The Mirage Casino, envisioned by developer Steve Wynn and designed by Joel Bergman, opened its doors on November 22, 1989, at a cost of $630 million. The casino’s innovative attractions and technological advancements set a new standard for Las Vegas resorts and ushered in a new era of megaresorts along the famous Las Vegas Strip in the 1990s.
One of the key features that made The Mirage stand out was its tropical-themed atrium, housing a vast array of exotic plants and trees, complete with a soaring waterfall that captivated visitors. The resort’s iconic volcano, which erupted nightly, was a spectacle not to be missed and became a hallmark of The Mirage’s entertainment offerings.
In addition to its entertainment elements, The Mirage was also a trailblazer in terms of its accommodations. Boasting over 3,000 rooms and suites, the resort set a new standard for luxury and comfort in Las Vegas. The rooms featured modern amenities and stunning views of the Strip or the surrounding mountains, providing guests with a truly unforgettable experience.
Furthermore, The Mirage was also at the forefront of the culinary scene in Las Vegas. The resort’s array of restaurants, ranging from fine dining establishments to casual eateries, offered a diverse culinary experience for guests. Notably, The Mirage was home to restaurants run by celebrity chefs like Wolfgang Puck, bringing a new level of sophistication to the Las Vegas dining scene.
The Mirage’s success paved the way for other megaresorts to sprout along the Strip in the 1990s, each vying to outdo the other in terms of size, luxury, and entertainment offerings. Its impact on the Las Vegas hospitality industry cannot be overstated, as it catalyzed a transformation that forever changed the landscape of the city.
As The Mirage Casino prepares to close its doors after over three decades of operation, its legacy as a trailblazer in the Las Vegas hospitality industry remains firmly intact. The iconic resort will always be remembered as the catalyst that ushered in an era of megaresorts on the Strip, setting a new standard for luxury, entertainment, and innovation in the heart of the desert.
