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WHAT'S NEW THIS YEAR
One of the most fascinating aspects of Las Vegas is that it is a city that is constantly changing. The excitement of continuous re-invention and rapid growth has helped Las Vegas to achieve popularity, resulting in 37.5 million annual visitors. Plus, with more than $15 billion in projects under construction or in planning stages, it is safe to say that, in 2009, visitors will see and experience more in Las Vegas than ever before. Here are some highlights of what to expect this year and in the very near future.
Resorts
Las Vegas continues to be a dynamic construction market. Over the next couple of years, Las Vegas will add approximately 13,000 new hotel rooms to the destination..
2009
On March 1, M Resort, Spa and Casino opened its doors for business. M Resort, Spa and Casino is located on over 90 acres at the southeast corner of St. Rose Parkway and Las Vegas Boulevard. Situated higher in elevation than other resort-casinos on the Las Vegas Strip, the M Resort provides optimal views of the world-famous Las Vegas skyline from its guest rooms, suites, conference center and restaurants. The resort features 390 guest rooms and suites, over 92,000 square feet of gaming, more than 60,000 square feet of meeting and conference space, and a variety of luxury amenities including a partnership with Taubman Centers, Inc. to bring in up to one million square feet of retail. The resort also features a 14-screen digital movie entertainment complex, nine restaurants and a state-of-the-art spa and fitness center.
On July 31, Hard Rock Hotel & Casino opened its new Paradise Tower almost two months ahead of schedule. The new 18-floor tower contains 490 guest rooms designed with the property's signature party attitude in mind but with a jolt of luxury and sophistication. The new tower also contains a mega-size Penthouse at 3,500 square feet with floor-to-ceiling windows and panoramic views. Ten pool suites overlook the Beach Club Pool and feature two-level duplexes, doors that provide direct access to your own cabana or pool deck and glass balconies. The tower is part of the property's $750 million expansion, which also includes approximately 60,000 square feet of meeting and convention space, 35,000 square feet of casino space, an expansion of the Hard Rock's pool, several new food & beverage outlets, the Wasted Space entertainment venue, 30,000 square feet of new retail space, as well as a new spa and health club.
Located on Monte Carlo's top floor, a new exclusive boutique hotel concept called Hotel 32 opened Aug. 10. Guests who stay at Hotel 32 will have special services including limo transportation from the airport, a Suite Assistant offering escorted, private elevator access and a check-in-free arrival. Five room types, ranging from studios to two-bedroom penthouses, offer amenities such as 12 pillow types, Nintendo Wii, complimentary high-speed wireless internet, a pre-stocked refrigerator based on guest preferences and much more. Guests also have access to Lounge 32, which offers an assortment of refreshments and evening cocktails.
Golden Nugget Las Vegas will start taking reservations for its highly anticipated new hotel tower beginning Aug. 1. The $150 million Rush Tower, scheduled to open Nov. 20, will add nearly 500 guestrooms and suites to the property. The new tower will also include a new restaurant called Chart House Aquarium, featuring a 50,000-gallon tropical aquarium; an expanded casino; a new pool with six cabanas; and three new retail venues.
Planet Hollywood Towers by Westgate Resorts is building a 50-story glass marvel featuring 1,200 luxuriously appointed vacation villas and 28 exclusive penthouse suites. Ownership amenities include an exotic tropical pool complete with sandy beach and private cabanas, an elite 46th floor pool for the penthouse suites, a world-class fitness facility, restaurants, casino and marketplace. The resort will be connected to the Planet Hollywood Resort and Casino.
In December, MGM MIRAGE will debut a 67-acre, $8.4 billion dollar "urban metropolis" called CityCenter. The project calls for a 57-story condo hotel with approximately 1,495 suites called Vdara, which will open in October 2009. The project will also feature two residential high-rises known as Veer Towers, opening in December, which will feature 335 condo residences each. There will be Las Vegas' first Mandarin Oriental, also opening in December, featuring 400 hotel rooms and 227 exclusive residences; The Harmon Hotel, Spa & Residences, which will open in late 2010, with 400 hotel rooms; and ARIA Resort & Casino, CityCenter's 61-story, 4,004-room resort casino opening on Dec. 16. The resort casino will feature approximately 300,000 square feet of technologically advanced meeting and convention space, a Cirque du Soleil show based on the life and music of Elvis Presley, 16 restaurants, and 10 bars and lounges. An automated transit system will connect CityCenter to Bellagio and Monte Carlo.
