete with a volcano that erupted nightly outside the main entrance, a dolphin habitat, and a 20,000-gallon aquarium filled with exotic fish. The Mirage also boasted a 90-foot-tall atrium containing a rainforest habitat and a 40-foot waterfall.
The casino itself was home to a vast array of gaming options, from slot machines and table games to high-stakes poker rooms and a state-of-the-art sportsbook. The Mirage was also known for its top-notch entertainment, hosting popular shows such as Cirque du Soleil’s “Love” and “O” as well as headlining musical acts like The Beatles and Tom Jones.
Over the years, The Mirage became one of the most profitable casinos in Las Vegas, attracting millions of visitors each year from around the world. Its success sparked a trend of building larger and more extravagant resorts on the Strip, leading to the construction of megaresorts like the Bellagio, the Venetian, and the Wynn.
However, in recent years, The Mirage has faced stiff competition from newer, more modern resorts that offer a wider range of amenities and entertainment options. The COVID-19 pandemic dealt a devastating blow to the tourism industry in Las Vegas, leading to a sharp decline in visitor numbers and revenue for The Mirage.
Despite efforts to revitalize the property, including a recent renovation of the casino floor and hotel rooms, the decision was made to permanently close The Mirage due to ongoing financial losses. The closure will affect over 1,000 employees who will be laid off as a result.
As news of The Mirage’s closure spreads, many in the Las Vegas community are mourning the loss of an iconic landmark that played a pivotal role in shaping the city’s entertainment landscape. The Mirage will forever be remembered as a groundbreaking resort that set the standard for luxury and extravagance on the Las Vegas Strip.
