Overview
The Riviera was a historic hotel and casino located on the northern end of the Las Vegas Strip. It operated from 1955 to 2015 and was one of the earliest major resorts on the Strip. Known for classic Las Vegas entertainment and a long roster of headline performers, it remained a recognizable property through multiple decades of industry change.
Technical Specifications
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | 2901 Las Vegas Blvd South |
| Opened | April 20, 1955 |
| Closed | May 4, 2015 |
| Demolition | June and August 2016 |
| Owner (final) | Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority |
| Rooms | ~2,100 |
| Casino Size | ~100,000 sq ft |
| Towers | Monaco Tower, San Remo Tower |
Physical Description
The Riviera developed in phases, resulting in multiple towers and expansions rather than a single unified structure. The casino floor followed a traditional layout with table games, slot machines, and sportsbook areas. The property included showrooms, dining venues, and convention facilities. Its appearance reflected mid-century origins with later additions that gave it a mixed architectural style compared to newer resorts.
History
- 1955 – Riviera opens as one of the first high-rise resorts on the Strip
- 1960s – Establishes itself as a premier entertainment venue; hosts major performers including the Rat Pack era acts
- 1970s – Continues as a major showroom destination; featured in film and television
- 1983 – Files for bankruptcy amid financial struggles
- 1985–1990s – Ownership changes; property undergoes renovations and expansion (including additional towers)
- 1995 – Celebrates 40th anniversary; attempts modernization to compete with mega-resorts
- 2000s – Decline in competitiveness as newer Strip properties dominate
- 2010 – Files for bankruptcy again
- 2015 – Purchased by LVCVA; closes on May 4
- 2016 – Main tower imploded in June; remaining structures demolished in August
The Riviera played a significant role in shaping early Las Vegas Strip development. It hosted legendary entertainers, appeared in numerous films, and operated through multiple eras of casino evolution before ultimately being removed to make way for expansion of the Las Vegas Convention Center.
Memorabila
