Harrah's Las Vegas: Difference between revisions
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{{Short description|Hotel casino in Las Vegas, Nevada}} |
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{{Infobox casino |
{{Infobox casino |
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|name=Harrah's Las Vegas |
|name=Harrah's Las Vegas |
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|caption=Harrah's Las Vegas in 2006 |
|caption=Harrah's Las Vegas in 2006 |
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|location=[[Las Vegas]], [[Nevada]], U.S. |
|location=[[Las Vegas]], [[Nevada]], U.S. |
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|pushpin_map = United States Las Vegas Strip#Nevada |
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|address=3475 South [[Las Vegas Boulevard]] |
|address=3475 South [[Las Vegas Boulevard]] |
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|date_opened={{Start date and age|1973|7|2}} |
|date_opened={{Start date and age|1972|2|1}} (hotel)<br>{{Start date and age|1973|7|2}} (casino) |
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|theme=[[Carnival]]<br>[[Mardi Gras]] |
|theme=[[Carnival]]<br>[[Mardi Gras]] |
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|rooms=2, |
|rooms=2,542 |
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|space_gaming={{Convert|90637|sqft|abbr=on}} |
|space_gaming={{Convert|90637|sqft|abbr=on}} |
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|shows=[[Menopause The Musical]]<br>[[Mac King]]<br>Tenors of Rock<br>X Country |
|shows=''[[Menopause The Musical]]''<br>[[Mac King]] (2000–2021)<br>Tenors of Rock (2017–2019)<br>''X Country'' |
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|attractions=Carnaval Court |
|attractions=Carnaval Court |
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|notable_restaurants= |
|notable_restaurants=Flavors, The Buffet<br>Fulton Street Food Hall<br>Oyster Bar<br>[[Ruth's Chris Steak House]]<br>[[Toby Keith's I Love This Bar & Grill]] (2005–2020) |
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| casino_type = Land-based |
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|owner=[[Vici Properties]] |
|owner=[[Vici Properties]] |
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|license_holder=[[Caesars Entertainment |
|license_holder=[[Eldorado Resorts|Caesars Entertainment]] |
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|names_pre=Holiday Casino (1973–1992) |
|names_pre=Holiday Casino (1973–1992) |
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|renovations=1982, |
|renovations=1975, 1982, 1986, 1989–90, 1996–97, 2006, 2015, 2018, 2020–21 |
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|coordinates={{Coord|36|7|10|N|115|10|15|W|region:US-NV_type:landmark|display=inline,title}} |
|coordinates={{Coord|36|7|10|N|115|10|15|W|region:US-NV_type:landmark|display=inline,title}} |
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|website={{URL|caesars.com/harrahs-las-vegas}} |
|website={{URL|caesars.com/harrahs-las-vegas}} |
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}} |
}} |
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'''Harrah's Las Vegas''' |
'''Harrah's Las Vegas''' is a [[hotel]] and [[casino]] centrally located on the [[Las Vegas Strip]] in [[Paradise, Nevada]]. It is owned by [[Vici Properties]] and operated by [[Eldorado Resorts|Caesars Entertainment]]. The property originally opened as a joint venture with [[Holiday Inn]]. Construction began in April 1970, and the hotel portion opened on February 1, 1972, as the '''Holiday Inn Center Strip'''. The casino portion, known as the '''Holiday Casino''', opened on July 2, 1973. Shelby Williams was among the casino's investors. After his death in 1977, his wife Claudine Williams took over operations. Holiday Inn purchased an interest in the casino operation in 1979, and bought out Williams entirely in 1983, although she would remain as chairwoman. |
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In 1990, Holiday Inn transferred ownership of the resort to [[The Promus Companies]], which then ended the franchise agreement with the hotel company. The property was renamed Harrah's Las Vegas in April 1992, and Promus would change its name to Harrah's Entertainment in 1995, before ultimately becoming Caesars Entertainment. The land was sold to Vici in 2017, and Caesars continues operating Harrah's Las Vegas through a 15-year [[leaseback]] agreement. |
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The hotel offers 2,540 rooms with an attached casino providing {{Convert|90637|sqft|abbr=on}} of space. The hotel consists of two towers, Mardi Gras and Valley Towers (formerly named the Carnival Tower), the taller of which, Valley, has 35 stories. |
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The casino originally featured a riverboat façade, which was enlarged in 1990, as part of a $100 million renovation and expansion project. The riverboat theme was removed in a subsequent $200 million project which concluded in 1997, adding a [[Carnival]] and [[Mardi Gras]] theme instead. The hotel includes 2,542 rooms, located across three buildings: the original 14-story tower, a 23-story tower completed in 1982, and a 35-story tower added in 1990. A 35-story addition was made to the third tower during the 1997 expansion. |
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There is a [[Las Vegas Monorail]] stop, the [[Harrah's & The Linq station]], at the rear of the property. A shuttle service to the [[Rio All Suite Hotel and Casino]] was discontinued in late 2017. |
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In addition to a showroom, the property also has an outdoor bar and entertainment area known as Carnaval Court, and it featured a branch of [[The Improv]] comedy club from 1995 to 2016. The resort has featured numerous entertainers, including singer [[Clint Holmes]] (2000–2006) and magician [[Mac King]] (2000–2021). It has also hosted shows such as ''[[Legends in Concert]]'' (2009–2013), ''[[Million Dollar Quartet (musical)|Million Dollar Quartet]]'' (2013–2016), and ''[[Menopause The Musical]]''. |
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==History== |
==History== |
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The resort was built on property once occupied by the Tumbleweed motel, built in 1946;<ref>{{cite news |title=Clark County Issues Number of Permits for New Construction |url=https://reviewjournal.newsbank.com/search?text=%22Tumbleweed%20motel%22%20%22number%20of%20permits%22&content_added=&date_from=&date_to=&pub%5B0%5D=1508AFD0E83DBED6 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=April 26, 1946 |access-date=April 20, 2022 |url-access=subscription}}</ref> and the Pyramids motel, built in 1952. The Pyramids, a 20-unit motel, was the first project for Las Vegas real estate developer [[Irwin Molasky]].<ref>{{cite book |last=Vanderwilt |first=Dirk |title=Las Vegas: A Comprehensive Guide to Resorts, Casinos, and Attractions |date=2007 |publisher=Channel Lake, Inc. |isbn=978-0-9792043-5-7 |pages=115–117 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=ylfiwRcqgWwC&pg=PA115 |access-date=April 19, 2022}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Changing the Face of Nevada |url=https://www.nevadabusiness.com/2001/03/changing-the-face-of-nevada/ |access-date=April 19, 2022 |work=Nevada Business Magazine |date=March 1, 2001}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last=Schwartz |first=David G. |title=An Interview with Irwin Molasky |url=https://d.library.unlv.edu/digital/collection/jhp/id/4001/ |website=University of Nevada, Las Vegas |access-date=April 19, 2022 |date=April 23, 2014}}</ref> The Tumbleweed would later become the Sand Dunes,<ref>{{cite web |title=Harrah's Las Vegas |url=https://historiclasvegasproject.com/Harrahs-Las-Vegas.html |website=Historic Las Vegas Project |access-date=April 20, 2022}}</ref> and was destroyed in a 1968 fire.<ref>{{cite news |title=Strip Motel Fire |url=https://reviewjournal.newsbank.com/search?text=%22Dunes+Motel+Friday%22&content_added=&date_from=&date_to=&pub%5B%5D=1508AFD0E83DBED6&sort=old |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=March 10, 1968 |access-date=April 20, 2022 |url-access=subscription}}</ref> |
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===Holiday Casino (1973–1992)=== |
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On July 2, 1973, Shelby and Claudine Williams, former owners of the [[Silver Slipper]] casino, opened the '''Holiday Casino''', a small [[riverboat]] themed casino in front of the [[Holiday Inn]] Las Vegas Center Strip.<ref>{{cite news|last=West|first=Jinnae|title=Claudine Williams: 1921-2009: Gaming pioneer remembered for honesty, education work|url=http://www.lasvegassun.com/news/2009/jun/13/gaming-pioneer-remembered-honesty-education-work/|accessdate=September 12, 2011|newspaper=Las Vegas Sun|date=June 13, 2009}}</ref><ref name=Latimes-052009>{{cite news|title=Obituaries / Claudine Williams, 1921 - 2009|url=http://articles.latimes.com/2009/may/20/local/me-claudine-williams20|accessdate=September 12, 2011|newspaper=Los Angeles Times|date=May 20, 2009}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.a2zlasvegas.com/hotels/history/h-harrahs.html|title=History of the Harrah's Las Vegas - Las Vegas Strip|author=|date=|website=www.a2zlasvegas.com|accessdate=17 April 2018}}</ref> |
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=== Holiday Inn and Holiday Casino (1973–1992) === |
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[[File:Harrah's Hotel and Casino, Las Vegas, Nevada LCCN2011634602.tif|thumb|left|With riverboat-themed structure]] |
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In March 1969, plans were announced for a riverboat-themed casino to be built on the property. It would be developed by Holiday Queen Land Corporation, and the project would include a hotel in partnership with [[Holiday Inn]].<ref>{{cite news |title=New Hotel Planned |url=https://reviewjournal.newsbank.com/search?date_from=1969&date_to=1969&text=%22New+Hotel+Planned%22&content_added=&pub%5B%5D=1508AFD0E83DBED6&sort=old |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=March 23, 1969 |access-date=April 19, 2022 |url-access=subscription}}</ref> The casino would be owned by Holiday Queen, while Holiday Inn would operate the hotel under its eponymous brand.<ref>{{cite news |title=Strip to Get Riverboat |url=https://reviewjournal.newsbank.com/search?text=%22Strip%20to%20Get%20Riverboat%22&content_added=&date_from=&date_to=&pub%5B0%5D=1508AFD0E83DBED6 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=April 5, 1970 |access-date=April 19, 2022 |url-access=subscription}}</ref> Groundbreaking took place on April 2, 1970.<ref>{{cite news |title=New Strip Extravaganza |url=https://reviewjournal.newsbank.com/search?text=%22New%20Strip%20Extravaganza%22&content_added=&date_from=&date_to=&pub%5B0%5D=1508AFD0E83DBED6 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=April 3, 1970 |access-date=April 19, 2022 |url-access=subscription}}</ref> The 520-room hotel opened on February 1, 1972, as the Holiday Inn Center Strip,<ref>{{cite news |title=New Inn Opens |url=https://reviewjournal.newsbank.com/search?text=%22New%20Inn%20Opens%22&content_added=&date_from=&date_to=&pub%5B0%5D=1508AFD0E83DBED6 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=February 3, 1972 |access-date=April 19, 2022 |url-access=subscription}}</ref> named for its location at the center of the [[Las Vegas Strip]].<ref>{{cite news |title=Holiday Inn Center Strip |url=https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/460201857/ |work=San Francisco Examiner |date=January 9, 1972 |access-date=April 19, 2022 |via=Newspapers.com |url-access=subscription}}</ref> It consisted of a 14-story tower.<ref>{{cite news |title=Outside Fire Causes Hotel Evacuation |url=https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/682520902/ |work=The Chico Enterprise-Record |agency=United Press International |date=April 18, 1981 |access-date=April 20, 2022 |via=Newspapers.com |url-access=subscription}}</ref> The adjacent Pyramids motel was purchased later that year for $750,000, and was demolished to provide additional parking space.<ref>{{cite news |title=Holiday Queen Casino |url=https://reviewjournal.newsbank.com/search?text=%22Holiday+Queen+Casino%22&date_from=1969&date_to=1975&content_added=&pub%5B%5D=1508AFDB220B673E |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=December 17, 1972 |access-date=April 20, 2022 |url-access=subscription}}</ref> |
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In 1979, Holiday Inn bought a 40% share of the casino's parent company, Riverboat, Inc.<ref>{{cite news|title=Holiday Inns buys interest in Vegas site|url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=Nv1LAAAAIBAJ&sjid=HfkDAAAAIBAJ&pg=4305%2C3278107|accessdate=September 12, 2011|newspaper=Spokane Daily Chronicle|date=April 11, 1979}}</ref> By 1982, the hotel had grown to over 1,000 rooms making it the largest in the chain.<ref>{{cite news|last=Moskowitz|first=Milton|title=Holiday Inn parlays casinos into cash|url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=-gYuAAAAIBAJ&sjid=c58FAAAAIBAJ&pg=1287%2C6639741|accessdate=September 12, 2011|newspaper=Anchorage Daily News|date=July 20, 1982}}</ref> Holiday Inn bought out the remaining 60% in 1983.<ref>{{cite book|last=Schwartz|first=David G.|title=Roll the Bones: The History of Gambling|year=2007|publisher=Penguin|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=2fJWz4X50wQC&lpg=PT405|chapter=7}}</ref> |
