Las Vegas is experiencing a wave of casino expansions and renovations, with two significant projects set to make headlines. Boyd Gaming Corporation is gearing up to break ground on the Cadence Crossing Casino, which will replace the Jokers Wild Casino, and El Cortez Hotel & Casino has just completed a substantial $20 million renovation, breathing new life and excitement back to this historic venue.
This new venture, Cadence Crossing Casino, is located on Boulder Highway adjacent to the booming Cadence master-planned community. According to Boyd Gaming, grading on the site began Monday, with the formal groundbreaking ceremony slated for April 3. The casino is anticipated to open its doors by mid-2026, featuring 450 slot machines and various food and beverage options aimed at creating the ultimate gaming experience for the local residents. Boyd Gaming's President and CEO, Keith Smith, expressed enthusiasm about this new project, stating, “Cadence is one of the fastest-growing master-planned communities in the nation, and we look forward to providing our neighbors with a modern and compelling gaming entertainment experience.”
Meanwhile, the historic El Cortez Hotel & Casino, situated in downtown Las Vegas, has just celebrated the grand reopening after concluding its own extensive renovations aimed at modernizing the property without losing its unique charm. The $20 million investment has resulted in the addition of 10,000 square feet to the casino, featuring new dining and entertainment options such as high-limit lounges, bars, and even Starbucks coffee. During the celebration event, Las Vegas Mayor Shelley Berkley honored the venue by declaring February 20 as “El Cortez Hotel & Casino Day.”
El Cortez, which first opened its doors back in 1941 and was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2013, has always held a unique place within the Las Vegas community. Kenny Epstein, CEO of El Cortez, showed his pride at the ribbon-cutting ceremony, saying, “I feel great because people like it. If they didn’t like it, then I’d be worried.” This positivity reflects not just business growth, but also the emotional connection many have with this iconic hotel and casino.
Berkley praised the El Cortez for its contribution to Las Vegas, equipping the venue’s expansion with significant respect. “You have helped to make Las Vegas great because you are great,” she said during the opening event. The renovations, managed by McCarthy Building Companies alongside JIVE Architecture, YESCO, and Kenneth Ussenko Design, have reshaped the casino’s layout, adding two new bars and enhancing space for table games.
Both expansions signify more than just business ventures; they represent shifts within the Las Vegas community aiming to revitalize the city's appeal. With significant investments like these, Boyd Gaming and the El Cortez Hotel & Casino are setting the stage for increased economic activity and tourist interest. The Cadence Crossing Casino seeks to cater to the growing residential community around Boulder Highway, enhancing local entertainment options directly for residents.
Similarly, the renovations at El Cortez not only modernize the facilities but are also aimed at preserving its storied history. General Manager Adam Wiesberg described the new spaces as “magical,” capturing the energy and excitement infused within this classic establishment. Executives have hinted at more developments on the horizon, indicating their commitment to keeping the El Cortez both relevant and deeply rooted within the history of Las Vegas.
Las Vegas, California's entertainment capital, has witnessed numerous shifts over the decades but remains steadfastly devoted to both innovation and tradition. These two expansions highlight how new developments can harmonize with historical establishments, providing visitors with fresh experiences whilst celebrating the rich legacies of the past. With Boyd Gaming making strides with the Cadence Crossing Casino and the El Cortez revitalizing itself, it’s clear the city is continuing its tradition of being at the forefront of gaming and hospitality.
Prospects for these new developments are undoubtedly promising, and the industry looks forward to the changes they will bring. They not only signify new business investments but also embody the spirit of Las Vegas's dynamic and ever-evolving casino culture.”