The curtains closed forever on the legendary Tropicana Hotel in Las Vegas, making way for a future in major league baseball with a new, state-of-the-art ballpark.
According to The US Sun, the iconic Tropicana Hotel, a symbol of Las Vegas since 1957, has been closed and set for demolition, clearing the site for a new $1.5 billion ballpark for the Oakland Athletics, expected to open in 2028.
Opening its doors amid the mid-century glamor of 1957, the Tropicana Hotel quickly cemented itself as a cornerstone of Las Vegas culture.
With its distinctive mosaic tiles and plush mahogany panels, the hotel epitomized the luxurious aesthetic of its era. Its lobby, famous for its striking tulip-shaped fountain, became a beloved symbol of old-world elegance.
The Tropicana was not just about looks; each of its 1,467 rooms boasted a balcony that presented a breathtaking view of the vibrant Vegas skyline, making it a favorite among tourists worldwide. Over the decades, it survived numerous ownership changes and renovations, each adding layers to its rich historical tapestry.
However, all stories must come to an end. On April 2, the hotel welcomed its last guest, beginning a transformative chapter in the city's history.
In preparation for its final bow, the Tropicana underwent extensive prep work, including asbestos removal, to ensure the site would be ready for the scheduled implosion in October. This meticulous preparation underscores the significant safety measures taken to protect historical integrity and environmental standards during demolition.
The Tropicana's demolition paves the way for major league baseball in Las Vegas. The Oakland Athletics will move to a $1.5 billion, 33,000-seat ballpark on the iconic Strip, set for completion in 2028.
The stadium will feature modern design and facilities, offering fans a unique game-day experience. This transition from a historic hotel to a modern ballpark marks a significant shift in Las Vegas's landscape, blending sports entertainment with its hospitality charm.
A demolition permit was filed on July 11 with Clark County, marking a crucial step toward the Tropicana's implosion and the ballpark's construction.
Until the new ballpark is ready, the Oakland Athletics will play at Sutter Health Park in Sacramento, maintaining their schedule and fan engagement during the transition.
Owner John Fisher expressed enthusiasm about the move, praising the community's welcoming spirit and excellent facilities. "We look forward to making Sutter Health Park our home through our move to Las Vegas," Fisher stated.
West Sacramento Mayor Martha Guerrero echoed this sentiment, expressing pride in hosting the A's and highlighting the cooperative spirit between cities within the baseball community.
Nevada Governor Joe Lombardo signed legislation enabling the relocation and construction project for MLB in Nevada, expressing excitement for the milestone.
With $380 million in public funding, the project's financial framework is secure. Lombardo highlighted the months of negotiations leading to this opportunity to bring the A's to Nevada.
The closure and upcoming demolition of the Tropicana Hotel signify a major transformation on the Las Vegas Strip.
Replacing this historic icon with a modern ballpark reflects the city's evolving entertainment and sports landscape, with strong support from local and state government ensuring a promising future for MLB in Las Vegas.
