Downtown Las Vegas’ oldest hotel is currently hosting a tribute to the most iconic Vegas images and characters.
From Gambling Town to Resort Destination: The Epic Rise of Las Vegas is now featured at the El Cortez Hotel & Casino. Curated by The Mob Museum, National Museum of Organized Crime and Law Enforcement, the exhibit showcases images of the legendary Rat Pack, Elvis Presley, the El Cortez’s former owner Bugsy Siegel, and historic Downtown Vegas locations and properties.
“We are excited to work with the El Cortez on this project, which will provide the hotel-casino’s guests a fun and educational tour of Las Vegas’ rich history, and perhaps whet their appetites to learn more at The Mob Museum just steps away,” said Mob Museum Vice President of Exhibits and Programs Geoff Schumacher in a statement. “The El Cortez is a natural partner for a project like this, considering the hotel-casino’s important role in the city’s history.”
Located in the north-south hallway of the El Cortez, From Gambling Town to Resort Destination pairs the photographs with informational plaques describing the history of each image. The exhibit is free to view and is open to adults 21 and older.
The project coincides with a completed renovation of the El Cortez Hotel & Casino’s original hotel rooms, known as the Original 47, from 1941. The $28 million renovation project also included improvements to the casino floor.
“The El Cortez is proud of our deep-rooted history, including being the only casino listed on the National Register of Historic Places,” said El Cortez General Manager Adam Wiesberg. “To partner with The Mob Museum on this new photo exhibit further solidifies our dedication to honoring our roots and bringing to life Las Vegas’ rich history. We look forward to welcoming visitors to the hallway and invite them to take a step back in time here at the El Cortez.”
The El Cortez also is offering a Mob Boss hotel package that includes two tickets to the Mob Museum and a stay in an Original 47 room.
