Themed hotels have been an iconic part of Las Vegas' charm for decades, offering guests a unique, immersive experience. One such example is the New York-New York Hotel & Casino, which transports visitors straight to the Big Apple with replicas of the Statue of Liberty, Brooklyn Bridge, and even a rollercoaster. These hotels, like NYNY, were built in an era when Las Vegas focused on larger-than-life themes to attract tourists. However, the city has been moving away from such designs in recent years. The closure of Tropicana and Mirage, both known for their distinct themes, highlights this shift towards more modern, streamlined resort concepts.

A Brief History of Themed Hotels

Las Vegas has long been known for its larger-than-life themed hotels, which have transported visitors to far-off places without leaving the Strip. These properties captured imaginations by recreating world landmarks, fantastical settings, and even entire cities. However, many iconic hotels are gradually being phased out or rebranded as the city moves towards more modern concepts. Let’s take a look at five of the most famous themed hotels in Las Vegas and how they’ve evolved:

1. New York-New York Hotel & Casino (1997 - Present)
   The New York-New York Hotel is one of the last remaining themed hotels in Las Vegas. Opened in 1997, it encapsulates the essence of the Big Apple with replicas of landmarks like the Statue of Liberty, the Empire State Building, and the Brooklyn Bridge. The hotel’s unique theming also extends to its interior, with areas resembling Manhattan streets, complete with food carts and neon signs. One of the key attractions is the Big Apple Coaster, offering a thrilling ride above the "skyline."

2. Luxor Hotel & Casino (1993 - Present)
   The Luxor, shaped like a 30-story black pyramid, opened in 1993 and offers a uniquely Egyptian-themed experience. It was the epitome of themed architecture at the time, complete with a towering Sphinx outside and Egyptian-style décor throughout. The hotel’s iconic Sky Beam, which shoots from the top of the pyramid, is the brightest light in the world. While Luxor has undergone some modern updates, it retains much of its original theme, making it a favorite for visitors looking for a throwback to Vegas’s themed era.

3. Excalibur Hotel & Casino (1990 - Present)
   Inspired by medieval times and King Arthur’s legends, Excalibur opened in 1990, offering guests a journey into the world of knights and castles. The hotel's exterior resembles a grand castle with turrets and a drawbridge. Once renowned for its medieval dinner shows and dragon-themed entertainment, Excalibur is now more subdued, with less focus on its theme as newer hotels emerge. However, the medieval architecture remains, preserving the spirit of Vegas’s themed hotel era.

4. Caesars Palace (1966 - Present)
   One of the oldest themed hotels in Las Vegas, Caesars Palace opened in 1966 with a Roman Empire theme. This luxurious resort is famous for its massive columns, ornate statues, and Roman fountains. It was designed to transport visitors into the grandeur of ancient Rome, offering everything from gladiator shows to opulent Roman baths. Despite ongoing updates, Caesars has maintained much of its classical Roman charm and remains a cornerstone of themed hospitality in Las Vegas.

5. Paris Las Vegas (1999 - Present)
   Another iconic themed hotel, Paris Las Vegas, opened in 1999, bringing the charm of the French capital to the Strip. Its most famous feature is the half-scale replica of the Eiffel Tower, which dominates the skyline. Visitors can also stroll along cobblestone streets lined with French cafes and shops or visit the Arc de Triomphe. While still embracing its Parisian theme, Paris Las Vegas has seen updates that blend classic design with modern amenities, reflecting the changing landscape of themed hotels in Las Vegas.
   
   

These hotels once symbolized the golden era of Las Vegas theming, where imagination ruled, and guests could escape into fantastical worlds. However, as properties like the Tropicana close and The Mirage is rebranded, it’s clear that the city is transitioning towards more sleek and modern resorts. While themed hotels like New York-New York and Paris Las Vegas still thrive, they are becoming a nostalgic reminder of a bygone era in Las Vegas’s storied history.

The New Era of Vegas Hotels

As Las Vegas continues to evolve, we are witnessing a shift away from the extravagant-themed hotels that once defined the Strip. This new era is marked by sleek, modern resorts focusing less on transporting guests to faraway lands and more on providing a luxurious, sophisticated experience. Here are some examples of the new types of hotels dominating Las Vegas, showcasing a focus on cutting-edge design, technology, and amenities:

1. The Cosmopolitan (2010 - Present)
   The Cosmopolitan is the epitome of modern Vegas luxury, with a design that feels more akin to a chic, upscale city hotel than a themed resort. Opened in 2010, The Cosmopolitan brought a breath of fresh air to the Strip, offering a focus on high-end art, fine dining, and an urban aesthetic. The hotel features an eclectic mix of trendy restaurants, rooftop pools, and a sleek casino, catering to a younger, more design-conscious crowd. Its blend of modern sophistication and edgy style sets it apart as a frontrunner in the city’s hospitality landscape.

2. Aria Resort & Casino (2009 - Present)
   Part of the CityCenter complex, Aria embodies contemporary elegance. Its sleek, glass architecture and eco-friendly design mark a departure from the themed hotels of the past. Opened in 2009, Aria is known for its modern, minimalist aesthetic, with an emphasis on luxury technology in its rooms, such as one-touch control systems for lighting, temperature, and curtains. The hotel boasts a vast casino, a variety of fine dining options, and upscale shopping, all with a focus on refined, sophisticated experiences rather than thematic escapism.

