Rumor Mill: Demolition Could Be in the Cards for Luxor

By Scott Roeben, on June 28 2020

2 min read 127 comments

An iconic Las Vegas hotel, Luxor, could be facing demolition if industry chatter is to be believed.

While no official announcement has been made, a decision to bring down Luxor during a period of weak demand due to the COVID-19 crisis could make sense for the resort’s owner, MGM Resorts.

The company has long felt its hands are tied by the distinctive, but limiting, Egyptian theme.

Luxor Las Vegas — We’re inclined to think this rumor has legs.

De-theming casinos in Las Vegas has happened fairly frequently in recent years, as the perception of themes has evolved from cool to kitschy (or downright tacky) over time.

Many changes have already been made at Luxor to move away from its original theme, but it’s virtually impossible to re-imagine a massive pyramid.

The same dilemma is faced by Excalibur. Good luck tweaking a castle.

Our sources say company officials have discussed demolition of both Luxor and Excalibur for at least five years, but have been unable to proceed due to union contracts. It’s possible the COVID-19 shutdown has paved the way for what’s to come for Luxor and Excalibur.

Other hotels that have de-themed include Monte Carlo (now Park MGM), Treasure Island (now TI), Imperial Palace (now Linq) and MGM Grand (its “Wizard of Oz” roots are tough to spot now).

Luxor opened on October 15, 1993, 26 years ago, when Las Vegas was much more focused on attracting families.

Luxor demolition — Those who think Luxor’s time has come may have a point.

With age comes any number of challenges, and for years there have been rumors Luxor has had structural problems. Read more.

Were Luxor to be demolished, Las Vegas would lose not only one of its most distinctive hotels, but also its renowned Luxor Sky Beam, one of the strongest beams of light in the world.

It’s worth noting the beam has been dimmed in recent years to cut costs.

While Luxor may be a sentimental favorite of Las Vegas visitors, it’s probably time to call it a day, especially if it means a shiny new casino resort could take its place. Sentiment doesn’t pay the bills.

In the meantime, it’s probably a good time to visit Luxor and Excalibur again. The casino reopened on June 25, 2020, after being shut down for three months.

If we hear any more Luxor or Excalibur demolition rumors, you’ll hear them here first.

Update (12/1/21): We’re hearing rumblings about the potential demolition of Luxor and Excalibur again. It appears MGM Resorts decided to wait until after the pandemic to proceed with these moves.

Update (1/7/22): A source says Luxor and Excalibur will be replaced with a sports stadium. An official announcement has yet to materialize, but that would suck. A lot.

Next up

CES 2021 Could Ban Handshakes and Offer On-Site COVID-19 Tests

June 26 2020 — 2 min read — 5 comments

127 Comments

Vegas nights July 20, 2024

I doubt Luxor is going anywhere. They just added the Play Playground the end of last year. Then got rid of the wedding chapel and opened up the Particle ink prism there in April. Just remodeled the rooms in 2021. Plus during Raider games it is a very busy place. It and Mandalay Bay both. Id personally think we would see Excalibur go first. When was the last time anything was added or remodeled? Oh wait they did the center bar in the casino last year but thats it. Personally i think MGM needs these 2 properties. If gone then MGM has nothing to compete with Linq, Flamingo and Harrahs. They would have no lower end resorts. The cheapest would be NYNY which is over twice the cost usually of these 2.
Reply
M c April 27, 2024

Are you READY? You replace Luxor and Excalibur with this theme….. It’ll be the most unique, visited, and storied hotel… AMERICA…. (Hear me out…and drop the anti-American sentiment. Just look at it as it is) 1. Casino Skyline: Iconic buildings/landscapes Starting West to East…Wave pool as the Pacific Ocean, Golden Gate Bridge, Seattle Space Needle, Disney Castle, Rocky Mountains, Chicago Willis Tower, Dallas Green Ball, Pool as Gulf of Mexico, St. Louis Arch, New Orleans Bourban St, Nashville Broadway, Miami skyline, DC Capital, NY towers, Boston Harbor, and Wave Pool as the Atlantic Ocean. In essence, recognizable buildings and landscapes stretching to the sky. Like a condensed map of our country. 2. Outside Strip Attraction: Enormous TVs playing videos of our geo-landscape of national parks, mountains, waterways, etc… Compete with Bellagio fountains…..AND every 4th of July, 1 hour fireworks go off and it’ll be THE PLACE for our birthplace. 3. Inside rooms allocate themed locations based on population. So if you are California, you get more Cali-themed rooms. Or if Fort Worth, your rooms are ‘cowboy-themed’ and Colorado would be ski themed 4. Restaurants: Regional food themes. So West coast portion would have more sushi, vegan food; Southern more Tex-Mex and BBQ; Northern Chicago deep pan; Eastern would be lobster, and Southern would be home-style fried food 5. Entertainment: Blues, Jazz, Country, Rock, etc.. focused on each theme of the casino layout. Want to see a Jazz show, go to the Louisiana state section. Want to see Latin music, go to the Florida area 6. State focused: Every state will be represented with their flags, constitution, what makes them unique, popular born stars, sports, etc.. You just have to go to their state to see their uniqueness 7. Front Lobby: Enormous US flags, copy of constitution and Bill of Rights, past presidents, military memories, etc… Stretch this from Old Luxor to Old Excalibur plots of land. We have Paris, Venetian, Sahara, and Luxor representing other countries. Why not our own country? Yeah baby!!!!!
Reply View 1 replies Hide replies

