The Mirage, Las Vegas to Close Its Doors to Open New Casino
The Mirage, Las Vegas Closing in Summer 2024
For over three decades, the Mirage Hotel and Casino has been a pulsating heart on the Las Vegas Strip. The Mirage volcano that shoots fake lava over 12 feet in the air every hour between 7pm and 11pm has served as a staple for tourists seeking a taste of Vegas' vibrant energy.
However, that era is coming to a close.
On July 17, 2024, the 3,000-room resort will cease operations, and instead start a three-year transformation that will see the Mirage theme disappear completely.
History of The Mirage
The Mirage's legacy is undeniable. Opened in 1989 by casino magnate Steve Wynn, it was a pioneer in the world of luxury resorts on the Strip.
More importantly, it revolutionized the concept of visitor engagement. The Mirage volcano, a first-of-its-kind sidewalk attraction, set a precedent for future resorts. Inspired by the Mirage's success, the Bellagio's dancing fountains and the Venetian's network of canals were all created to offer similar dazzling experiences for visitors.
Beyond the volcano, the Mirage became synonymous with other quintessential Las Vegas experiences. The legendary Siegfried and Roy's white tiger show captivated audiences for years, while the Cirque du Soleil's mesmerizing Beatles-themed production Love further cemented the resort's place in the city's entertainment landscape.
What is Replacing The Mirage?
However, change is inevitable in the ever-evolving world of Las Vegas. The Mirage's tropical paradise will soon vanish, replaced by the electric energy of Hard Rock International.
The new Hard Rock Las Vegas will include a recognizable centerpiece that's sure to become an iconic landmark in itself - a colossal 700-foot-tall guitar-shaped hotel tower, mirroring the design of their Florida property.
Unfortunately, this transformation comes at a cost. The Mirage volcano will be demolished to make way for additional guest rooms.
Ownership of the Mirage has changed hands over the years. MGM Resorts acquired the property from Wynn in 2000, before selling it for a staggering sum of over $1 billion to Hard Rock International in 2022. This marks Hard Rock's second foray into the Vegas market, having previously owned the now-Virgin Hotels Las Vegas outside the Strip.
Layoffs Are Inevitable
The closure of the Mirage will have a significant impact on its dedicated workforce. More than 3,000 employees will be laid off starting in July. Hard Rock International has committed to offering severance packages exceeding $80 million, a gesture of support for the displaced workers.
The Culinary Workers Union, representing roughly half the Mirage's workforce, has secured an agreement for affected employees. This includes a severance payment of $2,000 for each year of service, with the option to return to their positions once the Hard Rock Las Vegas reopens in 2027.
The news of the closure also affects existing reservations. The Mirage will be cancelling all reservations beyond July 14th, issuing full refunds.
Casino chips will need to be redeemed at the Mirage by that date, although neighboring Treasure Island will offer an additional 120 days of redemption after the closure.