The El Cortez Hotel & Casino, a cornerstone of downtown Las Vegas since 1941, has completed an ambitious $20 million renovation upgrade that masterfully bridges the property’s rich history with contemporary luxury. The transformation marks another milestone for the longest continuously operating hotel-casino in Las Vegas, which remains the only casino on the National Register of Historic Places.
Major Renovation Elements
At the heart of the renovation is a striking new entrance featuring an elegant spiral staircase, immediately setting the tone for the property’s elevated aesthetic. The centerpiece of the casino floor’s transformation is the new Show Bar, outfitted with a state-of-the-art 20-foot video wall and a stage designed for live entertainment, breathing new energy into the historic space.
“This renovation represents our commitment to preserving El Cortez’s unique character while ensuring it remains relevant for today’s guests,” explains an El Cortez staff member. “Every design decision was made with respect to our history.”
Historic Elements
That history runs deep. The property’s 47 original rooms from 1941, accessed by the original staircase, have been meticulously remodeled while maintaining their vintage charm. Hidden among these historic accommodations is one of downtown’s best-kept secrets: a speakeasy that harkens back to Las Vegas’s notorious past.
Timeline Highlights
- 1945: Brief ownership by infamous mobsters Bugsy Siegel and Meyer Lansky
- 1952: Installation of iconic neon arrow and marquee
- 1963-2009: Gaming pioneer Jackie Gaughan’s ownership era
- 2013: Listed on National Register of Historic Places
- 2021: Completion of previous $25 million renovation
Preserving Authenticity
Despite the modern upgrades, the casino maintains several touches that make it uniquely El Cortez. It houses the only remaining row of coin-operated slot machines in Las Vegas, offering guests an authentic vintage gaming experience. The exterior retains its iconic Spanish Colonial Revival architecture and original signage, including the distinctive neon arrow and marquee installed in 1952.
Modern Amenities
- New grand entrance with spiral staircase
- Show Bar with 20-foot video wall
- Redesigned staff uniforms
- Comprehensive history wall installation
- Updated high-limit room
Location & Legacy
Located at 600 E Fremont Street in the heart of the burgeoning Fremont East District, El Cortez stands as a testament to Las Vegas’s ability to reinvent itself while preserving the character that made it legendary. The property’s successful blend of historic charm and modern amenities offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience both the city’s storied past and its exciting present.
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