Shows
International music sensation Charo returns to the Las Vegas Strip in her new show, "Charo in Concert: A Musical Sensation," debuting at the Riviera Hotel & Casino. The musical variety show features Charo's virtuoso flamenco guitar accompanied by a full orchestra performing her biggest hits and a cast of world-renowned Spanish flamenco dancers. The show will run Wednesday through Monday at 7:30 p.m.
Imperial Palace has unveiled the newest production to hit the Las Vegas Strip - "Smokey Robinson Presents Australia's Human Nature, The Ultimate Celebration of the Motown Sound." Human Nature recently inked a one-year contract to entertain audiences six-nights a week in the Imperial Theater. Human Nature is Australia's top-selling vocal group and achieved 4x Platinum sales with their debut album. Human Nature delivers a 90-minute, talent-packed production featuring suburb vocal, Aussie charm and the most celebrated Motown Hits.
"Sgt. Pepper Live," featuring Cheap Trick, will be presented at the Las Vegas Hilton September 13-15, 17-19 and 21-23 in a Bill Edwards Presents, Inc. production. The performances, with special musical guests to be announced, will feature a full symphony orchestra, audio production by Geoff Emerick and set design by Rene´ Lagler. The American rock group Cheap Trick will perform their live interpretation of the classic Beatles album. Best known for their classic singles, "I Want You To Want Me" and "Surrender," American power-pop progenitors Cheap Trick recorded the album, All Shook Up in 1980 with Sir George Martin and Geoff Emerick, producer and engineer of Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band.
Signing on as the first rock and roll resident artist in Las Vegas, legendary guitarist Carlos Santana brings "Supernatural Santana: A Trip Through the Hits" to The Joint at The Hard Rock Hotel & Casino through a multi-year deal with AEG.
Disney Theatrical Productions and Mandalay Bay have opened the award-winning Broadway phenomenon THE LION KING at the Mandalay Bay Theatre. Mandalay Bay's production of THE LION KING is virtually identical to the other companies seen around the globe and will be staged with all of the same spectacular music, sets, and costumes that have made it a worldwide phenomenon.
PEEPSHOW at Planet Hollywood is a new, sophisticated, ultra-hot show starring Holly Madison from E!'s "The Girls Next Door". The show features 25 dancers, a live band, sexy striptease and playful storytelling.
Terry Fator, winner of NBC's "America's Got Talent," and The Mirage announced Fator signed a five-year deal, with an option for an additional five years, to perform at the resort. Fator performs five shows a week in the 1,265-seat Terry Fator Theatre. The comic impersonator, along with his cast of seven puppets, combines the art of ventriloquism with celebrity impressions.
Restaurants
Pink's Hot Dogs Las Vegas will be located inside Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino directly accessible to foot traffic along Las Vegas Blvd. The 1,900-square-foot hot dog joint will be the first free-standing Pink's Hot Dogs in Las Vegas and will offer 14 varieties of hot dogs as well as many other culinary creations. Exclusive to the Las Vegas location, Pink's will also offer alcoholic beverages, as well as both indoor and outdoor seating.
Rock legend Sammy Hagar will open his world-famous Cabo Wabo Cantina this fall inside Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino. The two-level, 15,000-square-foot nightclub and restaurant will replace the highly visible location previously occupied by Trader Vic's. Offering a blend of live music and coastal Mexican fare, Cabo Wabo Cantina will feature traditional and contemporary selection inspired by Cabo San Lucas as well as a cocktail menu with a heavy emphasis on tequila.
FIRST Food & Bar has opened at The Palazzo. This hip, yet comfortable restaurant and lounge is set in the heart of the Las Vegas Strip and has the vibe of a late-night spot blended with the casualness of a local eatery. FIRST caters to those who stagger in to feed their late-night cravings, as well as those looking for an early breakfast or mid-day business lunch. From breakfast to late-night, the menu features American eats and drinks created by Executive Chef Sam DeMarco.
Representatives of Krug, the world's premiere champagne, and acclaimed French chef Guy Savoy have announced the opening of The Krug Room at Restaurant Guy Savoy at Caesars Palace Las Vegas -the first of its kind in the United States. Krug Rooms are private dining rooms where groups can gather to enjoy a seasonal, six-course pairing menu of decadent cuisine served with a range of Krug champagnes including vintages. The first Krug Room opened in May 2003 in London followed by locations in Hong Kong and Tokyo.
