The Tropicana Las Vegas, the city’s third-oldest casino, is set to close after 67 years of operation to make way for a $1.5 billion Major League Baseball stadium. The casino was once a popular hotspot frequented by the Rat Pack and had a rich history that included ties to organized crime. However, as Las Vegas evolves into a hub for sports entertainment, the Tropicana has come to the end of its era.
The Tropicana opened in a time when the Las Vegas Strip was surrounded by vast open desert and had just surpassed a population of 100,000 residents. The casino was known for its manicured lawns, elegant showroom, and nickname as the “Tiffany of the Strip.” Over the years, it hosted A-list stars and underwent various renovations to keep up with the changing landscape of Las Vegas.
Despite the changes and rebranding efforts over the years, the Tropicana still managed to retain some of its vintage Vegas charm. Visitors like JT Seumala, who visited the casino in March, noted the feeling of stepping back in time when exploring the casino floor and hotel. The Tropicana still held a special place in the hearts of those who frequented its halls over the years.
Behind the scenes, the Tropicana had connections to organized crime, particularly through reputed mobster Frank Costello. However, the hotel-casino also saw many years of success, including being home to the city’s longest-running show, “Folies Bergere.” The topless revue, originally from Paris, featured the iconic feathered showgirls that became synonymous with Las Vegas entertainment.
As the Tropicana prepares to be demolished, the site at the south end of the Las Vegas Strip will make way for the new Major League Baseball stadium, expected to open in 2028. This transformation is part of Las Vegas’ ongoing evolution as a city of reinvention and a hub for sports entertainment. While there are mixed feelings about the closure of the Tropicana, the city continues to evolve and adapt to new trends and opportunities.
