New Heart-Shaped Hotel-Casino on the Las Vegas Strip

Clark County commissioners have green-lighted plans to revitalize one of the most infamous areas of the Las Vegas Strip: the former SkyVue site. This location, known for its abandoned concrete columns since 2011, will soon be transformed by Eli Applebaum and Kulik River Capital into a 29-story heart-shaped hotel-casino featuring 752 rooms.

Details of the New Project

The project will include a heart-shaped glass wall with a full-height LED display. Additionally, it will have over 42,000 square feet of convention space, a gaming area, several restaurants, retail stores, a pool area, and a covered pedestrian plaza similar to the Fremont Street Experience. The purchase of the nearly 12-acre lot was made by Applebaum for $70 million this spring from the family of businessman Wayne Perry.

Project Adjustments

Initially, Applebaum wanted an 874-room tower, but he reduced the height by 60 feet to comply with FAA requirements. The unfinished support towers will be reinforced and incorporated into a restaurant suspended 265 feet in the air.

History of the SkyVue Site

The SkyVue site has been known as "the columns of sadness" due to the failure of the "Las Vegas Super Wheel," which was overshadowed by Caesars Entertainment's High Roller. Originally proposed in 2011 as a more than $100 million entertainment complex, the project was halted due to financial issues.

Reactions to the New Plan

While some media outlets are skeptical about the realization of such an ambitious project, MGM Resorts is excited about the prospect of replacing what has been an unsightly view for guests of Mandalay Bay for 15 years.

This project promises not only to change the skyline of the Strip but also to elevate the economic potential of the area.

Additional information on the evolution of the Las Vegas Strip can be explored in our news and events sections.