The historic Riviera Hotel and Casino, which was the first high-rise on the Las Vegas Strip when it opened in 1955, was demolished in 2016 to make way for the Las Vegas Convention Center (LVCC) District Expansion. The 26-acre site where the "Riv" once stood has been transformed into a massive, modern convention space known as the West Hall. This state-of-the-art facility features over 1.4 million square feet of space and is connected to the rest of the convention campus via the Vegas Loop, Elon Musk’s subterranean Tesla transport system. For many years, the Riviera was a symbol of "Old Vegas" glamour, hosting legendary performers like Liberace and Frank Sinatra, but its footprint is now a cornerstone of the city’s multi-billion-dollar business and convention industry. In 2026, the site is a bustling hub for global events like CES, representing the shift from the "Rat Pack" era to the high-tech, business-focused future of the Strip.
The term “Riviera” typically refers to a coastal area known for its scenic beauty, mild climate, and upscale resorts. The most famous Riviera is the French Riviera (Côte d’Azur), located along the southeastern coast of France, stretching from Saint-Tropez to the Italian border. It has become synonymous with luxury, glamour, and tourism, attracting celebrities, artists, and wealthy visitors since the 19th century.
Over time, the concept of a “Riviera” has been applied to other coastal regions around the world that share similar characteristics, such as the Italian Riviera (Ligurian coast), the Croatian Riviera, and even the English Riviera in Devon, UK. These areas are often developed as tourist destinations, offering beaches, resorts, and cultural attractions.
In summary, the Riviera became a symbol of exclusive, picturesque coastal living and a major hub for international tourism and luxury travel.