Rodney Baer September 24, 2024

Unfortunately, the rest of the world has little fascination with us, or the United States of America. It's just not the country, nor the travel destination it once was. People go to Las Vegas because it's Las Vegas. It's an escape from reality, and it could be anywhere in the world.
Reply

Clarissa June 11, 2023

Mlife has to down size mega resorts but still having a nice theme attraction. All Mgm properties are to spaced apart and its difficult to move between Mgm resorts. Ceasars rewards has way better promotion for gamblers. Mgm needs to have point challegenes to get people to gamble. If they dont fix their marketing they will fail and end up closing or selling most resorts. First Treasure island and now Mirage. Wake up MGM
Reply
Kirsten January 30, 2023

I happen to love “theme hotels “ in Vegas!!! Part of the fun!!! Sad that over time ceasers, mgm and others don’t have features that were unique and fun! The canal at Luxor ext. I understand some changes have to happen but what about a mix. I like a lot of the free features that were once available to visit ( pirate show & other) so many things are gone!!! New is fun but keep some classic Vegas hotel attractions!!!!
Reply View 2 replies Hide replies

Alan February 14, 2023

The sick "woke" imbeciles want to destroy any and all themes in the way of their cultural reappropreation sickness. If they succeed we will be a walking, lifeless monolithic bunch of dumbed down government tools. Themes are popular as evidenced by DisneyLand but it's also not escaped them either. For once the unions have actually been beneficial for us. Go figure that one.
Reply
Marguerite May 2, 2023

I'm with Kirsten. Made my 1st trip to Vegas in 2001, before all the casinos started being removed & there were still shows with show girls &, something wonderful to see in nearly every casino - lions, huge aquariums, pirate shows, canals inside with gondola rides. You could spend a whole day looking @ free perks. Went back in 2017 & was broken hearted. Nothing left. Half of casinos gone. Rivera just gone. Huge areas of stip where Stardust & Westward Ho just barren field. NO shows to speak of - not even any pirates. Vegas has become TOTALLY about removing your money & giving nothing in return. Will never go back.
Reply

Las Markus January 8, 2022

It's possible but I hope not - it would really hurt/isolate Mandalay Bay from the rest of the strip
Reply
Baseball in Vegas December 2, 2021

Demolished for Allegiant Stadium parking and perhaps the Oakland A's proposed stadium on the Tropicana site.
Reply
JS December 2, 2021

Would be weird to lose the pyramid from the skyline, but that’s no reason to keep it. But to “pave paradise, to put up a parking lot” would be sad. Put two new or 1 giant casino. Plenty of other places to build a parking lot.
Reply
Jim December 1, 2021

But what are they going to replace them with? More Aria’s?
Reply View 1 replies Hide replies

Scott Roeben December 1, 2021

You don't want to know what I heard. Think Riviera.
Reply

John Sutherland October 15, 2021

Free Aspirin and Tender Sympathy...just the way it used to be.
Reply
Ann Moody August 29, 2020

I've been giving this some thought and I have concluded that demolishing Luxor and/or Excalibur is a terrible idea and plan. It's just going to lead to yet another empty hole on the strip like the Fontainebleu / Drew and the will-it-ever-finish Resorts World. It makes no financial sense to trash viable properties like this. Worst case you could tear down the pyramid if you had to and just use the towers, which still have 2,000 rooms and could be a very nice resort. Excalibur could be renovated to remove the theming at a lower cost than a tear down and rebuild. Renovation is almost always cheaper than the massive expense of removing the old structure and the construction costs of starting over from scratch. Also it's just silly. They aren't even that old. What is our deal in this country with throwing away entire buildings after 30 years? Lastly where is this goofy notion coming from that Luxor is dated? It's based on pyramids that are 4500 years old. Why and how is such a theme more dated now than it was 30 years ago? I don't get it. I can hardly imagine a more iconic and timeless type of structure than a pyramid. They are about the coolest things humans have ever built.
Reply View 2 replies Hide replies

Alan February 14, 2023

You are so right on! The pyramids are ancient and ageless treasures but some fools cannot deal with any cultural differences from "woke" cultural appropriation. Their sick scheme must not succeed if we are to preserve our true history and cultural values.
Reply
Sahodges April 19, 2024

I think when you take all the different and fun spots out of Vegas, remember you can gamble at any supermarket in Nevada. So why go to the strip.
Reply

Hornbet August 13, 2020

Uh, not exactly. Our constitution is a secular document and contains no mention of the word "God". The words "under God," did not appear in the Pledge of Allegiance until 1954, when Congress, under McCarthyism, inserted them. Likewise, Congress mandated that "In God We Trust" appear on all currency only in 1955, and it was absent from paper currency prior to 1957. "In God We Trust" was belatedly adopted as our national motto in 1956. The ofﬁcial U.S. motto, chosen by John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, and Thomas Jefferson, is E Pluribus Unum ("Of Many, One"), celebrating plurality, not theocracy.
Reply
Brett July 27, 2020

It's long overdue for the Excaliber to be taken down, and despite it's still popular appeal, The Luxor needs to be demolished as well. Even just remove the pyramid structure and rebuild a newer tower type hotel in it's place. Whatever they do I really hope they keep the light beam and affix it atop whatever replaces the Lux
Reply
Markus July 27, 2020