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During construction, the gaming portion was known as the River Queen Casino.<ref>{{cite news |title=Montreal group building Vegas casino |url=https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/421052560/ |work=The Gazette |date=June 5, 1971 |access-date=April 19, 2022 |via=Newspapers.com |url-access=subscription}}</ref> It opened as the Holiday Casino on July 2, 1973. It included 320 slot machines and 20 table games,<ref name=UPI/><ref>{{cite news |title=Holiday Casino Celebrates 1st Anniversary |url=https://reviewjournal.newsbank.com/search?text=%22Holiday%20Casino%22%20%22Celebrates%201st%20Anniversary%22&content_added=&date_from=&date_to=&pub%5B0%5D=1508AFDB220B673E |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=August 2, 1974 |access-date=April 21, 2022 |url-access=subscription}}</ref> and catered to a middle-class clientele.<ref name=Shelby/> The casino's primary investors included Shelby Williams and Norman Jenson.<ref name=UPI>{{cite news |title=Holiday Casino In Vegas Wins First Approval |url=https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/79171312/ |work=Nevada State Journal |agency=United Press International |date=June 15, 1973 |access-date=April 19, 2022 |via=Newspapers.com |url-access=subscription}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Gaming license approval is given for $7 million Las Vegas casino |url=https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/147648739/ |work=Reno Evening Gazette |agency=Associated Press |date=June 14, 1973 |access-date=April 19, 2022 |via=Newspapers.com}}</ref> Williams served as the casino's president and board chairman.<ref name=Shelby/><ref>{{cite news |title=New Holiday Queen tabs board chairman |url=https://reviewjournal.newsbank.com/search?text=%22New+Holiday+Queen+tabs+board+chairman%22&content_added=&date_from=&date_to=&pub%5B%5D=1508AFD0E83DBED6 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=December 19, 1972 |access-date=April 21, 2022 |url-access=subscription}}</ref> He and his wife Claudine Williams had previously owned the [[Silver Slipper]] casino in the 1960s.<ref>{{cite news |last=White |first=Tricia |title=Love of gaming |url=https://reviewjournal.newsbank.com/search?text=%22Love+of+gaming%22&content_added=&date_from=&date_to=&pub%5B%5D=1508AFD0E83DBED6 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=July 3, 1990 |access-date=April 19, 2022 |url-access=subscription}}</ref> Shelby Williams died in 1977, at the age of 66, after a lengthy illness.<ref name=Shelby>{{cite news |title=Vegas gaming figure Shelby Williams dies |url=https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/151069954/ |work=Reno Evening Gazette |agency=Associated Press |date=September 27, 1977 |access-date=April 19, 2022 |via=Newspapers.com |url-access=subscription}}</ref> Claudine Williams took over operations, a rarity in the Nevada gaming industry, which generally consisted of men.<ref name=Women>{{cite web |last=Schwartz |first=David G. |title=My Nevada 5: Exceptional Women in Gaming |url=https://www.unlv.edu/news/article/my-nevada-5-exceptional-women-gaming |website=University of Nevada, Las Vegas |access-date=April 21, 2022 |date=June 3, 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite book |last=Moehring |first=Eugene P. |title=Resort City In The Sunbelt, Second Edition: Las Vegas, 1930-2000 |date=2016 |publisher=University of Nevada Press |isbn=978-0-87417-693-3 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=oiuVDwAAQBAJ&pg=PT295 |access-date=April 21, 2022}}</ref> In 1979, Holiday Inn bought a 40 percent share of the casino's parent company, Riverboat, Inc.<ref>{{cite news|title=Holiday Inns buys interest in Vegas site|url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=Nv1LAAAAIBAJ&sjid=HfkDAAAAIBAJ&pg=4305%2C3278107|access-date=September 12, 2011|newspaper=Spokane Daily Chronicle|date=April 11, 1979}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Holiday Inns Takes a Gamble on Casinos |url=https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/388324558/ |work=Los Angeles Times |date=September 18, 1979 |access-date=April 19, 2022 |via=Newspapers.com |url-access=subscription}}</ref> Claudine Williams retained the other 60 percent.<ref>{{cite news |title=Holiday Inns Las Vegas OK |url=https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/704341446/ |work=The Fresno Bee |agency=Associated Press |date=August 17, 1979 |access-date=April 19, 2022 |via=Newspapers.com |url-access=subscription}}</ref> |
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[[File:Las Vegas, Nevada 1989 27.jpg|left|thumb|upright|Three-story addition, seen in 1989]] |
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In 1980, construction began on a 23-story tower addition with 494 rooms. It was finished in 1982, and the hotel became the world's largest Holiday Inn,<ref name=LVRJ-1980/><ref>{{cite news |last=Weiss |first=Clyde |title=Holiday Inns reveals plan to buy Holiday Casino |url=https://reviewjournal.newsbank.com/search?text=%22Holiday+Inns+reveals+plan+to+buy+Holiday+Casino%22&content_added=&date_from=&date_to=&pub%5B%5D=1508AFD0E83DBED6 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=November 9, 1982 |access-date=April 21, 2022 |url-access=subscription}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|last=Moskowitz|first=Milton|title=Holiday Inn parlays casinos into cash|url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=-gYuAAAAIBAJ&sjid=c58FAAAAIBAJ&pg=1287%2C6639741|access-date=September 12, 2011|newspaper=Anchorage Daily News|date=July 20, 1982}}</ref> with 991 rooms.<ref name=LA-1989/> The project also increased the size of the casino.<ref name=LVRJ-1980>{{cite news |title=Holiday Inn groundbreaking |url=https://reviewjournal.newsbank.com/search?text=%22Holiday+Inn+groundbreaking%22&content_added=&date_from=&date_to=&pub%5B%5D=1508AFD0E83DBED6 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=April 9, 1980 |access-date=April 20, 2022 |url-access=subscription}}</ref> Holiday Inn bought out Williams' remaining 60-percent interest in 1983.<ref>{{cite book|last=Schwartz|first=David G.|title=Roll the Bones: The History of Gambling|year=2007|publisher=Penguin|chapter-url=https://books.google.com/books?id=2fJWz4X50wQC&pg=PT405|chapter=7|isbn=9781592403165}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Holiday Inns to buy parent company of 2 Vegas clubs |url=https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/150773436/ |work=Reno Gazette-Journal |agency=Associated Press |date=November 9, 1982 |access-date=April 19, 2022 |via=Newspapers.com |url-access=subscription}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Holiday Inns Inc. |url=https://www.upi.com/Archives/1983/01/05/Holiday-Inns-Inc-which-had-part-ownership-of-the/9421410590800/ |access-date=April 21, 2022 |work=UPI |date=January 5, 1983}}</ref> She remained as chairwoman of the property for years after the sale.<ref name=Women/> |
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In 1986, a three-story casino addition began construction in front of the resort.<ref>{{cite news |title=Holiday Casino addition approved |url=https://reviewjournal.newsbank.com/search?text=%22Holiday+Casino+addition+approved%22&content_added=&date_from=&date_to=&pub%5B%5D=1508AFD0E83DBED6 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=November 21, 1985 |access-date=April 21, 2022 |url-access=subscription}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Holiday Inn unveils $17 million expansion |url=https://reviewjournal.newsbank.com/search?text=%22Holiday%20Inn%20unveils%20%2417%20million%20expansion%22&content_added=&date_from=&date_to=&pub%5B0%5D=1508AFD0E83DBED6 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=January 24, 1986 |access-date=April 21, 2022 |url-access=subscription}}</ref><ref name=Kicks>{{cite news |title=Holiday Inn executives kick off $17 million casino expansion |url=https://reviewjournal.newsbank.com/search?text=%22Holiday+Inn+executives+kick+off+%2417+million+casino+expansion%22&content_added=&date_from=&date_to=&pub%5B%5D=1508AFD0E83DBED6 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=April 4, 1986 |access-date=April 21, 2022 |url-access=subscription}}</ref> During the groundbreaking ceremony, outdated gaming chips from the Holiday Casino – totaling $380,000 – were dumped into the addition's cement foundation by executives. A spokeswoman said the chips would add "color and history" to the new structure, which was built by [[Marnell Corrao Associates]]. Aside from adding casino space, the addition also included a new showroom. A renovation of the hotel rooms also took place.<ref name=Kicks/> |
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A one-year, $100 million renovation and expansion began in 1989, in an effort to compete with newer resorts.<ref name=ChangeLook>{{cite news |last=Stutz |first=Howard |title=Holiday to change look |url=https://reviewjournal.newsbank.com/search?text=%22Holiday%20to%20change%20look%22&content_added=&date_from=&date_to=&pub%5B0%5D=1508AFD0E83DBED6 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=June 9, 1989 |access-date=April 20, 2022 |url-access=subscription}}</ref><ref name=Christen/> The project included the addition of a third tower, rising 35 stories. It added 734 rooms for a total of 1,725, retaining the hotel's title as largest Holiday Inn.<ref name=ShipStrip>{{cite news |title='Ship on the Strip' opens new tower |url=https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/746530162/ |work=Daily Press |date=December 29, 1989 |access-date=April 20, 2022 |via=Newspapers.com |url-access=subscription}}</ref> The casino was also expanded by {{convert|12500|sqft|abbr=on}}, for a total of {{convert|74000|sqft|abbr=on}}.<ref name=July6/> A parking garage was added as well.<ref name=ChangeLook/> |
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{{clear}} |
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===Harrah's Las Vegas (1992–present)=== |
===Harrah's Las Vegas (1992–present)=== |
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Holiday Inn had previously purchased [[Harrah's Entertainment|Harrah's, Inc.]] in 1980.<ref>{{cite news |last=Moreno |first=Richard |title=Center, Second Streets likely site for Harrah's tower |url=https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/147622959/ |work=Reno Gazette-Journal |date=November 25, 1984 |access-date=April 20, 2022 |via=Newspapers.com}}</ref> Ten years later, Holiday Inn's eponymous hotel brand was sold to [[Bass PLC]]. A corporate spinoff, [[The Promus Companies]], was created by Holiday Inn to oversee several brands not included in the sale to Bass PLC, including Harrah's. In October 1991, Promus announced that it would end its franchise agreement with Holiday Inn and rename the Las Vegas property under its Harrah's brand.<ref>{{cite news |title=Promus casino in Vegas dropping Holiday name |url=https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/773831990/ |work=The Commercial Appeal |date=October 4, 1991 |access-date=April 20, 2022 |via=Newspapers.com |url-access=subscription}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Holiday Casino to become Harrah's |url=https://reviewjournal.newsbank.com/search?text=%22Holiday+Casino+to+become+Harrah%27s%22&date_from=1991&date_to=1991&content_added=&pub%5B%5D=1508AFD0E83DBED6 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=October 4, 1991 |access-date=April 20, 2022 |url-access=subscription}}</ref><ref name=HQ>{{cite news |title=Relocation of Harrah's headquarters 'right move at right time' |url=https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/152802293/ |work=Reno Gazette-Journal |date=January 22, 1999 |access-date=April 20, 2022 |via=Newspapers.com |url-access=subscription}}</ref> The name change was finalized in April 1992.<ref>{{cite news |title=Notes Around Town |url=https://reviewjournal.newsbank.com/search?text=%22Notes+Around+Town%22+%22Spellbound%22&content_added=&date_from=&date_to=&pub%5B%5D=1508AFD0E83DBED6 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=April 5, 1992 |access-date=April 20, 2022 |url-access=subscription}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Harrah's Casino Hotel Las Vegas |url=https://reviewjournal.newsbank.com/search?text=%22Harrah%27s+Casino+Hotel+Las+Vegas%22&content_added=&date_from=&date_to=&pub%5B%5D=1508AFD0E83DBED6 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=April 10, 1992 |access-date=April 20, 2022 |url-access=subscription}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Promus income improves |url=https://reviewjournal.newsbank.com/search?text=%22Promus+income+improves%22&content_added=&date_from=&date_to=&pub%5B%5D=1508AFD0E83DBED6 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=July 21, 1992 |access-date=April 20, 2022 |url-access=subscription}}</ref> |
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In April 1992, the property was renamed '''Harrah's Las Vegas,''' after [[William F. Harrah]]. |
