Was the Flamingo the First Casino in Las Vegas?

The Flamingo Las Vegas was the first casino built on the Las Vegas Strip. In addition, it was the first casino owned and operated by a major organized crime figure, Bugsy Siegel.

The resort was built on what was once the site of an old airstrip. The casino itself opened on December 26, 1946.

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The Flamingo quickly became a popular destination for both tourists and locals. In its early years, the casino was known for its lavish parties and celebrity guests. However, it wasn’t long before the Flamingo became embroiled in scandal.

In 1947, Siegel was murdered in Los Angeles. His death sent shockwaves through the Las Vegas gaming community.

PRO TIP:No, the Flamingo was not the first casino in Las Vegas. The original casinos in Las Vegas were built in the 1930s and 40s, and the first casino to open was Hotel El Rancho back in 1941. The Flamingo followed shortly after, opening its doors in 1946.

In the wake of Siegel’s death, the Flamingo was taken over by his partners, who included Meyer Lansky and Frank Costello. The new owners quickly set about cleaning up the casino’s image.

They succeeded in doing so and the Flamingo soon regained its status as one of the most popular casinos in Las Vegas.

Today, the Flamingo is owned by Caesars Entertainment Corporation. The hotel and casino continue to be popular with both tourists and locals alike.

The Flamingo remains one of the most recognizable landmarks on the Las Vegas Strip.

Yes, the Flamingo Las Vegas was the first casino built on the Las Vegas Strip and it was also the first casino owned by a major organized crime figure.