The iconic Tropicana Las Vegas, known for its glamorous past and storied history, is set to close its doors after 67 years of welcoming guests to the Las Vegas Strip. The third-oldest casino in the city will be demolished in October to make way for a $1.5 billion Major League Baseball stadium, marking a new chapter in the city’s evolution as a hub for sports entertainment.
The Tropicana, once frequented by the legendary Rat Pack and steeped in mob lore, has been a fixture on the Strip since its opening in 1957. Over the years, it underwent various renovations and expansions, becoming a symbol of vintage Vegas nostalgia.
For longtime employees like bartender Charlie Granado, the closure of the Tropicana is bittersweet. “It’s time. It’s ran its course,” Granado said. “It makes me sad but on the other hand, it’s a happy ending.”
The Tropicana’s rich history includes hosting A-list stars like Frank Sinatra and Elizabeth Taylor, as well as being home to the city’s longest-running show, “Folies Bergere.” Despite its ties to organized crime in the past, the Tropicana also saw many years of mob-free success and entertainment.
As Las Vegas continues to reinvent itself, the Tropicana’s closure marks the end of an era but also signals the city’s ongoing transformation. The new MLB stadium planned for the site is expected to open in 2028, adding to the city’s reputation as a premier destination for sports and entertainment.