The End of an Era: Remembering the Tropicana Las Vegas

The iconic Tropicana Las Vegas, known affectionately as the ‘Trop’ in Sin City shorthand, has closed its doors after a 67-year run, marking the end of an era in the ever-evolving landscape of Las Vegas. The hotel, which opened in 1957 and quickly became a celebrity and tourist hotspot, has been a mainstay on the famed Strip, hosting stars like Frank Sinatra and serving as the backdrop for Hollywood films like Diamonds Are Forever.

The closure of the Tropicana comes as part of a larger plan to make way for a $1.5 billion Major League Baseball stadium, with the Oakland Athletics set to relocate to Las Vegas. The decision to replace the historic hotel with a modern sports venue reflects the ongoing diversification and evolution of Sin City, as sports teams and events become increasingly integrated into the city’s entertainment landscape.

While some nostalgic visitors rushed to book stays at the Tropicana before its closure, reviews in the run-up to the shutdown highlighted complaints of “dilapidated” conditions and lacking service. Despite these challenges, the Tropicana’s rich history and cultural significance have not been forgotten, with plans in place to preserve elements of the hotel’s legacy at museums and institutions across Las Vegas.

From its glamorous showgirl productions to its ties to the mob and Hollywood elite, the Tropicana has played a significant role in shaping the identity of Las Vegas. As the city continues to reinvent itself and embrace new opportunities, the memories and legacy of the Tropicana will endure, ensuring that its place in Vegas lore remains secure for years to come.