The Riviera Hotel and Casino: A Las Vegas Icon on the Strip

Nestled in the heart of the iconic Las Vegas Strip, the Riviera Hotel and Casino stood as a symbol of timeless glamour and unforgettable entertainment for over six decades. Throughout its illustrious history, the Riviera witnessed countless memorable moments, hosted legendary performers, and set the stage for countless unforgettable experiences.

A Historical Landmark

The Riviera Hotel and Casino opened its doors on April 20, 1955, marking a significant milestone in the development of the Las Vegas Strip. Designed by renowned architect Robert E. Collins, the property featured a striking modernist facade adorned with an intricate mural by Stan Bitters.

Over the years, the Riviera underwent several renovations and expansions, evolving to meet the changing tastes and demands of its discerning clientele. In 1969, the property added a 26-story tower, becoming one of the tallest buildings on the Strip at the time.

Legendary Entertainment

The Riviera Hotel and Casino played a pivotal role in shaping the entertainment landscape of Las Vegas. The property's renowned Showroom Internationale hosted an array of legendary performers, including Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Elvis Presley, Jerry Lewis, Sammy Davis Jr., and Liberace.

Beyond the Showroom Internationale, the Riviera offered a diverse array of entertainment options, including:

• The Cirque de Paris revue, a spectacular acrobatic and dance extravaganza
• The Liberace Museum, showcasing the pianist's lavish artifacts and costumes
• The Monorail Lounge, a futuristic cocktail bar with a rotating floor overlooking the Strip

Gaming Excellence

The Riviera Hotel and Casino was renowned for its exceptional gaming facilities, offering a wide range of table games, slot machines, and sports betting. The property's spacious casino floor boasted:

• Over 1,100 slot machines, featuring the latest and most popular titles
• Numerous table games, including blackjack, roulette, craps, baccarat, and poker
• A dedicated poker room with cash games and tournaments
• A sportsbook offering betting on major sporting events

Key Gaming Statistics

Dining and Amenities

The Riviera Hotel and Casino offered a culinary journey for discerning palates. The property featured several award-winning restaurants, including:

• Prime, a steakhouse specializing in prime cuts and fine wines
• Top of the Riv, a revolving restaurant offering panoramic views of the Strip
• La Riviera, a casual dining option serving classic Italian cuisine
• All-American Cafe, a 24-hour diner with all-day breakfast and comfort food

In addition to its dining options, the Riviera Hotel and Casino provided an array of amenities for its guests, such as:

• A rooftop pool with stunning Strip views
• A state-of-the-art fitness center
• A business center with meeting spaces
• A 24-hour concierge service

Closure and Legacy

In 2015, the Riviera Hotel and Casino closed its doors, marking the end of an era on the Las Vegas Strip. The property was subsequently purchased by Jacobs Entertainment, which demolished the hotel towers in 2016 and announced plans to build a new casino resort on the site.

Despite its closure, the Riviera Hotel and Casino remains an unforgettable part of Las Vegas history. The property's iconic facade, legendary performers, and exceptional gaming facilities will forever hold a special place in the memories of countless visitors and locals alike.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When visiting the Riviera Hotel and Casino, it was important to avoid some common mistakes:

• Underestimating the property's size: The Riviera Hotel and Casino was a vast complex with multiple towers, restaurants, and entertainment venues. It was advisable to allow ample time to explore and enjoy all that the property had to offer.

• Missing out on the Showroom Internationale: The Showroom Internationale was a renowned venue that hosted legendary performers. It was highly recommended to check the entertainment calendar and book tickets in advance to avoid disappointment.

• Underestimating the gambling limits: The Riviera Hotel and Casino offered a wide range of gaming options, but it was essential to establish gambling limits and stick to them. It was important to remember that gambling should be a form of entertainment, not a way to make a profit.

Why the Riviera Hotel and Casino Matters

The Riviera Hotel and Casino played a significant role in shaping the development of the Las Vegas Strip and the gaming industry as a whole. The property's iconic facade, legendary entertainment, and exceptional gaming facilities made it a destination of choice for countless visitors over the decades.

Benefits of Visiting the Riviera Hotel and Casino

• Unforgettable Entertainment: The Riviera Hotel and Casino showcased legendary performers in its renowned Showroom Internationale.
• World-Class Gaming: The property offered a wide range of table games, slot machines, and sports betting in a spacious and luxurious casino floor.
• Culinary Delights: The Riviera Hotel and Casino featured award-winning restaurants serving fine dining, Italian cuisine, and all-day comfort food.
• Exceptional Amenities: The property provided a rooftop pool, fitness center, business center, and 24-hour concierge service for the convenience and enjoyment of guests.

Drawbacks of Visiting the Riviera Hotel and Casino

• Crowds and Long Lines: The Riviera Hotel and Casino was a popular destination, so it could be crowded at peak times. This could lead to queues for slot machines, table games, and restaurants.
• High Prices: The Riviera Hotel and Casino was a high-end resort, so the prices for dining, drinks, and entertainment could be steep.
• Limited Parking: Parking could be limited, especially during peak hours. It was recommended to arrive early or consider using public transportation or a taxi.

Conclusion

The Riviera Hotel and Casino was a true Las Vegas icon that left an indelible mark on the city's history and entertainment landscape. Its legendary performers, exceptional gaming facilities, and unforgettable dining experiences will forever be etched in the memories of countless visitors. Although the hotel towers may be gone, the legacy of the Riviera Hotel and Casino will continue to inspire and entertain generations to come.