If you take down the Luxor than Mandalay Bay/The Hotel (or whatever they call it this week) becomes very isolated. I'd keep the pyramid and go all in as an eSports casino. Excalibur is pretty terrible but maybe it could be reworked with a Game of Thrones/Harry Potter theme. Probably too late
Reply
OWEN MCGARRELL July 2, 2020

Luxor, once one of the most themed hotel/casinos in LV epitomizes Las Vegas as does Excalibur and Circus Circus and to think de-theme-ing resorts is good is completely wrong. You're gonna end up with soulless monstrosities which only say "we're here to guzzle your money and give nothing back" . LV needs the extravagant themed resorts and more heavily themed resorts or it will just slide slowly into a "and lastly Las Vegas" conversation piece in future. At best it may need a polish or interior renovation as does Excalibur or even reduce it's room-resort fee rate to fill it 100% all year round and folk will love it again
Reply
Hornbet July 1, 2020

Rumor has it that the Luxor was jinxed from the start. Apparently, some prominent US-based Egyptologists got hold of the architect's designs plans as it was being built and let them know that they were making a big mistake. Turns out that the design was lacking the Eye of Horus at the top, and without it, the owners were certain to meet with misfortune. Others claimed that a 2nd Sphinx was needed, one that faced west. Without it, a terrible fate would befall them. Some others believed that the land itself was cursed, as its swamp-like properties had been useful for disposing of bodies back in the 40s and 50s. There are those who claim that the spirits of those unfortunate souls still roam the corridors and hallways of the property. And lastly, there are those who say that property is simply underperforming. Boo!
Reply
Mike Chastain" height="43" width="43">

Mike Chastain July 1, 2020

The Luxor is a dump no one stays there unless they dont really have money to go anywhere else. The rooms are nasty the lobby is a dump and the casino floor one of the worst I ever seen. The only casino I would keep on the south end of the strip is Mandalay Bay
Reply View 1 replies Hide replies

Kathy Cowan September 7, 2024

This last Wed 08/04/24, me and a friend booked a room at Luxor while on our way to Vegas. We stopped at Searchlight to get something to eat, my friend had these points that he got from a game he plays online and can get free rooms. So he called there to get a room for the night. He was thinking that it would be from whenever we checked in till the next day. I told him I don't think so and he would have had booked it so when he got there to check in they said we weren't supposed to check in till 3:00 cuz he booked it for that day although it was early morning they wouldn't let us have it till 3:00 pm. Unless we wanted to check out by 11:00 that same morning. But if we wanted to stay another night it was going to be 70 bucks because they wouldn't let him change the reservation. Because it was on one of those promos. But when we finally got to the room and we're going to go down and get her stuff. There was nowhere to unload in the front of the building under handicap. You had to valet park or go to self parking. Which was quite a ways away. So by the time we got the car and headed back up to the room I was dying cuz I have a hard time walking long distance like that. So when we got up to the room I was tired I wanted to take a shower. And mind you I clean houses as a business where I live. There's no fart fan in the bathrooms. And there was mold on the tile on the ceiling. I wanted to complain when I was down there before we left I wanted to complete you know promo the paper that you write your complaint on are your compliments on they said I had to go online to do that so this is what I'm doing. You know and that mold for some people all it takes is being in that shower for a little bit with it to kill them. I would think this is Vegas and you would have better housekeepers. Or supervisors of the housekeepers that would notice something like that... asking for them to comp our room for the next day but then again they don't give you any free play they don't give you anything to go sign up and stay in their place. But I'm still waiting for the deposit to be refunded to my account. Guarantee I won't stay there again I don't care who pays for it.
Reply

Matt Belger July 1, 2020

It could be a ploy to lower the overall room count. I'm not sure MGM is that clever though. They haven't made many good decision for the city the last decade or so. The new genenic corparate theme will destroy vegas in the long run. There is no reason to think MGM cares about the long term viability of the city.
Reply
Steve July 1, 2020

they remodeled the towers and they are very nice, especially for the price. las vegas dosnt need another hotel that only the whales can afford to stay at
Reply
Sean July 1, 2020

It sounds like the structural problems are from when they expanded the casino over the old boat ride.
Reply
Jason Ghiselin June 30, 2020

I enjoy topiaries!
Reply
Kyle June 30, 2020

I mean, the Louvre in Paris has that pyramid at its entrance. Maybe a French Palace theme hidden inside with fine art would be good. Surround it with gardens and topiaries ??‍♂️
Reply
Rory June 30, 2020

It could be re-branded with a Pink Floyd "Dark Side of the Moon" theme! Instead of a bright light pointing up, it could shoot the rainbow of lights down the boulevard!
Reply
Nina Sawin June 30, 2020

I hope this isnt true. I have booked 4 nights there next March and its comped!!!!
Reply
Mike Alexakis" height="43" width="43">

Mike Alexakis June 29, 2020

The casino in Luxor is below street level, which is just dumb...
Reply View 1 replies Hide replies

Mary Jane June 29, 2020

So you have to ride an escalator for 15 seconds. How does that ruin your day? I can't think of any casinos with a street view from the casino floor, so what difference does it make? Or do you mean it's a structural design blunder? In what way?
Reply

alex June 29, 2020

To all the "never going to happen" people: Scott (the author) has serious connections in Las Vegas. He knows far more than you do.
Reply
Jayson AluMoe June 29, 2020

Wow. I'm going to be in Las Vegas in a few weeks here in July I'll be sure to stop by and check it out one more time before who knows when it'll be demolished.. Hella sad.. I lived in Henderson while attending UNLV in 2007 and the Luxor Pyramid light beem was the signal if you were ever lost along the out skirts of the Strip..
Reply
Jayson AluMoe June 29, 2020

