Mirage Casino to Shutter: Iconic Resort to Transform into Hard Rock Las Vegas

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The Mirage: A Las Vegas Icon Closes its Doors

The Mirage hotel-casino, a landmark on the Las Vegas Strip for over three decades, will close its doors on July 17, 2024. The closure marks the end of an era for the iconic property, which played a pivotal role in transforming Las Vegas into an ultra-luxury resort destination. Opened in 1989 with a Polynesian theme, the Mirage was the first megaresort on the Strip, sparking a building boom on the famed boulevard throughout the 1990s. Its volcano fountain was one of the first sidewalk attractions, and it became known as a venue for world-renowned entertainers such as Siegfried and Roy and Cirque du Soleil.

Hard Rock International Takes Over

Hard Rock International, owned by the Seminole Tribe of Florida, purchased the Mirage from MGM Resorts in 2022 for nearly $1.1 billion. The company plans to invest heavily in renovating and transforming the property into the Hard Rock Las Vegas, featuring a striking guitar-shaped hotel tower that will soar nearly 700 feet above the heart of the Strip. Upon reopening in 2027, the Hard Rock Las Vegas will offer a unique blend of entertainment, dining, and gaming experiences. The resort will feature a variety of restaurants, bars, and lounges, as well as a state-of-the-art casino and live music venues.

Impact on Employees and Guests

The closure of the Mirage will result in the layoff of over 3,000 employees. Hard Rock International has stated that it will pay out $80 million in severance and offer laid-off workers the option of being called back to work when the hotel reopens. The Culinary Workers Union, which represents about 1,700 employees at the Mirage, has secured a contract that ensures laid-off workers will receive $2,000 for each year of service. The contract also gives them the opportunity to maintain their seniority when the hotel reopens. Guests who have booked reservations at the Mirage for after July 14 will have their reservations canceled and refunded. The hotel is no longer accepting bookings past that date.