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An early morning robbery occurred in April 1994, when four young men entered Harrah's and robbed the casino cage at gunpoint.<ref name=Littlejohn>{{cite book |last=Littlejohn |first=David |title=The Real Las Vegas: Life Beyond the Strip |date=1999 |publisher=Oxford University Press |isbn=978-0-19-535140-8 |pages=243–244 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=Cj6SHy8pHVEC&pg=PA243 |access-date=April 20, 2022}}</ref> A fifth man operated the getaway vehicle for the group, which consisted of Los Angeles gang members. They were apprehended after a 20-minute police chase,<ref>{{cite news |title=Five L.A. Gang Members Arrested in Second Casino Heist |url=https://apnews.com/a2cac17432828bf37f7d945f53420cb5 |access-date=April 20, 2022 |work=Associated Press |date=April 25, 1994}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Five arrested after casino holdup |url=https://www.upi.com/Archives/1994/04/25/Five-arrested-after-casino-holdup/8295767246400/ |access-date=April 20, 2022 |work=UPI |date=April 25, 1994}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=3 L.A. Men Held on $100,000 Bond in Vegas Casino Robbery |url=https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1994-05-03-mn-53376-story.html |access-date=April 20, 2022 |work=Los Angeles Times |date=May 3, 1994}}</ref> and were sentenced to prison. Two other men who planned out the robbery were also sentenced.<ref>{{cite news |last=Levy |first=Rachael |title=Judge denies request to close trial in Harrah's robbery case |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/1996/oct/03/judge-denies-request-to-close-trial-in-harrahs-rob/ |access-date=April 20, 2022 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=October 3, 1996}}</ref><ref name=Levy>{{cite news |last=Levy |first=Rachael |title=LA gang member pleads guilty in Harrah's heist |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/1996/oct/23/la-gang-member-pleads-guilty-in-harrahs-heist/ |access-date=April 20, 2022 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=October 23, 1996}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Levy |first=Rachael |title=LA gang leader convicted in robbery at Harrah's |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/1996/oct/30/la-gang-leader-convicted-in-robbery-at-harrahs/ |access-date=April 20, 2022 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=October 30, 1996}}</ref> The stolen money, approximately $100,000, was never recovered.<ref name=Littlejohn/><ref name=Levy/> It was apparently handed off to another vehicle prior to the police chase.<ref name=Littlejohn/> |
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[[File:Harrah's Las Vegas 35-story tower (2009).jpg|thumb|Rear of Harrah's 35-story tower, 2009]] |
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Promus was renamed Harrah's Entertainment in 1995.<ref name=HQ/> A year later, the company began a $200 million renovation and expansion of the Las Vegas property.<ref name=NewLook>{{cite news |title=Harrah's Las Vegas' New Look Seeks to 'Celebrate the Strip' |url=https://reviewjournal.newsbank.com/search?text=%22Harrah%27s+Las+Vegas%27+New+Look+Seeks+to+%27Celebrate+the+Strip%22&content_added=&date_from=&date_to=&pub%5B%5D=1508AFD0E83DBED6 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=June 23, 1996 |access-date=April 20, 2022 |url-access=subscription}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Berns |first=Dave |title=Aiming to Strike it Big: Harrah's Hopes its Expansion Project will Make it a Major Player in Las Vegas |url=https://reviewjournal.newsbank.com/search?text=%22Aiming%20to%20Strike%20it%20Big%3A%20Harrah%27s%20Hopes%20its%20Expansion%20Project%20will%20Make%20it%20a%20Major%20Player%20in%20Las%20Vegas%22&content_added=&date_from=&date_to=&pub%5B0%5D=1508AFD0E83DBED6 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=September 23, 1996 |access-date=April 20, 2022 |url-access=subscription}}</ref><ref name=Thompson/> The first phase of the project, a {{convert|10000|sqft|abbr=on}} casino addition, was opened in October 1996.<ref>{{cite news |title=Harrah's growing bigger, brighter |url=https://reviewjournal.newsbank.com/search?text=%22Harrah%27s%20growing%20bigger%2C%20brighter%22&content_added=&date_from=&date_to=&pub%5B0%5D=LVRB |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=October 31, 1996 |access-date=April 23, 2022 |url-access=subscription}}</ref> In total, the casino was expanded by {{convert|30000|sqft|abbr=on}},<ref name=Thompson>{{cite news |last=Thompson |first=Gary |title=Harrah's to unveil $200 million expansion |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/1997/oct/22/harrahs-to-unveil-200-million-expansion/ |access-date=April 20, 2022 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=October 22, 1997}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Harrah's to add tower, casino space |url=https://reviewjournal.newsbank.com/search?text=%22Harrah%27s+to+add+tower%2C+casino+space%22&content_added=&date_from=&date_to=&pub%5B%5D=1508AFD0E83DBED6&sort=old |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=August 8, 1995 |access-date=April 21, 2022 |url-access=subscription}}</ref> and a 35-story addition was made to the third tower, among other changes.<ref name=Outdoes/> The additions were officially unveiled with an opening ceremony in October 1997,<ref>{{cite news |last=Berns |first=Dave |title=Harrah's balancing act |url=http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/1997/Oct-23-Thu-1997/business/6286675.html |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=October 23, 1997 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20000918190524/http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/1997/Oct-23-Thu-1997/business/6286675.html |archive-date=September 18, 2000}}</ref> while final touches were concluded later that year.<ref name=Thompson/><ref>{{cite news |last=Rivera Brooks |first=Nancy |title=Glitz Blitz |url=https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1997-oct-23-fi-45717-story.html |access-date=April 20, 2022 |work=Los Angeles Times |date=October 23, 1997}}</ref><ref name=Outdoes>{{cite news |last=Siano |first=Joseph |title=Harrah's Outdoes Itself in Las Vegas |url=https://www.nytimes.com/1997/11/23/travel/travel-advisory-harrah-s-outdoes-itself-in-las-vegas.html |access-date=April 20, 2022 |work=The New York Times |date=November 23, 1997}}</ref> |
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In September 2000, two men were suspected of stealing from distracted gamblers in the casino. When approached by security guards, one of the men fled before guards took him down. During the struggle, he pulled out a gun and fired two shots, one injuring a guard and the other killing a 29-year-old woman. Both men were soon apprehended.<ref>Retrieved April 23, 2022:{{ubl |
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|{{cite news |last=Paul |first=Keith |title=Tourist killed in Harrah's shooting |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2000/sep/08/tourist-killed-in-harrahs-shooting/ |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=September 8, 2000}} |
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|{{cite news |title=Bystander Killed in Vegas Casino Struggle |url=https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-2000-sep-09-mn-18118-story.html |work=Los Angeles Times |agency=Associated Press |date=September 9, 2000}} |
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|{{cite news |last=Smith |first=Kim |title=Man indicted in death of tourist |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2000/oct/02/man-indicted-in-death-of-tourist/ |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=October 2, 2000}} |
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|{{cite news |last=Malone |first=Rebecca |title=Plea deal made in Harrah's killing |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2001/aug/15/plea-deal-made-in-harrahs-killing/ |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=August 15, 2001}} |
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}}</ref> |
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In September 2007, [[Clark County, Nevada|Clark County]] building officials opened an investigation into unauthorized renovations that took place at the [[Rio (hotel and casino)|Rio]], another Las Vegas resort owned by Harrah's Entertainment.<ref name=DA/> The investigation revealed that hotel renovations had also taken place at Harrah's Las Vegas in 2006, without permitting.<ref name=Reopens/><ref>{{cite news |last=Whitely |first=Joan |title=Harrah's named in contractors board complaints |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/news/harrahs-named-in-contractors-board-complaints/ |access-date=April 21, 2022 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=October 25, 2007}}</ref><ref name=MoreHeat>{{cite news |last1=Knightly |first1=Arnold M. |last2=Whitely |first2=Joan |title=Harrah's may face more heat |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/harrahs-may-face-more-heat/ |access-date=April 21, 2022 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=January 26, 2008}}</ref> In October 2007, Harrah's Entertainment closed approximately 600 rooms at Harrah's Las Vegas, allowing for investigative work and possible remediation.<ref name=DA>{{cite news |last=Whitely |first=Joan |title=Harrah's investigation sent to D.A. |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/news/harrahs-investigation-sent-to-d-a/ |access-date=April 21, 2022 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=January 19, 2008}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Whitely |first=Joan |title='Fire watch' set up |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/news/fire-watch-set-up/ |access-date=April 21, 2022 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=October 17, 2007}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Whitely |first=Joan |title=Harrah's gets more time from county to fix work |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/harrahs-gets-more-time-from-county-to-fix-work/ |access-date=April 21, 2022 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=November 21, 2007}}</ref> Various fire safety hazards were uncovered, including some floors which lacked caulking, a material used to prevent smoke from spreading. The hotel reopened 501 rooms a month later, while another 166 continued to be brought up to code.<ref name=MoreHeat/><ref name=Reopens>{{cite news |last=Whitely |first=Joan |title=Harrah's reopens 501 rooms |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/news/harrahs-reopens-501-rooms/ |access-date=April 21, 2022 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=November 4, 2007}}</ref> The resort's chief engineer faced several misdemeanor citations, and Harrah's Entertainment closed a remodeling subsidiary which oversaw the unauthorized work.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Knightly |first1=Arnold M. |last2=Whitely |first2=Joan |title=County urged to probe Harrah's |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/news/county-urged-to-probe-harrahs/ |access-date=April 21, 2022 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=March 19, 2008}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Whitely |first=Joan |title=Former worker suing Harrah's in asbestos case |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/news/former-worker-suing-harrahs-in-asbestos-case/ |access-date=April 21, 2022 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=March 25, 2009}}</ref> The charges were eventually dismissed.<ref>{{cite news |last=Whitely |first=Joan |title=Six charges dropped in Harrah's case |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/news/six-charges-dropped-in-harrahs-case/ |access-date=April 23, 2022 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=December 5, 2009}}</ref> |
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Harrah's Entertainment was renamed Caesars Entertainment in 2010.<ref>{{cite news |title=Harrah's Entertainment Inc. changes name to Caesars Entertainment Corp. |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2010/nov/23/us-harrahs-name-change/ |access-date=April 21, 2022 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=November 23, 2010}}</ref> A $25 million renovation of the casino floor took place in 2015, adding new flooring, furniture, and slot machines.<ref name=Remodeled/> |
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In November 2017, Caesars announced it would sell the land to [[Vici Properties]] for $1.14 billion. Caesars would continue operating Harrah's for 15 years through a [[leaseback]] agreement.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-caesars-divestiture/caesars-to-sell-harrahs-las-vegas-real-estate-assets-for-1-14-billion-idUSKBN1DT3DX|title=Caesars to sell Harrah's Las Vegas real estate assets for $1.14...|first=Reuters|last=Editorial|website=reuters.com|access-date=17 April 2018}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Prince |first=Todd |title=Caesars to sell real estate under Harrah's to finance acquisition |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/casinos-gaming/caesars-to-sell-real-estate-under-harrahs-to-finance-acquisition/ |access-date=April 23, 2022 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=November 29, 2017}}</ref> The sale was completed the following month.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/caesars-entertainment-announces-completion-of-harrahs-las-vegas-sale-and-leaseback-transaction-and-land-acquisition-for-new-convention-center-in-las-vegas-300575128.html|title=Caesars Entertainment Announces Completion of Harrah's Las Vegas Sale and Leaseback Transaction and Land Acquisition for New Convention Center in Las Vegas|first=Caesars Entertainment|last=Corporation|website=prnewswire.com|access-date=17 April 2018}}</ref> |