Wow. I'm going to be in Las Vegas in a few weeks here in July I'll be sure to stop by and check it out one more time before who knows when it'll be demolished.. Hella sad.. I lived in Henderson while attending UNLV in 2007 and the Luxor Pyramid light beem was the signal if you were ever lost along the out skirts of the Strip..
Reply
Cody June 29, 2020

I heard a rumor that there was an entrance to a secret government underground base somewhere in the Luxor.
Reply
B & S June 29, 2020

The Luxor will indeed live in the best of our memories forever. But instead of succumbing to the slums of depression, let's celebrate the pyramid's unbuilding as the passage from one world without end to the eternal kingdom of Raider Nation, as the world hereafter will bathe in glory, gloating, and hopefully, an abundance of payouts at the ticket window.
Reply
Dan June 29, 2020

Sure, could happen, sometime in the future and most likely will. Yet demolishing a property would take a pile of cash. To build a new place would take an even bigger pile of cash. Sure MGM has some cash from selling off assets, but they still have an even bigger mountain of debt. Thus, MGM would have to find someone to loan them another billion plus for new resort. Close a property generating revue for about 2 years. Closing Luxor would probably also greatly diminish traffic to Mandalay Bay. To sum it up, probably not happening in the near future. Then again, as much as it makes little or no sense to close Luxor, the way MGM thinks this could happen. Luxor should get a bump in room rates with the opening of the football stadium. Also, quit detheming casinos.
Reply
Matt Blankenship June 29, 2020

That sucks....pyramids are supposed to be lucky....I wanted to go a couple of weeks ago but they were closed. I will be back in a month. I will definitely go there and spend some money...I'm sure it wont be enough to keep the doors open...but I will be there next time...I think its cool
Reply
Chris June 29, 2020

Yes it is showing it’s age. However, maybe they could keep the beam in the redesign?
Reply
Pat June 29, 2020

I liked the Themed Casinos, as long as it wasn't tacky. It gives one a reason to go checkout the different themed casinos. Without the themes, they are all just going to be a Casino! What happened to flashing lights, themed casinos, Excitement, adventure and let it fly?! Now Vegas wants to be Boring?!
Reply
J Gardner June 29, 2020

I can completely understand the possible "outdatedness", yes a word I made up, but I sure hate seeing these iconic places being torn down. We, as Americans, lack respect for iconic buildings and history. I can understand a pyramid is hard to change so then think outside the box and come up with something to facilitate keeping the Egyptian theme. They have already ruined Treasure Island, ruined Imperial Palace, ruined Monte Carlo and ruined the Aladdin.
Reply
William R Leffler June 29, 2020

Show a picture of the Luxor to anyone on the planet, and they know what it is, and where it's at. Easily was, and still may be, the most recognizable hotel in the world. In believe, in 2005, the COO & President of Luxor, the late Felix Rappaport, donated the King Tut Museum to Las Vegas, and renovated the casino, lounges, bars, and many other things to start getting away from the Egyptian theme. The Obelisk & Sphinx out front, & the two-story parking should go away. Build a big garage, with walkway, or tram, to the new stadium. Leave the pyramid! It's as much of Las Vegas as the _______?!? Well, that's a stumper. Everything iconic as been imploded or has passed away. Leave the pyramid!!!
Reply View 1 replies Hide replies

PJ April 20, 2024

Hello just think they should leave the pyramid. I never been to Las Vegas but hope the Luxor is still there if I ever go.
Reply

Rick June 29, 2020

Refacing is ok (if it’s even possible) but not to demolish and get rid of that light beam. It’s not just part of the Vegas skyline that can’t be forgotten but it’s also known as the strongest in the world that you can see from space. It would be stupid to get rid of that!
Reply View 1 replies Hide replies

William H Wingo June 29, 2020

Vegas has done plenty of stupid things before, and I don't think they'll stop now.
Reply

Harold June 29, 2020

They have been pumping concrete under the Luxor for 25 years,I believe they can’t get it stable.
Reply View 1 replies Hide replies

Blondmyk July 3, 2020

I guess the answer to the question of tearing it down or not depends on whether or not they can build something there that is more stable. Honestly, why would anyone want to build something else there that is going to have the same problems? It makes no sense to me?
Reply

Bee Rich June 29, 2020

Well a themed resort with a distinct personality hasn't affected Caesars Palace, New York\|/New York, Paris, Venetian or the Mirage'/!!! Hard Rock hotel has one of the greatest themes ever until it was sold'/!!! I doubt this new Virgin hotel will ever be as popular because it just seems bland and frumpy/!!! I look forward to the soon to be new owners of Luxor and Excalibur keeping the decades old tradition going strong'/!!! I didn't hear rumors about the highly themed Circus Circus being imploded'/!!! Makes a helluva lot more sense to sell rather than dump properties because there's always buyers out there who'll overpay'/!!! ???
Reply
grandpa 1 June 29, 2020

I first visited Luxor when you still had to walk on a dirt trail behind a cyclone fence to get there. I thought it was “different” and “interesting”. Then I started hearing talk about troubles with various entertainment. They had boats going around the river but they disappeared. It eventually became boring so we quit going. Outside looks cool but the inside is worn and needs to either be redone or torn down. I assume Las Vegas being Las Vegas; torn down it is.
Reply View 1 replies Hide replies

