Tropicana Las Vegas bid its final farewell in a grand fashion with a historic implosion that lit up the Las Vegas skyline. The implosion, which took place at 2:30 a.m. PT on Wednesday, Oct. 9, marked the end of an era for the iconic hotel and casino. The event signified the beginning of a new chapter for Las Vegas, as plans are in place to build a state-of-the-art ballpark for the A’s baseball team and a world-class entertainment resort in partnership with Bally’s Corporation.
Soo Kim, chairman of Bally’s Corporation, expressed his honor in being a part of this significant moment, saying goodbye to the beloved Tropicana. He highlighted the importance of preserving the legacy of the Tropicana while looking forward to creating a top-notch entertainment destination that will also serve as the future home of the A’s.
John Fisher, owner of the A’s, emphasized the demolition of the Tropicana as a crucial step in bringing baseball to the famous Las Vegas Strip and the community of Southern Nevada. He thanked Bally’s and GLPI for their partnership in this exciting project that aims to provide unforgettable experiences for fans of the game.
The implosion of the Tropicana involved the demolition of its two 22-story towers, totaling over 900,000 square feet. The process included the use of explosives strategically placed throughout the buildings by Controlled Demolition, Inc. (CDI) and GGG Demolition, leading experts in large-scale implosions.
Before the implosion, a ceremony was held to honor the legacy of the Tropicana and to look towards the future of the site. Speakers at the ceremony included key figures such as Bally’s Corporation Chairman Soo Kim, Athletics owner John Fisher, and Tropicana Las Vegas General Manager Arik Knowles. The event concluded with a stunning display of 555 drones and fireworks by Fireworks by Grucci.
The Tropicana Las Vegas, known as “The Trop,” has been a prominent landmark on the Strip since its opening in 1957. Its luxurious design and tropical theme set a new standard for opulence in Las Vegas, earning it the nickname “The Tiffany of the Strip.” Over the years, the Tropicana has been a symbol of entertainment and luxury, attracting high-rollers and celebrities alike.
From its Rat Pack-era glory days to its transformation into a modern sports and entertainment complex, the Tropicana’s history reflects the ever-evolving spirit of Las Vegas. As the city continues to reinvent itself, the Tropicana’s legacy will live on through the new developments planned for the site.
For more information on Bally’s Corporation and the Athletics, visit their respective websites and social media pages. The implosion of the Tropicana may mark the end of an era, but it also signals an exciting new beginning for Las Vegas and all who call it home.