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A renovation of the 1,622-room Valley Tower was completed in 2018, at a cost of $140 million. It was the tower's first renovation in more than a decade.<ref name=Turns80/><ref name=Remodeled>{{cite news |last=Akers |first=Mick |title=Photos: A look inside the remodeled rooms at Harrah's on the Strip |url=https://vegasinc.lasvegassun.com/business/2018/feb/02/photos-a-look-inside-the-remodeled-rooms-at-harrah/ |access-date=April 21, 2022 |work=VegasInc |date=February 2, 2018}}</ref> Renovations on the rest of the hotel concluded in 2020, as part of a $200 million, multi-year renovation, which was finished in June 2021.<ref>{{cite news |last=Shoro |first=Mike |title=$200M renovation project completed at Harrah's |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/casinos-gaming/200m-renovation-project-completed-at-harrahs-2376120/ |access-date=June 16, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=June 11, 2021}}</ref> The project included renovations on the casino floor, and new purple neon signage on the resort's exterior.<ref name=KLAS-2021>{{cite news |title=Harrah's finishes $200M renovation of Vegas Strip flagship |url=https://www.8newsnow.com/news/local-news/harrahs-finishes-200m-renovation-of-vegas-strip-flagship/ |access-date=June 16, 2021 |work=KLAS |agency=Associated Press |date=June 12, 2021}}</ref> A sky bridge was also built to connect Harrah's to the new [[Caesars Forum]] convention facility.<ref>{{cite news |last=Seeman |first=Matthew |title=Harrah's Las Vegas completes $200 million in renovations |url=https://news3lv.com/news/local/harrahs-las-vegas-completes-200-million-in-renovations |access-date=June 16, 2021 |work=KSNV |date=June 11, 2021}}</ref> |
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==Features== |
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In 1988, the Holiday Casino became the first in Nevada to introduce computerized bingo.<ref>{{cite news |last=Stutz |first=Howard |title=Holiday Casino hopes to alter bingo with new video version |url=https://reviewjournal.newsbank.com/search?text=%22Holiday+Casino+hopes+to+alter+bingo+with+new+video+version%22&content_added=&date_from=&date_to=&pub%5B%5D=1508AFD0E83DBED6 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=July 13, 1988 |access-date=April 21, 2022 |url-access=subscription}}</ref> Like other casinos on the Las Vegas Strip, Harrah's closed its poker room in 2000, amid a decline in demand.<ref>{{cite news |last=Simpson |first=Jeff |title=Folding Their Cards: Poker rooms on Strip declining |url=http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Dec-05-Tue-2000/business/14965066.html |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=December 5, 2000 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20010625010943/http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Dec-05-Tue-2000/business/14965066.html |archive-date=June 25, 2001}}</ref> The following year, it introduced blackjack tables limited to five seats, a popular feature among players. At the time, it was the only casino on the Strip to offer such a feature.<ref>{{cite news |title='Five-spot' games abound at Harrah's |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2001/aug/09/five-spot-games-abound-at-harrahs/ |access-date=April 20, 2022 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=August 9, 2001}}</ref> As of 2017, the casino measures {{Convert|90637|sqft|abbr=on}}.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://gaming.nv.gov/modules/showdocument.aspx?documentid=3428|title=Listing of Financial Statements Square Footage|website=[[Nevada Gaming Control Board]]|access-date=June 16, 2021 |page=5}}</ref> The casino floor includes a humorous statue depicting a wealthy couple, Buck and Winnie Greenback, and their poodle Chip, surrounded by money. It is a popular photo spot.<ref name=Turns80/><ref>{{cite news |last=Scott |first=Jean |title=Getting to Know the Greenbacks |url=https://www.lasvegasadvisor.com/frugal-vegas/getting-to-know-the-greenbacks/ |access-date=April 22, 2022 |work=Las Vegas Advisor |date=November 18, 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite book |title=Strip Cultures: Finding America in Las Vegas |date=2015 |publisher=Duke University Press |isbn=978-0-8223-7523-4 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=Xm9qCgAAQBAJ&pg=PT96 |access-date=April 22, 2022}}</ref><ref name=Telegraph>{{cite news |last=Benson |first=Sara |title=Harrah's |url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/travel/destinations/north-america/united-states/las-vegas/hotels/harrahs-hotel/ |access-date=April 22, 2022 |work=The Telegraph |date=June 26, 2017}}</ref> |
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The hotel has 2,542 rooms,<ref name=KLAS-2021/> and is popular as a low-cost alternative to larger, nearby resorts.<ref name=Telegraph/> |
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In 1990, the Holiday Casino added an outdoor shopping plaza, named and themed after [[Jackson Square (New Orleans)|Jackson Square]] in New Orleans.<ref name=Christen/><ref>{{cite news |title=Shopping mecca to open on Strip |url=https://reviewjournal.newsbank.com/search?text=%22Shopping%20mecca%20to%20open%20on%20Strip%22&content_added=&date_from=&date_to=&pub%5B0%5D=1508AFD0E83DBED6 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=July 3, 1990 |access-date=April 20, 2022 |url-access=subscription}}</ref> An outdoor retail and entertainment area, known as Carnaval Court, was added in the 1997 expansion.<ref name=Thompson/> It includes a bar and is host to live music.<ref>{{cite news |title=From glass-juggling to bottle-throwing, the best flair bars in Las Vegas |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2012/oct/04/best-flair-bars-las-vegas/ |access-date=April 22, 2022 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=October 4, 2012}}</ref><ref name=Focused>{{cite news |last=Radke |first=Brock |title=Harrah's Las Vegas remains focused on live entertainment |url=https://lasvegasweekly.com/ae/2021/jan/28/harrahs-remains-focused-on-live-entertainment/ |access-date=April 22, 2022 |work=Las Vegas Weekly |date=January 28, 2021}}</ref><ref name=Telegraph/> |
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===Design=== |
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{{multiple image |
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| image1 = Harrah's Hotel and Casino, Las Vegas, Nevada LCCN2011634602.tif |
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| caption1 = The enlarged riverboat façade, seen following the 1992 Harrah's rebranding |
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| image2 = Harrah's Las Vegas facade (2013).jpg |
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| caption2 = Harrah's updated façade, seen in 2013 |
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}} |
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Both the Holiday Inn and Holiday Casino were designed by architect Homer Rissman. Under the direction of the Holiday Inn company, Rissman designed the hotel portion as a plain, white-colored building, differentiating it from the separately operated casino.<ref>{{cite book |last=Al |first=Stefan |title=The Strip: Las Vegas and the Architecture of the American Dream |date=2017 |publisher=MIT Press |isbn=978-0-262-33822-6 |page=116 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=PPpaDgAAQBAJ&pg=PA116 |access-date=April 21, 2022}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last1=Manning |first1=Mary |last2=Koch |first2=Ed |title=Rissman, architect of Strip hotels, dies of cancer at 74 |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2001/oct/04/rissman-architect-of-strip-hotels-dies-of-cancer-a/ |access-date=April 21, 2022 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=October 4, 2001}}</ref> The casino's exterior design was inspired by the ''[[Robert E. Lee (steamboat)|Robert E. Lee]]'' steamboat, while the interior was replicated from the grand saloon onboard the ''Grand Republic'' riverboat.<ref>{{cite news |title=Local Firm Honored |url=https://reviewjournal.newsbank.com/search?text=%22Local%20Firm%20Honored%22&content_added=&date_from=&date_to=&pub%5B0%5D=1508AFDB220B673E |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=May 12, 1974 |access-date=April 21, 2022 |url-access=subscription}}</ref> A casino addition in 1975 featured an exterior resembling an old-fashioned excursion boat. This addition was attached to the original riverboat-themed casino building.<ref>{{cite news |title=Holiday Casino addition gets planners' approval |url=https://reviewjournal.newsbank.com/search?text=%22Holiday+Casino+addition+gets+planners%27+approval%22&content_added=&date_from=&date_to=&pub%5B%5D=1508AFD0E83DBED6&sort=old |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=July 9, 1975 |access-date=April 21, 2022 |url-access=subscription}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Holiday Casino Addition on Even Keel Despite Stolen Compass |url=https://reviewjournal.newsbank.com/search?text=%22%20Holiday%20Casino%20Addition%20on%20Even%20Keel%20Despite%20Stolen%20Compass%22&content_added=&date_from=&date_to=&pub%5B0%5D=1508AFD0E83DBED6 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=August 10, 1975 |access-date=April 21, 2022 |url-access=subscription}}</ref> |
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The riverboat façade was revamped and expanded in 1990, now consisting of a 450-foot-long Mississippi-style riverboat with an 80-foot paddlewheel and two 85-foot-tall smokestacks. It stretched along the Las Vegas Strip.<ref name=LA-1989>{{cite news |title=Holiday to open 734-room tower, health facility |url=https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/405826512/ |work=Los Angeles Times |date=December 31, 1989 |access-date=April 19, 2022 |via=Newspapers.com |url-access=subscription}}</ref><ref name=Christen/><ref name=July6>{{cite news |title=Riverboat christening scheduled for July 6 |url=https://reviewjournal.newsbank.com/search?text=%22Riverboat%20christening%20scheduled%20for%20July%206%22&content_added=&date_from=&date_to=&pub%5B0%5D=1508AFD0E83DBED6 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=July 3, 1990 |access-date=April 20, 2022 |url-access=subscription}}</ref> Built at a cost of $30 million,<ref name=ShipStrip/> casino executives hoped that the new façade would become a popular tourist attraction.<ref name=Christen>{{cite news |last=Stutz |first=Howard |title=Holiday Inn to christen addition |url=https://reviewjournal.newsbank.com/search?text=%22Holiday%20Inn%20to%20christen%20addition%22&content_added=&date_from=&date_to=&pub%5B0%5D=1508AFD0E83DBED6 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=July 1, 1990 |access-date=April 20, 2022 |url-access=subscription}}</ref> |
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The 1997 renovation, by designer Henry Conversano,<ref name=NewLook/> removed the riverboat façade and added a [[Carnival]]/[[Mardi Gras]] theme to the resort.<ref>{{cite news |last=Calkins |first=Alison |title=Harrah's joins growth |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/1996/may/17/harrahs-joins-growth/ |access-date=April 20, 2022 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=May 17, 1996}}</ref><ref name=Outdoes/> A 30-by-90-foot mural was added to the new façade,<ref>{{cite news |title=Harrah's resort adding mural |url=http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/1997/Jun-16-Mon-1997/business/5546963.html |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=June 16, 1997 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20000918055203/http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/1997/Jun-16-Mon-1997/business/5546963.html |archive-date=September 18, 2000}}</ref> along with several jester statues, covered in gold leaf and weighing {{convert|22000|lb|abbr=on}} each.<ref>{{cite news |last=Knapp Rinella |first=Heidi |title=New cookbook contains recipes from Harrah's properties |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/entertainment/food/new-cookbook-contains-recipes-from-harrahs-properties/ |access-date=April 20, 2022 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=November 10, 2010}}</ref><ref name=Turns80>{{cite news |last=Jones |first=Jay |title=Harrah's Las Vegas marks 80th year with a $140-million renovation of its guest rooms |url=https://www.latimes.com/travel/lasvegas/la-tr-las-vegas-harrahs-turns-80-20180316-story.html |access-date=April 21, 2022 |work=Los Angeles Times |date=March 19, 2018}}</ref> |
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===Restaurants=== |
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{{See also|List of restaurants in the Las Vegas Valley}} |
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Several new restaurants were added in the 1997 renovation,<ref>{{cite news |last=Paskevich |first=Michael |title=Open Invitation |url=https://reviewjournal.newsbank.com/search?text=%22Harrah%27s%20new%20Italian%20eatery%20throws%20out%20welcome%20mat%20for%20locals%22&content_added=&date_from=&date_to=&pub%5B0%5D=LVRB |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=August 1, 1997 |access-date=April 23, 2022 |url-access=subscription}}</ref> while existing restaurants were redesigned. Among the new restaurants was the Range,<ref name=Thompson/><ref>{{cite news |last=White |first=Ken |title=Renovation sparks party at Harrah's |url=http://lvrj.com/lvrj_home/1997/Oct-19-Sun-1997/lifestyles/6246193.html |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=October 19, 1997 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/19991003101549/http://lvrj.com/lvrj_home/1997/Oct-19-Sun-1997/lifestyles/6246193.html |archive-date=October 3, 1999}}</ref> a {{convert|12000|sqft|abbr=on}} steakhouse on the second floor overlooking the Las Vegas Strip.<ref>{{cite news |last=Paskevich |first=Michael |title=Room With a View |url=https://reviewjournal.newsbank.com/search?text=%22Harrah%27s%20steakhouse%20offers%20patrons%20good%20look%20at%20Strip%22&content_added=&date_from=&date_to=&pub%5B0%5D=LVRB |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=September 12, 1997 |access-date=April 23, 2022 |url-access=subscription}}</ref> It offered a large selection of wines.<ref>{{cite news |title=Wine Spectator honors Range Steakhouse with award |url=https://reviewjournal.newsbank.com/search?text=%22Wine%20Spectator%20honors%20Range%20Steakhouse%20with%20award%22&content_added=&date_from=&date_to=&pub%5B0%5D=LVBPL |work=Las Vegas Business Press |date=September 19, 2011 |access-date=April 23, 2022 |url-access=subscription}}</ref> Other additions included a new buffet and cafe.<ref>{{cite news |last=Paskevich |first=Michael |title=Fresh Fun with Food |url=https://reviewjournal.newsbank.com/search?text=%22Fresh%20Fun%20with%20Food%22&content_added=&date_from=&date_to=&pub%5B0%5D=LVRB |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=October 24, 1997 |access-date=April 23, 2022 |url-access=subscription}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Cafe highlights culinary creativity |url=https://reviewjournal.newsbank.com/search?text=%22Cafe%20highlights%20culinary%20creativity%22&content_added=&date_from=&date_to=&pub%5B0%5D=1508AFD0E83DBED6 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=October 23, 1997 |access-date=April 23, 2022 |url-access=subscription}}</ref> |
