Celebrating 120 Years of Las Vegas: From Desert Stop to Global Destination

Introduction

Las Vegas marks its 120th anniversary, celebrating over a century of remarkable transformation, innovation, and unforgettable experiences that have redefined tourism and established the city as the premier Sports and Entertainment Capital of the World.

The Birth of a Tourism Powerhouse

Founded on May 15, 1905, Las Vegas began as a humble railroad stop in the vast desert. The city dramatically evolved into a global hub for tourism, hospitality, and entertainment over the years. Key milestones, such as the legalization of gaming in 1931 and the inauguration of the Flamingo Hotel in 1946, set the stage for an era rich in excitement and allure. The iconic “Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas” sign, established in 1959, symbolizes the city’s lively and vibrant spirit.

20th Century Celebration

In honor of its legacy, the Sphere’s remarkable exterior LED screen—the largest in the world—radiated with its beloved emoji Orbi™. Since its debut, Orbi has become a global sensation and this week honored the occasion by ‘blowing out’ birthday candles at various marquees throughout the city, culminating in festive messages at Resorts World Las Vegas and Fremont Street Experience’s Viva Vision. Orbi has seamlessly blended into the fabric of the Las Vegas community, overcoming heat waves, waking up with a coffee, and donning its party hat every weekend.

The Evolution of Las Vegas

During the 1950s and 1960s, Las Vegas gained notoriety as a hotspot for organized crime. In those days, the city became a playground for drug lords, while cash flowed freely amid minimal oversight. Notorious figures such as Bugsy Siegel and Frank Rosenthal dominated the underworld scene, firmly establishing their presence.

The nuclear testing conducted at the above-ground test site became a unique selling point for Las Vegas, portraying it as an extraordinary tourist destination. This activity not only boosted tourism but also attracted thousands of military personnel, creating numerous job opportunities while injecting millions of federal dollars into the local economy.

Elvis, showgirls, and the Rat Pack further solidified Las Vegas’s reputation as the go-to venue for high-energy shows and A-list entertainment throughout the 1960s, 1970s, and beyond. The Mirage’s opening in 1989 heralded the mega-resort era of the 1990s, with landmarks like Luxor Las Vegas, Bellagio Resort & Casino, and Paris Las Vegas Hotel & Casino transforming the Strip into a fantasyland.

Reinvention and Resilience

Over the decades, Las Vegas consistently reinvented itself—from the mega-resorts of the ’90s to the rise of professional sports teams, including the Vegas Golden Knights and the Raiders. Major events such as Super Bowl LVIII and WrestleMania 41 continue to elevate the destination’s status.

According to Steve Hill, the president and CEO of the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA), “Las Vegas’ story is one of bold vision, resilience, and boundless imagination.” He emphasizes that as the city celebrates 120 incredible years, it pays tribute to the people, partnerships, and innovations contributing to its unique position—and the journey is far from over.

Looking Ahead

Las Vegas has achieved one of the most impressive makeovers in modern city history—shifting from a reputation defined by low-cost dining and slot machines to now standing tall as a powerhouse for major league sports, extravagant concerts, and captivating attractions. Recent developments like the Allegiant Stadium and T-Mobile Arena further pave the way for upcoming opportunities, while the Sphere continues pushing boundaries in immersive entertainment.

With exciting future events such as the College Football Playoff Championship (2027) and NCAA Men’s Final Four (2028) on the horizon, the city is set to welcome Major League Baseball in 2028 when the Athletics make Las Vegas home at a brand-new stadium. Furthermore, the transformation of historic venues like the Mirage into the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino and the $600M Las Vegas Convention Center renovation keep Las Vegas at the forefront of global tourism.

Conclusion

The journey of Las Vegas is a testament to its resilience, innovation, and ability to adapt to the ever-changing landscape of tourism. While the city has reinvented itself time and time again, at its core remains the striking spirit that attracts millions each year. For those seeking a personalized travel experience, booking through LocalsRide.com offers a transparent and user-friendly solution. Customers can select specific vehicles, view comprehensive details, and ensure a reliable service that resonates with the true essence of travel in Las Vegas. Whether you’re planning a visit to this iconic destination or need transport solutions elsewhere, experience the convenience and affordability of booking your ride with LocalsRide.com. Book your Ride at LocalsRide.com.