The Rich Tapestry of Howard Hughes' Casino Empire

Howard Hughes, the enigmatic and wealthy industrialist, had a diverse portfolio of businesses, including a significant stake in the casino industry. This article delves into the various casinos that Howard Hughes owned, their unique features, and the impact they had on the gambling world.

1. The Flamingo Las Vegas

One of the most iconic casinos owned by Howard Hughes was the Flamingo Las Vegas. Opened in 1946, this hotel-casino was the first resort on the Las Vegas Strip. The Flamingo was designed in a tropical style, featuring pink flamingos, palm trees, and a lavish swimming pool. It became a symbol of luxury and opulence in the gambling capital of the world.

2. Desert Inn

Another renowned casino owned by Howard Hughes was the Desert Inn. Located on the Las Vegas Strip, the Desert Inn was opened in 1950 and quickly became a popular destination for gamblers and celebrities. The resort featured a stunning golf course, a lavish pool area, and numerous dining options. However, the Desert Inn faced financial difficulties and was eventually sold in 2000.

3. The Howard Hughes Corporation's Casino Operations

Howard Hughes Corporation, the conglomerate founded by Hughes, had a significant presence in the casino industry. The company owned and operated several casinos across the United States, including the following:

a. The Desert Inn

b. The Sahara Las Vegas

c. The MGM Grand

d. The Circus Circus

e. The Excalibur

4. The Sahara Las Vegas

The Sahara Las Vegas was another prominent casino owned by Howard Hughes. Opened in 1952, this hotel-casino was designed in a futuristic style, with a distinctive dome structure. The Sahara featured a large swimming pool, numerous dining options, and a wide variety of gaming machines. The resort became a popular destination for both tourists and locals, but it faced financial difficulties and was eventually sold in 2004.

5. The MGM Grand

The MGM Grand was another casino owned by Howard Hughes Corporation. Opened in 1973, this hotel-casino became one of the most iconic landmarks on the Las Vegas Strip. The MGM Grand featured a massive hotel, an impressive gaming floor, and a wide array of entertainment options. The resort was known for its luxurious amenities and extravagant shows, making it a must-visit destination for tourists.

6. The Excalibur

The Excalibur, another casino owned by Howard Hughes Corporation, was opened in 1978. Designed in a medieval theme, the Excalibur featured a large, iconic castle structure and a variety of themed attractions. The resort became a popular destination for families and budget-conscious travelers, offering a range of entertainment options, dining, and gaming facilities.

7. The Impact of Howard Hughes' Casinos

Howard Hughes' casinos had a significant impact on the casino industry and the city of Las Vegas. His resorts were known for their luxurious amenities, innovative designs, and high-quality entertainment. Hughes' influence helped to shape the image of Las Vegas as a glamorous and exciting destination for gamblers and celebrities alike.

Questions and Answers:

1. What was the Flamingo Las Vegas known for?

Answer: The Flamingo Las Vegas was known for its tropical design, pink flamingos, palm trees, and luxurious amenities, making it a symbol of opulence and luxury in Las Vegas.

2. Why did the Desert Inn face financial difficulties?

Answer: The Desert Inn faced financial difficulties due to rising costs, increased competition, and the changing preferences of the gambling market.

3. How did Howard Hughes Corporation's casino operations contribute to the Las Vegas Strip?

Answer: Howard Hughes Corporation's casino operations contributed to the Las Vegas Strip by bringing iconic resorts like the Sahara Las Vegas, MGM Grand, and Excalibur, which helped to establish the Strip as a world-renowned destination for gaming and entertainment.

4. What was the Sahara Las Vegas's most distinctive feature?

Answer: The Sahara Las Vegas's most distinctive feature was its futuristic design, featuring a large dome structure and a variety of themed attractions.

5. How did the Excalibur's medieval theme impact the Las Vegas Strip?

Answer: The Excalibur's medieval theme added a unique and whimsical element to the Las Vegas Strip, attracting families and budget-conscious travelers interested in themed entertainment and dining options.