Hard Rock International Wastes No Time With the Mirage Demolition

Article by : Erik Gibbs Jul 22, 2024

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Hard Rock International wasted no time in commencing the demolition of the iconic Mirage hotel and casino on the Las Vegas Strip, just hours after the property officially closed its doors. Bulldozers are set to be in full swing next week, marking the beginning of a multi-billion-dollar redevelopment project that will transform the site into a Hard Rock-branded casino resort.

Jim Allen, chairman of Hard Rock International and CEO of Seminole Gaming, provided limited details about the project during a press conference prior to the Mirage’s closure. While the exact scope of demolition and remodeling remains undisclosed, Allen confirmed that the Atrium and the volcano, two signature elements of The Mirage, will be removed. In their place will rise a 700-foot guitar-shaped hotel tower, a hallmark of the Hard Rock brand.

Allen estimated the total cost of the redevelopment project to be between $4 billion and $5 billion. While some elements of The Mirage, such as the villas, will be retained and renovated, the property’s overall footprint is expected to undergo significant changes.

“This is the best piece of real estate on the Las Vegas Strip,” Allen emphasized. “It’s truly the 50-yard line.” The ample space afforded by the nearly 80-acre site will allow for substantial expansion as the business grows.

Hard Rock plans to incorporate elements of The Mirage’s legacy into the new property, creating a special area that pays homage to the iconic casino’s history. However, the overall design and decor will align with the Hard Rock brand.

Allen highlighted the importance of diversifying the Las Vegas experience beyond traditional gaming, emphasizing the role of sports, entertainment, and hospitality in the future of the industry. The Hard Rock brand has a proven track record in these areas, and the new Las Vegas property will reflect this focus.

The guitar-shaped tower, while a bold design choice, is seen by Allen as a perfect fit for the Las Vegas landscape. “If there’s ever a city about wow, certainly Las Vegas would be that city,” he said.

As the gaming industry evolves with the rise of igaming and sports betting, Allen stressed the importance of adapting to these changes. He cautioned industry players to remain focused on these trends to stay competitive.

With the demolition of The Mirage now underway, the transformation of this iconic Las Vegas property into a Hard Rock casino resort is officially in motion. The project is expected to reshape the Strip’s landscape and redefine the guest experience.