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[[File:Toby Keith's in Las Vegas.jpg|thumb|left|[[Toby Keith's I Love This Bar & Grill]], 2018]] |
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In 2004, Harrah's partnered with country singer [[Toby Keith]] to open a restaurant and bar at the resort.<ref>{{cite news |title=Harrah's Las Vegas partners with a country crooner |url=https://reviewjournal.newsbank.com/search?text=%22Harrah%27s%20Las%20Vegas%20partners%20with%20a%20country%20crooner%22&content_added=&date_from=&date_to=&pub%5B0%5D=LVBPL |work=Las Vegas Business Press|date=September 2, 2004 |access-date=April 23, 2022 |url-access=subscription}}</ref> It opened the following year, as [[Toby Keith's I Love This Bar & Grill]], part of a chain named after his 2003 song "[[I Love This Bar]]".<ref>{{cite news |title=Toby Keith's I Love This Bar & Grill spotlights down-home cuisine |url=https://reviewjournal.newsbank.com/search?text=%22Toby+Keith%27s+I+Love+This+Bar+%26+Grill+spotlights+down-home+cuisine%22&content_added=&date_from=&date_to=&pub%5B%5D=LVRB |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=January 1, 2005 |access-date=April 23, 2022 |url-access=subscription}}</ref> The resort also includes a popular oyster bar, which opened in 2006.<ref>{{cite news |last=Hiller |first=Michael |title=The biggest draw at Vegas oyster bars? It's not the oysters. It's the pan roasts |url=https://www.latimes.com/travel/story/2019-09-10/pan-roasts-not-oysters-big-draw-vegas |access-date=April 20, 2022 |work=Los Angeles Times |date=September 10, 2019}}</ref><ref name=Yeskel/> Several restaurants were also renovated that year, including the Fresh Market Buffet, which was renamed Flavors, The Buffet.<ref name=Yeskel/><ref>{{cite news |last=Knapp Rinella |first=Heidi |title=Harrah's Buffet of Buffets |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/entertainment/entertainment-columns/heidi-knapp-rinella/harrahs-buffet-of-buffets/ |access-date=April 20, 2022 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=September 30, 2010}}</ref> |
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From 2010 to 2015, the casino included a restaurant by chef [[Kerry Simon]] known as Kerry's Gourmet Burgers (KGB).<ref>{{cite news |last=Feldberg |first=Sarah |title=KGB serves up Captain Crunch-alicious milkshake |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2010/sep/10/kgb-serves-captain-crunchalicious-milkshake/ |access-date=April 23, 2022 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=September 10, 2010}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Radke |first=Brock |title=Don't overlook Harrah's for good eats |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2012/mar/19/dont-overlook-harrahs-good-eats/ |access-date=April 20, 2022 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=March 19, 2012}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Elfman |first=Doug |title=Las Vegas losing a gem with Simon closing |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/entertainment/las-vegas-losing-a-gem-with-simon-closing/ |access-date=April 23, 2022 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=February 28, 2015}}</ref> The Range was replaced in 2013 by a [[Ruth's Chris Steak House]] seating nearly 400 people.<ref>{{cite news |last=Sylvester |first=Ron |title=Ruth's Chris to open Strip location at Harrah's |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2012/dec/05/ruths-chris-open-strip-location-next-year-harrahs/ |access-date=April 20, 2022 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=December 5, 2012}}</ref> A food court, Fulton Street Food Hall, was added in 2014.<ref>{{cite news |last=Knapp Rinella |first=Heidi |title=Small Plates: Dining Out |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/entertainment/food/small-plates-dining-out/ |access-date=April 23, 2022 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=January 1, 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Knapp Rinella |first=Heidi |title=Las Vegas welcomes the era of the food court |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/entertainment/food/las-vegas-welcomes-the-era-of-the-food-court-2489982/ |access-date=April 23, 2022 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=December 3, 2021}}</ref> |
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In February 2020, [[Buddy Valastro]] opened a pizzeria and sweets eatery known as PizzaCake.<ref>{{cite news |last=Mancini |first=Al |title=Buddy V brings PizzaCake to Harrah's |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/entertainment/food/buddy-v-brings-pizzacake-to-harrahs-1960289/ |access-date=April 20, 2022 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=February 18, 2020}}</ref> [[Bobby's Burger Palace|Bobby's Burgers]] opened a location in the Fulton Street Food Hall at the end of 2021.<ref>{{cite news |last=Brewer |first=Ray |title=Bobby's Burgers expanding to Paris, Harrah's in Las Vegas |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2021/oct/18/bobbys-burgers-expanding-to-paris-harrahs-in-las-v/ |access-date=April 20, 2022 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=October 18, 2021}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last=Stapleton |first=Susan |title=The Bobby Flay Burger Invasion of Las Vegas Now Includes a Second Location on the Strip |url=https://vegas.eater.com/2021/11/29/22806866/bobby-flay-burger-las-vegas-open-harrahs |website=Eater |access-date=April 20, 2022 |date=November 29, 2021}}</ref> A Walk-On's Sports Bistreaux opened early the following year,<ref>{{cite news |title=Walk-On's Sports Bistreaux set to bring a taste of Louisiana to Las Vegas |url=https://www.nrn.com/casual-dining/walk-ons-sports-bistreaux-set-bring-taste-louisiana-las-vegas |access-date=April 20, 2022 |work=Nation's Restaurant News |date=September 30, 2021}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Louisiana-based sports restaurant opening at Harrah's in Las Vegas |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2022/mar/24/louisiana-based-sports-restaurant-opening-at-harra/ |access-date=April 20, 2022 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=March 24, 2022}}</ref> and was the first location to offer a breakfast menu.<ref name=Eater>{{cite web |last=Stapleton |first=Susan |title=Walk-On's Sports Bistreaux Takes Over the Toby Keith Space on the Las Vegas Strip in 2022 |url=https://vegas.eater.com/2021/9/30/22701829/walk-ons-sports-bistreaux-opens-harrahs-las-vegas-2022 |website=Eater |access-date=April 20, 2022 |date=September 30, 2021}}</ref> It was also the first location to open on the U.S. west coast,<ref>{{cite news |last=Boone |first=Timothy |title=New restaurant at Harrah's will bring a taste of Louisiana to the Strip |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2021/oct/01/new-restaurant-at-harrahs-will-bring-a-taste-of-lo/ |access-date=April 20, 2022 |work=The Baton Rouge Advocate |date=October 1, 2021}}</ref> and is one of the largest locations at nearly {{convert|12000|sqft|abbr=on}}. It replaced Keith's restaurant,<ref nam<ref name=Eater/> which closed in 2020.<ref>{{cite web |last=Roeben |first=Scott |title=Toby Keith's I Love This Bar & Grill Closes Permanently at Harrah's |url=https://www.casino.org/vitalvegas/toby-keiths-i-love-this-bar-grill-closes-permanently-at-harrahs/ |website=Casino.org |access-date=April 23, 2022 |date=June 13, 2021}}</ref> |
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Chef [[Gordon Ramsay]] opened a restaurant, Ramsay's Kitchen, in 2022.<ref>{{cite news |last=Durano |first=Genevie |title=Ramsay's Kitchen continues the celebrity chef's Las Vegas takeover |url=https://lasvegasweekly.com/dining/2022/dec/15/ramsays-kitchen-continues-celebrity-chef-takeover/ |access-date=October 9, 2023 |work=Las Vegas Weekly |date=December 15, 2022}}</ref> |
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==Shows and entertainers== |
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The resort has hosted numerous shows and entertainers. Rocky Sennes produced three shows for the property while it was known as the Holiday Casino. A comedy dance show, ''Wild World of Burlesque'', opened in 1974,<ref>{{cite news |title=Burlesque At Holiday Casino |url=https://reviewjournal.newsbank.com/search?text=%22Burlesque+At+Holiday+Casino%22&content_added=&date_from=&date_to=&pub%5B%5D=1508AFDB220B673E&sort=old |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=September 20, 1974 |access-date=April 19, 2022 |url-access=subscription}}</ref> and ran until 1985. It was replaced by a 1920s tribute show titled ''Roaring '20s''.<ref>{{cite news |title=The Roaring '20s |url=https://reviewjournal.newsbank.com/search?text=%22A+new+revue%2C+The+Roaring+20s%22&content_added=&date_from=&date_to=&pub%5B%5D=1508AFD0E83DBED6&sort=new |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=August 16, 1985 |access-date=April 19, 2022 |url-access=subscription}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Roaring '20s' on stage at Holiday |url=https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/404741173/ |work=Los Angeles Times |date=July 5, 1987 |access-date=April 19, 2022 |via=Newspapers.com |url-access=subscription}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Holiday spa's revue recaptures era of flappers |url=https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/403065717/ |work=Los Angeles Times |date=November 8, 1987 |access-date=April 19, 2022 |via=Newspapers.com |url-access=subscription}}</ref> In 1988, Sennes replaced it with ''Keep Smilin' America''.<ref>{{cite news |title=Trio balances career and family |url=https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/405597512/ |work=Los Angeles Times |date=October 8, 1989 |access-date=April 20, 2022 |via=Newspapers.com |url-access=subscription}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title='Keep Smilin' opens in time for holiday |url=https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/746594640/ |work=Daily Press |date=December 23, 1988 |access-date=April 19, 2022 |via=Newspapers.com |url-access=subscription}}</ref> A magic show, ''Spellbound'', began a 13-week run in early 1992, replacing ''Keep Smilin' America''.<ref>{{cite news |title=Planning A Las Vegas Trip? Here's The Latest |url=https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/141495373/ |work=St. Louis Post-Dispatch |date=February 2, 1992 |access-date=April 20, 2022 |via=Newspapers.com |url-access=subscription}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Holiday Casino presents show of mystery and magic |url=https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/177468782/ |work=Los Angeles Times |date=March 29, 1992 |access-date=April 20, 2022 |via=Newspapers.com |url-access=subscription}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title='Spellbound:' magical musical extravaganza |url=https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/747019087/ |work=Daily Press |date=February 3, 1995 |access-date=April 20, 2022 |via=Newspapers.com |url-access=subscription}}</ref> Due to its success, ''Spellbound'' would be extended several times,<ref>{{cite news |title='Spellbound' has begun indefinite run at Harrah's |url=https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/160136051/ |work=Los Angeles Times |date=March 8, 1995 |access-date=April 20, 2022 |via=Newspapers.com |url-access=subscription}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Harrah's 'Spellbound' has magical staying power |url=https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/159692703/ |work=Los Angeles Times |date=October 27, 1996 |access-date=April 20, 2022 |via=Newspapers.com |url-access=subscription}}</ref> eventually ending in 1999.<ref name=Delaney1/><ref name=Delaney2/> |
