Posted on: August 4, 2023, 12:24h.
Last updated on: August 4, 2023, 12:24h.
The iconic Casino Royale in Las Vegas may be demolished soon, as it has received approval from the FAA to construct a 699-foot tower in its place.
The news was first reported by Scott Roeben, a renowned blogger at Casino.org, who shared details from a letter dated July 21, 2023, confirming FAA’s approval for the project.
The letter stated, “The aeronautical study determined that the proposed structure would not hinder the safe use of airspace by aircraft or navigation facilities. While the impact on UFOs or UAPs remains uncertain, the construction poses no risks to aircraft.”
The owners of Casino Royale, Best Western, have until January 21, 2025, to complete the tower construction; otherwise, FAA’s approval will expire.
In another development, it has been reported that the Outback Steakhouse located at the property will be closing, although no official notice has been given to casino employees.
Welcome to Royale
The Casino Royale, originally known as the Caravan Motor Hotel, opened its doors in 1964 between the Flamingo and the Desert Inn (now Wynn Las Vegas) on the eastern side of Las Vegas Boulevard. In 1978, it introduced its gaming hall as the Nob Hill Casino.
In 1990, the Elardi family, owners of the Frontier at the time, acquired both Nob Hill and Caravan for $17 million and combined them into what is now known as the Casino Royale. Two years later, the revamped casino unveiled an expanded gaming floor spanning 10,000 square feet, featuring 225 slots and four table games.
In 2012, the Best Western chain purchased the Casino Royale and retains ownership to this day.
However, it’s important to note that approved plans on the Las Vegas Strip do not always come to fruition. As exemplified by the Casino Royale itself, in 1994, the Elardi family’s proposal for a space probe amusement ride received various approvals before eventually being abandoned due to objections from the powerful Culinary Union and neighboring resorts, who argued that it did not fit the Strip’s aesthetic.