ARIA, the resort casino at CityCenter, has named the chefs set to oversee its culinary offerings. Sirio Maccioni will introduce "Sirio," featuring Italian favorites. Michael Mina will head up "American Fish," featuring refined American Cuisine. Julian Serrano will offer a more casual concept featuring innovative interpretations of Spanish fare. Jean-Georges Vongerichten will add Jean Georges Steakhouse to the mix. The Light Group will unveil an edgy American dim sum style concept. Jean-Philippe Maury will open JP Patisserie featuring a variety of breakfast pastries, sandwiches and desserts. These well-known chefs who run acclaimed eateries at Bellagio, The Mirage, MGM Grand and Mandalay Bay, will be joined by Masayoshi Takayama, the world-renowned chef of the famed Masa in New York City and Shawn McClain, celebrated executive chef and partner at three of Chicago's top restaurants. ARIA also will be home to Blossom, a classic Chinese restaurant; Lemongrass, a modern Thai restaurant; Café Centro, serving three meals each day; and The Buffet, a contemporary take on the standard.
In keeping with the culinary standards set by Wynn Las Vegas, Encore introduces a new all-star team of chefs to the dining family, each of whom is in their kitchens cooking dinner every night. Five signature restaurants pair these master chefs with personally prepared gourmet fare. Sinatra is a salute to Ol' Blue Eyes. Chef Theo Schoenegger's modern Italian cuisine riffs with Sinatra tunes as guests revisit the entertainer's legendary charisma. A surprise awaits at Switch, Chef Marc Poidevin's French-inspired seafood and steakhouse. Diners can appreciate the art collection by Columbian artist Fernando Botero at Botero Steak while sampling Chef Mark LoRusso's modern cuisine. Society Café Encore was designed with the whimsical era of Oscar Wilde in mind, to match the imaginative cooking of Chef Kim Canteenwalla. Turn a corner in the casino and come face to face with a 27-foot crystal dragon, mounted at Wazuzu, where rising star Chef Jet Tila serves up pan-Asian cuisine.
M Resort Spa Casino has opened nine restaurants. Studio B, the resort's show kitchen buffet, integrates a state-of-the-art restaurant with a live-action cooking studio. At Marinelli's guests can enjoy authentic Italian dishes in the stylish restaurant or overlooking the Villaggio Del Sole. Terzetto combines great charcoal-grilled steak and seafood with an even better social atmosphere. Gracing the summit of the M Resort, Veloce Cibo combines an extensive menu of appetizers, entrees, sushi, sashimi and nigiri with satisfying desserts and a range of hand-crafted cocktails. Red Cup Café, a 1920's art-deco inspired 24-hour gathering spot, is the place for hand-prepared American classics. The Hostile Grape is known as the cellar and tasting room with an attitude. Baby Cakes, a European-inspired pastisserie offers an impressive assortment of confections including pastries, cakes, chocolates, cannolis, and a variety of coffees. Adjacent to the race and sports book, guests can order by the numbers at Vig Deli with an extensive menu that includes hot dogs, burgers, BBQ, sandwiches and hand-tossed pizza. A casual outdoor dining experience, Piazza Grille is a sun-soaked Mediterranean-style experience.
Caesars Palace has opened three new restaurants this year. Serendipity 3, one of New York City's most beloved eateries, has opened a whimsical café at Caesars with many similarities to its New York location. The over-the-top desserts and sweets are perfect for the ultimate indulgence, and the variety of savory creations makes for a haven of comfort food. In addition to popular favorites like the Frrrozen Hot Chocolate, the restaurant also serves Strip Steak sandwiches and Cotton Candy Cocktails. Beijing Noodle No. 9 is a stunningly designed casual restaurant serving signature hand-pulled noodles, authentic Shanghai-style soup dumplings, braised and roasted meats and live-to-table seafood and fish. Sea Harbour is an authentic Cantonese-style fine seafood restaurant.
Attractions
The Mirage's new volcano attraction erupts in a lagoon filled with waterfalls and palm trees every 15 minutes from dusk to midnight. The Mirage has joined forces with legendary Grateful Dead drummer Mickey Hart, Indian music sensation Zakir Hussein, and the Fountains of Bellagio design firm WET to create an all-new audio/visual spectacle for its famous volcano attraction. WET forges a primal volcanic environment of sound, light, music and heat with choreographed FireShooters, which send massive fireballs more than 12 feet into the air. The volcano attraction features a state-of-the-art sound system with music and sound specially created by Hart and Hussein.
Spa
ElevenSpa, the new luxury spa featuring a salon by world-renowned celebrity hairstylist, Ken Paves, has opened at Town Square. With elements of old Hollywood fused throughout the 20,000 square-foot facility, ElevenSpa Vegas was envisioned by Nicole Oden to look and feel like the Beverly Hills Hotel. With 28 treatment rooms, 6 make-up stations, a manicure bar and pedicure room, a hand ritual fountain and a full-service Ken Paves signature salon featuring 12 styling stations, ElevenSpa Vegas surpasses ordinary.
