View source for Sahara Las Vegas

{{Short description|Casino hotel in Winchester, Nevada}}
{{Use American English|date=April 2025}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=April 2025}}
{{Infobox casino
| casino              = Sahara Las Vegas
| logo                = SAHARA Las Vegas hotel logo.svg
| logo_size           =
| logo_caption        = Logo introduced in 2019
| location            = [[Winchester, Nevada]], U.S.
| pushpin_map         = United States Las Vegas Boulevard#Nevada
| address             = 2535 South [[Las Vegas Boulevard]]
| coordinates         = {{coord|36.14222|-115.15639|region:US-NV_type:landmark|display=title,inline}}
| image               = Sahara Hotel Casino Las Vegas (entrance).jpg
| image_size          =
| image_caption       = The Sahara in 2006
| rooms               = 1,616
| date_opened         = {{Start date and age|1952|10|7}}
| date_closed         =
| space_gaming        = {{convert|50662|sqft|abbr=on}}
| attractions         = The Foundry
| shows               = ''[[Magic Mike Live]]'' <br> MJ Live
| notable_restaurants = Bazaar Meat<br />Zeffer's Cafe
| owner               = [[Alex Meruelo|Meruelo Group]]
| license_holder      =
| casino_type         = Land-based
| renovations         = 1954, 1959–60, 1961–63, 1968, 1988, 1996–97, 1999–2000, 2013–14, 2018–21
|architect=[[Max Maltzman]] (1952)<br>[[Martin Stern Jr.]] (1959–1967)| names_pre           = Original Sahara (1952–2011)<br />SLS Las Vegas (2014–19)
| website             = {{URL|www.saharalasvegas.com}}
}}

'''Sahara Las Vegas''' is a [[hotel]] and [[casino]] located on the [[Las Vegas Strip]] in [[Winchester, Nevada]]. It is owned and operated by the [[Alex Meruelo|Meruelo Group]]. The hotel has 1,616 rooms,<ref name=Vanish/> and the casino contains {{convert|50662|sqft}}.<ref name=Listing/> The Sahara anchors the northern end of the Las Vegas Strip, at the corner of [[Sahara Avenue]]. It is the site of the northernmost station of the [[Las Vegas Monorail]].

The resort initially operated under the Sahara name from 1952 to 2011. Originally, [[Milton Prell]] opened the '''Club Bingo''' casino on the site in 1947. In 1951, he gathered former business partners to begin work on the Sahara, which was built on the land partially occupied by Club Bingo. [[Del E. Webb Construction Company]] built the Sahara, which opened on October 7, 1952, as the sixth resort on the Las Vegas Strip. It featured an African theme. [[Martin Stern Jr.]] designed several hotel additions for the Sahara, including a 14-story tower that opened in 1960. The Sahara was sold to Del Webb in 1961, and a 24-story hotel tower, also designed by Stern, was opened in 1963.

The Sahara began to decline in the 1960s with the opening of several large resorts nearby. Paul Lowden purchased the Sahara in 1982, and a third hotel tower was added in 1988. Lowden sold the Sahara to [[William G. Bennett (gaming executive)|Bill Bennett]] in 1995, and Bennett launched a $100 million renovation of the resort that included a Moroccan theme. Bennett's renovation also added a [[NASCAR]]-themed attraction that included a restaurant and a roller coaster known as [[Speed – The Ride]].

[[Sam Nazarian]]'s [[SBE Entertainment Group]], along with [[Stockbridge Capital Group|Stockbridge Real Estate Group]], purchased the Sahara in 2007. The Sahara was closed on May 16, 2011, as it was no longer considered economically viable. In 2013, Nazarian began a complete renovation of the resort before reopening it as the '''SLS Las Vegas''' on August 23, 2014, as part of SBE's chain of SLS hotels. SLS Las Vegas featured a [[chic]] and modern design, and was targeted at southern California residents.

The SLS experienced financial hardships after its opening, and Nazarian sold his stake to Stockbridge in 2015. One of the hotel towers was rebranded the following year as '''W Las Vegas''', managed by [[Starwood Hotels and Resorts|Starwood]] as part of its [[W Hotels]] chain. The SLS was sold to [[Meruelo Group]] in 2018, and the W Las Vegas became part of the SLS again after the resort ended its relationship with Starwood. The SLS was renamed Sahara Las Vegas on August 29, 2019, as part of an ongoing renovation by Meruelo.

==History==
Before the Sahara was built, an earlier casino had operated on the site as Club Bingo.<ref name="autogenerated1">{{cite web |title=Dreaming the Skyline – Sahara |publisher=[[University of Nevada, Las Vegas]] |access-date=February 15, 2015 |url=http://digital.library.unlv.edu/skyline/hotel/sahara}}</ref> Around 1942,<ref name=Provoan>{{cite news |title=Provoan Sells 13-Acre Tract In Las Vegas for $225,000 |url=https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/466909473/ |work=[[Daily Herald (Utah)|Daily Herald]] |date=July 29, 1951 |access-date=January 3, 2020 |via=Newspapers.com |url-access=subscription |archive-date=January 3, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200103203306/https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/466909473/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Melvin D. Close (1900–1974)<ref>{{cite news |title=Melvin Close obituary |url=https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/468403069/ |work=Daily Herald |date=December 27, 1974 |access-date=January 3, 2020 |via=Newspapers.com |url-access=subscription |archive-date=January 3, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200103203516/https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/468403069/ |url-status=live }}</ref> purchased a 19-acre property on what would become the northern end of the [[Las Vegas Strip]].<ref name=Provoan/> Club Bingo owner [[Milton Prell]] had previously opened the 30 Club in [[Butte, Montana]]. Prell and his family then moved to [[Las Vegas]] in 1945, with the intention of opening a small hotel. Remembering how successful his earlier casino club had been, Prell opened the similar Club Bingo in Las Vegas before building a full hotel-casino.<ref name=Top/> Prell opened Club Bingo with Frank Schivo, who previously worked at the 30 Club. Schivo managed Club Bingo's casino.<ref name=Schivo>{{cite news |title=Pioneer gaming exec Schivo dies of cancer |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/1996/nov/22/pioneer-gaming-exec-schivo-dies-of-cancer/ |access-date=January 8, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=November 22, 1996 |archive-date=May 31, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200531170410/https://lasvegassun.com/news/1996/nov/22/pioneer-gaming-exec-schivo-dies-of-cancer/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name=Crowley>{{cite news |last=Crowley |first=Matthew |title=Wife of man who helped start up Sahara hotel dies at age 94 |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/local/the-strip/wife-of-man-who-helped-start-up-sahara-hotel-dies-at-age-94/ |access-date=January 8, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=November 20, 2017 |archive-date=November 21, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171121215701/https://www.reviewjournal.com/local/the-strip/wife-of-man-who-helped-start-up-sahara-hotel-dies-at-age-94/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name=Zook/>

