The Plaza Hotel & Casino Tuesday was accorded an honor reserved for Las Vegas’ most notable sites.
The Nevada Preservation Foundation honored the Plaza, celebrating its 50th anniversary this year, with its bronze plaque recognizing buildings that are at least 40 years old, and are historic with iconic architectural designs. The Plaza is the first commercial building to receive the honor.
“The presentation of NPF’s bronze plaque to the Plaza marks a shift in the organization’s approach to honoring local buildings, legacies and sites, as NPF previously focused on only residential achievements,” said NPF Executive Director Cynthia Ammerman during Tuesday’s special event. “We look at living history and buildings realizing the importance of honoring institutional places that are not only iconic to the people of Las Vegas, but to the world.”
One of the most recognizable venues in Vegas, the former train station was transformed into a casino and hotel by Sam Boyd, Bill Boyd, J. K. Houssels Jr., and Jackie Gaughan in 1971. The Plaza has served as a backdrop to movies such as Casino and Back to the Future, Part II, videos by The Killers and The Weeknd, and attracts gamblers and tourists from around the world.
“The Plaza sits on the site of the 1905 land auction that was the beginning of Las Vegas,” said Mayor Carolyn G. Goodman at the event. “What a legacy the Plaza has carried on throughout the years as a preeminent destination in Las Vegas.”
Goodman also gave the Plaza a proclamation from the City of Las Vegas recognizing its significant history.
The Plaza’s official anniversary date is July 2, and a series of promotions are scheduled, including exclusive hotel packages, food and beverage credits, and gambling comps.
“The Plaza is very proud of its heritage and excited to celebrate its 50th anniversary,” said Plaza CEO Jonathan Jossel at the special event. “It is a great honor to welcome guests to the Plaza and to be recognized by the Nevada Preservation Foundation for our unique place in Las Vegas history.”