Shopping
Crystals, the 500,000-square-foot retail and dining district at CityCenter, will showcase an array of exclusive retailers and dining establishments when it opens Dec. 3, 2009. Luxury retailers announced include Prada, Christian Dior, Bulgari, Carolina Herrera, Hermes, Roberto Cavalli, Cartier, Van Cleef & Arples and Versace. Unique-to-market retailers opening their first locations in Las Vegas include Tom Ford, Assouline, Kiton, Miu Miu, Paul Smith and Porsche Design.
The Esplanade at Encore consists of a selection of 11 boutiques. The edgy Rock & Republic, the distinguished Hermès and the eternally classic CHANEL anchor an array of clothing, shoe, jewelry, home décor and accessory stores. The Rock & Republic store is the designer's first venture as a retail boutique.
Nightlife
At XS, the new nightclub at Encore, after-dark impressario Victor Drai combines an outdoor pool environment with the sizzling club atmosphere. Destined to be the gold standard in Vegas nightlife, the club's design is inspired by the sexy curves of the human body and embraces the European pool and island bar it envelopes. The dance floor at XS is highlighted by a ten-foot rotating chandelier.
The Hard Rock Hotel & Casino has opened the rock lounge Wasted Space as part of its $800 million expansion and renovation. Co-owned and created by action sports superstar Carey Hart and Yankees baseball player Jason Giambi, Wasted Space represents the ultimate depiction of the decadent rock 'n roll lifestyle, also known as an "anti-club." The 5,000-square-foot space will serve two signature drinks, the Hart Attack and Sunday Bloody Sunday, and will feature a unique sound system with the ability for live performances.
Pure Management Group and famed fashion designer Christian Audigier have teamed up to create a new nightclub on the Strip called 'Christian Audigier The Nightclub' at Treasure Island. The nightclub has opened in the space formerly occupied by Tangerine. Known worldwide in the fashion industry, Audigier has popularized and created such lines as Ed Hardy, Smet, Crystal Rock and his namesake brand. The rock 'n roll, glam-inspired style is evident throughout the nightclub including roses, skulls, gleaming crystals and black glass chandeliers.
Downtown
The Las Vegas Museum of Law Enforcement and Organized Crime will be an interactive museum presenting a bold and authentic view of organized crime's impact on Las Vegas' history and its unique imprint on America and the world. The exhibits, programs and experiences will offer multiple perspectives and provide a contemporary, engaging, challenging and educational experience. The museum will be located in the heart of Downtown's urban core and housed in the former federal courthouse and United States Post Office. The museum is expected to open in 2010.
The Neon Museum kicked off the reassembly of the historic La Concha Motel Lobby, which will serve as part of their new museum building, with a ceremony on Nov. 30, 2007 at the southeast corner of Las Vegas Blvd. N. and McWilliams Street. The completion of the project will mean that the Neon Museum's outdoor display of rescued Las Vegas neon signs will be more available to the public, with regular hours of admission. Currently tours of the neon "boneyard" are available by appointment only. The Neon Museum, a non-profit organization, has received grants and donations from the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority, the Nevada Commission for Cultural Affairs, the City of Las Vegas Centennial Committee, the Nevada legislature, and many private donors.
The Lou Ruvo Brain Institute is situated within the 61-acre Union Park redevelopment project near downtown Las Vegas on the corner of Bonneville Avenue and Grand Central Parkway. The center is dedicated to accelerating the discovery of treatments for memory disorders, dementia and other neurodegenerative diseases including Alzheimer, Huntington, Parkinson and Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. The building comprises approximately 67,000 square feet on multiple levels and house facilities for clinical care, diagnostic and neuroimaging, treatment and prevention, and clinical research. Las Vegas businessman and philanthropist Larry Ruvo serves as the founding chairman; his father Lou Ruvo was a victim of Alzheimer's disease. Frank Gehry, of Gehry Partners in Santa Monica, Calif., is the designing architect.
The Smith Center for the Performing Arts will bring a whole new world of song, dance and performance to Las Vegas, including unique international attractions, theatre and music. Currently, Clark County is the largest county in North America without a world-class performing arts center. The Smith Center will be located on the 61-acre parcel of land across from the Clark County Government Center in downtown Las Vegas. The 2,050-seat main hall will be home for the Las Vegas Philharmonic and touring Broadway shows, in addition to housing the Nevada Ballet. A smaller, 300-seat theater will have a stage facing Symphony Park and host jazz, cabaret and other performances. The third theater will be a 200-seat flexible studio used for rehearsals, children's theater and local community events. The development will be the largest arts project in the state's history.