Club Bingo opened on July 24, 1947, on 4 acres of the 19-acre property,<ref name=Provoan/><ref name=Zook/> and it quickly became a success.<ref name=Top/> Club Bingo included a 300-seat bingo parlor as well as the Bonanza Room, which provided food and entertainment.<ref>{{cite news |last=Greenspun |first=Hank |title=Aladdin was LV pioneer Prell's vision of Strip's desert jewel |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/1998/apr/27/where-i-stand----hank-greenspun-aladdin-was-lv-pio/ |access-date=January 8, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=April 27, 1998 |archive-date=February 13, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230213091829/https://lasvegassun.com/news/1998/apr/27/where-i-stand----hank-greenspun-aladdin-was-lv-pio/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name=Zook>{{cite book |last1=Zook |first1=Lynn M. |last2=Sandquist |first2=Allen |last3=Burke |first3=Carey |title=Las Vegas, 1905–1965 |date=2009 |publisher=Arcadia Publishing |isbn=978-0-7385-6969-7 |pages=106–109 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=MrDckUPM0nIC&pg=PA106 |access-date=January 8, 2020}}</ref> Entertainers included singer [[Dorothy Dandridge]] and comedian Stan Irwin.<ref name=Zook/> Irwin eventually became the entertainment director for Club Bingo.<ref name=Chawkins>{{cite news |last=Chawkins |first=Steve |title=Stan Irwin, celebrity manager and Las Vegas talent booker, dies at 94 |url=https://www.latimes.com/local/obituaries/la-me-stan-irwin-20150126-story.html |access-date=January 9, 2020 |work=Los Angeles Times |date=January 26, 2015 |archive-date=November 18, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231118014013/https://www.latimes.com/local/obituaries/la-me-stan-irwin-20150126-story.html |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name=Irwin>{{cite news |last=Koch |first=Ed |title=Showbiz innovator who brought big-name acts to Las Vegas dies at 94 |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2015/feb/03/showbiz-innovator-who-brought-big-name-acts-las-ve/ |access-date=January 9, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=February 3, 2015 |archive-date=January 26, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210126095552/https://lasvegassun.com/news/2015/feb/03/showbiz-innovator-who-brought-big-name-acts-las-ve/ |url-status=live }}</ref> The Club Bingo building was considered basic, with the exception of an electric bingo board sign on top.<ref name=Moehring>{{cite book |last=Moehring |first=Eugene |editor1-last=Jaschke |editor1-first=Karin |editor2-last=Ötsch |editor2-first=Silke |title=Stripping Las Vegas: A Contextual Review of Casino Resort Architecture |chapter=The Sahara Hotel: Las Vegas' "Jewel in the Desert" |date=2003 |publisher=Verl.d. Bauhaus-Universität |isbn=978-3-86068-192-3 |pages=13–39 |chapter-url=https://books.google.com/books?id=ctEXhnrUitAC&pg=PA13 |access-date=January 8, 2020}}</ref>

Prell briefly considered adding a small hotel and a village of [[adobe]] buildings to the Club Bingo property, but he decided against the idea because it did not fit in with his ultimate vision of a luxury hotel.<ref name=Top/> In early 1951, Prell gathered several former business partners to begin work on a hotel-casino project that would become the Sahara.<ref name=Top>{{cite news |title=Milton Prell Top New Man At Beautiful New Hotel |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/1952/oct/27/milton-prell-top-new-man-beautiful-new-hotel/?framing=history |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=October 27, 1952 |access-date=July 19, 2019 |archive-date=February 13, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230213091624/https://lasvegassun.com/news/1952/oct/27/milton-prell-top-new-man-beautiful-new-hotel/?framing=history |url-status=live }}</ref> In July 1951, Close announced he had sold the remaining land for $225,000 to the Club Bingo owners. Plans were simultaneously announced for a 200-room hotel project that would be built on the land.<ref name=Provoan/> The site was considered ideal for the new resort because it was located just outside of city limits, allowing Prell and business partner Al Winter to avoid paying taxes on slot machines and property.<ref name=Moehring/> At the time, the project was expected to cost $2 million.<ref name=Provoan/>

Winter, a co-owner of Club Bingo, recruited [[Sam Boyd]] to be a partner in the new Sahara project. Boyd had previously operated a bingo game for Winter in Oregon. Boyd invested in the Sahara to become an owner and partner.<ref>{{cite news |title=Sam Boyd's Odyssey |url=https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/30557370/ |access-date=January 8, 2020 |work=Independent Press-Telegram |date=June 10, 1973 |via=Newspapers.com |url-access=subscription |archive-date=March 5, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210305172818/https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/30557370/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news|agency=[[Associated Press]]|url=https://www.nytimes.com/1993/01/16/obituaries/sam-boyd-82-a-roulette-dealer-who-became-a-builder-of-casinos.html|title=Sam Boyd, 82, a Roulette Dealer Who Became a Builder of Casinos|date=January 16, 1993|work=[[The New York Times]]|access-date=September 17, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140917225436/http://www.nytimes.com/1993/01/16/obituaries/sam-boyd-82-a-roulette-dealer-who-became-a-builder-of-casinos.html|archive-date=September 17, 2014|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=The Oral History of William S. Boyd |url=https://scholars.law.unlv.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1056&context=glj |website=University of Nevada, Las Vegas |access-date=January 8, 2020 |page=5 |date=January 16, 2014 |archive-date=February 28, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210228010654/https://scholars.law.unlv.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1056&context=glj |url-status=live }}</ref> Real estate developer [[Del Webb]] and his top executive, L. C. Jacobson, helped arrange financing for construction,<ref name=Moehring/><ref name=Xanadu>{{cite book |last=Schwartz |first=David G. |title=Suburban Xanadu: The Casino Resort on the Las Vegas Strip and Beyond |date=2003 |publisher=Psychology Press |isbn=978-0-415-93556-2 |pages=105–106 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=oRmeSdUxy5EC&pg=PA105 |access-date=June 25, 2020}}</ref> which was handled by [[Del E. Webb Construction Company]].<ref name=Jewel/> Jacobson was also a partner in the project, holding a 20-percent interest.<ref name=Moehring/> The Sahara was originally set to open in summer 1952, but construction delays pushed back the opening date.<ref name=Zook/>

