From Showgirl Feathers to Glittering Chandeliers: The Revival of Casino Kitsch

Las Vegas: A Farewell to the Tropicana and the Legacy of Showbiz History

The Gradual Undoing of a Las Vegas Icon

In the glitzy and glamorous landscape of Las Vegas, change is the only constant. Amidst the dazzling lights and relentless hustle, the Tropicana—a beloved casino and hotel—has fallen to the wrecking ball, its storied past marked by showgirls, luxurious lounges, and unforgettable performances. The Tropicana was demolished on October 9, 2023, in an awe-inspiring implosion, making way for a new baseball stadium. This isn’t just a mere physical transformation; it symbolizes the relentless march of time in a city where the past often collides with the future.

The artifacts emerging from the Tropicana serve as poignant reminders of Las Vegas’s rich history. Crystal chandeliers that once shone brilliantly over the casino’s lounge now find sanctuary in new homes, while the bright blue costume feathers of showgirls evoke the spirit of performances that enchanted audiences for decades. The demolition of the Tropicana underscores not just the changes in the physical skyline of the Strip, but also the evolution of entertainment in Sin City.

Behind the Scenes of the Tropicana’s Closing

As the neon lights of the Tropicana dimmed for the last time, a fascinating spectacle unfurled within its hallowed halls. Inventory Liquidation specialists, led by Frank Long of International Content Liquidations, carefully organized a massive clearance sale, offering the public a chance to own a piece of a Vegas landmark. “You take this hotel-casino and you turn it upside down, shake everything out of it until it’s empty,” remarked Long. Over the years, his family business has salvaged treasures from numerous casinos, including iconic names like the Dunes and Aladdin.

Long described Vegas buyers as a unique breed who appreciate the opportunity to own a tangible piece of their community’s heritage. In June, just two months after the Tropicana closed, he opened the casino floor to a flurry of enthusiastic shoppers who eagerly rummaged through an eclectic assortment of items, from rattan nightstands to vintage lamps. Filled with nostalgia for a bygone era, the sale attracted locals hungry for a connection to the legendary locale that had been a fixture of the Strip.

A Treasure Trove of History

One of the most riveting aspects of dismantling such an iconic casino is the discovery of hidden treasures long forgotten. Long’s team uncovered memorabilia that tells the story of the Tropicana, including photographs of Hollywood legends like Elvis Presley and Elizabeth Taylor, who once graced its floors. For many, these artifacts are more than just collectibles; they encapsulate the vibrant spirit of Las Vegas entertainment.

The Tropicana is also renowned for hosting “Folies Bergere,” a legendary topless revue that helped define the image of the Las Vegas showgirl. With its nearly 50-year run, the show contributed to the allure and mystique of Las Vegas and cemented the Tropicana’s legacy as a cultural landmark.

Meanwhile, the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) seized the opportunity to gather historical records from the Tropicana. Sarah Quigley, the director of Special Collections and Archives at UNLV, acted quickly to secure essential documents, including architectural blueprints and advertisements from the 1970s, ensuring that this chapter of Las Vegas history would not be forgotten.

The Neon Museum: Protecting the City’s Heritage

In the continual effort to preserve Las Vegas’s unique memorabilia, the Neon Museum played a significant role in the aftermath of the Tropicana’s closure. The museum acquired the casino’s iconic red sign and the original archway from The Mirage. The preservation of such artifacts helps celebrate the city’s distinctive aesthetic and history, offering visitors an opportunity to connect with the past.

Las Vegas thrives on reinvention, and The Mirage itself, the first megaresort on the Strip, will soon undergo changes as it transitions into the Hard Rock Las Vegas in 2027. This evolution is emblematic of the city’s ability to adapt and grow while still honoring the past.

Embracing the Future: A New Era in Las Vegas

The explosions of the Tropicana marked not just the end of a beloved landmark but also the beginning of a new chapter on the Las Vegas Strip. While the site will soon be transformed into a baseball stadium, the vibrant history of the Tropicana—the performances, the showbiz glamour, and the cherished memories—will continue to resonate within the hearts of those who experienced its magic.

As the last remnants of the Tropicana were reduced to rubble in just 22 seconds, the items rescued remind us that behind the glitz and glittery facade of the Las Vegas Strip lies a rich tapestry of stories, people, and unforgettable moments. The memories may fade, but the love for these historic locales and their artifacts will endure as part of Las Vegas’s ongoing narrative.

In the words of Aaron Berger, executive director of the Neon Museum, “There’s history here. You just have to look past the glitter to find it.” As Las Vegas rolls forward into a new era, it will carry within it the echoes of the past, seamlessly blending history with modernity.