Las Vegas has long been synonymous with transformation, where casinos evolve as quickly as the vibrant city itself. The latest developments highlight this truth, featuring two iconic establishments—El Cortez Hotel & Casino and The Mirage—undergoing significant changes. The El Cortez, renowned for its rich history, celebrated its grand reopening on February 20, 2025, following a remarkable $20 million expansion. At the same time, The Mirage prepares to close its doors on July 17, 2025, for extensive renovations as it transitions to Hard Rock International ownership.
El Cortez, the longest continuously operating hotel and casino in Las Vegas, marked this new chapter with festivities attended by the community, dignitaries, and casino executives, including owner and CEO Kenny Epstein. "This new chapter brings exciting opportunities to the El Cortez’s iconic history," he stated, conveying his thrill about the additions to this historic property. Las Vegas Mayor Shelley Berkley graced the celebration, proclaiming February 20 as "El Cortez Hotel & Casino Day" throughout the city, celebrating both its historical significance and its vibrant future.
The extensive expansion at El Cortez introduces 10,000 square feet of new space, featuring two new bars, the ShowBar and Roulette Bar, a high-limit slots area, and the Hot Noods restaurant led by Michelin-rated Chef Po Fai Lam. During the soft opening earlier this month, guests experienced the energetic atmosphere created by the new enhancements. Adam Wiesberg, the general manager, described the experience as "magical," noting the heightened energy during busy weekend evenings.
Meanwhile, The Mirage on the Las Vegas Strip is poised for its own radical transformation. Hard Rock International, which purchased the property from MGM Resorts, announced its impending closure to allow renovations, including the ambitious plan to replace the iconic volcano with a massive guitar-shaped hotel tower. The resort is expected to reopen by spring 2027 after nearly three years of significant construction.
Jim Allen, the chairman of Hard Rock International, expressed gratitude to the Las Vegas community after 34 years of service at The Mirage. "We’d like to thank the Las Vegas community and team members for warmly welcoming Hard Rock," Allen stated, recognizing the opportunity to rebrand and revitalize the well-known property.
For employees, the transition brings financial certainty amid change. Hard Rock plans to host hiring events with other local employers, and those staying through the closure will receive approximately $80 million in severance packages. The Culinary Union announced service recognition bonuses of $2,000 for every year of service, providing workers with options for their futures.
Both the El Cortez and The Mirage symbolize different aspects of Las Vegas's casino industry. While the former aims to honor its storied past and continue delivering unique experiences, the latter embraces significant modernization. The juxtaposition highlights the city's complex relationship with its history and the future of its entertainment industry. El Cortez's storied beginnings with legends like Bugsy Siegel provide rich narratives. The Mirage, on the other hand, reflects modern casino trends and the need for constant reinvention.
Mayor Berkley commented on the importance of such establishments to Las Vegas's identity. “You have helped to make Las Vegas great because you are great,” she said, thanking Epstein for the El Cortez’s continuous contribution to the city. This sentiment echoes throughout the community as they witness these iconic establishments evolve.
Both projects mark pivotal moments for the Las Vegas casino industry. They signal how tradition can coexist with ambition, shaping the future of one of the world’s most thrilling entertainment destinations. The commitment exhibited through expansions and transformations assures visitors and locals alike of Las Vegas's place at the forefront of entertainment and hospitality innovation.