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A branch of [[The Improv]] comedy club was opened at Harrah's in April 1995,<ref>{{cite news |last=Paskevich |first=Michael |title=Relocated improv comedy club gets off to solid start |url=https://reviewjournal.newsbank.com/search?text=%22Relocated%20improv%20comedy%20club%20gets%20off%20to%20solid%20start%22&content_added=&date_from=&date_to=&pub%5B0%5D=1508AFD0E83DBED6 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=April 28, 1995 |access-date=April 23, 2022 |url-access=subscription}}</ref> and continued operating for the next 21 years, until Caesars closed the space. In addition to comedy acts, it also served as a second showroom.<ref>{{cite news |last=Katsilometes |first=John |title=Improv Comedy Club to close show at Harrah's |url=https://lasvegassun.com/blogs/kats-report/2016/apr/21/improv-comedy-club-to-close-the-show-at-harrahs/ |access-date=April 23, 2022 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=April 21, 2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Weatherford |first=Mike |title=Venerable Improv club exits Harrah's Las Vegas |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/entertainment/entertainment-columns/mike-weatherford/venerable-improv-club-exits-harrahs-las-vegas/ |access-date=April 23, 2022 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=May 15, 2016}}</ref> In 1999, the Improv Showroom debuted ''Washington Sexcapades 2000'', a political comedy show co-starring [[Steve Rossi]] and [[Sandy Hackett]].<ref>{{cite news |last=Delaney |first=Joe |title=New Harrah's production a 'hilarious hodgepodge' |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/1999/oct/22/new-harrahs-production-a-hilarious-hodgepodge/ |access-date=April 22, 2022 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=October 22, 1999}}</ref> |
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[[Clint Holmes]] signed on as the resort's resident headliner in 1999,<ref>{{cite news |last=Weatherford |first=Mike |title=Clint Holmes signs on at Harrah's |url=https://reviewjournal.newsbank.com/search?text=%22Clint%20Holmes%20signs%20on%20at%20Harrah%27s%22&content_added=&date_from=&date_to=&pub%5B0%5D=LVRB |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=October 2, 1999 |access-date=April 23, 2022 |url-access=subscription}}</ref><ref name=CT>{{cite news |last=Jones |first=Chris |title=Who is Clint Holmes and just why should we care? |url=https://www.chicagotribune.com/news/ct-xpm-2002-09-29-0209290354-story.html |access-date=April 23, 2022 |work=Chicago Tribune |date=September 28, 2002}}</ref> taking over the former Spellbound Theater,<ref name=Delaney1>{{cite news |last=Delaney |first=Joe |title=Magic overload may soon occur on the Strip |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/1999/oct/08/columnist-joe-delaney-magic-overload-may-soon-occu/ |access-date=April 22, 2022 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=October 8, 1999}}</ref><ref name=Delaney2>{{cite news |last=Delaney |first=Joe |title=Gearing for Christmas cheer, New Year's celebration |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/1999/dec/23/columnist-joe-delaney-gearing-for-christmas-cheer-/ |access-date=April 22, 2022 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=December 23, 1999}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Weatherford |first=Mike |title=Holmes gets head start at Harrah's with benefit show |url=http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/1999/Oct-22-Fri-1999/weekly/12176658.html |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=October 22, 1999 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20010911052225/http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/1999/Oct-22-Fri-1999/weekly/12176658.html |archive-date=September 11, 2001}}</ref> which was renamed the Clint Holmes Theatre. He began entertaining there in January 2000.<ref name=CT/><ref>{{cite news |last=Weatherford |first=Mike |title=Clint Holmes signs extension with Harrah's Las Vegas |url=http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/Sep-04-Tue-2001/living/16902136.html |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=September 4, 2001 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20020212020541/http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/Sep-04-Tue-2001/living/16902136.html |archive-date=February 12, 2002}}</ref> After more than 1,800 performances, Holmes concluded his run in September 2006.<ref>{{cite news |last=Abowitz |first=Richard |title=He won acclaim but lost Vegas |url=https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-2006-sep-24-ca-vegas24-story.html |access-date=April 23, 2022 |work=Los Angeles Times |date=September 24, 2006}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Clint Holmes' swan song at Harrah's is 'bittersweet' |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2006/oct/11/clint-holmes-swan-song-at-harrahs-is-bittersweet/ |access-date=April 23, 2022 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=October 11, 2006}}</ref> Magician [[Mac King]] also began entertaining at Harrah's in 2000, and continued performing there for more than 20 years.<ref>{{cite news |last=Radke |first=Brock |title=Comedy magician Mac King extends his stay at Harrah's |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2018/aug/29/comedy-magic-mac-king-show-harrahs/ |access-date=April 23, 2022 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=August 29, 2018}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Radke |first=Brock |title=20-year Las Vegas Strip headliner Mac King is ready to bring the magic back |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2021/mar/24/vegas-strip-podcast-mac-king-comedy-magic-show/ |access-date=April 23, 2022 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=March 24, 2021}}</ref> In 2021, he relocated his show to the [[Excalibur (hotel and casino)|Excalibur]] resort.<ref>{{cite news |last=Radke |first=Brock |title=Headlining comic magician Mac King moves his show to Excalibur this month |url=https://lasvegasweekly.com/ae/2021/jun/04/comic-magician-mac-king-moves-excalibur-las-vegas/ |access-date=April 23, 2022 |work=Las Vegas Weekly |date=June 4, 2021}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Katsilometes |first=John |title=Strip icon Mac King leaving Harrah's after 22-year run |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/entertainment/entertainment-columns/kats/strip-icon-mac-king-leaving-harrahs-after-22-year-run-2370102/ |access-date=April 23, 2022 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=June 3, 2021}}</ref> Other entertainers at Harrah's have included [[Rita Rudner]],<ref>{{cite news |last=Katsilometes |first=John |title=John Katsilometes on how Rita Rudner's personal touch helps fill the showroom at her new haunt: Harrah's |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2006/oct/29/john-katsilometes-on-how-rita-rudners-personal-tou/ |access-date=April 23, 2022 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=October 29, 2006}}</ref> [[The Righteous Brothers]],<ref>{{cite news |last=Bornfeld |first=Steve |title=Righteous Brothers: Having the time of their lives at Harrah's |url=https://lasvegasmagazine.com/entertainment/2016/apr/15/righteous-brothers-harrahs-las-vegas/ |access-date=April 23, 2022 |work=Las Vegas Magazine |date=April 15, 2016}}</ref> [[Big Elvis]],<ref>{{cite news |last=Katsilometes |first=John |title=Elvis back in Las Vegas with 'Heartbreak Hotel' at Harrah's |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/entertainment/entertainment-columns/kats/elvis-back-in-las-vegas-with-heartbreak-hotel-at-harrahs-1641816/ |access-date=April 23, 2022 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=April 16, 2019}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Katsilometes |first=John |title=Las Vegas Strip headliner Big Elvis halts at Harrah's |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/entertainment/entertainment-columns/kats/las-vegas-strip-headliner-big-elvis-halts-at-harrahs-2192993/ |access-date=April 23, 2022 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=November 28, 2020}}</ref> [[Ralphie May]],<ref>{{cite news |last=Weatherford |first=Mike |title=Ralphie May promises to be honestly dirty in extended Las Vegas run |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/entertainment/shows/ralphie-may-promises-to-be-honestly-dirty-in-extended-las-vegas-run/ |access-date=April 23, 2022 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=January 27, 2017}}</ref> and [[Tape Face]].<ref name=Focused/><ref>{{cite news |last=Katsilometes |first=John |title=Tape Face at 50-capacity is a lot more talk |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/entertainment/entertainment-columns/kats/tape-face-at-50-capacity-is-a-lot-more-talk-2240252/ |access-date=April 23, 2022 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=January 4, 2021}}</ref> |
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''Skintight'', an adult-themed musical show, opened in 2000.<ref name=Aug4/> It featured a variety of songs.<ref name=Blonde/><ref name=Fleshing/> Producer Greg Thompson described the show as "MTV meets Playboy".<ref name=Aug4/> [[Cynthia Brimhall]], a [[Playboy Playmate|''Playboy'' Playmate]], was among the show's dancers.<ref name=Aug4>{{cite news |title=Harrah's adds adult revue to schedule |url=http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Aug-04-Fri-2000/weekly/14096517.html |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=August 4, 2000 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20011222135735/http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Aug-04-Fri-2000/weekly/14096517.html |archive-date=December 22, 2001}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Weatherford |first=Mike |title=Former Playmate Cynthia Brimhall showing more flesh in 'Skintight' |url=http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Oct-17-Tue-2000/living/14603067.html |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=October 17, 2000 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20010628103042/http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Oct-17-Tue-2000/living/14603067.html |archive-date=June 28, 2001}}</ref> It ran in the Clint Holmes Theater and had a 70-minute runtime.<ref name=Blonde>{{cite news |title=There's just something about a blonde in spike heels |url=https://www.upi.com/Archives/2000/12/01/-Theres-just-something-about-a-blonde-in-spike-heels-Spandex-body-stocking-and-open-front-fur-coat-beckoning-to-me-with-a-free-coupon-that-saysHey-lets-all-live-one-more-day-You-know-what-I-mean-if-youve-walked-past-Harrahs-on-the-Strip-around-9/1144975646800/ |access-date=April 23, 2022 |work=UPI |date=December 3, 2000}}</ref><ref name=Fleshing>{{cite news |title=Fleshing the talent out of 'Skintight' performers at Harrah's |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2002/may/03/fleshing-the-talent-out-of-skintight-performers-at/ |access-date=April 23, 2022 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=May 3, 2002}}</ref> ''Skintight'' ended in 2006, and was replaced by ''Bareback'',<ref>{{cite news |last=Seely |first=Mike |title=Fear of Clothing in Las Vegas |url=https://www.seattleweekly.com/arts/fear-of-clothing-in-las-vegas/ |access-date=April 23, 2022 |work=Seattle Weekly |date=October 9, 2006}}</ref> a topless musical show also by Thompson. ''Bareback'' featured a country music soundtrack. The show previously played at [[Harrah's Reno]], and its success there prompted the move to Las Vegas,<ref>{{cite news |title=Producer Thompson going beyond the girlie shows |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2006/may/18/producer-thompson-going-beyond-the-girlie-shows/ |access-date=April 23, 2022 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=May 18, 2006}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last=Shelburne |first=Craig |title=In Vegas, Country Music Makes Her Clothes Fall Off |url=http://www.cmt.com/news/1534600/in-vegas-country-music-makes-her-clothes-fall-off/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220422175205/http://www.cmt.com/news/1534600/in-vegas-country-music-makes-her-clothes-fall-off/ |url-status=dead |archive-date=April 22, 2022 |website=CMT News |access-date=April 23, 2022 |date=June 19, 2006}}</ref> where it ended after a five-month run.<ref name=Yeskel>{{cite web |last=Yeskel |first=David |title=Renovations help Harrah's Las Vegas keep up with neighbors |url=https://www.travelweekly.com/North-America-Travel/Renovations-help-Harrah-s-Las-Vegas-keep-up-with-neighbors |website=Travel Weekly |access-date=April 23, 2022 |date=December 5, 2006}}</ref> |
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In 1997, it completed a renovation intended to make it the [[Harrah's Entertainment|company]]'s flagship property, replacing the old [[riverboat]] theme with a [[Mardi Gras]] and [[Carnival]] theme.<ref>{{cite news|last=Calkins|first=Alison|title=Harrah's joins growth|url=http://www.lasvegassun.com/news/1996/may/17/harrahs-joins-growth/|accessdate=September 12, 2011|newspaper=Las Vegas Sun|date=May 17, 1996}}</ref> They extended the 35 story tower by adding 986 rooms. Included in the renovations were six {{convert|22000|lb|abbr=on}} 23-karat gold-leaf sculptures. Built from steel and glass reinforced polyester resin, the sculptures stand {{convert|32|ft|abbr=on}} high and wear size 43 shoes. |
