Official Closing Date of Iconic Las Vegas Casino Mirage Announced

Article by : Erik Gibbs May 17, 2024

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The Mirage, a cornerstone of the Las Vegas Strip for decades, stands on the brink of closure, marking the end of an illustrious era in the city’s hospitality landscape.

Resort President Joe Lupo recently presided over a town hall meeting on Wednesday morning to announce the definitive closure date of July 17, 2024. This decision will profoundly affect the property’s approximately 3,300 employees, including 140 Day One staff members who have been with it since its inception.

While acknowledging the gravity of the situation, Lupo expressed optimism about the future, particularly with the property’s transformation into the Hard Rock Las Vegas by spring 2027.

This transition follows Hard Rock International’s acquisition of the property from MGM Resorts International in December 2022, signaling a significant shift in ownership and vision for the iconic resort.

The closure of The Mirage will entail a complete shutdown rather than a phased approach, emphasizing the scale of the forthcoming renovations. However, in response to the impending job losses, a resource center has been established within the premises, offering support services and job placement opportunities for affected employees.

Culinary Local 226, a key union representing a significant portion of The Mirage’s workforce, played a pivotal role in negotiating severance provisions as part of recent contract discussions, ensuring a measure of financial assistance for displaced workers.

Hard Rock’s ambitious redesign plans include a striking architectural vision featuring a towering 660-foot hotel tower shaped like guitars, reminiscent of its flagship property in Hollywood, Florida.

This innovative design promises to redefine the Las Vegas skyline, symbolizing a departure from The Mirage’s classic aesthetic. Notably, the iconic volcano, a beloved feature since The Mirage’s inception in 1989, will be replaced by the new Hard Rock structure.

Entertainment offerings at The Mirage will undergo significant changes with the closure of the long-running Cirque du Soleil-Beatles production “Love” on July 7. However, the Mirage Theater will remain operational, with magician Shin Lim slated to conclude his residency before relocating to the Palazzo Theater later in the year.

The Mirage’s closure holds historical significance in Las Vegas history. It was credited with revolutionizing the Strip upon its grand opening in 1989 under the visionary leadership of Steve Wynn.

Its acquisition by MGM in 2000 marked a milestone in the city’s hospitality industry consolidation. Over the years, The Mirage has been synonymous with iconic attractions, including Siegfried and Roy’s mesmerizing acts and the acclaimed Secret Garden and Dolphin Habitat.

Clark County officials’ approval of planning documents for the 660-foot all-suite tower in March 2023 signals a significant step forward in the property’s redevelopment. Indoor expansion plans, including enhancements to live theater and ballroom facilities, show Hard Rock’s intent to revitalize the property’s offerings and enhance the guest experience.

Additionally, a low-rise expansion along the south side of the property will further augment The Mirage’s amenities, ensuring a seamless blend of luxury, entertainment, and hospitality for future guests.