Published on: August 20, 2025, 11:58h.
Updated on: August 20, 2025, 01:16h.
- The Venetian is advertising the revamped “Wizard of Oz” film premiere at the Sphere this month.
- The MGM Grand holds the title of the first Vegas hotel to roll out the yellow brick road with its original “Wizard of Oz” themed experience.
- This unsuccessful venture ran from 1993 to 1996.
The Venetian’s display highlighting the “Wizard of Oz” has been the talk of the town, promoting the new interpretation of this timeless classic launching at the Sphere on August 28. Much of the buzz, however, centers around discontent regarding its temporary replacement of the casino resort’s cherished “LOVE” sculpture photo spot.
For many who lived through the years from 1993 to 1996, a more spectacular, albeit misguided, homage to the 1939 classic was presented by the initial company to link the legendary children’s film to a Las Vegas casino.
Somewhere Beyond the Rainbow
MGM Resorts effectively constructed the second MGM Grand (the first now being the Horseshoe) themed around the Wizard of Oz. Although not explicitly branded as such, the theme was unmistakably clear.
Guests entered via a living storybook. Under a seven-story atrium with vivid projections of storms and rainbows, they were guided along a yellow brick pathway that led past a magnificent Emerald City, through a cornfield, and into a haunted forest.
Throughout their journey, visitors met animatronic characters including Dorothy (though she bore little resemblance to Judy Garland), the Scarecrow, Tin Man, and Cowardly Lion.
“I fear nothing,” the robotic feline attempted to assure onlookers.
Additionally, actors were cast as key characters, enabling guests to snap pictures with them, in contrast to the impracticalities of posing with the animatronics.
All animatronic figures — including both benevolent and wicked witches — were programmed to move and speak, albeit in a less than lifelike manner. It’s worth noting that the Roomba wasn’t introduced until a decade later.
For a glimpse back, check out this vintage video shared by YouTuber @B Pintar. Remember, this was the ’90s when even Excalibur boasted a moat with a dragon, and Treasure Island had its pirate skirmish…
Lions, Tigers, and Deals, Oh My!
The experience concluded with “The Wizard’s Secrets,” a brief magic performance featuring even more poorly designed animatronics in a small theatre. Following that, visitors were encouraged to explore the Oz Gift Shop, the casino filled with Oz-themed slots and decor, and the MGM Grand Adventures Theme Park behind.
However, these attractions did not generate the revenues that MGM Resorts had assured its investors. Consequently, the company opted for a swift exit.
The MGM Grand shed its Oz theme, rebranding to focus on fantasies targeting an adult demographic. The stunning Emerald City Atrium was demolished, with all its exhibits either stored away or discarded.
The less successful amusement park remained operational until 2000, while the gift shop closed three years later. Today, the only remnant of this extravagant venture is the emerald hue that MGM Grand’s founder, Kirk Kerkorian, chose for his hotel exterior.
“Lost Vegas” is a periodic Casino.org series that highlights the overlooked chapters of Las Vegas history. Click here to explore other features in this collection. Think of an intriguing Vegas story lost in time? Reach out at [email protected].