Las Vegas Turns 120: A Journey from Desert Stop to Entertainment Capital

Las Vegas, known today as the Entertainment Capital of the World, is celebrating a significant milestone—its 120th birthday. This vibrant city has evolved from a small desert railroad stop established in 1905 to an international icon of tourism and entertainment.

A Brief History of Las Vegas

Founding on May 15, 1905, Las Vegas originally served as a minor railroad outpost. Over the decades, it rapidly transformed, particularly after the legalization of gaming in 1931, which sparked an era of unprecedented growth. With landmark events like the opening of the Flamingo Hotel in 1946 and the iconic installation of the "Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas" sign in 1959, it became a symbol of the city’s unique spirit.

Today, Las Vegas stands as a testament to modern reinvention and creativity, attracting millions visitors annually.

Celebrating 120 Years of Evolution

To commemorate this anniversary, the Sphere’s remarkable LED exterior illuminated the skyline with its beloved emoji, Orbi™, blowing out birthday candles across the city. Orbi has ingrained itself into the Las Vegas community with its engaging presentations and playful demeanor. It's become a familiar face, representing the joy and warmth present in this dynamic city.

The city’s history is also colorful, marked by notorious figures from the mob era of the 1950s and 60s, who infamously shaped its early entertainment landscape. Yet, it also became renowned for hosting iconic performers like Elvis Presley and the Rat Pack. This rich legacy laid the groundwork for the major entertainment phenomena we see in Las Vegas today.

Reinvention Through Decades

In the late 80s, the Las Vegas Strip saw the emergence of megaresorts with the opening of The Mirage, which redefined luxury and entertainment in the area. This prompted an explosion of creatively themed resorts such as Luxor and Bellagio, which have turned the Strip into an immersive fantasy world.

As Las Vegas evolved, so did its attractions. The advent of professional sports teams like the Vegas Golden Knights and the successful relocation of the NFL's Raiders have cemented its status in both sports and entertainment realms. Major events, such as Super Bowl LVIII and WrestleMania 41, further solidified its global appeal.

Steve Hill, president and CEO of the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA), emphasized the city’s remarkable journey, noting that it reflects a commitment to innovation, resilience, and extraordinary visions, showcasing a destination synonymous with excitement and wonder.

Looking to the Future!

As Las Vegas continues to thrive, the exciting developments are far from over. The city is gearing up to welcome Major League Baseball, with the A's set to begin play in a state-of-the-art venue by 2028. Additionally, the recently renovated and expanding Las Vegas Convention Center is set to host brand-new opportunities for commerce and events which will only elevate the city’s status further.

As we celebrate this significant milestone, Las Vegas stands as an emblem of adventure, entertainment, and the spirit of reinvention. The future holds much promise for continued growth and transformation. Las Vegas is only just getting started!

For those who want to delve deeper into Las Vegas' storied past and exciting future, the LVCVA provides a treasure trove of archival video clips and resources that showcase the evolution of this iconic city.

Visit Las Vegas!

To discover more comprehensive information about everything Las Vegas has to offer, head over to VisitLasVegas.com and dive into the remarkable world of entertainment, dining, and luxury that awaits you.