News Summary
The Las Vegas Strip, once a simple highway, has evolved into a globally recognized entertainment hub thanks to visionary figures like Guy McAfee. From showgirls dazzling audiences to mega-resorts redefining tourism, Las Vegas has reinvented itself through the decades. This evolution highlights its adaptability and enduring allure, making it a premier destination for entertainment, dining, and sports.
Las Vegas, the iconic gambling and entertainment hub, is renowned for its famous four-mile stretch known as the Las Vegas Strip, filled with an array of casinos and extravagant performances. Previously, it was an unassuming stretch of highway until former Los Angeles police officer Guy McAfee is credited with bestowing the now-famous name “The Strip.” McAfee’s shift from his role in vice operations in California to his endeavors in Nevada during the late 1930s played a crucial role in shaping the community’s identity.
McAfee owned and transformed a local venue called the Pair-O-Dice into the 91 Club, referencing Highway 91 that served as the link between Las Vegas and Los Angeles. Inspired by the vibrant nightlife he witnessed while driving along the California Sunset Strip, McAfee initiated the transformation of the area which had previously functioned under different local monikers.
Currently, the boundaries of “The Strip” remain somewhat contentious, though Clark County officially marks its beginning at Sahara Avenue and concluding at the iconic Welcome to Las Vegas Sign, which resides in the unincorporated Paradise. Laws in the mid-20th century led early hotel-casinos to establish operations outside city limits to circumvent taxes, thus forming unique communities such as Paradise and Winchester.
The Showgirl Legacy
Culturally, showgirls have become synonymous with Las Vegas, celebrated globally for their sequined costumes and elaborate performances. Their origin traces back to European cabarets, appearing on Las Vegas stages as early as the 1950s. The first major showgirl production, “Lido de Paris,” debuted in 1958 at the Stardust Hotel & Casino, marking a significant contribution to the city’s entertainment landscape. This was shortly followed by the opening of the Folies Bergère in 1959 at the Tropicana, which captivated audiences for nearly five decades.
Las Vegas has continuously been a hotspot for stunning performances, with notable productions such as the Riviera’s Splash, which ran from 1985 to 2006, blending showgirl talent with multimedia. The glamorous Copa Girls at the Sands Hotel complemented the era’s iconic Rat Pack, signifying the height of showgirl performances.
Evolution of Las Vegas
The evolution of Las Vegas itself is fascinating; it began as a modest railway stop in 1905 and witnessed the establishment of the first hotel, the two-story Hotel Nevada. The legal acceptance of gambling in 1931 catalyzed a transformation, leading to what is often referred to as the Golden Age. The construction of the Hoover Dam during the 1930s spurred interest in tourism, pushing Las Vegas further into the spotlight.
Following World War II, an influx of visitors sought the city’s unique entertainment offerings. The influence of stars such as Elvis Presley and Frank Sinatra established Las Vegas as a prime location for musical residencies, changing the concert landscape significantly.
In 1989, the opening of The Mirage initiated the era of mega-resorts on the Strip, featuring not just luxurious accommodations but also unique dining and entertainment experiences. Resorts like the Bellagio and Treasure Island diversified their services to attract families, ensuring that Las Vegas remained a versatile appeal for tourists.
Today, Las Vegas continues to reinvent its identity, having integrated professional sports with teams such as the Golden Knights and Raiders, participating in events like the Super Bowl and the Formula One races. These elements not only enhance the atmosphere of the Strip but solidify Las Vegas’s reputation as a premier destination.
The journey of the Las Vegas Strip, from its humble beginnings to becoming a global icon, reflects the city’s capacity to adapt and thrive through various eras, always marked by a promise of excitement and escapism.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Las Vegas Plans New Casino Resort Next to Future Baseball Stadium
Las Vegas Housing Market Faces Rising Prices and Challenges
Las Vegas to Host Basin and Range Photography Exhibit
Las Vegas Housing Market Shows Signs of Cooling
South Strip Towing Seeks Changes to Tariff Rates
IShowSpeed’s Las Vegas Adventures Captivate Fans
Concerns Grow Over Las Vegas Tourism Amid Government Shutdown
NRP Group Breaks Ground on $133 Million Luxury Community in Las Vegas
Las Vegas Ranks Top for Business Climate in the West
Las Vegas Gaming Revenue Shows Mixed Results for August
Additional Resources
- Teen Vogue: A Brief History of the Showgirl
- Fox5 Vegas: This Day in History – Floods Submerged Las Vegas Strip
- History: Las Vegas Era – Photos & Evolution
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Las Vegas
- Fox5 Vegas: Video on Las Vegas Strip Floods
Author: STAFF HERE LAS VEGAS WRITER
LAS VEGAS STAFF WRITER The LAS VEGAS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERELasVegas.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Las Vegas, Clark County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Electric Daisy Carnival, World Series of Poker, and Consumer Electronics Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Las Vegas Chamber of Commerce and Three Square Food Bank, plus leading businesses in hospitality and entertainment that power the local economy such as MGM Resorts International, Caesars Entertainment, and Las Vegas Sands. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Nevada's dynamic landscape.
