The Closure of Riviera Casino: A Timeline and Analysis

The Riviera Casino, once a beacon of entertainment in Las Vegas, had a storied history that spanned several decades. Known for its luxurious accommodations and vibrant nightlife, the casino was a favorite among gamblers and tourists alike. However, its doors closed permanently, leaving many to wonder when did Riviera Casino close? This article delves into the history, reasons, and aftermath of the casino's closure.

I. The Rise of the Riviera Casino

A. Opening in 1955, the Riviera Casino quickly became a staple in the Las Vegas Strip.

B. The casino was designed by architect Gordon B. Kaufmann, known for his work on the Flamingo and Sahara casinos.

C. The Riviera featured 1,200 rooms, a 1,500-seat showroom, and a 1,000-seat dining room.

II. The Golden Era of the Riviera Casino

A. During the 1960s and 1970s, the Riviera became a popular spot for live entertainment, hosting legendary acts such as Frank Sinatra, Sammy Davis Jr., and Liza Minnelli.

B. The casino's luxurious amenities, including a swimming pool, golf course, and tennis courts, attracted a high-end clientele.

C. The Riviera was also known for its opulent decor, with gold and white accents that set it apart from other casinos.

III. The Decline of the Riviera Casino

A. By the 1980s, the Riviera began to face stiff competition from newer, more modern casinos on the Strip.

B. The casino's facilities became outdated, and its once-luxurious accommodations started to show signs of wear and tear.

C. The casino's owners, the Las Vegas Hilton Corporation, began to struggle financially.

IV. The Closure of the Riviera Casino

A. On January 3, 2006, the Riviera Casino officially closed its doors, marking the end of an era in Las Vegas.

B. The closure was a result of the casino's inability to compete with newer, more modern casinos and the financial struggles of its owners.

C. The closure of the Riviera was met with mixed reactions from both the Las Vegas community and former patrons.

V. The Aftermath of the Riviera Casino Closure

A. The property was sold to the City of Las Vegas for $1.5 million, with the intention of redeveloping the site.

B. The city eventually sold the property to a private developer, who planned to build a mixed-use development that would include residential, commercial, and retail spaces.

C. The redevelopment of the Riviera site has been a subject of controversy, with some residents and preservationists advocating for the preservation of the casino's historic architecture.

VI. Frequently Asked Questions about the Closure of the Riviera Casino

1. What year did the Riviera Casino close?

Answer: The Riviera Casino closed permanently on January 3, 2006.

2. Why did the Riviera Casino close?

Answer: The closure was a result of the casino's inability to compete with newer, more modern casinos and the financial struggles of its owners.

3. Who owned the Riviera Casino when it closed?

Answer: The Riviera Casino was owned by the Las Vegas Hilton Corporation at the time of its closure.

4. What happened to the property after the Riviera Casino closed?

Answer: The property was sold to the City of Las Vegas, and later to a private developer, who planned to redevelop the site.

5. Are there any plans to preserve the Riviera Casino's historic architecture?

Answer: The redevelopment of the Riviera site has been a subject of controversy, with some residents and preservationists advocating for the preservation of the casino's historic architecture. However, no concrete plans have been announced to preserve the casino's original structure.

In conclusion, the closure of the Riviera Casino marked the end of an era in Las Vegas. The casino's storied history, from its opening in 1955 to its closure in 2006, serves as a testament to the evolution of the Las Vegas Strip. While the site has been redeveloped, the legacy of the Riviera Casino remains a part of Las Vegas' rich history.