The Mirage: A Glorious Chapter in Las Vegas History

THE BIRTH OF A LEGEND

In the late 1980s, Las Vegas was ripe for a revolution. Enter Steve Wynn, a visionary entrepreneur who saw the potential for a new kind of resort that combined luxury accommodations with high-caliber entertainment. Wynn’s vision culminated in The Mirage, which opened its doors on November 22, 1989. At the time, it was the most expensive hotel-casino in history, with construction costs soaring to $630 million.

The Mirage was the first new resort built on the Las Vegas Strip in more than 15 years, marking the beginning of a new era. Its Polynesian-themed design, highlighted by a 54-foot volcano that erupted nightly, set it apart from anything Las Vegas had seen before. The resort’s lush tropical gardens, waterfalls, and lagoons created an exotic oasis in the desert, captivating visitors from around the world.

INNOVATIONS & ATTRACTIONS

The Mirage introduced several groundbreaking innovations that redefined the Las Vegas experience. Among these was the Siegfried & Roy’s Secret Garden and Dolphin Habitat, where guests could see white tigers, lions, and dolphins up close. This attraction underscored the resort’s commitment to blending entertainment with luxury.

Another major innovation was the use of high-stakes gaming to attract VIP gamblers. The Mirage pioneered the concept of the “mega-resort,” combining a hotel, casino, and entertainment complex under one roof. This model proved immensely successful and set the standard for future developments on the Strip.

The Mirage also became known for its headline shows, most notably the long-running Siegfried & Roy magic show. The duo’s performances, featuring exotic animals and elaborate illusions, were a major draw for visitors and helped solidify The Mirage’s reputation as a top entertainment destination.

The Mirage also hosted The Beatles LOVE by Cirque du Soleil, a production favorite that took its final bow on July 7th, 2024 after an 18-year run.

ECONOMIC IMPACT

The opening of The Mirage had a profound economic impact on Las Vegas. It not only created thousands of jobs but also spurred a wave of new construction and investment in the area. The success of The Mirage demonstrated the viability of large-scale resort projects, leading to the development of other iconic properties such as the Bellagio, Venetian, and Mandalay Bay.

Moreover, The Mirage’s success helped shift Las Vegas’s image from a gambling-centric town to a world-class entertainment and tourism destination. This transformation attracted a more diverse array of visitors and boosted the city’s economy.

THE MIRAGE IN POPULAR CULTURE

The Mirage has also left an indelible mark on popular culture. It has been featured in numerous films, television shows, and music videos, becoming synonymous with the bright lights of Las Vegas. Movies like Vegas Vacation and Ocean’s Eleven showcased The Mirage’s luxurious resort, further embedding it in the public consciousness.

THE MIRAGE’S CLOSURE

Despite its storied past and continued popularity, The Mirage closed its doors on July 17th, 2024. The closure came as part of a broader strategy by its current owner, MGM Resorts International, to divest from certain properties and focus on other investments. The property has been sold to Hard Rock International, which plans to transform the iconic resort into Hard Rock Hotel & Casino and Guitar Hotel Las Vegas.

The decision to close The Mirage marks the end of an era. Many longtime fans and employees have expressed sadness and nostalgia, reflecting on the resort’s significant role in their lives and the city’s history. However, the transition also represents an opportunity for renewal and reinvention, consistent with the ever-changing landscape of Las Vegas.

THE LEGACY OF THE MIRAGE

As The Mirage closes its doors, its legacy endures. It will be remembered as a trailblazer that reshaped the Las Vegas Strip and set new standards for luxury, entertainment, and innovation. The Mirage’s influence can be seen in the design and operation of modern mega-resorts worldwide.

From its revolutionary opening in 1989 to its role as a catalyst for change on the Strip, The Mirage has been a cornerstone of the city’s development. If you’re a Las Vegas history buff and want to learn more about the city’s growth, check out our guided tour, “History. Brought to Light.” The tour explores Las Vegas’ rich history through the beauty of neon signs.