The idea was taken from Philadelphia bars, where they serve up the same deal that’s called a “Philly Special.” Ask for the “Joe Special” to get a draft beer and a shot of Evan Williams bourbon for $3.50. Joe Special: Downtown Grand has an unadvertised special at the Furnace Bar. 16 and 17, but almost all are taking off Nov. Most productions on the Strip will be dark Nov.

Shows dark for race: Careful if you’ll be in town while the Formula One festivities are going on and want to attend a show. The bridge is temporary and will be removed after the race, but it’s something of a must-do while it’s there. A four-lane, 760-foot bridge has been installed about a mile from the Strip, allowing cars to travel over Koval Lane, which is part of the Formula One Grand Prix race route. The changes are aimed at restoring the Rio to its previous status as one of Las Vegas’ premier resorts.įlamingo bridge: For the first time ever, there’s a bridge on Flamingo Avenue. There’s also a new players’ club called Rio Rewards. Exterior changes are already evident, where a new marquee is being built and casino wraps, including the huge Penn & Teller image, have been removed. Plans call for a “full refresh” of the 2,500 suites, the casino floor and the convention areas. 'It is always easier to be nostalgic about something you don't remember.Now that the sale from Caesars Entertainment to Dreamscape Companies is complete, the renovation of the Rio is underway. 'It's been interesting to see how many more hotels try to make some reference to the Las Vegas past,' University of Nevada, Las Vegas historian Michael Green told USA TODAY, adding that most visitors are too young to remember the rat pack days. Meruelo has invested about $150 million in renovations, ushering in new designs that nod to the old-school Las Vegas that so many visitors and locals have grown to love. Producers say that’s why it's a must-see. The property celebrates its 70th anniversary this Friday, a rare feat for a hotel in a city known for imploding its attractions.Īwakening: Wynn Las Vegas’ new show is a bit hard to describe. The property reopened in 2014 and operated briefly under the name SLS Las Vegas before it was sold to billionaire Alex Meruelo, who brought back its original name. 'There's not much here anymore that looks like it did back in the day.'ĭespite its 2011 closure, the Sahara lives on. 'It was a cool experience to see the old turn into the new,' Raymer said.

Amy Raymer spent $75 for a camel lamp from the original Sahara Las Vegas.

Renovation of sahara hotel in las vegas