BST June 29, 2020

I have heard about the boat ride going around the "Nile" . And a time when they thought the water was causing Legionaries disease . i love how the Luxor looks from the outside and would definitely miss it . I have only been inside the actual casino a couple of times though because for me it has a creepy feel . i don't know why . Keep updated on this please :)
Reply

Michael Ilnicki June 29, 2020

30 years from now, when they're tearing down the Wynn and T-Mobile Arena to make way for a new mega-resort and new 30,000 seat arena, we'll all be lamenting the good old days of 202000's Vegas.
Reply View 2 replies Hide replies

Fabian June 30, 2020

You're certainly right about that. But I still think de-theming has a way bigger impact than just tearing down and rebuilding a well known non-themed building. Vegas is a global trademark and that's to a big part thanks to the themed hotels. that's what makes vegas unique. you find mega hotels in Dubai, tons of gambling in Macau and you can smoke and drink in public in almost all of Europe, but you only find this kind of adult wonderland in Vegas. Vegas will lose it's global status without themed hotels.
Reply
Johnny Madrid July 3, 2020

Yeah and when they tear down the Wynn it will be a tragedy because it's beautiful, by then the city will be full of blank anonymous tower blocks if these people get their way
Reply

Fabian June 29, 2020

I think this de-theming will hurt Las Vegas in the long run. Almost every European tourist who visits the West Coast takes the trip to Vegas mainly because it's so special and spectacular. Most of them don't gamble. I hope the big casino owning companies will realise the value of themed hotels for the city as a whole and will keep some of them even if they are slightly less profitable as a marketing tool the whole city and all the hotels benefit from.
Reply
Lisa Tarr Cohn" height="43" width="43">

Lisa Tarr Cohn June 29, 2020

They had better not destroy one of the most beautiful and absolutely striking casinos on the Strip---or else the ancient legion of Egyptian rulers of the Universe will rain down curses and death and destruction upon the vast desert landscape known as Las Vegas and make it totally uninhabitable for future generations to come!!!
Reply
S and P 500 June 29, 2020

I don't see why the Excalibur can't be rethemed--the castle part is just a fake building and could be demolished, leaving the hotel towers intact. I suppose that newer hotel towers have been whacked, such as the Stardust and Dunes auxiliary hotel buildings. I once saw an Egyptian themed Medieval times type show in the basement and I wondered how can the ceiling hold up the casino floor. Apparently it can't. There's some great you-tube vids about the demolitions of the Riviera and Frontier hotels.
Reply
Bee" height="43" width="43">

Bee June 29, 2020

If they gonna demolish Luxur do Excalibur’ too there two old hotels that are very old. And while we are on those two try Mandalay Bay too. A lot of people are still grieving about the shooting that happened right across the street. It will just make since.!!!!!
Reply
Bee" height="43" width="43">

Bee June 29, 2020

If they gonna demolish Luxur do Excalibur’ too there two old hotels that are very old. And while we are on those two try Mandalay Bay too. A lot of people are still grieving about the shooting that happened right across the street. It will just make since.!!!!!
Reply
Oscar June 28, 2020

How come? Luxor always is busy, big line at registration, tour bus lobby all the time with groups coming and going
Reply
gdgfhd June 28, 2020

Looks like the momentum is swinging towards downtown. Not sure what they could build there with the unstable ground, but maybe a simple, elegant and budget friendly hotel casino? Make all the stores, restaurants, bars, and shows carry their own weight. Worst thing to see is something start strong and then watch the accounting brigade scrimp and cut back. Rio was fun back in the day. Now it's the new Riviera.
Reply
Adam June 28, 2020

I always thought the Monte Carlo would be the first of the newer hotels to be torn down because it seemed like it was poorly laid out. Especially when City Center came online. I'll take a partial win considering all the work they did to it. I'm surprised by the Luxor, though. Feels like an error to put in the second floor to take away the views. But it still serves a purpose. And I know they won't save it for the eight Raiders games every year. But they'd better hustle to do something (if they do) before the Super Bowl comes to town.
Reply
Priscilla A. Jenkins June 28, 2020

I have always enjoyed the theme hotels. been going there yearly since 1958!
Reply
George June 28, 2020

Luxor implosion? No chance. All hotels demolished in Vegas have been 50's and 60's relics that just couldn't keep up with modern hotels, and the dirt was worth several times the building sitting on it. Everything built since 1980 or so – even the IP is still there, although renamed several times. It will be far cheaper to just refurbish and rebrand.
Reply
Edward Cooper June 28, 2020

My favorite thing to do while in Vegas is to walk from Excalibur to Mandalay Bay in the wee hours of the night and just window shop and feel like I got the whole place to myself.
Reply View 1 replies Hide replies

Mike Alexakis" height="43" width="43">

Mike Alexakis June 29, 2020

Haha Me too, we often stay at Mandalay Bay, and over the years the tram service has been pinched, it used to be 24 hours... I love five dollar craps, I get up early in the morning and check Mandalay, almost never are they five dollar, stop at Luxor even though I honestly have never seen it at five dollars, and end up at Excalibur, where I have a good luck history on their crap tables... On my birthday in 2019 even Excalibur was ten dollars, but I sweet talked the pit boss into letting me play at five dollars, it was otherwise empty. If they implode the old guard, my strip gambling days are numbered, and my morning exercise hunting down reasonably priced craps will be done...
Reply

