The Stardust Casino was a large casino hotel in Las Vegas, Nevada that operated from 1958 to 2006. It was one of the most iconic landmarks on the famous Las Vegas Strip and was known for its elaborate decor, entertainment options, and gaming activities.
Overview
The Stardust Casino was built by Marnell Corporation, stardustontario.ca a construction company founded by Tony Marnell and his sons. The hotel opened on October 22, 1958, with over 1,500 rooms and suites, making it one of the largest hotels in Las Vegas at that time. The casino featured over 800 slot machines, as well as table games such as blackjack, craps, roulette, and baccarat.
Design and Architecture
The Stardust Casino was designed by the architectural firm S.I.A.N.O., which also designed other famous Las Vegas hotels like the Sahara and the Silver Slipper. The exterior of the hotel featured a distinctive design with a large clock tower and a curved, wing-like shape to its facade. Inside, the casino had a lavish decor with ornate chandeliers, marble floors, and intricate patterns on the walls.
Entertainment
The Stardust Casino was not only known for its gaming activities but also for its entertainment options. The hotel featured several restaurants, including an Italian restaurant called “Carmine’s” and a steakhouse called “Golden Steer”. There were also several bars and lounges, as well as live music performances by famous acts like Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, and Sammy Davis Jr.
Gaming Options
The Stardust Casino featured a wide range of gaming options, including:
- Slot machines: With over 800 slots available, the Stardust was one of the largest slot machine floors in Las Vegas.
- Table games: Players could choose from blackjack, craps, roulette, baccarat, and other popular table games.
- Poker room: The Stardust had a dedicated poker room with high-stakes tournaments and cash games.
Demolition
In 2006, the Stardust Casino was demolished to make way for a new Echelon Place resort. However, before its demolition, a small section of the original casino was preserved as part of a new hotel called The Cromwell, which features some of the original Stardust decor and furnishings.
Legacy
The Stardust Casino played an important role in the history of Las Vegas as a popular entertainment destination. Its iconic design and elaborate decorations made it one of the most recognizable landmarks on the Strip. While its gaming options were not necessarily exceptional compared to other casinos at that time, the hotel’s overall experience and entertainment offerings set it apart from others.
Comparison with Other Casinos