The Tropicana Las Vegas has long been a staple of the Las Vegas Strip, serving as a backdrop to some of the city’s most iconic moments and events. Over its 67-year history, the hotel and casino have built a reputation as a landmark that has entertained millions of visitors and played host to legendary performers and personalities. Here are five things you may not know about the Tropicana Las Vegas and its rich history:
1) Mob Connections and Intrigue:
When the Tropicana first opened its doors, it quickly gained a reputation for its luxury and sophistication. However, beneath the glitz and glamor, the resort also had ties to organized crime, especially through the notorious mobster Frank Costello. Just weeks after the Tropicana’s grand opening, Costello was shot in New York. A note found in his pocket detailed the Tropicana’s exact earnings and plans for skimming money for his associates, highlighting the casino’s early links to the mob and its darker side.
2) “Folies Bergère”—A Vegas Staple:
One of the most iconic shows ever to grace the Tropicana’s stage was “Folies Bergère,” a spectacular cabaret that entertained audiences for nearly 50 years. Originating from Paris, this show featured dazzling feathered showgirls, intricate costumes, and impressive stage sets. The revue’s live orchestral music, acrobats, magic acts, and comedy left audiences in awe. “Folies Bergère” not only drew in local crowds but also attracted international tourists, making it a hallmark of the Tropicana’s vibrant entertainment offerings.
3) Hollywood Connections:
The Tropicana’s elegant setting has made it a popular location for Hollywood films. Notable appearances include the James Bond film Diamonds are Forever in 1971 and Viva Las Vegas starring Elvis Presley. These cameos brought the Tropicana into the homes and imaginations of moviegoers around the world, further elevating its status as a Las Vegas landmark and cultural touchstone.
4) Evolution and Transformation:
As Las Vegas evolved over the decades, so did the Tropicana. In the 1980s, the resort rebranded itself as “The Island of Las Vegas,” complete with a swim-up blackjack table at the pool. This creative twist on traditional gaming offered a taste of island life in the heart of the desert. Later, the Tropicana underwent a South Beach-themed renovation in 2011, showcasing its ability to keep up with the times and reinvent itself to suit the ever-changing tastes of its guests.
5) Vintage Vegas Nostalgia:
Despite its many transformations, the Tropicana continues to evoke a sense of vintage Vegas charm. The low-rise hotel wings and stained glass designs echo the resort’s storied past. Guests often remark on the nostalgic ambiance of the casino floor, where they can still experience the essence of old-school Vegas. For many visitors, a stay at the Tropicana is a journey back in time, complete with memories of classic Las Vegas.
While the Tropicana’s history is undeniably rich, its future is just as exciting. The resort is set to be transformed into a $1.5 billion Major League Baseball stadium, a part of Las Vegas’s ongoing shift towards sports and entertainment. As the Tropicana bids farewell to its historic grounds, it leaves behind an enduring legacy that has been intertwined with the vibrant history of Las Vegas. Though its doors will soon close, the Tropicana will always be remembered as an integral part of the city’s past, present, and future.
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