Fester June 28, 2020

Most people do not know the Luxor sits on a water shed and was sinking while they built it. There are water pumps working 24/7 and stilts that hold it up. Rebuilding there will not be that easy. On there other hand it is true, while it was cool at first the building is limited on what you can do. We are Vegas, out with the old and semi-old and up with something new.... Then again, will anyone ever finish the Drew/Fountainblu
Reply View 1 replies Hide replies

Fester June 28, 2020

I should edit the sinking was caused by the building of Mandalay Bay which is also sinking. To counter the problem they built the tower in the back
Reply

Allen June 28, 2020

After working on the strip for almost 10 years I can unequivocally tell you that the tourists least favorite resort to stay at is the Luxor. The Luxor towers do fare somewhat better in my informal poll but folks despise staying in the pyramid. Btw, this will surprise most but Luxor has more rooms than Caesars. Look it up...
Reply View 1 replies Hide replies

S & P 500 June 29, 2020

I like the Luxor rooms in the pyramid but they are long and narrow and not very big.
Reply

Jeff June 28, 2020

They did a crappy job of de-theming the Monte Carlo. I can only imagine what they would do with this.
Reply
#1baseballfan June 28, 2020

Turn it into low cost affordable condos. Lots of people who make $10-$15 bucks an hour would love to live on the strip. Get a grant from the government turn the Excalibur into a 21st century project style housing developmentment.
Reply
Diana Priest June 28, 2020

Love the LUXOR. BEST CASINO HOST SUE LAFORCE IN VEGAS!
Reply View 1 replies Hide replies

Don Atkins June 29, 2020

Sally Rodriguez is right there at the top also!!
Reply

Thomas Spears June 28, 2020

I'm a frequent visitor to LV, and the issue isn't that themes are too kitschy, it's that they half de-themed them already! Luxor has great bones, and used to be one of the coolest spots, because of the unique design and architecture. Now it feels like a Hampton inn inside a pyramid. Vegas customers like the themes, we like seeing differences between hotels. There is a classy and luxurious way to keep the Egyptian theme without feeling like Disney World. Look at Venetian and Palazzo... They are themed and they've found a way to make it luxurious. Paris might be a little dated, but they kept the theme, and it works. I don't know who told the marketing execs we didn't like themes, but most people I've met love the themes and want them back.
Reply
KevinA" height="43" width="43">

KevinA June 28, 2020

The pricing for Luxor and Excal is amazingly close, usually within $5-10 during slow/medium Vegas business. Since Excal has 1000 more rooms they probably figure customers would just slide right next door. The only options in the immediate area at similar prices are Oyo (dump) and the off-Strip Orleans. MGM, Park MGM and NYNY all run about twice the price of Luxor/Excal.
Reply
JP June 28, 2020

I worked at Luxor for 4 years and can tell you the building is a PITA to maintain. From the windows on the pyramid, to the sinking foundation, to plumbing issues galore, and air conditioning that never really worked properly, it is a money pit. It's a shame because it is unique and beautiful, but it's time to bring down the pyramid. Now Excalibur, is actually in decent shape, just outdated and neglected. One of the two towers still has the original furniture in it from when it opened. Can you believe it? That's what you get for $20 per night. That corner is prime real estate and so close to Raiders stadium, among other things. I have a feeling it will look very different in a few years.
Reply View 3 replies Hide replies

KevinA" height="43" width="43">

KevinA June 28, 2020

The pricing for Luxor and Excal is amazingly close, usually within $5-10 during slow/medium Vegas business. Since Excal has 1000 more rooms they probably figure customers would just slide right next door. The only options in the immediate area at similar prices are Oyo (dump) and the off-Strip Orleans. MGM, Park MGM and NYNY all run about twice the price of Luxor/Excal.
Reply
Jason Ghiselin June 28, 2020

That furniture is so sturdy it doesn't surprise me they're still using it. And it wasn't in style even then...so, I guess, why not?!?
Reply
Scott Roeben June 29, 2020

Agree. This has been discussed for at least five years, and now sounds like the crisis has added more fuel to the fire.
Reply

Cpan June 28, 2020

No way this Icon this would be demolished. They may rebrand, but there is no way they destroy it. It will not happen, fake news!
Reply View 1 replies Hide replies

grandpa 1" height="43" width="43">

grandpa 1 June 29, 2020

And you got this information from where? Las Vegas is always reinventing itself, so the destruction of the Luxor and Excalibur is very believable. Not wanting it to happen doesn’t mean anything to developers.
Reply

MattG June 28, 2020

I love the look of the Luxor, inside and out. A stay in the Towers is on my wish list. The lines I've seen for the inclinators have scared me off of a stay in the pyramid section. Just the same, I'd hate to see it go. The Excaliber, serves a purpose I guess. I don't think it would be too hard to resurface the exterior. I must say I really miss the original frontage of the Monte Carlo. I'm not convinced the Park MGM model is going to be a success. Minor example: Rooms without closets?? Perhaps that's part of the drive to scrape and rebuild Luxor and or Excaliber - some upgrades/features require new layout.
Reply
Toad June 28, 2020

I don't care what the suits say. I love the themes. It gives each hotel/casino it's own vibe. Detheming is making Vegas boring.
Reply View 3 replies Hide replies

friendly visitor June 28, 2020

@Carbon Copy I know, right? Let's see: New York New York, Paris, Caesars Palace, CIrcus Circus for sure, and maybe including Venetian/Palazzo. So at least 6 if not 8 major casinos are themed.
Reply View 1 replies Hide replies

