A true Las Vegas landmark closed this week after 59 years.
In its day, the Sahara hosted Vegas icons such as the Rat Pack and Elvis Presley. It also played host to the filming of the original “Ocean’s Eleven” movie.
“Obviously, this is a sad day,” the Las Vegas Sun quoted Sam Nazarian, chief executive officer of SBE Entertainment Group, the Sahara’s owner, as saying. “But this is the day that will mark the ultimate rebirth of the north end of the Strip.”
Added Nazarian, according to the newspaper: “The bones and history of the Sahara are worth preserving. What we want to create is a resort that is as charming as it is elegant, that reflects the new era of Las Vegas while honoring its history.”
The hotel opened in 1952.
