Vegas, Baby, Vegas: A Hilarious History of Sin City's First Beds
Las Vegas. The name conjures images of clinking slot machines, flamboyant showgirls, and enough neon to rival a supernova. But before the buffets overflowed and the fountains danced, Vegas was a dusty desert town with a whole lot less "bling" and a whole lot more tumbleweeds. So, who were the brave souls who decided to build a hospitality empire in the middle of nowhere? Buckle up, history buffs (and gambling enthusiasts!), because we're about to delve into the fascinating world of Las Vegas's original hotels.
The OG of Vegas: The Golden Gate Hotel and Casino (1906)
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This unassuming spot on Fremont Street holds the prestigious title of Las Vegas's first official hotel (and casino, for that matter). Back in 1906, when this grand dame opened its doors, Las Vegas was a teeny tiny town with aspirations of grandeur. The Golden Gate wasn't exactly the Bellagio of its day (no dancing fountains here!), but it did boast some impressive firsts:
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- The city's first phone: You could call your friends and brag about your hot streak at the blackjack table (although with only one phone in the whole town, good luck getting a dial tone!).
- The OG of Vegas neon: Their flashy sign was a precursor to the neon wonderland Vegas is famous for today.
- The birthplace of the shrimp cocktail: Yes, you read that right. Vegas may be known for buffets now, but the Golden Gate gave the world this delightful appetizer.
Hitting the Strip: The Flamingo Hotel and Casino (1946)
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Fast forward 40 years, and Vegas was starting to shed its Wild West persona. Enter the Flamingo, the first major resort to grace the now-iconic Las Vegas Strip. This Art Deco beauty brought a touch of class (and a flock of flamingos!) to the scene. Here's what made the Flamingo a game-changer:
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- Modern digs: This wasn't your grandma's dusty hotel. The Flamingo offered swanky rooms and a glamorous atmosphere.
- A star-studded start: Big names like Bugsy Siegel and Frank Sinatra were all rumored to have been involved in the Flamingo's early days. Talk about A-list clientele!
- A touch of the tropics: The Flamingo's South Beach Miami vibes were a far cry from the desert surroundings.
From Humble Beginnings to Glittering Paradise
The Golden Gate and the Flamingo are just a taste of the fascinating history of Las Vegas's original hotels. These early establishments paved the way for the extravagant resorts we know and love today. So, the next time you're clinking glasses in a Vegas casino, remember those dusty beginnings and the pioneering hoteliers who dared to dream big in the middle of the desert.
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| What Were The Original Hotels In Las Vegas |
How to Experience Vegas History
- How to visit the Golden Gate? The Golden Gate is still going strong today! You can walk the halls where history was made and maybe even try your luck at the original slot machines (although they might not take nickels anymore).
- How to see the Flamingo? The Flamingo is also alive and well on the Las Vegas Strip. Take a stroll through its tropical gardens, or catch a glimpse of the famous flamingo habitat.
- How to learn more about Vegas history? The Nevada State Museum in Las Vegas has a great exhibit on the city's history, including its early hotel scene.
- How to gamble responsibly? Vegas is all about fun, but remember to gamble responsibly. Set a budget and stick to it!
- How to avoid a Vegas hangover? Stay hydrated and pace yourself! You don't want your Vegas adventure to end with a throbbing headache.
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