As a hospitality and tourism expert with extensive knowledge of the history of hotels and casinos, it is my pleasure to delve into the history of the SLS Hotel & Casino Las Vegas. Before it became the SLS Hotel, this iconic establishment was known as the Sahara Hotel and Casino. The Sahara was a landmark on the Las Vegas Strip and played a significant role in the development of Las Vegas as a world-renowned entertainment destination.

The Sahara Hotel and Casino was opened on December 15, 1952, by Milton Prell, a businessman who envisioned a luxurious hotel that would cater to the growing number of visitors to Las Vegas. It was designed in a Middle Eastern theme, which was quite popular at the time, and featured a casino, hotel rooms, and various entertainment options. The hotel was situated in a prime location on the Las Vegas Strip, which allowed it to attract a diverse clientele.

Over the years, the Sahara underwent several renovations and expansions to keep up with the evolving tastes and demands of its guests. It was known for its distinctive architecture, which included a large sign that was visible from miles away and became a symbol of the Las Vegas Strip. The casino floor was spacious and offered a wide range of gaming options, while the hotel rooms were comfortable and well-appointed.

In addition to its gaming and lodging offerings, the Sahara was also a hub for entertainment. It hosted numerous concerts, shows, and events that featured some of the biggest names in the entertainment industry. The hotel's showrooms and theaters were state-of-the-art and provided guests with an unforgettable entertainment experience.

However, by the early 21st century, the Sahara faced increasing competition from newer and more modern hotels and casinos on the Strip. Despite its historical significance and iconic status, the hotel struggled to maintain its appeal to the newer generation of visitors. In 2011, after 59 years of operation, the Sahara Hotel and Casino closed its doors.

The closure of the Sahara marked the end of an era, but it was not the end of the story for this legendary property. In 2010, Alex Meruelo, a successful entrepreneur, purchased the Sahara with the vision of transforming it into a new and modern hotel and casino. After extensive renovations and a significant investment, the property reopened in 2014 as the SLS Hotel & Casino.

The transformation into the SLS brought a fresh and contemporary vibe to the property. While the SLS retained some elements of the Sahara's original design, it introduced new amenities and features that catered to the modern traveler. The hotel now offers a more upscale experience with a focus on luxury, dining, and entertainment.

In summary, the SLS Hotel & Casino Las Vegas has a rich history that dates back to its origins as the Sahara Hotel and Casino. From its opening in 1952 to its closure in 2011, the Sahara was a significant part of Las Vegas's hospitality landscape. Its transformation into the SLS represents a new chapter in its history, one that continues to contribute to the vibrant and dynamic nature of the Las Vegas Strip.

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The SLS Hotel & Casino Las Vegas (formerly Sahara Hotel and Casino) is a hotel and casino located on the Las Vegas Strip in Winchester, Nevada. It is owned and operated by Alex Meruelo. The hotel was formerly known as the Sahara Hotel and Casino. It was in operation under that name for 59 years from 1952 to 2011.read more >>