One of the most fascinating aspects of Las Vegas is that it is a city that is constantly changing. The excitement of continuous re-invention and rapid growth has helped Las Vegas to achieve popularity, resulting in 37.5 million annual visitors. Plus, with more than $15 billion in projects under construction or in planning stages, it is safe to say that, in 2009, visitors will see and experience more in Las Vegas than ever before. Here are some highlights of what to expect this year and in the very near future.
Resorts
Las Vegas continues to be a dynamic construction market. Over the next couple of years, Las Vegas will add approximately 13,000 new hotel rooms to the destination..
2009
On March 1, M Resort, Spa and Casino opened its doors for business. M Resort, Spa and Casino is located on over 90 acres at the southeast corner of St. Rose Parkway and Las Vegas Boulevard. Situated higher in elevation than other resort-casinos on the Las Vegas Strip, the M Resort provides optimal views of the world-famous Las Vegas skyline from its guest rooms, suites, conference center and restaurants. The resort features 390 guest rooms and suites, over 92,000 square feet of gaming, more than 60,000 square feet of meeting and conference space, and a variety of luxury amenities including a partnership with Taubman Centers, Inc. to bring in up to one million square feet of retail. The resort also features a 14-screen digital movie entertainment complex, nine restaurants and a state-of-the-art spa and fitness center.
On July 31, Hard Rock Hotel & Casino opened its new Paradise Tower almost two months ahead of schedule. The new 18-floor tower contains 490 guest rooms designed with the property's signature party attitude in mind but with a jolt of luxury and sophistication. The new tower also contains a mega-size Penthouse at 3,500 square feet with floor-to-ceiling windows and panoramic views. Ten pool suites overlook the Beach Club Pool and feature two-level duplexes, doors that provide direct access to your own cabana or pool deck and glass balconies. The tower is part of the property's $750 million expansion, which also includes approximately 60,000 square feet of meeting and convention space, 35,000 square feet of casino space, an expansion of the Hard Rock's pool, several new food & beverage outlets, the Wasted Space entertainment venue, 30,000 square feet of new retail space, as well as a new spa and health club.
Located on Monte Carlo's top floor, a new exclusive boutique hotel concept called Hotel 32 opened Aug. 10. Guests who stay at Hotel 32 will have special services including limo transportation from the airport, a Suite Assistant offering escorted, private elevator access and a check-in-free arrival. Five room types, ranging from studios to two-bedroom penthouses, offer amenities such as 12 pillow types, Nintendo Wii, complimentary high-speed wireless internet, a pre-stocked refrigerator based on guest preferences and much more. Guests also have access to Lounge 32, which offers an assortment of refreshments and evening cocktails.
Golden Nugget Las Vegas will start taking reservations for its highly anticipated new hotel tower beginning Aug. 1. The $150 million Rush Tower, scheduled to open Nov. 20, will add nearly 500 guestrooms and suites to the property. The new tower will also include a new restaurant called Chart House Aquarium, featuring a 50,000-gallon tropical aquarium; an expanded casino; a new pool with six cabanas; and three new retail venues.
Planet Hollywood Towers by Westgate Resorts is building a 50-story glass marvel featuring 1,200 luxuriously appointed vacation villas and 28 exclusive penthouse suites. Ownership amenities include an exotic tropical pool complete with sandy beach and private cabanas, an elite 46th floor pool for the penthouse suites, a world-class fitness facility, restaurants, casino and marketplace. The resort will be connected to the Planet Hollywood Resort and Casino.
In December, MGM MIRAGE will debut a 67-acre, $8.4 billion dollar "urban metropolis" called CityCenter. The project calls for a 57-story condo hotel with approximately 1,495 suites called Vdara, which will open in October 2009. The project will also feature two residential high-rises known as Veer Towers, opening in December, which will feature 335 condo residences each. There will be Las Vegas' first Mandarin Oriental, also opening in December, featuring 400 hotel rooms and 227 exclusive residences; The Harmon Hotel, Spa & Residences, which will open in late 2010, with 400 hotel rooms; and ARIA Resort & Casino, CityCenter's 61-story, 4,004-room resort casino opening on Dec. 16. The resort casino will feature approximately 300,000 square feet of technologically advanced meeting and convention space, a Cirque du Soleil show based on the life and music of Elvis Presley, 16 restaurants, and 10 bars and lounges. An automated transit system will connect CityCenter to Bellagio and Monte Carlo.
