The History of the Tropicana in Las Vegas
Located on Las Vegas Boulevard in Las Vegas, Nevada, the Tropicana is a world-famous resort and hotel. Since the 1990s, the hotel has been known for its tropical theme, but in past years, it was better known for its elegant look and famous guests.
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Grand Opening
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The grand opening of the Tropicana Hotel and Casino was April 4, 1957. The hotel quickly became known as the Tiffany of the Strip because of its expensive furnishings and views. The owner spent $15 million to build the 300-room hotel and an additional $250,000 on an opening night party.
1959 Addition
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In 1959, an addition gave the Tropicana an extra 150 rooms. The Folies Bergere premiered that same year and was an instant success, drawing in more than 40,000 visitors a month. The show featured showgirls, comedy acts, circus performers and other acts.
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1960s Additions
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In 1961, the hotel added the Tropicana Golf Course with 18 holes and the Country Club. The next year, it added a second wing to the hotel with 116 rooms, swimming pools and a garden. The Blue Room Lounge opened at the hotel in 1965. It was the first nightclub at the hotel and featured entertainers such as Roger Williams, Count Basie and Guy Lombardo.
1970s Changes
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In the 1970s, the Tropicana opened the Superstar Theatre, with room for 1,150 guests, and the Paradise Tower, which added 600 rooms to the hotel. In 1979, Ramada Inns Inc. purchased the hotel.
Changes in the 1980s
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In the 1980s, the Tropicana grew to include The Island of Las Vegas, with a water park and new Island Tower with more suites and rooms. Aztar Corp. took over control of the hotel in 1989.
1990s Changes
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In the 1990s, the Tropicana added a Wildlife Walk inside, where animals lived in habitats along the walls. The owners also spent $1.4 million on a new Baccarat room, spent millions to renovate the Towers and added two bars. In 1999, the hotel added the Casino Legends Hall of Fame to honor past players and guests.
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