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''[[Legends in Concert]]'', one of the longest-running shows in Las Vegas history, moved to Harrah's in 2009, relocating from the adjacent [[The Linq|Imperial Palace]] casino. The show features singers who impersonate notable performers such as [[Elvis Presley]] and [[David Bowie]].<ref>{{cite news |last=Fink |first=Jerry |title=Constant change helps 'Legends in Concert' thrive |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2009/may/05/constant-change-helps-legends-thrive/ |access-date=April 22, 2022 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=May 5, 2009}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Brown |first=Joe |title=Gang of (almost) doppelgangers |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2009/may/26/gang-almost-doppelgangers/ |access-date=April 22, 2022 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=May 26, 2009}}</ref> It ran at Harrah's for four years.<ref>{{cite web |title=Legends In Concert Celebrates 30 Years On Vegas Strip With New Home At Flamingo Las Vegas |url=https://news.yahoo.com/amphtml/news/legends-concert-celebrates-30-years-210054491.html |website=Yahoo |access-date=April 23, 2022 |date=December 18, 2012}}</ref> ''[[Million Dollar Quartet (musical)|Million Dollar Quartet]]'', a musical, opened in 2013. It surpassed 1,000 performances in 2015,<ref>{{cite news |last=Katsilometes |first=John |title=Creative licenses being issued in 'Million Dollar Quartet' at Harrah's |url=https://lasvegassun.com/blogs/kats-report/2013/feb/18/creative-licesnses-being-issued-million-dollar-qua/ |access-date=April 23, 2022 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=February 18, 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Katsilometes |first=John |title=Monday By the Numbers: 'Million Dollar Quartet' reaches a grand mark at Harrah's |url=https://lasvegassun.com/blogs/kats-report/2015/aug/03/monday-numbers-million-dollar-quartet-reaches-gran/ |access-date=April 23, 2022 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=August 3, 2015}}</ref> before closing a year later.<ref>{{cite news |last=Katsilometes |first=John |title='Million Dollar Quartet' to mark 60th anniversary with finale at Harrah's |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/entertainment/entertainment-columns/kats/million-dollar-quartet-to-mark-60th-anniversary-with-finale-at-harrahs/ |access-date=April 23, 2022 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=September 13, 2016}}</ref> ''[[Menopause The Musical]]'' opened in the Improv Showroom in 2015.<ref>{{cite news |last=Stapleton |first=Susan |title='Menopause the Musical' takes mood swings and hot flashes to Harrah's |url=https://www.latimes.com/travel/lasvegas/lasvegasnow/la-tr-lvn-las-vegas-shows-20150122-story.html |access-date=April 23, 2022 |work=Los Angeles Times |date=January 23, 2015}}</ref> It later moved to the Harrah's Cabaret space, and continues its run as of 2021.<ref>{{cite news |last=Radke |first=Brock |title=Curtain Up: 'Menopause The Musical,' 'An Evening with Whitney' and more Vegas showbiz news |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2021/jul/22/menopause-musical-whitney-houston-hologram-harrahs/ |access-date=April 23, 2022 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=July 22, 2021}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Radke |first=Brock |title=With two popular Las Vegas shows, Glist Entertainment is ready for more |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2021/aug/16/kathi-alan-glist-menopause-musical-bronx-wanderers/ |access-date=April 23, 2022 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=August 16, 2021}}</ref> Since 2016, Harrah's has also featured ''X Country'', a country music-themed adult revue.<ref>{{cite news |last=Radke |first=Brock |title='X Country' revue will be the first show back for Caesars Entertainment |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2020/oct/13/x-country-show-returns-harrahs-cabaret/ |access-date=April 23, 2022 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=October 13, 2020}}</ref> |
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At the grand re-opening [[Harry Connick, Jr.]] entertained at the Carnaval Court. Tino Wallenda, the son of the legendary tight-rope walker Karl Wallenda, walked {{convert|139|ft|abbr=on}} across a {{convert|1|in|mm|adj=on}} steel cable, {{convert|99|ft|abbr=on}} above the ground. Other celebrities who appeared included [[Sidney Poitier]], [[Sandra Bullock]], [[Minnie Driver]], [[Stephen Baldwin]], [[Lea Thompson]], [[Dick Butkus]], and [[Steve Wynn]].{{Citation needed|date=July 2009}} |
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Tenors of Rock, a rock cover band consisting of British [[tenor]]s, performed in the Harrah's Showroom from 2017 to 2019.<ref>{{cite news |last=Jones |first=Jay |title=Five tenors are taking on Las Vegas. And they sing rock 'n' roll, not opera |url=https://www.latimes.com/travel/deals/la-tr-las-vegas-tenors-of-the-rock-20170112-story.html |access-date=April 23, 2022 |work=Los Angeles Times |date=January 13, 2017}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Radke |first=Brock |title='Tenors of Rock' finds a new home at Planet Hollywood |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2019/apr/05/tenors-of-rock-planet-hollywood-sin-city-theater/ |access-date=April 23, 2022 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=April 5, 2019}}</ref> Singer [[Donny Osmond]] began a residency at Harrah's in 2021.<ref>{{cite news |last=Radke |first=Brock |title=Donny Osmond talks about his new solo residency at Harrah's Las Vegas |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2020/nov/20/donny-osmond-new-vegas-residency-harrahs-interview/ |access-date=April 23, 2022 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=November 20, 2020}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Radke |first=Brock |title=Donny Osmond is at home onstage on the Las Vegas Strip |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2021/sep/22/vegas-strip-podcast-donny-osmond-interview/ |access-date=April 23, 2022 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=September 22, 2021}}</ref> [[Hyprov]], a comedy show that is a fusion of [[stage hypnosis]] and [[improvisational theatre|improvisation]], performed its first preview show on June 10, 2023, at the Harrah's Showroom, where it is in residency.<ref name="Katsilometes2023-06-10">{{cite news |last=Katsilometes |first=John |author-link=John Katsilometes |date=2023-06-10 |title=New Harrah's comedy show takes a chance on trance |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/entertainment/entertainment-columns/kats/new-harrahs-comedy-show-takes-a-chance-on-trance-2792187/ |newspaper=[[Las Vegas Review-Journal]] |accessdate=2023-11-06 |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20231106084646/https://www.reviewjournal.com/entertainment/entertainment-columns/kats/new-harrahs-comedy-show-takes-a-chance-on-trance-2792187/ |archivedate=2023-11-06 }}</ref><ref name="Radke2023-06-12">{{cite news |last=Radke |first=Brock |date=2023-06-12 |title=Hypnosis and improvisational comedy combine in new show at Harrah's Las Vegas |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2023/jun/12/hyprov-harrahs-colin-mochrie-asad-mecci-comedy/ |newspaper=[[Las Vegas Sun]] |accessdate=2023-11-06 |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20231106084926/https://lasvegassun.com/news/2023/jun/12/hyprov-harrahs-colin-mochrie-asad-mecci-comedy/ |archivedate=2023-11-06 }}</ref> |
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[[File:Harah's hotel (Las Vegas).jpg|thumb|Harrah's Las Vegas sign in 2010]] |
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On November 29, 2017, Caesars announced it is selling the property to Vici Properties while Caesars continues operating it.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-caesars-divestiture/caesars-to-sell-harrahs-las-vegas-real-estate-assets-for-1-14-billion-idUSKBN1DT3DX|title=Caesars to sell Harrah's Las Vegas real estate assets for $1.14...|first=Reuters|last=Editorial|date=|website=reuters.com|accessdate=17 April 2018}}</ref> The sale was completed the following month.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/caesars-entertainment-announces-completion-of-harrahs-las-vegas-sale-and-leaseback-transaction-and-land-acquisition-for-new-convention-center-in-las-vegas-300575128.html|title=Caesars Entertainment Announces Completion of Harrah's Las Vegas Sale and Leaseback Transaction and Land Acquisition for New Convention Center in Las Vegas|first=Caesars Entertainment|last=Corporation|date=|website=prnewswire.com|accessdate=17 April 2018}}</ref> |
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==Gallery== |
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Performers at Harrah's include: Ray Charles (2 nights) in '95, Burt Bacharach (3 nights) in '98, [[Little Feat]] (from L.A.) in '03, [[Vince Neil]] (of L.A.'s [[Mötley Crüe]]) in '07, [[Donny & Marie Osmond]] (from Utah) in '14, the [[Righteous Brothers]] (from Orange County, CA) in '16, Fastball in '18, Vertical Horizon in '18, and [[Sin City Sinners]] in '18.{{citation needed|date=January 2019}} |
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<gallery> |
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File:Harrah's Las Vegas Hotel & Casino Pool (44981413074).jpg|The original 14-story tower overlooking the pool |
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File:Las Vegas. Harrah's.jpg|Second riverboat façade, May 1993 |
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File:Harrah's (5940994383).jpg|Harrah's northwest entrance |
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File:Harrah's Casino facade, Las vegas (3191529847).jpg|Mardi Gras décor |
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File:Harrahs Casino, Las Vegas (3479677664).jpg|Gold jesters atop the façade |
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File:Harrah's Las Vegas. 03.JPG|Façade at night |
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File:View from the High Roller Ferris wheel - Las Vegas 05.jpg|Hotel towers, seen from the nearby [[High Roller (Ferris wheel)|High Roller]] Ferris wheel, 2019 |
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</gallery> |
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==References== |
==References== |
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[[Category:1973 establishments in Nevada]] |
[[Category:1973 establishments in Nevada]] |
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[[Category:Caesars Entertainment |
[[Category:Caesars Entertainment]] |
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[[Category:Casinos completed in 1973]] |
[[Category:Casinos completed in 1973]] |
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[[Category:Casinos in the Las Vegas Valley]] |
[[Category:Casinos in the Las Vegas Valley]] |
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[[Category:Hotel buildings completed in |
[[Category:Hotel buildings completed in 1972]] |
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[[Category:Hotels established in |
[[Category:Hotels established in 1972]] |
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[[Category:Las Vegas Strip]] |
[[Category:Las Vegas Strip]] |
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[[Category:Resorts in the Las Vegas Valley]] |
[[Category:Resorts in the Las Vegas Valley]] |
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[[Category:Skyscraper hotels in Paradise, Nevada]] |
[[Category:Skyscraper hotels in Paradise, Nevada]] |
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[[Category:Harrah's Entertainment]] |
Latest revision as of 14:43, 3 July 2024
Harrah's Las Vegas | |
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![]() | |
![]() Harrah's Las Vegas in 2006 | |
Location | Las Vegas, Nevada, U.S. |
Address | 3475 South Las Vegas Boulevard |
Opening date | February 1, 1972 July 2, 1973 (casino) | (hotel)
Theme | Carnival Mardi Gras |
No. of rooms | 2,542 |
Total gaming space | 90,637 sq ft (8,420.5 m2) |
Permanent shows | Menopause The Musical Mac King (2000–2021) Tenors of Rock (2017–2019) X Country |
Signature attractions | Carnaval Court |
Notable restaurants | Flavors, The Buffet Fulton Street Food Hall Oyster Bar Ruth's Chris Steak House Toby Keith's I Love This Bar & Grill (2005–2020) |
Casino type | Land-based |
Owner | Vici Properties |
Operating license holder | Caesars Entertainment |
Previous names | Holiday Casino (1973–1992) |
Renovated in | 1975, 1982, 1986, 1989–90, 1996–97, 2006, 2015, 2018, 2020–21 |
Coordinates | 36°7′10″N 115°10′15″W / 36.11944°N 115.17083°W |
Website | caesars |
Harrah's Las Vegas is a hotel and casino centrally located on the Las Vegas Strip in Paradise, Nevada. It is owned by Vici Properties and operated by Caesars Entertainment. The property originally opened as a joint venture with Holiday Inn. Construction began in April 1970, and the hotel portion opened on February 1, 1972, as the Holiday Inn Center Strip. The casino portion, known as the Holiday Casino, opened on July 2, 1973. Shelby Williams was among the casino's investors. After his death in 1977, his wife Claudine Williams took over operations. Holiday Inn purchased an interest in the casino operation in 1979, and bought out Williams entirely in 1983, although she would remain as chairwoman.
In 1990, Holiday Inn transferred ownership of the resort to The Promus Companies, which then ended the franchise agreement with the hotel company. The property was renamed Harrah's Las Vegas in April 1992, and Promus would change its name to Harrah's Entertainment in 1995, before ultimately becoming Caesars Entertainment. The land was sold to Vici in 2017, and Caesars continues operating Harrah's Las Vegas through a 15-year leaseback agreement.
The casino originally featured a riverboat façade, which was enlarged in 1990, as part of a $100 million renovation and expansion project. The riverboat theme was removed in a subsequent $200 million project which concluded in 1997, adding a Carnival and Mardi Gras theme instead. The hotel includes 2,542 rooms, located across three buildings: the original 14-story tower, a 23-story tower completed in 1982, and a 35-story tower added in 1990. A 35-story addition was made to the third tower during the 1997 expansion.
In addition to a showroom, the property also has an outdoor bar and entertainment area known as Carnaval Court, and it featured a branch of The Improv comedy club from 1995 to 2016. The resort has featured numerous entertainers, including singer Clint Holmes (2000–2006) and magician Mac King (2000–2021). It has also hosted shows such as Legends in Concert (2009–2013), Million Dollar Quartet (2013–2016), and Menopause The Musical.