Shows
International music sensation Charo returns to the Las Vegas Strip in her new show, "Charo in Concert: A Musical Sensation," debuting at the Riviera Hotel & Casino. The musical variety show features Charo's virtuoso flamenco guitar accompanied by a full orchestra performing her biggest hits and a cast of world-renowned Spanish flamenco dancers. The show will run Wednesday through Monday at 7:30 p.m.
Imperial Palace has unveiled the newest production to hit the Las Vegas Strip - "Smokey Robinson Presents Australia's Human Nature, The Ultimate Celebration of the Motown Sound." Human Nature recently inked a one-year contract to entertain audiences six-nights a week in the Imperial Theater. Human Nature is Australia's top-selling vocal group and achieved 4x Platinum sales with their debut album. Human Nature delivers a 90-minute, talent-packed production featuring suburb vocal, Aussie charm and the most celebrated Motown Hits.
"Sgt. Pepper Live," featuring Cheap Trick, will be presented at the Las Vegas Hilton September 13-15, 17-19 and 21-23 in a Bill Edwards Presents, Inc. production. The performances, with special musical guests to be announced, will feature a full symphony orchestra, audio production by Geoff Emerick and set design by Rene´ Lagler. The American rock group Cheap Trick will perform their live interpretation of the classic Beatles album. Best known for their classic singles, "I Want You To Want Me" and "Surrender," American power-pop progenitors Cheap Trick recorded the album, All Shook Up in 1980 with Sir George Martin and Geoff Emerick, producer and engineer of Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band.
Signing on as the first rock and roll resident artist in Las Vegas, legendary guitarist Carlos Santana brings "Supernatural Santana: A Trip Through the Hits" to The Joint at The Hard Rock Hotel & Casino through a multi-year deal with AEG.
Disney Theatrical Productions and Mandalay Bay have opened the award-winning Broadway phenomenon THE LION KING at the Mandalay Bay Theatre. Mandalay Bay's production of THE LION KING is virtually identical to the other companies seen around the globe and will be staged with all of the same spectacular music, sets, and costumes that have made it a worldwide phenomenon.
PEEPSHOW at Planet Hollywood is a new, sophisticated, ultra-hot show starring Holly Madison from E!'s "The Girls Next Door". The show features 25 dancers, a live band, sexy striptease and playful storytelling.
Terry Fator, winner of NBC's "America's Got Talent," and The Mirage announced Fator signed a five-year deal, with an option for an additional five years, to perform at the resort. Fator performs five shows a week in the 1,265-seat Terry Fator Theatre. The comic impersonator, along with his cast of seven puppets, combines the art of ventriloquism with celebrity impressions.
Restaurants
Pink's Hot Dogs Las Vegas will be located inside Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino directly accessible to foot traffic along Las Vegas Blvd. The 1,900-square-foot hot dog joint will be the first free-standing Pink's Hot Dogs in Las Vegas and will offer 14 varieties of hot dogs as well as many other culinary creations. Exclusive to the Las Vegas location, Pink's will also offer alcoholic beverages, as well as both indoor and outdoor seating.
Rock legend Sammy Hagar will open his world-famous Cabo Wabo Cantina this fall inside Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino. The two-level, 15,000-square-foot nightclub and restaurant will replace the highly visible location previously occupied by Trader Vic's. Offering a blend of live music and coastal Mexican fare, Cabo Wabo Cantina will feature traditional and contemporary selection inspired by Cabo San Lucas as well as a cocktail menu with a heavy emphasis on tequila.
FIRST Food & Bar has opened at The Palazzo. This hip, yet comfortable restaurant and lounge is set in the heart of the Las Vegas Strip and has the vibe of a late-night spot blended with the casualness of a local eatery. FIRST caters to those who stagger in to feed their late-night cravings, as well as those looking for an early breakfast or mid-day business lunch. From breakfast to late-night, the menu features American eats and drinks created by Executive Chef Sam DeMarco.
Representatives of Krug, the world's premiere champagne, and acclaimed French chef Guy Savoy have announced the opening of The Krug Room at Restaurant Guy Savoy at Caesars Palace Las Vegas -the first of its kind in the United States. Krug Rooms are private dining rooms where groups can gather to enjoy a seasonal, six-course pairing menu of decadent cuisine served with a range of Krug champagnes including vintages. The first Krug Room opened in May 2003 in London followed by locations in Hong Kong and Tokyo.