Linda June 28, 2020

Their time hast come yet !
Reply

Steve June 28, 2020

You said it! Been going to Las Vegas for years, and I've watched it's glitz and glamor turn to ice cold structures that makes the Strip look like Wall Street. Stayed at the Luxor many times in some of the best suites in Vegas. If and when they tear it down, they'll replace it with another boring monstrosity like the Cosmo, or Avia. Oh boy
Reply View 2 replies Hide replies

Lew June 29, 2020

Wait wait wait wait, it's possible to appreciate a black glass pyramid as well as Aria or Cosmo. You may not like the style, but I can guarantee you that The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas is anything but a boring monstrosity. That's just crazy talk.
Reply
friendly visitor June 29, 2020

Always loved the Luxor pyramid rooms. From the inclinator to the angled windows, it was something you couldn't get in just any city. So many hotel rooms are just variations on a basic theme -- boring!
Reply

Johnny K July 1, 2020

Totally agree! Maybe the “high rollers” just want fancy, expensive places but I’ve always enjoyed the themed places. Just stayed at NYNY for the first time last summer. The themes make them distinctive and interesting. But, people vote with their dollars and I’m sure they wouldn’t tear down a good money maker.
Reply

Carbon Copy June 28, 2020

I have spent little time at Luxor during the past two decades, and there's zero reason for me to visit it now. I'd go there if there was a show I wanted to see, but there's not. I'd go there if I was comped a room there, but that's not going to happen. So I'm not likely to go there again any time soon. If the building is in such sorry shape that it's best to demolish it, so be it. But anything that would be built there would be some nice, but generic, destination. Castles and pyramids don't put asses in the seats, but building boring and swanky doesn't do it either. There's plenty of better locations for those with money to burn. Who decided that the Vegas clientele no longer wants themed casinos? I missed that memo.
Reply
brt374 June 28, 2020

I'll never forget watching one of those 'Modern Marvel' shows (or another, similar History Channel show) about the construction of Luxor. The project manager was interviewed, and he nonchalantly said that the average lifespan of a Las Vegas casino was 30 years, and that they were building the Luxor to last only 30 years. If that was 26/27 years ago, the expiration date for the pyramid is rapidly approaching.
Reply
John Delibos June 28, 2020

The only constant is change.
Reply
Concerned Local June 28, 2020

https://getyarn.io/yarn-clip/6fff8933-7fdf-4a47-8863-d736c404d502 :-)
Reply
Mister Doctor June 28, 2020

After a long, painful drive on the I-15, that beam of light from Luxor is like a beam of light telling me, "You're almost here!" If the Luxor is demolished, that would be lost. Damn! At the same time, considering the town's inability to finish projects it starts, it begs the question, "It building a new resort really a good idea?"
Reply View 2 replies Hide replies

Bob DeNaub June 29, 2020

Not at today’s costs. They need a new vibe - marketing is a lot cheaper than razing and rebuilding. Take down the hokey Egyptian worship shit. Keep the pyramid. As far as Excalibur goes? MGm needs a low cost venue for a “low roller” customer. And The Castle makes a profit.
Reply View 1 replies Hide replies

Mister Doctor June 29, 2020

Making money is key. Not every tourist is a whale. Perhaps that section of the Strip could fulfill that void. Lower limit table games anyone? Rebrand and reopen.
Reply View 1 replies Hide replies

Ingy June 30, 2020

Don't Lower Prices And Rates On Everything Or Vegas Will Turn Into Third-Party Central With The Type Of Scum You Don't Want Staying At A Hotel.
Reply

Los Bush June 29, 2020

In Vegas they at least start projects. Up here in Reno they can’t even do that!
Reply View 2 replies Hide replies

Bobby R July 1, 2020

So true. Visited Reno 2years ago. I remembered how nice the downtown area was near El Dorado. This visit I was so disappointed. Town is rundown, dead and just plain ugly. Sad.
Reply
J Gardner July 2, 2020

Downtown Reno is a very sad looking today. I had lived in Reno and Tahoe for many years and the last time i was in downtown it was very sad to see what it has become.
Reply

William H Wingo June 28, 2020

I remember several times looking out from the McCarran departure lounge and seeing Luxor under construction. Later in the early 2000's I went there two or three times to see "Fantasy," but never stayed there or even put a chip on a table. Same with Excalibur: saw the Lippizaner Stallions equestrian show, and later a very effective black-light show in the arcade from "the Fantasy Factory." Never played a hand there either. Just imagine if they imploded one or both of them and just left the land vacant. That wouldn't exactly be a first, considering Bourbon Street; but it would be the first time on the Strip itself....
Reply
Mark A Erichson June 28, 2020

"Luxor always seems happy to see us, if you get our drift." I literally laughed out loud, Scott! Thanks!
Reply View 1 replies Hide replies

Scott Roeben June 29, 2020

Please grow up and don't encourage this behavior. ")
Reply

FYMYAWF June 28, 2020

Wow. Can't deny Lux is showing it's age, but it's still one of the more popular "bargain" resorts on strip. Frankly I feel like the Ex is in worse shape and should be first on the chopping block. That place is just depressing. But if structural issues are lurking, guess it's adios, Lux. Definitely an icon on strip, would miss it more for that than anything else.
Reply View 7 replies Hide replies

