Mirage Hotel and Casino Closes Doors for Major Transformation

Las Vegas, the city of lights, or the one that never sleeps, I can never remember. either way, I know the mob used to run it or maybe still does. I guess I'm not sure about that either. What I am sure about is that a staple for the strip, one that's been around for 30 years is shutting its doors and undergoing a large transformation.

The Mirage Hotel and Casino: A 30-Year Institution

The Mirage Hotel and Casino, a Las Vegas institution for over 30 years, will close on July 17 for a three-year renovation. Established by Steve Wynn in 1989, its iconic volcano and tropical theme set the standard for luxury resorts on the Strip.

Transformation into Hard Rock Las Vegas

After its transformation, it will reopen as Hard Rock Las Vegas, promising a new era of entertainment and hospitality. The Hard Rock Las Vegas will include a guitar-shaped hotel tower, 2,000 slot machines, 212 table games, 21 eating venues, a theater with 6,265 seats, and 283,000 square feet of convention space. The Hard Rock Las Vegas is expected to open in late 2025.

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Impact on Employees and Guests

The closure will result in layoffs for over 3,000 employees, but the Hard Rock will be offering severance packages. For all the guests with reservations after July 14 they will be refunded, and casino chips must be redeemed by the closing date. This marks the end of an era for the Strip, but Las Vegas looks forward to the dawn of a new era of innovation and excitement.

Best Looking State Patrol Cars In (Almost) Every State

For the past 10 years, the American Association of State Troopers has held a contest to determine which state has the best looking patrol cruiser. Nearly every state police agency submits their best photo of their sharpest patrol vehicle a chance to win the coveted cover photo on the association's annual calendar. From cop cars rushing through blizzards to vehicles on the Grand Ole Opry stage, here are this year's nominees.

Gallery Credit: Rob Carroll

The Definitive List of The Oddest, Strangest and Downright Filthy Town Names In Every State

We combed through list after list of the oddest, strangest and somewhat naughty-sounding town names in every state. From Smut Eye to Ding Dong, you can learn unbelievable facts about each of these towns below.