ARIA, the resort casino at CityCenter, has named the chefs set to oversee its culinary offerings. Sirio Maccioni will introduce "Sirio," featuring Italian favorites. Michael Mina will head up "American Fish," featuring refined American Cuisine. Julian Serrano will offer a more casual concept featuring innovative interpretations of Spanish fare. Jean-Georges Vongerichten will add Jean Georges Steakhouse to the mix. The Light Group will unveil an edgy American dim sum style concept. Jean-Philippe Maury will open JP Patisserie featuring a variety of breakfast pastries, sandwiches and desserts. These well-known chefs who run acclaimed eateries at Bellagio, The Mirage, MGM Grand and Mandalay Bay, will be joined by Masayoshi Takayama, the world-renowned chef of the famed Masa in New York City and Shawn McClain, celebrated executive chef and partner at three of Chicago's top restaurants. ARIA also will be home to Blossom, a classic Chinese restaurant; Lemongrass, a modern Thai restaurant; Café Centro, serving three meals each day; and The Buffet, a contemporary take on the standard.
In keeping with the culinary standards set by Wynn Las Vegas, Encore introduces a new all-star team of chefs to the dining family, each of whom is in their kitchens cooking dinner every night. Five signature restaurants pair these master chefs with personally prepared gourmet fare. Sinatra is a salute to Ol' Blue Eyes. Chef Theo Schoenegger's modern Italian cuisine riffs with Sinatra tunes as guests revisit the entertainer's legendary charisma. A surprise awaits at Switch, Chef Marc Poidevin's French-inspired seafood and steakhouse. Diners can appreciate the art collection by Columbian artist Fernando Botero at Botero Steak while sampling Chef Mark LoRusso's modern cuisine. Society Café Encore was designed with the whimsical era of Oscar Wilde in mind, to match the imaginative cooking of Chef Kim Canteenwalla. Turn a corner in the casino and come face to face with a 27-foot crystal dragon, mounted at Wazuzu, where rising star Chef Jet Tila serves up pan-Asian cuisine.
M Resort Spa Casino has opened nine restaurants. Studio B, the resort's show kitchen buffet, integrates a state-of-the-art restaurant with a live-action cooking studio. At Marinelli's guests can enjoy authentic Italian dishes in the stylish restaurant or overlooking the Villaggio Del Sole. Terzetto combines great charcoal-grilled steak and seafood with an even better social atmosphere. Gracing the summit of the M Resort, Veloce Cibo combines an extensive menu of appetizers, entrees, sushi, sashimi and nigiri with satisfying desserts and a range of hand-crafted cocktails. Red Cup Café, a 1920's art-deco inspired 24-hour gathering spot, is the place for hand-prepared American classics. The Hostile Grape is known as the cellar and tasting room with an attitude. Baby Cakes, a European-inspired pastisserie offers an impressive assortment of confections including pastries, cakes, chocolates, cannolis, and a variety of coffees. Adjacent to the race and sports book, guests can order by the numbers at Vig Deli with an extensive menu that includes hot dogs, burgers, BBQ, sandwiches and hand-tossed pizza. A casual outdoor dining experience, Piazza Grille is a sun-soaked Mediterranean-style experience.
Caesars Palace has opened three new restaurants this year. Serendipity 3, one of New York City's most beloved eateries, has opened a whimsical café at Caesars with many similarities to its New York location. The over-the-top desserts and sweets are perfect for the ultimate indulgence, and the variety of savory creations makes for a haven of comfort food. In addition to popular favorites like the Frrrozen Hot Chocolate, the restaurant also serves Strip Steak sandwiches and Cotton Candy Cocktails. Beijing Noodle No. 9 is a stunningly designed casual restaurant serving signature hand-pulled noodles, authentic Shanghai-style soup dumplings, braised and roasted meats and live-to-table seafood and fish. Sea Harbour is an authentic Cantonese-style fine seafood restaurant.
Attractions
The Mirage's new volcano attraction erupts in a lagoon filled with waterfalls and palm trees every 15 minutes from dusk to midnight. The Mirage has joined forces with legendary Grateful Dead drummer Mickey Hart, Indian music sensation Zakir Hussein, and the Fountains of Bellagio design firm WET to create an all-new audio/visual spectacle for its famous volcano attraction. WET forges a primal volcanic environment of sound, light, music and heat with choreographed FireShooters, which send massive fireballs more than 12 feet into the air. The volcano attraction features a state-of-the-art sound system with music and sound specially created by Hart and Hussein.
Spa
ElevenSpa, the new luxury spa featuring a salon by world-renowned celebrity hairstylist, Ken Paves, has opened at Town Square. With elements of old Hollywood fused throughout the 20,000 square-foot facility, ElevenSpa Vegas was envisioned by Nicole Oden to look and feel like the Beverly Hills Hotel. With 28 treatment rooms, 6 make-up stations, a manicure bar and pedicure room, a hand ritual fountain and a full-service Ken Paves signature salon featuring 12 styling stations, ElevenSpa Vegas surpasses ordinary.
