LOST VEGAS: The Brief Rise and Fall of Royal Nevada Casino Hotel (1955-1958)

LOST VEGAS: The Brief Rise and Fall of Royal Nevada Casino Hotel (1955-1958)

By Michael Thompson

November 21, 2024 at 03:16 AM

The Royal Nevada Casino Hotel operated briefly on the Las Vegas Strip from April 19, 1955, to January 30, 1958. Its short existence was marked by financial troubles, management issues, and unfortunate timing.

Royal Nevada casino exterior view

Royal Nevada casino exterior view

Originally planned as the Sunrise Hotel by Miami hotelier Frank Fishman, the $2.5 million project was rebranded as the Royal Nevada. Designed by architect Paul Revere Williams, the property featured a distinctive royal crown insignia atop its sign and main building.

Early troubles began when Fishman's gaming license was denied in February 1955 after investigators discovered his new partners had mafia connections. New owners took over, though Fishman remained as landlord.

UNLV campus lit up at night

UNLV campus lit up at night

The casino struggled from the start, facing stiff competition from the simultaneously-opened Dunes and Riviera. With only 10 table games, 54 slots, and C-list entertainment in its Crown Room, the Royal Nevada's main attraction was its "Dancing Waters" fountain show.

Vintage Royal Nevada $5 chip

Vintage Royal Nevada $5 chip

The property closed three times:

  • First on January 1, 1956, due to insufficient funds
  • Second on December 9, 1957, following cheating allegations
  • Finally on January 30, 1958, after multiple failed attempts at revival

Man and woman dancing together

Man and woman dancing together

In 1959, the Stardust purchased the property, converting it into a convention center called the Stardust Auditorium. The building was ultimately demolished in 2006, and its former location is now part of Resorts World Las Vegas.

Vintage Stardust casino auditorium Las Vegas

Vintage Stardust casino auditorium Las Vegas

Vintage royal nevada sign at museum

Vintage royal nevada sign at museum

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