===Early years===
The $5 million Hotel Sahara opened on October 7, 1952, with an African Sahara theme.<ref name=Jewel>{{cite news |title=Beautiful Sahara is Jewel out of fairyland: Covers 20 Acres On Vegas Strip |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/1952/oct/07/beautiful-sahara-jewel-out-fairyland/?framing=history |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=October 7, 1952 |access-date=July 19, 2019}}</ref><ref name=Ornate>{{cite news |last=Greenspun |first=Hank |title=Ornate and entertaining: Spectacular Sahara opens |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/1952/oct/08/where-i-stand-oct-8/?framing=history |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=October 8, 1952 |access-date=July 19, 2019 |archive-date=February 13, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230213092513/https://lasvegassun.com/news/1952/oct/08/where-i-stand-oct-8/?framing=history |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="LVS 2008-05-15">{{Cite news|url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2008/may/15/evolution-worlds-entertainment-capital/|title=Showtime: How Sin City evolved into 'The Entertainment Capital of the World'|last1=Koch|first1=Ed|last2=Manning|first2=Mary|date=May 15, 2008|newspaper=[[Las Vegas Sun]]|access-date=March 3, 2019|last3=Toplikar|first3=Dave|archive-date=July 18, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190718225649/https://lasvegassun.com/news/2008/may/15/evolution-worlds-entertainment-capital/|url-status=live}}</ref> Attendees to the grand opening included [[Ray Bolger]] and [[Gus Greenbaum]].<ref name=Ornate/> It was the sixth resort to open on the Las Vegas Strip.<ref name=Ornate/><ref>{{cite web |last=Burbank |first=Jeff |title=Sahara |publisher=Online Nevada Encyclopedia |url=http://www.onlinenevada.org/articles/sahara |date=May 20, 2011 |access-date=February 15, 2015 |archive-date=March 11, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150311121441/http://www.onlinenevada.org/articles/sahara |url-status=live }}</ref> [[Max Maltzman]] was the architect, and Ragnar Qvale was the interior designer.<ref name=Jewel/><ref name=Ornate/> The Sahara utilized a modern and simple design.<ref name=Jewel/> The North African desert theme was conveyed only minimally in the Sahara's architecture. Outside, the only depiction of the theme consisted of fake camels and Arabian people. The interior included statues of Arab guards.<ref name=Moehring/><ref>{{cite news |title=Question of the Day |url=https://www.lasvegasadvisor.com/question/2014-03-30/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Advisor |date=March 30, 2014}}</ref>

The Sahara was located on {{convert|20|acre|abbr=on}},<ref name=Jewel/> employed 500 people,<ref name=Ornate/> and contained 240 hotel rooms.<ref name=Jewel/> The hotel consisted of two-story motel wings that formed a [[Quadrangle (architecture)|quadrangle]] around the pool. Each room included a patio or balcony.<ref name=Moehring/> Other amenities included a casino, an 85-foot bar, and two restaurants: The Congo Room, which was the primary dining choice; and The Caravan, a coffee shop featuring hand-painted [[mural]]s.<ref name=Jewel/> These areas of the resort, as well as the Casbar Theatre, featured African images.<ref name=Moehring/> Like at Club Bingo, Schivo managed the casino at the Sahara.<ref name=Schivo/> Schivo's wife, Shirlee, would later help to decorate the hotel's interior during a refurbishment.<ref name=Crowley/> Irwin also retained his position as entertainment director, responsible for arranging celebrity performances at the Sahara.<ref name=Chawkins/>

The Sahara included the first [[Olympic-size swimming pool]] in Las Vegas, and would become the first hotel to host [[Hydroplane racing|hydroplane race]]s on [[Lake Mead]].<ref name=Hacienda>{{cite news |last=Zamost |first=Scott A. |title=Hacienda Owner Buys Sahara For $50 Million |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/1982/may/05/hacienda-owner-buys-sahara-50-million/?framing=history |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=May 5, 1982 |access-date=July 19, 2019}}</ref> The Sahara Cup hydroplane races were first held in 1956,<ref>{{cite news |title=Hawaii Kai III Takes Sahara Hydro Contest |url=https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/147778640/ |work=Reno Evening Gazette |date=October 15, 1956 |access-date=January 3, 2020 |via=Newspapers.com |url-access=subscription}}</ref> and continued for several years.<ref>{{cite news |title=Sahara Cup OK'd By Boat Group |url=https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/78962579/ |work=Nevada State Journal |date=April 22, 1957 |access-date=January 3, 2020 |via=Newspapers.com |url-access=subscription |archive-date=January 3, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200103203316/https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/78962579/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Practice Runs On Lake Mead |url=https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/148093072/ |work=Reno Evening Gazette |date=October 8, 1957 |access-date=January 3, 2020 |via=Newspapers.com |url-access=subscription}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Expensive Boat To Sahara Race |url=https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/148092874/ |work=Reno Evening Gazette |date=October 4, 1957 |access-date=January 3, 2020 |via=Newspapers.com |url-access=subscription |archive-date=January 3, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200103203302/https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/148092874/ |url-status=live }}</ref> In 1958, the hotel began sponsoring the [[Sahara Invitational|Sahara Pro-Am]] golf tournament, played at an off-site golf course. It later became known as the Sahara Invitational.<ref name=Romero/><ref>{{cite web |title=Sahara Knows Ups, Downs Of Big Golf Tournaments |url=https://delwebbsuncitiesmuseum.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/1971-1974.pdf |work=The Webb Spinner |date=November 1972 |access-date=June 25, 2020 |pages=1, 4 |archive-date=September 25, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180925104319/https://delwebbsuncitiesmuseum.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/1971-1974.pdf |url-status=live }}</ref> The hotel ended its sponsorship of the hydroplane races in 1959, stating that they had become too big of an event for a single organization to sponsor.<ref>{{cite news |title=Sahara Steps Out as Sponsor Of Boat Race |url=https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/147911314/ |agency=Associated Press |date=June 5, 1959 |access-date=January 3, 2020 |via=Newspapers.com |url-access=subscription |archive-date=January 3, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200103203301/https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/147911314/ |url-status=live }}</ref>

