Famous Casino Implosions on the Las Vegas Strip
Las Vegas regularly reinvents itself by imploding older resorts to clear space for new builds. These controlled demolitions attract crowds and photographers while marking the end of an era for classic neon architecture.
Each implosion follows strict safety protocols and city permits, with viewing parties often held at neighboring properties to keep spectators at a safe distance.
The Desert Inn – 2000
Howard Hughes, was imploded in 2000 to
The Desert Inn, once home to Howard Hughes, was imploded in 2000 to make room for the Wynn. The 14-story tower fell in under 30 seconds, setting the standard for future Strip demolitions.
- Final guest checkout occurred two weeks prior
- Controlled explosives placed on every third floor
- Wynn construction began within 48 hours
"Look at payment speed and table limits, not only the headline bonus."
The Stardust – 2007
March 2007. The site later became home
The 32-story Stardust Resort fell in March 2007. The site later became home to Echelon Place, then Resorts World Las Vegas after financial delays.
- Largest implosion by floor count on the Strip
- Live television coverage lasted 90 minutes
- Debris cleared in six weeks
The Riviera – 2016
The Riviera’s three towers came down
in sequence over 12 seconds. The land
The Riviera’s three towers came down in sequence over 12 seconds. The land remained vacant until construction began on the Fontainebleau Las Vegas project.
- Implosion viewed from the High Roller observation wheel
- Environmental remediation completed in 2018
- New resort opened in 2023
Safety and Viewing
Modern implosions require street closures, blast
mats, and water-spray systems to control dust.
Modern implosions require street closures, blast mats, and water-spray systems to control dust. Free viewing areas are marked along the Strip, and many casinos sell rooftop packages that include breakfast and live commentary.
Frequently Asked Questions
When was the last casino implosion on the Strip?
The last major implosion occurred in 2016 when the Riviera towers were demolished. No Strip resorts have been imploded since that date.
Are casino implosions open to the public?
Yes, the city designates safe viewing zones along Las Vegas Boulevard. Some hotels sell paid rooftop packages with better sightlines and amenities.
Why do casinos get imploded instead of renovated?
Older concrete structures often cost more to retrofit than to replace. New builds also allow modern floor plans and updated gaming technology.
Is it safe to watch an implosion from the Strip?
Viewing areas are set back several blocks and protected by barriers. The blasts are engineered to direct debris inward, keeping spectators outside the fall zone.