The $630 million Mirage fantasy-island hotel and casino will open in November with a 60-foot mountain volcano that will erupt spewing smoke and flames every five minutes. It is the most stunning example of Las Vegas's concerted effort to transform itself into a world famous vacation resort for families as well as gamblers. One resort will hold jousting tournaments while another has plans for an on-site amusement park. the investment in the three properties will total some $1.6 billion. Caesars Palace is building a $100 million shopping complex comparable with Rodeo Drive. Ferocious competition may drive some properties into bankruptcy or new ownership. But there are also signs of hope among those who have been waiting decades for this moment.
The $630 million Mirage fantasy-island hotel and casino will open in November with a 60-foot mountain volcano that will erupt spewing smoke and flames every five minutes. It is the most stunning example of Las Vegas's concerted effort to transform itself into a world famous vacation resort for families as well as gamblers. One resort will hold jousting tournaments while another has plans for an on-site amusement park. Caesars Palace is building a $100 million shopping complex comparable with Rodeo Drive. Ferocious competition may drive some properties into bankruptcy or new ownership. But there are also signs of hope among those who have been waiting decades for this moment.