On August 16, Hard Rock International (HRI) was given approval from the Clark County Zoning Commission to begin development of its 660-foot-tall, guitar-shaped casino and hotel tower that will be built on the site of the Mirage.
HRI, which first acquired the operations of the iconic Las Vegas destination from MGM Resorts International for just over $1 billion late last year, plans to include 600 rooms and 49,000 square feet of gaming space within the tower, as well as an additional 96,000 square feet of retail and dining space.
During proceedings with state regulators earlier this year, HRI representative and land-use attorney Jennifer Lazovich said in a letter that the structure is to be built “right where the existing volcano is,” which has proved to be a polarizing decision, given that most people either love or hate the renowned volcano attraction.
Per Lazovich, the structure will look like two guitars positioned back-to-back, with innumerable glass panes and “brightly lit strings.” The company has already constructed similar, smaller structures at its other venues—for example, the company built a 450-foot version for its property in Florida.
HRI already operates the Mirage, but the company has made it clear that it will completely renovate and rebrand the property under its own brand, with the guitar tower being the centerpiece.
The land that the casino sits on is owned by the mega-trust VICI Properties, which has a $90 million annual lease agreement with HRI.