====Expansions====
Upon realizing that the resort needed more rooms, Prell hired Del Webb in 1954 to build additional units.<ref name=Virtually>{{cite news |title=Hotel Sahara Expansion Virtually Done at Vegas |url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/30715381/the_los_angeles_times/ |work=Los Angeles Times |date=June 9, 1963 |access-date=January 7, 2020 |via=Newspapers.com}}</ref><ref name=Completed/><ref name=Oasis/> The project took five months to construct, and was completed by 1955. Originally known as the Sahara Oasis Motel, the addition contained 192 rooms. It consisted of seven interconnected buildings, one of which connected to the main resort through an air-conditioned walkway.<ref name=Oasis>{{cite web |title=Sahara Oasis Is Erected By Webb Co. |url=https://delwebbsuncitiesmuseum.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/1955-1956.pdf |work=The Webb Spinner |date=February 1955 |access-date=June 26, 2020 |pages=1, 7}}</ref> The addition was designed by [[Martin Stern Jr.]] as a two-story motel wing, built out in an "E"-like shape just south of the quadrangle structures. The addition marked Stern's first project in Las Vegas.<ref name=Moehring/>

[[File:Tunis Tower at Sahara Hotel.jpg|thumb|upright|Tunis Tower in 2011]]
In 1959, a $3.5 million construction and remodeling project began at Hotel Sahara, including the start of construction on a 14-story hotel tower. The tower was designed by Stern, and construction was handled by Del E. Webb Construction Company.<ref>{{cite web |title=New Sahara Hotel Construction Includes Nevada's Tallest Building |url=https://delwebbsuncitiesmuseum.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/1959-1960.pdf |work=The Webb Spinner |date=July 1959 |access-date=January 7, 2020 |pages=1, 7 |archive-date=March 9, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200309100154/https://delwebbsuncitiesmuseum.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/1959-1960.pdf |url-status=dead }}</ref> It was built southeast of the hotel pool.<ref name=Moehring/> Construction on the tower had reached the eighth floor in November 1959,<ref>{{cite web |title=Moving Upward, Sahara's 14-Story Hi-Rise Addition Passes Half-Way Mark |url=https://delwebbsuncitiesmuseum.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/1959-1960.pdf |work=The Webb Spinner |date=December 1959 |access-date=January 7, 2020 |page=3 |archive-date=March 9, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200309100154/https://delwebbsuncitiesmuseum.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/1959-1960.pdf |url-status=dead }}</ref> and the project was [[Topping out|topped out]] in early 1960. Aside from the tower, other new features included a coffee shop with seating for 300 people, and a 700-person convention hall,<ref>{{cite web |title=Sahara Addition 'Topped Out' At 14-Story Height |url=https://delwebbsuncitiesmuseum.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/1959-1960.pdf |work=The Webb Spinner |date=February 1960 |access-date=January 7, 2020 |pages=1, 3 |archive-date=March 9, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200309100154/https://delwebbsuncitiesmuseum.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/1959-1960.pdf |url-status=dead }}</ref> located on the resort's north side.<ref name=Zook/> The 14-story Sahara Tower (later the Tunis Tower) opened in June 1960, adding 204 additional rooms for a total of 604. It was the [[List of tallest buildings in Nevada|tallest building in Nevada]] at the time.<ref name=Honolulu>{{cite news |title=Sahara Tower Alters Skyline |url=https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/270497199/ |work=Honolulu Star-Bulletin |date=March 17, 1963 |access-date=January 7, 2020 |via=Newspapers.com |url-access=subscription}}</ref><ref name=Completed>{{cite web |title=Sahara Tower Hotel Completed By Webb Company |url=https://delwebbsuncitiesmuseum.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/1959-1960.pdf |work=The Webb Spinner |date=July 1960 |access-date=January 7, 2020 |pages=1–2 |archive-date=March 9, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200309100154/https://delwebbsuncitiesmuseum.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/1959-1960.pdf |url-status=dead }}</ref><ref name="autogenerated1"/> A flashing electric clock was located atop the tower.<ref>{{cite news |title=Miss 'High Time' |url=https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/6254046/ |work=[[Pampa Daily News]] |date=August 23, 1960 |access-date=January 7, 2020 |via=Newspapers.com |url-access=subscription |archive-date=March 5, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210305170423/https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/6254046/ |url-status=live }}</ref> The clock included the time as well as the temperature, and was topped by a letter "S" sign.<ref name=Moehring/><ref name=Rig>{{cite news |title=Rig Reach |url=https://newspaperarchive.com/las-vegas-sun-apr-25-1963-p-9/ |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=April 25, 1963 |access-date=January 9, 2020 |via=NewspaperArchive.com |url-access=subscription |archive-date=February 13, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230213092736/https://newspaperarchive.com/las-vegas-sun-apr-25-1963-p-9/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Also added was a 127-foot vertical roadside sign, designed by [[YESCO]] and installed in front of the resort.<ref name=Zook/><ref name=Moehring/>

