The Sands Hotel in Las Vegas: Past and Present

Las Vegas has a rich history of iconic hotels that have made an impact on the city's vibrant entertainment and gambling scene. One name that comes up often is the Sands Hotel. This article explores the history of the original Sands Hotel, its demolition, and the current Sands Expo and Convention Center in the area.

History of the Sands Hotel

The Sands Hotel was once a prominent fixture in Las Vegas. It opened on December 15, 1952, and became a famous venue for performances and entertainment. Some notable names who performed there include Frank Sinatra and Sammy Davis Jr. Sinatra was so enamored with the property that he even purchased shares in the business.

Decline and Demolition

Despite its initial fame and success, the Sands Hotel fell into decline in the 1970s. Its decline continued until its final owner, Sheldon Adelson, decided to demolish the structure in 1996. On November 26 of that year, the Sands Hotel was imploded and later replaced by a different resort, The Venetian. This event was so significant that it was a televised spectacle, drawing attention from the entire city.

Current Realms of the Sands Brand

Even though the original Sands Hotel no longer stands, the Sands brand still holds significance in Las Vegas. Today, there is a Sands Expo and Convention Center located on the north side of the city, just east of the strip. The Sands Expo and Convention Center hosts numerous events, conferences, and trade shows, making it a vital part of the city's commercial and business landscape.

The Venetian and Other Sands Properties

It's important to note that while there is no casino called the Sands in Las Vegas anymore, the Sands Corporation is responsible for the ownership of The Venetian and The Palazzo. These resorts occupy the site where the original Sands Hotel once stood. The Venetian features a Venetian-themed design, reminiscent of the original hotel's style, while the Palazzo offers a modern and luxurious experience.

Similarity with Other Iconic Hotels in Las Vegas

Like the Sands Hotel, many other historic Vegas landmarks have met the same fate. For example, the Dunes, another famous casino, was demolished in 2000 to make way for the Bellagio, another iconic resort. Steve Wynn famously had the Dunes imploded, a spectacle that drew thousands of spectators.

Other Notable Dismantlements

Other hotels that were demolished include the Riviera, Hacienda, Landmark, Desert Inn, and the original MGM, which later became the current Bally's HS casino. The methods and impacts of these demolitions varied but all featured dramatic collapses, often comparable to the fall of the Twin Towers on 9/11.

Each of these events not only reshaped the Las Vegas skyline but also changed the city's landscape and its residents' memories. These landmarks, while gone, continue to influence the Las Vegas tourism and hospitality industry.

Conclusion

The Sands Hotel in Las Vegas, though no longer standing, leaves an indelible mark on the city's history. From the iconic performances of the 1950s to the grand demolitions in the 2000s, the Sands symbolizes the evolution of a dynamic and relentless city. Today, while the original hotel is no more, the Sands Convention Center serves as a testament to its past glory and continues to be a vital part of Las Vegas's ongoing story.