History
[edit]The resort was built on property once occupied by the Tumbleweed motel, built in 1946;[1] and the Pyramids motel, built in 1952. The Pyramids, a 20-unit motel, was the first project for Las Vegas real estate developer Irwin Molasky.[2][3][4] The Tumbleweed would later become the Sand Dunes,[5] and was destroyed in a 1968 fire.[6]
Holiday Inn and Holiday Casino (1973–1992)
[edit]In March 1969, plans were announced for a riverboat-themed casino to be built on the property. It would be developed by Holiday Queen Land Corporation, and the project would include a hotel in partnership with Holiday Inn.[7] The casino would be owned by Holiday Queen, while Holiday Inn would operate the hotel under its eponymous brand.[8] Groundbreaking took place on April 2, 1970.[9] The 520-room hotel opened on February 1, 1972, as the Holiday Inn Center Strip,[10] named for its location at the center of the Las Vegas Strip.[11] It consisted of a 14-story tower.[12] The adjacent Pyramids motel was purchased later that year for $750,000, and was demolished to provide additional parking space.[13]
During construction, the gaming portion was known as the River Queen Casino.[14] It opened as the Holiday Casino on July 2, 1973. It included 320 slot machines and 20 table games,[15][16] and catered to a middle-class clientele.[17] The casino's primary investors included Shelby Williams and Norman Jenson.[15][18] Williams served as the casino's president and board chairman.[17][19] He and his wife Claudine Williams had previously owned the Silver Slipper casino in the 1960s.[20] Shelby Williams died in 1977, at the age of 66, after a lengthy illness.[17] Claudine Williams took over operations, a rarity in the Nevada gaming industry, which generally consisted of men.[21][22] In 1979, Holiday Inn bought a 40 percent share of the casino's parent company, Riverboat, Inc.[23][24] Claudine Williams retained the other 60 percent.[25]
![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/e/ed/Las_Vegas%2C_Nevada_1989_27.jpg/170px-Las_Vegas%2C_Nevada_1989_27.jpg)
In 1980, construction began on a 23-story tower addition with 494 rooms. It was finished in 1982, and the hotel became the world's largest Holiday Inn,[26][27][28] with 991 rooms.[29] The project also increased the size of the casino.[26] Holiday Inn bought out Williams' remaining 60-percent interest in 1983.[30][31][32] She remained as chairwoman of the property for years after the sale.[21]
In 1986, a three-story casino addition began construction in front of the resort.[33][34][35] During the groundbreaking ceremony, outdated gaming chips from the Holiday Casino – totaling $380,000 – were dumped into the addition's cement foundation by executives. A spokeswoman said the chips would add "color and history" to the new structure, which was built by Marnell Corrao Associates. Aside from adding casino space, the addition also included a new showroom. A renovation of the hotel rooms also took place.[35]
A one-year, $100 million renovation and expansion began in 1989, in an effort to compete with newer resorts.[36][37] The project included the addition of a third tower, rising 35 stories. It added 734 rooms for a total of 1,725, retaining the hotel's title as largest Holiday Inn.[38] The casino was also expanded by 12,500 sq ft (1,160 m2), for a total of 74,000 sq ft (6,900 m2).[39] A parking garage was added as well.[36]
Harrah's Las Vegas (1992–present)
[edit]Holiday Inn had previously purchased Harrah's, Inc. in 1980.[40] Ten years later, Holiday Inn's eponymous hotel brand was sold to Bass PLC. A corporate spinoff, The Promus Companies, was created by Holiday Inn to oversee several brands not included in the sale to Bass PLC, including Harrah's. In October 1991, Promus announced that it would end its franchise agreement with Holiday Inn and rename the Las Vegas property under its Harrah's brand.[41][42][43] The name change was finalized in April 1992.[44][45][46]
An early morning robbery occurred in April 1994, when four young men entered Harrah's and robbed the casino cage at gunpoint.[47] A fifth man operated the getaway vehicle for the group, which consisted of Los Angeles gang members. They were apprehended after a 20-minute police chase,[48][49][50] and were sentenced to prison. Two other men who planned out the robbery were also sentenced.[51][52][53] The stolen money, approximately $100,000, was never recovered.[47][52] It was apparently handed off to another vehicle prior to the police chase.[47]
![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/a/ae/Harrah%27s_Las_Vegas_35-story_tower_%282009%29.jpg/220px-Harrah%27s_Las_Vegas_35-story_tower_%282009%29.jpg)
Promus was renamed Harrah's Entertainment in 1995.[43] A year later, the company began a $200 million renovation and expansion of the Las Vegas property.[54][55][56] The first phase of the project, a 10,000 sq ft (930 m2) casino addition, was opened in October 1996.[57] In total, the casino was expanded by 30,000 sq ft (2,800 m2),[56][58] and a 35-story addition was made to the third tower, among other changes.[59] The additions were officially unveiled with an opening ceremony in October 1997,[60] while final touches were concluded later that year.[56][61][59]
In September 2000, two men were suspected of stealing from distracted gamblers in the casino. When approached by security guards, one of the men fled before guards took him down. During the struggle, he pulled out a gun and fired two shots, one injuring a guard and the other killing a 29-year-old woman. Both men were soon apprehended.[62]
In September 2007, Clark County building officials opened an investigation into unauthorized renovations that took place at the Rio, another Las Vegas resort owned by Harrah's Entertainment.[63] The investigation revealed that hotel renovations had also taken place at Harrah's Las Vegas in 2006, without permitting.[64][65][66] In October 2007, Harrah's Entertainment closed approximately 600 rooms at Harrah's Las Vegas, allowing for investigative work and possible remediation.[63][67][68] Various fire safety hazards were uncovered, including some floors which lacked caulking, a material used to prevent smoke from spreading. The hotel reopened 501 rooms a month later, while another 166 continued to be brought up to code.[66][64] The resort's chief engineer faced several misdemeanor citations, and Harrah's Entertainment closed a remodeling subsidiary which oversaw the unauthorized work.[69][70] The charges were eventually dismissed.[71]
Harrah's Entertainment was renamed Caesars Entertainment in 2010.[72] A $25 million renovation of the casino floor took place in 2015, adding new flooring, furniture, and slot machines.[73]
In November 2017, Caesars announced it would sell the land to Vici Properties for $1.14 billion. Caesars would continue operating Harrah's for 15 years through a leaseback agreement.[74][75] The sale was completed the following month.[76]
A renovation of the 1,622-room Valley Tower was completed in 2018, at a cost of $140 million. It was the tower's first renovation in more than a decade.[77][73] Renovations on the rest of the hotel concluded in 2020, as part of a $200 million, multi-year renovation, which was finished in June 2021.[78] The project included renovations on the casino floor, and new purple neon signage on the resort's exterior.[79] A sky bridge was also built to connect Harrah's to the new Caesars Forum convention facility.[80]
Features
[edit]In 1988, the Holiday Casino became the first in Nevada to introduce computerized bingo.[81] Like other casinos on the Las Vegas Strip, Harrah's closed its poker room in 2000, amid a decline in demand.[82] The following year, it introduced blackjack tables limited to five seats, a popular feature among players. At the time, it was the only casino on the Strip to offer such a feature.[83] As of 2017, the casino measures 90,637 sq ft (8,420.5 m2).[84] The casino floor includes a humorous statue depicting a wealthy couple, Buck and Winnie Greenback, and their poodle Chip, surrounded by money. It is a popular photo spot.[77][85][86][87]
The hotel has 2,542 rooms,[79] and is popular as a low-cost alternative to larger, nearby resorts.[87]
In 1990, the Holiday Casino added an outdoor shopping plaza, named and themed after Jackson Square in New Orleans.[37][88] An outdoor retail and entertainment area, known as Carnaval Court, was added in the 1997 expansion.[56] It includes a bar and is host to live music.[89][90][87]
Design
[edit]Both the Holiday Inn and Holiday Casino were designed by architect Homer Rissman. Under the direction of the Holiday Inn company, Rissman designed the hotel portion as a plain, white-colored building, differentiating it from the separately operated casino.[91][92] The casino's exterior design was inspired by the Robert E. Lee steamboat, while the interior was replicated from the grand saloon onboard the Grand Republic riverboat.[93] A casino addition in 1975 featured an exterior resembling an old-fashioned excursion boat. This addition was attached to the original riverboat-themed casino building.[94][95]
The riverboat façade was revamped and expanded in 1990, now consisting of a 450-foot-long Mississippi-style riverboat with an 80-foot paddlewheel and two 85-foot-tall smokestacks. It stretched along the Las Vegas Strip.[29][37][39] Built at a cost of $30 million,[38] casino executives hoped that the new façade would become a popular tourist attraction.[37]
The 1997 renovation, by designer Henry Conversano,[54] removed the riverboat façade and added a Carnival/Mardi Gras theme to the resort.[96][59] A 30-by-90-foot mural was added to the new façade,[97] along with several jester statues, covered in gold leaf and weighing 22,000 lb (10,000 kg) each.[98][77]
Restaurants
[edit]Several new restaurants were added in the 1997 renovation,[99] while existing restaurants were redesigned. Among the new restaurants was the Range,[56][100] a 12,000 sq ft (1,100 m2) steakhouse on the second floor overlooking the Las Vegas Strip.[101] It offered a large selection of wines.[102] Other additions included a new buffet and cafe.[103][104]
![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/9/9a/Toby_Keith%27s_in_Las_Vegas.jpg/220px-Toby_Keith%27s_in_Las_Vegas.jpg)
In 2004, Harrah's partnered with country singer Toby Keith to open a restaurant and bar at the resort.[105] It opened the following year, as Toby Keith's I Love This Bar & Grill, part of a chain named after his 2003 song "I Love This Bar".[106] The resort also includes a popular oyster bar, which opened in 2006.[107][108] Several restaurants were also renovated that year, including the Fresh Market Buffet, which was renamed Flavors, The Buffet.[108][109]
From 2010 to 2015, the casino included a restaurant by chef Kerry Simon known as Kerry's Gourmet Burgers (KGB).[110][111][112] The Range was replaced in 2013 by a Ruth's Chris Steak House seating nearly 400 people.[113] A food court, Fulton Street Food Hall, was added in 2014.[114][115]
In February 2020, Buddy Valastro opened a pizzeria and sweets eatery known as PizzaCake.[116] Bobby's Burgers opened a location in the Fulton Street Food Hall at the end of 2021.[117][118] A Walk-On's Sports Bistreaux opened early the following year,[119][120] and was the first location to offer a breakfast menu.[121] It was also the first location to open on the U.S. west coast,[122] and is one of the largest locations at nearly 12,000 sq ft (1,100 m2). It replaced Keith's restaurant,[121] which closed in 2020.[123]
Chef Gordon Ramsay opened a restaurant, Ramsay's Kitchen, in 2022.[124]
Shows and entertainers
[edit]The resort has hosted numerous shows and entertainers. Rocky Sennes produced three shows for the property while it was known as the Holiday Casino. A comedy dance show, Wild World of Burlesque, opened in 1974,[125] and ran until 1985. It was replaced by a 1920s tribute show titled Roaring '20s.[126][127][128] In 1988, Sennes replaced it with Keep Smilin' America.[129][130] A magic show, Spellbound, began a 13-week run in early 1992, replacing Keep Smilin' America.[131][132][133] Due to its success, Spellbound would be extended several times,[134][135] eventually ending in 1999.[136][137]
A branch of The Improv comedy club was opened at Harrah's in April 1995,[138] and continued operating for the next 21 years, until Caesars closed the space. In addition to comedy acts, it also served as a second showroom.[139][140] In 1999, the Improv Showroom debuted Washington Sexcapades 2000, a political comedy show co-starring Steve Rossi and Sandy Hackett.[141]
Clint Holmes signed on as the resort's resident headliner in 1999,[142][143] taking over the former Spellbound Theater,[136][137][144] which was renamed the Clint Holmes Theatre. He began entertaining there in January 2000.[143][145] After more than 1,800 performances, Holmes concluded his run in September 2006.[146][147] Magician Mac King also began entertaining at Harrah's in 2000, and continued performing there for more than 20 years.[148][149] In 2021, he relocated his show to the Excalibur resort.[150][151] Other entertainers at Harrah's have included Rita Rudner,[152] The Righteous Brothers,[153] Big Elvis,[154][155] Ralphie May,[156] and Tape Face.[90][157]
Skintight, an adult-themed musical show, opened in 2000.[158] It featured a variety of songs.[159][160] Producer Greg Thompson described the show as "MTV meets Playboy".[158] Cynthia Brimhall, a Playboy Playmate, was among the show's dancers.[158][161] It ran in the Clint Holmes Theater and had a 70-minute runtime.[159][160] Skintight ended in 2006, and was replaced by Bareback,[162] a topless musical show also by Thompson. Bareback featured a country music soundtrack. The show previously played at Harrah's Reno, and its success there prompted the move to Las Vegas,[163][164] where it ended after a five-month run.[108]
Legends in Concert, one of the longest-running shows in Las Vegas history, moved to Harrah's in 2009, relocating from the adjacent Imperial Palace casino. The show features singers who impersonate notable performers such as Elvis Presley and David Bowie.[165][166] It ran at Harrah's for four years.[167] Million Dollar Quartet, a musical, opened in 2013. It surpassed 1,000 performances in 2015,[168][169] before closing a year later.[170] Menopause The Musical opened in the Improv Showroom in 2015.[171] It later moved to the Harrah's Cabaret space, and continues its run as of 2021.[172][173] Since 2016, Harrah's has also featured X Country, a country music-themed adult revue.[174]
Tenors of Rock, a rock cover band consisting of British tenors, performed in the Harrah's Showroom from 2017 to 2019.[175][176] Singer Donny Osmond began a residency at Harrah's in 2021.[177][178] Hyprov, a comedy show that is a fusion of stage hypnosis and improvisation, performed its first preview show on June 10, 2023, at the Harrah's Showroom, where it is in residency.[179][180]
Gallery
[edit]-
The original 14-story tower overlooking the pool
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Second riverboat façade, May 1993
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Harrah's northwest entrance
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Mardi Gras décor
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Gold jesters atop the façade
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Façade at night
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Hotel towers, seen from the nearby High Roller Ferris wheel, 2019
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External links
[edit]Media related to Harrah's Las Vegas at Wikimedia Commons
- Official website