3. Wynn Las Vegas (2005 - Present)
   Wynn Las Vegas and its sister property, Encore, opened in 2005 and 2008 respectively, signaling a shift towards ultra-luxury and opulence. While not explicitly themed, Wynn embraces a grand, palatial design with lush gardens, high-end boutiques, Michelin-starred restaurants, and an impressive art collection. Its focus is on offering world-class service and amenities rather than immersive themes, which reflects the broader trend in modern Las Vegas hospitality. Wynn’s resort offers more understated luxury, appealing to high-end travelers looking for an elegant, world-class resort experience.

4. Resorts World Las Vegas (2021 - Present)
   Opened in 2021, Resorts World represents the latest wave of luxury, combining high-tech features with a global hospitality experience. This $4.3 billion resort features the largest LED screen in Las Vegas, modern design, and a seamless blend of entertainment, dining, and relaxation. While not a themed hotel in the traditional sense, Resorts World incorporates elements of global culture and offers a wide variety of Asian-inspired dining and shopping experiences. Its ultra-modern design and innovative technology make it one of the most futuristic hotels on the Strip.

5. Park MGM (2018 - Present)
   Park MGM, formerly the Monte Carlo, underwent a significant renovation and rebranding in 2018, signaling a move away from its original European theme to a more contemporary, art-focused space. The hotel emphasizes understated luxury with modern rooms, a focus on live entertainment, and a collaboration with the trendy NoMad hotel for its higher-end suites. Park MGM’s transformation reflects the overall shift in Las Vegas from over-the-top theming to a more curated, upscale experience.
   
   

This shift marks a new chapter in Las Vegas’s history, where the focus is less on immersive theming and more on offering refined, luxury experiences. While themed hotels like New York-New York and Paris still hold their place, the future of the Strip seems to be moving toward sleek, modern hospitality designed for today’s discerning traveler. The closure of iconic properties like the Tropicana and the Mirage serves as a reminder of this transformation, as the city continuously reinvents itself to stay relevant in a changing world.

​​Pros and Cons of the New York-New York Hotel and Casino, Las Vegas

The New York-New York Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas remains a popular choice for visitors seeking a themed experience, but like any resort, it has pros and cons. Below is a detailed breakdown of the hotel’s strengths and potential drawbacks, including dining and nightlife categories.

Pros:

1. Unique Themed Design:

• Immersive NYC Experience: The iconic skyline of New York City, with replicas of the Statue of Liberty and Brooklyn Bridge, provides an unforgettable experience for first-time visitors and seasoned Vegas-goers alike.

• Family-Friendly: Its fun and whimsical design makes it appealing for families, especially with its Big Apple Coaster and arcade for younger guests.

2. Location:

• Central Strip Access: Conveniently located in the heart of the Strip, guests have easy access to neighboring resorts and major Las Vegas attractions. It's ideal for those looking to explore the entire Strip.

3. Affordable Rooms:

• Budget-Friendly: Compared to more upscale resorts, New York-New York offers relatively affordable room rates, making it a good option for travelers looking for themed accommodation without breaking the bank.

4. Dining:

• Diverse Dining Options: New York- New York boasts a variety of dining venues that reflect the diversity of New York City’s culinary scene. From pizza at Greenberg’s Deli to upscale dining at Gallagher’s Steakhouse, there's something for every taste and budget.

• Shake Shack: This famous burger chain offers a casual, beloved dining option that appeals to all ages.

5. Nightlife and Entertainment:

• Live Shows: The resort features popular shows such as Zumanity by Cirque du Soleil (recently retired) and The Big Apple Arcade for family fun.

• The Bar at Times Square: This venue offers a lively dueling piano bar atmosphere, perfect for those who enjoy music and casual drinks.

• Coyote Ugly: For a wilder nightlife experience, this bar draws partygoers with its high-energy vibe and live entertainment.

Cons:

1. Dated Rooms:

• Lack of Modernity: While the themed design is iconic, some guests may find the rooms to be slightly dated compared to the ultra-modern luxury offerings in nearby hotels.

2. Crowds:

• Overcrowding: Due to its central location and budget-friendly nature, the hotel can get crowded, especially around popular attractions like the roller coaster and restaurants.

3. Limited Luxury:

• Not as Upscale: Unlike some of the newer resorts on the Strip, New York-New York isn’t designed with high-end luxury in mind. Guests looking for modern luxury may prefer alternatives like The Aria or Wynn.

4. Dining:

• Casual Focus: While several dining options exist, many are geared toward casual, quick meals. Guests seeking fine dining might feel limited outside of Gallagher’s Steakhouse.

5. Nightlife:

• Limited Club Scene: While the resort offers a fun nightlife with Coyote Ugly and Times Square Bar, it lacks the sprawling nightclubs and rooftop experiences at some of the more modern Las Vegas hotels.

For travelers seeking a fun, themed hotel experience reminiscent of New York City, New York-New York Hotel and Casino remains an excellent choice. Its central location, affordability, and iconic design make it family-friendly. However, it may not appeal to those looking for ultra-luxurious rooms or high-end dining.

As the city evolves, iconic themed hotels like New York-New York hold a nostalgic place while new ventures embrace the future of Las Vegas. Where will you stay the next time you are in Las Vegas? Let us know in the comments below. Subscribe to our YouTube channel to stay updated on every review we post.