By July 1961, there were plans for a $2.5 million renovation of the Hotel Sahara. Also planned was a 24-story hotel tower, designed by Stern, that would cost $4.5 million. The project would also include a parking garage along the Las Vegas Strip.<ref>{{cite web |title=Ambitious Expansion Program Due For New Las Vegas Properties |url=https://delwebbsuncitiesmuseum.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/1961-1962.pdf |work=The Webb Spinner |date=July 1961 |access-date=January 8, 2020 |page=6 |archive-date=February 27, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210227010726/https://delwebbsuncitiesmuseum.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/1961-1962.pdf |url-status=dead }}</ref> [[Del E. Webb Construction Company|Del E. Webb Corporation]] completed a purchase of the Sahara later in 1961, by acquiring shares in its corporate owner, the Sahara-Nevada Corporation.<ref name=Honolulu/><ref>{{cite news |title=Baseball Club Owner Purchases Hotel, Casino |url=https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/148263900/ |agency=Associated Press |date=September 1, 1961 |access-date=June 25, 2020 |via=Newspapers.com |url-access=subscription}}</ref> At the time, state law for [[gaming license]]s meant that every shareholder in a company would have to undergo the mandated investigations of the [[Nevada Gaming Control Board]]. Because large corporations have many shareholders, this essentially prevented such companies from operating casinos in Nevada. Del Webb devised a plan to work around this issue by operating as a landlord, meaning its shareholders would not need to undergo investigations.<ref name=Moehring/><ref name=Kanigher/> A separate organization, Consolidated Casino Corporation, was set up by Del Webb to operate the casino. Jacobson, Prell and Winter owned Consolidated Casino Corporation, and Prell and Winter were also retained to serve, respectively, as chairman of the board and president of Sahara-Nevada Corporation.<ref name=Xanadu/> An expansion of the restaurant and lounge facilities was underway in late 1961,<ref>{{cite web |title=Expansion And Acquiring New Facilities |url=https://delwebbsuncitiesmuseum.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/1961-1962.pdf |work=The Webb Spinner |date=January 1962 |access-date=January 8, 2020 |pages=8–9 |archive-date=February 27, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210227010726/https://delwebbsuncitiesmuseum.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/1961-1962.pdf |url-status=dead }}</ref> and an enlargement of the Casbar Theater was completed in early 1962.<ref name=Skyscraper/>

[[File:Alexandria Tower at Sahara hotel.jpg|thumb|upright|left|Alexandria Tower in 2011]]
A [[groundbreaking]] ceremony was held on February 9, 1962, for the $6 million, 24-story Sahara Skyscraper hotel tower, located next to the Sahara Tower.<ref name=Honolulu/><ref name=GroupBreaks>{{cite news |title=Sahara Group Breaks Ground For Tallest Hotel in Western States |url=https://newspaperarchive.com/las-vegas-sun-feb-11-1962-p-9/ |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=February 11, 1962 |access-date=January 9, 2020 |via=NewspaperArchive.com |url-access=subscription}}</ref> The new tower, built by Del Webb, was expected to measure 260 feet in height. It would add 400 rooms, for a total of 1,000.<ref name=Skyscraper>{{cite web |title=Hotel Sahara's 24-Story Skyscraper Is Started |url=https://delwebbsuncitiesmuseum.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/1961-1962.pdf |work=The Webb Spinner |date=March 1962 |access-date=January 8, 2020 |pages=1–2 |archive-date=February 27, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210227010726/https://delwebbsuncitiesmuseum.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/1961-1962.pdf |url-status=dead }}</ref><ref name=GroupBreaks/> Three swimming pools, including the original Olympic pool, opened in April 1962, after construction and remodeling.<ref>{{cite news |title=News |url=https://newspaperarchive.com/las-vegas-sun-apr-13-1962-p-10/ |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=April 13, 1962 |access-date=January 9, 2020 |via=NewspaperArchive.com |url-access=subscription |archive-date=February 13, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230213093745/https://newspaperarchive.com/las-vegas-sun-apr-13-1962-p-10/ |url-status=live }}</ref> A keno facility opened later that year, making the Sahara the second hotel on the Strip to offer the game.<ref name=Keno>{{cite news |title=Sahara Unveils New Keno Facility Here |url=https://newspaperarchive.com/las-vegas-sun-jul-06-1975-p-20/ |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=July 6, 1975 |access-date=June 25, 2020 |via=NewspaperArchive.com |url-access=subscription |archive-date=June 29, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200629005657/https://newspaperarchive.com/las-vegas-sun-jul-06-1975-p-20/ |url-status=live }}</ref> The House of Lords steakhouse opened in August 1962.<ref>{{cite news |title=New Sahara Steakhouse |url=https://newspaperarchive.com/las-vegas-sun-aug-13-1962-p-4/ |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=August 13, 1962 |access-date=July 5, 2020 |via=NewspaperArchive.com |url-access=subscription |archive-date=July 5, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200705205621/https://newspaperarchive.com/las-vegas-sun-aug-13-1962-p-4/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=New Restaurant |url=https://newspaperarchive.com/las-vegas-sun-sep-16-1962-p-10/ |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=September 16, 1962 |access-date=July 5, 2020 |via=NewspaperArchive.com |url-access=subscription |archive-date=July 5, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200705231655/https://newspaperarchive.com/las-vegas-sun-sep-16-1962-p-10/ |url-status=live }}</ref> It became a popular hangout among celebrities who performed at the Sahara, including the [[Rat Pack]]. The restaurant was modeled after the real [[House of Lords]] in the United Kingdom.<ref name=History>{{cite news |last=McDarrah |first=Timothy |title=History channeled at House of Lords |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2003/may/01/vegasbeat----timothy-mcdarrah-history-channeled-at/ |access-date=July 2, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=May 1, 2003}}</ref><ref name=Seven>{{cite news |last=Jacobson |first=Max |title=Remembrance of a steakhouse past |url=http://vegasseven.com/2011/05/18/remembrance-steakhouse-past/ |work=Vegas Seven |date=May 18, 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151019060426/http://vegasseven.com/2011/05/18/remembrance-steakhouse-past/ |archive-date=October 19, 2015}}</ref>

By October 1962, construction on the new tower had reached its 17th floor.<ref>{{cite web |title=Sahara Hotel Acquires 'New Look' As Towering Addition Is Pushed Skyward |url=https://delwebbsuncitiesmuseum.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/1961-1962.pdf |work=The Webb Spinner |date=October 1962 |access-date=January 8, 2020 |page=5 |archive-date=February 27, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210227010726/https://delwebbsuncitiesmuseum.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/1961-1962.pdf |url-status=dead }}</ref> A [[Don the Beachcomber]] restaurant opened the following month.<ref>{{cite news |title=Don the Beachcomber |url=https://newspaperarchive.com/las-vegas-sun-dec-02-1962-p-1/ |access-date=June 25, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=December 2, 1962 |via=NewspaperArchive.com |url-access=subscription |archive-date=June 28, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200628175211/https://newspaperarchive.com/las-vegas-sun-dec-02-1962-p-1/ |url-status=live }}</ref> At the time, Prell and other Sahara executives sought to rename the adjacent San Francisco Avenue as [[Sahara Avenue]]. Beldon Katleman, owner of the former [[El Rancho Vegas]] across the street, objected to the proposal, stating that the road should be renamed after his hotel-casino property.<ref>{{cite news |last=Greenspun |first=Hank |title=Sahara next to seek its name on a road |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/1962/nov/15/where-i-stand/?framing=history |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=November 15, 1962 |access-date=July 19, 2019 |archive-date=February 13, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230213093757/https://lasvegassun.com/news/1962/nov/15/where-i-stand/?framing=history |url-status=live }}</ref> Despite the opposition, the street was renamed after the Sahara.<ref name=Splendor>{{cite news |last=Greenspun |first=Brian |title=Recalling Sahara's days of splendor |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2011/may/15/recalling-saharas-days-splendor/ |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=May 15, 2011 |access-date=August 27, 2019 |archive-date=February 13, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230213093756/https://lasvegassun.com/news/2011/may/15/recalling-saharas-days-splendor/ |url-status=live }}</ref>