Shopping
Crystals, the 500,000-square-foot retail and dining district at CityCenter, will showcase an array of exclusive retailers and dining establishments when it opens Dec. 3, 2009. Luxury retailers announced include Prada, Christian Dior, Bulgari, Carolina Herrera, Hermes, Roberto Cavalli, Cartier, Van Cleef & Arples and Versace. Unique-to-market retailers opening their first locations in Las Vegas include Tom Ford, Assouline, Kiton, Miu Miu, Paul Smith and Porsche Design.
The Esplanade at Encore consists of a selection of 11 boutiques. The edgy Rock & Republic, the distinguished Hermès and the eternally classic CHANEL anchor an array of clothing, shoe, jewelry, home décor and accessory stores. The Rock & Republic store is the designer's first venture as a retail boutique.
Nightlife
At XS, the new nightclub at Encore, after-dark impressario Victor Drai combines an outdoor pool environment with the sizzling club atmosphere. Destined to be the gold standard in Vegas nightlife, the club's design is inspired by the sexy curves of the human body and embraces the European pool and island bar it envelopes. The dance floor at XS is highlighted by a ten-foot rotating chandelier.
The Hard Rock Hotel & Casino has opened the rock lounge Wasted Space as part of its $800 million expansion and renovation. Co-owned and created by action sports superstar Carey Hart and Yankees baseball player Jason Giambi, Wasted Space represents the ultimate depiction of the decadent rock 'n roll lifestyle, also known as an "anti-club." The 5,000-square-foot space will serve two signature drinks, the Hart Attack and Sunday Bloody Sunday, and will feature a unique sound system with the ability for live performances.
Pure Management Group and famed fashion designer Christian Audigier have teamed up to create a new nightclub on the Strip called 'Christian Audigier The Nightclub' at Treasure Island. The nightclub has opened in the space formerly occupied by Tangerine. Known worldwide in the fashion industry, Audigier has popularized and created such lines as Ed Hardy, Smet, Crystal Rock and his namesake brand. The rock 'n roll, glam-inspired style is evident throughout the nightclub including roses, skulls, gleaming crystals and black glass chandeliers.
Downtown
The Las Vegas Museum of Law Enforcement and Organized Crime will be an interactive museum presenting a bold and authentic view of organized crime's impact on Las Vegas' history and its unique imprint on America and the world. The exhibits, programs and experiences will offer multiple perspectives and provide a contemporary, engaging, challenging and educational experience. The museum will be located in the heart of Downtown's urban core and housed in the former federal courthouse and United States Post Office. The museum is expected to open in 2010.
The Neon Museum kicked off the reassembly of the historic La Concha Motel Lobby, which will serve as part of their new museum building, with a ceremony on Nov. 30, 2007 at the southeast corner of Las Vegas Blvd. N. and McWilliams Street. The completion of the project will mean that the Neon Museum's outdoor display of rescued Las Vegas neon signs will be more available to the public, with regular hours of admission. Currently tours of the neon "boneyard" are available by appointment only. The Neon Museum, a non-profit organization, has received grants and donations from the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority, the Nevada Commission for Cultural Affairs, the City of Las Vegas Centennial Committee, the Nevada legislature, and many private donors.
The Lou Ruvo Brain Institute is situated within the 61-acre Union Park redevelopment project near downtown Las Vegas on the corner of Bonneville Avenue and Grand Central Parkway. The center is dedicated to accelerating the discovery of treatments for memory disorders, dementia and other neurodegenerative diseases including Alzheimer, Huntington, Parkinson and Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. The building comprises approximately 67,000 square feet on multiple levels and house facilities for clinical care, diagnostic and neuroimaging, treatment and prevention, and clinical research. Las Vegas businessman and philanthropist Larry Ruvo serves as the founding chairman; his father Lou Ruvo was a victim of Alzheimer's disease. Frank Gehry, of Gehry Partners in Santa Monica, Calif., is the designing architect.
The Smith Center for the Performing Arts will bring a whole new world of song, dance and performance to Las Vegas, including unique international attractions, theatre and music. Currently, Clark County is the largest county in North America without a world-class performing arts center. The Smith Center will be located on the 61-acre parcel of land across from the Clark County Government Center in downtown Las Vegas. The 2,050-seat main hall will be home for the Las Vegas Philharmonic and touring Broadway shows, in addition to housing the Nevada Ballet. A smaller, 300-seat theater will have a stage facing Symphony Park and host jazz, cabaret and other performances. The third theater will be a 200-seat flexible studio used for rehearsals, children's theater and local community events. The development will be the largest arts project in the state's history.
