Published on: June 26, 2026, at 07:21h.
Updated on: June 25, 2026, at 06:05h.
NOTE FROM THE EDITOR: “Vegas Myths Busted” shares fresh content each Monday, along with a bonus edition every Friday. Today’s feature was initially published on June 23, 2025.
For a hefty price of $20,000 per night, you can book the Imperial Sky Villa at the Westgate, formerly known as the International Hotel where Elvis Presley resided during his Las Vegas performances.
“This new branding is a revival of the expansive 13,200-square-foot space that has loomed over the skyline since its debut as the International Hotel in 1969,” reported John Katsilometes from the Las Vegas Review-Journal on June 9.
But that’s just a pile of rocks.
The Building That Lost Elvis
The former Imperial Suite (Room 3000) served as Elvis’ home during his biannual performances from 1969 to 1976, spanning just 5,000 square feet.
In the 1980s, Hilton — which took over the International from Kirk Kerkorian in 1971 — dubbed Room 3000 as “The Elvis Suite,” affixing a brass plaque to its entrance. It opened booking opportunities to everyday guests, beyond just performers and elite clients.
In 1994, the hotel chain opted to demolish the famed suite for one primary reason that motivates every ill-fated decision in Las Vegas — the allure of higher profits.
This endeavor led to the emergence of three luxurious “sky villas,” crafted at a staggering $60 million, amplifying the property’s rentable penthouse space exponentially.
The Tuscany, adorned with thematic decor, occupied much of the footprint of Elvis’ initial suite. It was officially rebranded as the Imperial on June 9, adorned with Elvis memorabilia for the first time to honor its legacy.
However, the heritage is largely fabricated.
The Imperial Sky Villa was constructed 17 years post-Elvis’ passing — including its walls, floors, ceilings, and windows.
Legacy Remnants
The original Imperial Suite, which featured northeast and southeast-viewing windows, exuded luxury with its vibrant jewel tones, gold accents, lavish carpeting, a grand piano, and an extensive dining space.
Elvis celebrated post-show parties in this suite with illustrious friends such as Tom Jones, Dean Martin, Sammy Davis Jr., and Liberace.
In February 1973, he hosted a memorable meeting with Muhammad Ali, where he presented the champ with a custom bedazzled boxing robe.
Ali reciprocated with signed boxing gloves that read: “Elvis, You are the Greatest. From Muhammad Ali,” along with a few chuckles as Elvis showcased his karate moves.
Several reports claim that one of Elvis’ notable television appearances was filmed in this suite — allegedly a 1974 performance by Robert Goulet on “The Mike Douglas Show” that failed to impress the King.
This suite also held memories of Elvis spending quality time with his daughter, Lisa Marie.
We prefer to believe that none of those occasions coincided with any filming sessions.
The Heartbreak of History
Regrettably, no specific section of the Imperial Suite remains distinguishable or unchanged.
The location where Elvis’ bedroom was situated is now part of the Imperial Sky Villa’s living area.
A sprawling 8,200 square feet of modern suite envelops a pool that Elvis never had.
Due to Hilton Hotels’ decision to reduce this historic landmark to rubble instead of establishing an Elvis-themed museum akin to Graceland, today’s affluent visitors must rely on their imagination rather than tangible history.
No matter how many Elvis photos adorn the walls.
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