In early 1963, several new facilities were opened in a new three-story building as part of a $12 million expansion. These facilities included the Caravan Room coffee shop and a 1,000-seat convention hall. Don the Beachcomber and the House of Lords were also part of the three-story addition.<ref name=Honolulu/><ref name=Kanigher/> Temporary walls had been put up to shield casino customers from construction of the new facilities.<ref>{{cite news |title=News |url=https://newspaperarchive.com/las-vegas-sun-may-25-1963-p-1/ |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=May 25, 1963 |access-date=January 9, 2020 |via=NewspaperArchive.com |url-access=subscription |archive-date=February 13, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230213093742/https://newspaperarchive.com/las-vegas-sun-may-25-1963-p-1/ |url-status=live }}</ref>

[[File:The Beatles Stayed Here August 19 1964 Alexandria Tower Room 2344.jpg|right|thumb|Plaque describing the Beatles' hotel stay in 1964.]]
The 24-story hotel addition, eventually known as the Alexandria Tower,<ref name=Kanigher/><ref name="autogenerated1" /> was opened in May 1963, with Nevada governor [[Grant Sawyer]] attending the ribbon-cutting ceremony.<ref name=Virtually/><ref>{{cite news |title=Sahara Skyscraper |url=https://newspaperarchive.com/las-vegas-sun-may-27-1963-p-19/ |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=May 27, 1963 |access-date=June 25, 2020 |via=NewspaperArchive.com |url-access=subscription}}</ref> The clock and "S" sign were relocated from the original tower to the new tower.<ref name=Moehring/><ref name=Rig/> During 1963, to attract visitors, the casino introduced its Shower of Money, in which a selected participant would get into a plexiglass booth and be showered with $100,000 in money bills. The participant had one minute to push as much money as possible out through an opening in the booth, and that person would get to keep the ejected money.<ref name=Romero>{{cite book |last=Romero |first=John |title=Las Vegas, the Untold Stories: ...That Made Sin City the Entertainment Capital of the World |date=2012 |publisher=Abbott Press |isbn=978-1-4582-0385-4 |pages=49–50, 67–68, 86–93, 156, 196 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=02H9r65umSkC&pg=PA86 |access-date=June 25, 2020}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Sahara Celebration Offers 6,590 Prizes |url=https://newspaperarchive.com/las-vegas-sun-dec-14-1968-p-43/ |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=December 14, 1968 |access-date=June 25, 2020 |via=NewspaperArchive.com |url-access=subscription |archive-date=June 25, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200625182428/https://newspaperarchive.com/las-vegas-sun-dec-14-1968-p-43/ |url-status=live }}</ref>

In August 1964, the Sahara paid $25,000 to have [[the Beatles]] perform in Las Vegas and stay at the resort, although their performance took place at the nearby [[Las Vegas Convention Center]], as the Sahara's 600-seat showroom could not handle the crowd size of a Beatles concert.<ref name=Kanigher/><ref name=CNN/><ref>{{cite news |title=Situation Rooms |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/life/situation-rooms/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=October 7, 2007 |archive-date=September 23, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200923173719/https://www.reviewjournal.com/life/situation-rooms/ |url-status=live }}</ref> The Sahara would later display photos of the Beatles' visit to the resort.<ref name=Hint/> U.S. president [[Lyndon B. Johnson]] stayed at the hotel in October 1964.<ref name=Romero/><ref>{{cite news |title=Sleepy Employees, a Few Politicos Bid Farewell to LBJ |url=https://newspaperarchive.com/las-vegas-sun-oct-13-1964-p-18/ |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=October 13, 1964 |access-date=June 25, 2020 |via=NewspaperArchive.com |url-access=subscription |archive-date=June 25, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200625182430/https://newspaperarchive.com/las-vegas-sun-oct-13-1964-p-18/ |url-status=live }}</ref>

In 1967, there were plans to add a $3 million, two-story convention facility to the Sahara.<ref>{{cite web |title=More Convention Space For (Sahara) Leader |url=https://delwebbsuncitiesmuseum.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/1965-1968.pdf |work=The Webb Spinner |date=September 1967 |access-date=January 9, 2020 |page=2 |archive-date=February 19, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180219090346/http://delwebbsuncitiesmuseum.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/1965-1968.pdf |url-status=dead }}</ref> In July 1968, the hotel was nearing completion on the facility, known as the Sahara Space Center.<ref>{{cite news |title=Sahara 'Space Center' Nears Completion |url=https://newspaperarchive.com/las-vegas-sun-jul-07-1968-p-26/ |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=July 7, 1968 |access-date=January 9, 2020 |via=NewspaperArchive.com |url-access=subscription |archive-date=February 13, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230213093741/https://newspaperarchive.com/las-vegas-sun-jul-07-1968-p-26/ |url-status=live }}</ref> The facility opened in September 1968,<ref>{{cite news |title=News |url=https://newspaperarchive.com/las-vegas-sun-jul-17-1977-p-7/ |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=July 17, 1977 |access-date=January 9, 2020 |via=NewspaperArchive.com |url-access=subscription |archive-date=February 13, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230213093741/https://newspaperarchive.com/las-vegas-sun-jul-17-1977-p-7/ |url-status=live }}</ref> and hosted U.S. vice presidential candidate [[Spiro Agnew]] for a speech.<ref>{{cite news |title=Vegas Gets It On For Spiro Agnew |url=https://newspaperarchive.com/las-vegas-sun-sep-20-1968-p-21/ |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=September 20, 1968 |access-date=January 9, 2020 |via=NewspaperArchive.com |url-access=subscription |archive-date=February 13, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230213093741/https://newspaperarchive.com/las-vegas-sun-sep-20-1968-p-21/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=News |url=https://newspaperarchive.com/las-vegas-sun-sep-23-1968-p-13/ |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=September 23, 1968 |access-date=January 9, 2020 |via=NewspaperArchive.com |url-access=subscription |archive-date=February 13, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230213093741/https://newspaperarchive.com/las-vegas-sun-sep-23-1968-p-13/ |url-status=live }}</ref> The Sahara Space Center measured {{convert|40000|sqft|abbr=on}},<ref>{{cite news |title=Sahara |url=https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/477913830/ |work=Oakland Tribune |date=January 12, 1969 |access-date=July 5, 2020 |via=Newspapers.com |url-access=subscription |archive-date=July 6, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200706130118/https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/477913830/ |url-status=live }}</ref> and included seating for up to 5,000 people.<ref>{{cite web |title=Sahara–'The Most' |url=https://delwebbsuncitiesmuseum.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/1965-1968.pdf |work=The Webb Spinner |date=October 1968 |access-date=January 9, 2020 |page=5 |archive-date=February 19, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180219090346/http://delwebbsuncitiesmuseum.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/1965-1968.pdf |url-status=dead }}</ref>

