In a shocking turn of events, the iconic Mirage Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas has officially announced its closing date, which will come ahead of the highly anticipated opening of the new Hard Rock Hotel on the Las Vegas Strip.
The Mirage, which has been a staple in the Las Vegas entertainment scene for over three decades, will be closing its doors on May 23rd, just a few short weeks before the grand opening of the Hard Rock Hotel on June 1st. The decision to close the Mirage comes as a surprise to many, as the hotel has long been considered one of the crown jewels of the Las Vegas Strip.
In a statement released by Mirage owner MGM Resorts International, the company cited “changing market conditions and increased competition” as the primary reasons for the closure. The statement also noted that the Mirage’s closure will allow MGM Resorts to focus on its other properties in Las Vegas, including the Bellagio, Mandalay Bay, and MGM Grand.
The Mirage first opened its doors in 1989 and quickly became a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. The hotel’s iconic volcano, which erupts nightly in a dazzling display of fire and water, has become one of the most recognizable landmarks on the Strip. The Mirage also boasts a wide array of entertainment options, including the famous Cirque du Soleil show “Love” and the beloved dolphin habitat.
News of the Mirage’s closure has sent shockwaves through the Las Vegas community, with many longtime employees and patrons expressing sadness at the loss of such a beloved institution. “The Mirage has been a second home to me for over 20 years,” said longtime bartender Maria Sanchez. “I’m devastated to see it go.”
Despite the sadness surrounding the Mirage’s closure, many are eagerly awaiting the opening of the new Hard Rock Hotel, which promises to bring a fresh and exciting new energy to the Strip. With its rock and roll theme, live music venue, and upscale dining options, the Hard Rock Hotel is poised to become a must-visit destination for music lovers and partygoers alike.
As the Mirage prepares to say goodbye to Las Vegas, many are reflecting on the hotel’s storied history and the countless memories created within its walls. From high-stakes gambling to world-class entertainment, the Mirage has truly been a one-of-a-kind destination on the Strip. As the countdown to its closure begins, visitors and locals alike are encouraged to pay their final respects to this legendary Las Vegas landmark.