The Stardust Resort and Casino: A Historical Las Vegas Icon

Introduction

The Stardust Resort and Casino, once a towering pillar of the Las Vegas skyline, stands as a testament to the city's vibrant history and the evolution of the gaming industry. This iconic landmark has witnessed countless moments of glamour, fortune, and entertainment over its remarkable lifetime.

The Golden Age of Las Vegas

The Stardust was envisioned by Tony Cornero, a notorious casino owner and bootlegger, and designed by Morris Lapidus, a renowned architect known for his flamboyant "Miami Modern" style. The hotel opened its doors on July 2, 1958, amidst the height of Las Vegas's "Golden Age."

Initially, the Stardust was a 12-story, 1,000-room hotel with a 12-acre casino. It quickly became a popular destination for celebrities, high rollers, and ordinary folks seeking a taste of the city's electrifying atmosphere.

Stars of the Stardust

Throughout its history, the Stardust has hosted a countless array of legendary performers and personalities. Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Sammy Davis Jr., Elvis Presley, and Cher graced the resort's stages, leaving an indelible mark on entertainment history.

The Sands of Time: Evolution and Renovations

Over the decades, the Stardust underwent several major renovations and expansions to keep pace with the changing landscape of Las Vegas. In 1969, a 22-story tower was added, increasing the hotel's capacity to 1,900 rooms. The casino was also significantly expanded, becoming one of the largest in the city.

In 1991, the Stardust embarked on its most ambitious renovation, transforming itself into a luxurious destination with a $125 million overhaul. The hotel's exterior was repainted in dazzling gold, and the interior was updated with modern amenities.

The Twilight Years

Despite its iconic status, the Stardust began to face financial challenges in the early 2000s due to increased competition and changing consumer preferences. In 2006, the resort was sold to Boyd Gaming Corporation for $1.3 billion.

The Fall of a Legend

On November 1, 2006, the Stardust Resort and Casino closed its doors for the final time. The implosion of the resort's two towers in 2007 marked the end of an era in Las Vegas history.

Legacy and Impact

The Stardust Resort and Casino left an enduring legacy on Las Vegas. It was a symbol of the city's glamour and excess during the "Golden Age" of gaming. Its iconic architecture, legendary performers, and unforgettable experiences continue to captivate the imaginations of visitors from around the world.

Additional Information

Table 1: Key Statistics

Table 2: Notable Performers

Table 3: Historical Timeline

FAQs

1. When did the Stardust Resort and Casino open?
   - July 2, 1958

2. Who designed the Stardust Resort and Casino?
   - Morris Lapidus

3. How many rooms did the Stardust Resort and Casino have?
   - 1,000 (original), 1,900 (after expansion)

4. Who were some of the famous performers who performed at the Stardust Resort and Casino?
   - Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Sammy Davis Jr., Elvis Presley, Cher

5. When did the Stardust Resort and Casino close?
   - November 1, 2006

6. What happened to the Stardust Resort and Casino after it closed?
   - The resort's towers were imploded in 2007.

7. Who currently owns the land where the Stardust Resort and Casino once stood?
   - Boyd Gaming Corporation

8. Are there any plans to rebuild the Stardust Resort and Casino?
   - Currently, there are no publicly known plans to rebuild the Stardust Resort and Casino.