The Rise, Fall, and Funky Rebranding of the Imperial Palace: From Togas to Toga-ther We Built the Linq!
Las Vegas, the city of bright lights, questionable life choices, and enough buffets to feed a small army, is also a place where hotels come and go faster than a bad case of the craps. Today, we delve into the curious case of the Imperial Palace, a once-grand casino with a vaguely Roman theme (emphasis on vaguely), and its surprising transformation.
| What Replaced Imperial Palace In Las Vegas |
From Humble Beginnings to Chariot-Shaped Domination
The Imperial Palace opened its doors in 1979, boasting a facade that looked like a Roman chariot convention and staff who, one can only assume, weren't required to wear togas (thankfully for air conditioning). For decades, it was a staple on the Strip, offering classic Vegas vibes: clinking coins, questionable fashion choices, and that lingering feeling of "did I just spend three hours playing the slots?"
But time, like a bad dealer, has a way of shuffling things up. By the early 2000s, the Imperial Palace was starting to look a little, well, worn. Imagine your grandma's living room after a particularly energetic family reunion - that's the kind of vibe we're talking about.
Enter the Caesars of Renovation: The Quad is Born (and Briefly Dies)
In 2005, Caesars Entertainment stepped in, like a knight in shining armor (or perhaps a showgirl in a feathered headdress), and purchased the property. Demolition was a possibility, but thankfully, they decided to give the old place a makeover instead.
QuickTip: A careful read saves time later.
Here's where things get a little... strange. In 2012, the Imperial Palace vanished, replaced by... The Quad. The name, according to Caesars, signified a center of activity, much like a college quad. Let's just say the association with textbooks and finals wasn't exactly what most Vegas visitors were looking for.
The Quad's reign, however, was mercifully short-lived.
The Linq Arrives: Lights, Camera, High Roller!
Just two years later, in 2014, The Quad took a permanent dirt nap (metaphorically speaking, of course) and the Linq was born. The Linq boasted a complete design overhaul, a connection to the new Linq Promenade with its trendy shops and restaurants, and a focus on a more modern Vegas experience.
QuickTip: Scroll back if you lose track.
The Linq may not have togas, but it does have the High Roller, the tallest observation wheel in the world (outside of Dubai, that show-off). So you can take in all the glitz and glam of the Strip from a dizzying new height... all without the risk of toga malfunctions.
So You're Saying the Imperial Palace is Gone Forever?
Bingo! While the Imperial Palace may be a relic of the past, its story reminds us that even in Las Vegas, nothing stays the same forever. Except maybe buffets. Those seem eternal.
FAQ: The Linq Formerly Known as the Imperial Palace
How to mourn the loss of the Imperial Palace?
Tip: Take your time with each sentence.
Pour yourself a Vegas-sized cocktail and reminisce about questionable fashion choices of the past.
How to experience the Linq?
Book a stay, hit the casino, grab a bite at the Linq Promenade, or take a ride on the High Roller (if you're not afraid of heights).
QuickTip: Pause when something feels important.
How to find the Linq on the Las Vegas Strip?
Look for the giant Ferris wheel - you can't miss it!
How to avoid toga malfunctions (just in case)?
Skip the toga and embrace modern Vegas fashion. Sequins are always a safe bet.
How to know if the buffets at the Linq are any good?
The only way to know for sure is to try them yourself. Just pace yourself!