====Incidents====
A rooftop fire occurred at the Sahara in August 1964, causing nearly $1 million in damage. A work crew had been on the roof installing a sprinkler system, and the fire was believed to have been caused by a [[smoldering]] rag. Firefighters put it out with thousands of gallons of water, which soaked through the main casino area's ceiling and also flooded the main showroom.<ref name=Hottest/> Las Vegas sheriff [[Ralph Lamb]] believed the fire to be more financially destructive than the one which destroyed the El Rancho Vegas, stating that it was "probably the biggest hotel fire we've ever had in Las Vegas." Some gamblers had been hesitant to quit playing and evacuate the casino.<ref>{{cite news |last=Edsall |first=Judy |title=Fire? So What, They Said |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/1964/aug/26/fire-so-what-they-said/?framing=history |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=August 26, 1964 |access-date=July 19, 2019 |archive-date=February 13, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230213093753/https://lasvegassun.com/news/1964/aug/26/fire-so-what-they-said/?framing=history |url-status=live }}</ref>

Approximately 100 workmen began repairs immediately following the fire, and most of the affected facilities reopened the day after. For its reopening, the Sahara sign advertised, "Visit The Hottest Casino In Town." Casino operations were moved to a recently completed casino addition, adjacent to the main casino, that was unharmed by the fire. Full repair work was expected to take 30 days.<ref name=Hottest>{{cite news |title='Hottest Casino' Open For Business on Strip |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/1964/aug/27/hottest-casino-open-business-strip/?framing=history |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=August 27, 1964 |access-date=July 19, 2019 |archive-date=February 13, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230213093754/https://lasvegassun.com/news/1964/aug/27/hottest-casino-open-business-strip/?framing=history |url-status=live }}</ref>

In May 1967, three men were arrested after planting a homemade bomb in a Sahara hotel room on the 12th floor, part of a failed extortion attempt. A note was left demanding $75,000 for information to disarm the bomb. The note also warned that bombs had been placed in two other hotels owned by Del Webb. Seven hotels in three states were evacuated, but no other bombs were found.<ref>{{cite news |title=Bombing Suspects Return to Vegas |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/1967/jun/03/bombing-suspects-return-vegas/?framing=history |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=June 3, 1967 |access-date=July 19, 2019 |archive-date=February 13, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230213093752/https://lasvegassun.com/news/1967/jun/03/bombing-suspects-return-vegas/?framing=history |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Two Waiters Held in Strip Bombing Scare |url=https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/151369763/ |work=Reno Evening Gazette |date=May 27, 1967 |access-date=July 19, 2019 |via=Newspapers.com |url-access=subscription |archive-date=July 18, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190718225644/https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/151369763/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Two Men Arrested In Bomb Threat At Plush Hotels |url=https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/156406435/ |work=Albuquerque Journal |date=May 27, 1967 |access-date=July 19, 2019 |via=Newspapers.com |url-access=subscription |archive-date=July 18, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190718225643/https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/156406435/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Extortion Arrests |url=https://newspaperarchive.com/kingsport-news-may-27-1967-p-1/ |work=Kingsport News |date=May 27, 1967 |access-date=July 19, 2019 |via=NewspaperArchive.com |url-access=subscription}}</ref>

In July 1968, a fire started on the roof of the casino building, prompting the evacuation of hundreds of people. A crew had been working on a rooftop air conditioning unit, and the fire was believed to have started from a spark created by welding equipment. The fire caused an estimated $1 million in damage to the main casino area, the hotel's executive offices, the coffee shop, a lounge, and the showroom. The fire was stopped before it could damage a new casino addition, which had been in operation for several months and was located north of the main casino. The hotel portion was also unaffected by the fire, and its guests were not evacuated. Most of the affected facilities were expected to be quickly repaired and reopened the next day after the fire.<ref>{{cite news |title=Million Dollar Fire Belts Hotel Sahara |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/1968/jul/21/million-dollar-fire-belts-hotel-sahara/?framing=history |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=July 21, 1968 |access-date=July 19, 2019}}</ref>

In July 1981, a fire started in a third-floor hotel room and smoke poured through the upper floors, prompting the evacuation of more than 200 guests. The cause of the fire was considered suspicious.<ref>{{cite news |last=Hyman |first=Harold |title=Sahara Hotel Fire Injures 2; Labeled Definitely Suspicious |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/1981/aug/01/sahara-hotel-fire-injures-2-labeled-definitely-sus/?framing=history |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=August 1, 1981 |access-date=July 19, 2019 |archive-date=February 13, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230213093751/https://lasvegassun.com/news/1981/aug/01/sahara-hotel-fire-injures-2-labeled-definitely-sus/?framing=history |url-status=live }}</ref>

===Decline and later years===
Revenue declined at the Sahara following the opening of several large resorts nearby, including [[Caesars Palace]] in 1966, the [[Westgate Las Vegas|International Hotel]] in 1969, and the [[Bally's Las Vegas|MGM Grand]] in 1973.<ref name=Moehring/> Many of the Sahara's [[high roller]]s started going to Caesars Palace instead.<ref name=Kanigher/> Eugene Moehring, a history professor at [[University of Nevada, Las Vegas]] (UNLV), said the Sahara "helped establish Las Vegas as a major resort city after World War II. But its contributions to Las Vegas shifted as the years went by. By the early 1970s it was getting to be old. One problem is that it just didn't have the money to keep up with the times."<ref name=Kanigher/> Webb died in 1974, leaving the resort under new management through his eponymous company.<ref name=Moehring/>