Mark A Erichson June 28, 2020

Yeah... Excalibur? Who the hell came up with that purple and red color scheme and the impossible way to find a way out? THAT one deserves to go. I've never been a big fan of gambling in Lux (zero luck), but I think the building should have a National Treasure status.
Reply View 4 replies Hide replies

fogrun5234 June 28, 2020

The Hacienda was the ground that the Luxor was built upon. I know because I did the analysis of the property for Circus Circus, the original owner and builder of the Luxor. It was modeled at the time after the pyramid in Memphis , Tennessee, which is now nearly vacant. The Luxor started out with many problems during the build that were never corrected and the soft foot of the foundation has been a problem ever since. The Amagosa River meanders under the strip showing a problem with ground water that is constantly pumped by many hotels starting at Sahara Ave. Ever wonder why nobody ever built a high rise on the southwest corner of Sahara and the Strip? You cannot sink a foundation deep enough there to support a structure. Anyway, the Luxor has survived longer than expected and the engineering that has gone into keeping it stable needs to be applauded.
Reply View 7 replies Hide replies

Colt 45 June 28, 2020

That's the most interesting (and intelligent) comment so far this year. I'd give you even more credit if you made it all up.
Reply
Adam June 28, 2020

The pyramid in Memphis is one of the biggest attractions to Memphis every since the Bass Pro Shop bought it and moved in with their hotel, store, restaurants, and bowling ally. They opened up in there more than 5 years ago.
Reply
sam June 28, 2020

Thank you fogrun
Reply
Cherie M Ganesh June 29, 2020

The pyr amid in Memphis was turned into the biggest Bass Pro Shop in the world. They built a huge store inside with a lake,multiple aquariums, a glass elevator to the top to experience the views from the viewing platforms, an upscale hotel, a bowling alley and several restaurants. I live in Memphis and the Bass Pro Shop company did a great job on this project. If you're ever in Memphis, check out this unique development.
Reply
Bob" height="43" width="43">

Bob June 29, 2020

I see you don’t know what your talking about. Bass Pro, occupies the pyramid in Memphis, & also has a hotel with views of the Mississippi, & downtown Memphis.
Reply
David B. Cooper June 29, 2020

"The Amagosa River meanders under the strip ..." The Amargosa River runs through the Amargosa Valley on the eastern slopes of the Funeral Mountains, 60 miles WEST of Vegas. Someone who "did the analysis" as stated would surely know that, or the analysis was a fraud. The headwaters of the Amargosa River are the lands north of Beatty, and the river flows south past Death Valley Junction and Tecopa, to then turn west then north and empty into the southern reaches of Death Valley. Thus says an environmental scientist living in Amargosa Valley.
Reply
Bryce September 1, 2020

Actually the memphis paramid is a bass pro shops its far from empty .....
Reply

Big dee June 28, 2020

I know wish we can have a regular conversations without that coming up
Reply
BST June 29, 2020

Yes isn't it amazing they just got to get those politics in there - regardless how DUMB . they sound .
Reply
Ashley Grant June 29, 2020

Luxor has one of the nicest vibes in the whole of Vegas. I would be gutted to see it go. If they want a new theme they could go new age. The hipsters love pyramids. Let's start a 'Save Luxor' campaign!
Reply

Kevin June 28, 2020

What's the word on The Rio? I have heatd that it's supposed to get demolished at some point. Any truth to that?
Reply View 1 replies Hide replies

Robert Smith June 29, 2020

I heard a baseball stadium was replacing it when I was in Vegas last November.
Reply View 1 replies Hide replies

Jake July 7, 2020

No truth to that rumor. New ownership plans to renovate it and re-energize it. Caesars operates it for the next two years while the new group is making plans.
Reply

Bror Fredrik June 28, 2020

I just did a 4k walk thru 2 days ago ... maybe it's the last time we see it as is. Time marches on https://youtu.be/ZyqTUl6NS0o
Reply
Damien June 29, 2020

The luxor is showing its age along with excalibur it would be sad to see them torn down . Iam sure they will be replaced with something bigger and better .
Reply
William Jack June 29, 2020

In the current economic climate and limited tourism until a vaccine for Covid-19, which may never happen, demolishing the Luxor and Excalibur will result in the Fontainebleau South.
Reply View 2 replies Hide replies

LBD July 1, 2020

William Jack - BINGO!! Better to have what's there right now than a dusty, empty patch of ground or a half completed construction zone. Things are way too weird to start construction on another concept. Freeze all plans until further notice.
Reply
J Gardner July 2, 2020

Fontainebleau, part deux! lol
Reply

Laura Reeves June 29, 2020

I'm retired from Luxor I started was hired in 1993 and retired in 2012 from Wardrobe dept.When my husband died of Cancer then following soon after I was diagnosed with Osteoarthritis leaving me with hard to bend and stoop issues. All in all the property was well kept up. Hoping the thought of a face lift is better as to a demo.
Reply
Frankie June 29, 2020

Hold on everyone, it's a rumor that the suits at the MGM started again to bring business back. People will here the rumor, then run over to play or stay thinking it's the last time they'll get the chance to see and play at the great Las Vegas pyramid.
Reply

Rumor Mill: Demolition Could Be in the Cards for Luxor

Next up

CES 2021 Could Ban Handshakes and Offer On-Site COVID-19 Tests

Leave your thoughts on “Rumor Mill: Demolition Could Be in the Cards for Luxor”

127 Comments

Recent Stories…

Mr. Beast Announces Air Dates of Controversial Competition Show

Chilangos Tacos is Coming to Grand Bazaar Shops

Days Are Numbered for Señor Frog’s and Yacht Club at TI