In 1975, a new, larger keno facility was opened to replace the original.<ref name=Keno/> The following year, Del Webb canceled its sponsorship of the Sahara Invitational golf tournament, due to rising costs over the past six years.<ref>{{cite news |title=Webb Corp. Cancels Sahara Invitational |url=https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/78844308/ |agency=United Press International |date=November 5, 1976 |access-date=June 25, 2020 |via=Newspapers.com |url-access=subscription |archive-date=June 25, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200625182426/https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/78844308/ |url-status=live }}</ref> In the late 1970s, the Sahara was among several casinos involved in a scam pulled off by gamblers. As a result, the Sahara faced a $37,500 fine by the Nevada Gaming Control Board, which alleged that the resort had violated casino procedures.<ref>{{cite news |last=Zamost |first=Scott A. |title=Gamblers pull off the 'perfect' casino scam |url=http://www.lasvegassun.com/news/1982/jul/02/gamblers-pull-perfect-casino-scam/ |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=July 2, 1982 |access-date=August 28, 2019 |archive-date=August 27, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190827201329/https://lasvegassun.com/news/1982/jul/02/gamblers-pull-perfect-casino-scam/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name=Benston/>

A renovation was concluded by 1977.<ref>{{cite news |title=Webb Has Record Earnings |url=https://newspaperarchive.com/las-vegas-sun-aug-04-1977-p-40/ |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=August 4, 1977 |access-date=June 25, 2020 |via=NewspaperArchive.com |url-access=subscription |archive-date=June 25, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200625182431/https://newspaperarchive.com/las-vegas-sun-aug-04-1977-p-40/ |url-status=live }}</ref> At the end of 1978, Del Webb launched a $50 million expansion project, with Stern as the architect. The project would include the addition of a 27-story hotel tower with 625 rooms. At the time, the Sahara had 953 rooms. The expansion would also increase the casino by nearly double, adding {{convert|18000|sqft|abbr=on}}. The expansion was scheduled for completion in 1981.<ref name=Expanding>{{cite web |title=Sahara Expanding |url=https://delwebbsuncitiesmuseum.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/1975-1978.pdf |work=The Webb Spinner |date=November 1978 |access-date=June 26, 2020 |pages=1, 4 |archive-date=September 16, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180916022646/https://delwebbsuncitiesmuseum.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/1975-1978.pdf |url-status=dead }}</ref> Increased parking space was also part of the project.<ref name=Expanding/> In 1978, Del Webb purchased 25 acres at the southeast corner of [[Paradise Road (Las Vegas)|Paradise Road]] and Sahara Avenue, directly east of the resort, and turned it into a rear parking lot for customers. A pedestrian bridge was also built over Paradise Road, allowing for direct access to the Sahara.<ref name=Moehring/> The parking lot was once the site of Las Vegas' first airport, [[Anderson Field (Nevada)|Anderson Field]], during the 1920s.<ref>{{cite book |title=Las Vegas: The Fabulous First Century |last= Ainlay|first= Thomas |author2=Judy Dixon Gabaldon |year=2003 |publisher=[[Arcadia Publishing]] |isbn=978-0-7385-2416-0 |page=34 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=zeIbm3iEXhQC&pg=PA34 }}</ref>

In 1980, Del Webb had a new sign installed in front of the resort. The sign was created by YESCO and measured approximately 223 feet in height, making it the world's tallest free-standing sign.<ref name=Moehring/><ref>{{cite web |title=YESCO Centennial Highlights |url=https://www.yesco.com/2020/02/14/yesco-centennial-highlights/ |website=YESCO |access-date=June 29, 2020 |date=February 14, 2020 |archive-date=June 30, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200630060003/https://www.yesco.com/2020/02/14/yesco-centennial-highlights/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Photograph of construction of the neon sign in front of the Sahara Hotel and Casino (Las Vegas), 1980 |url=http://d.library.unlv.edu/digital/collection/sky/id/2072/rec/13 |website=University of Nevada, Las Vegas |access-date=June 29, 2020 |archive-date=July 3, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200703063946/http://d.library.unlv.edu/digital/collection/sky/id/2072/rec/13 |url-status=live }}</ref> A new entrance was also added to the resort's south side near Paradise Road, which had become the main exit road from [[McCarran International Airport]]. A foundation had been set for the new tower, but construction was halted in 1980, because of financial problems,<ref name=Moehring/> as Del Webb and the Sahara struggled during the [[early 1980s recession]].<ref name=UPI-1982>{{cite news |title=Del Webb Corp. sells Sahara |url=https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/283162413/ |agency=United Press International |date=May 5, 1982 |access-date=June 26, 2020 |via=Newspapers.com |url-access=subscription}}</ref>

====Lowden ownership====
In 1981, Del Webb announced that it would have to sell the Sahara to reduce its debt. Paul W. Lowden, who owned the [[Hacienda (resort)|Hacienda]] hotel-casino, purchased the 932-room Sahara for $50 million.<ref name=Hacienda/><ref>{{cite news |last=Stowell |first=Linda |title=Webb Corp. to sell Las Vegas hotel-casino for $50 million to slash debt |url=https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/121622512/ |work=The Arizona Republic |date=May 5, 1982 |access-date=June 26, 2020 |via=Newspapers.com |url-access=subscription |archive-date=June 28, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200628072509/https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/121622512/ |url-status=live }}</ref> With the purchase, Lowden owned the southernmost and the northernmost casino resorts on the Las Vegas Strip.<ref name=Hacienda/> At the time, the Sahara had a {{convert|26000|sqft|abbr=on}} casino,<ref name=UPI-1982/> as well as 2,500 employees, five of whom had been working there since its opening in 1952.<ref name=Hacienda/> As part of the sale, Del Webb retained the "House of Lords" restaurant name.<ref name=Sweep2>{{cite news |last=Grant |first=Lee |title=Lowden: Sahara Owner Promises a Clean Sweep (page 2 of 2) |url=https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/389145884/ |work=Los Angeles Times |date=September 2, 1982 |access-date=June 26, 2020 |via=Newspapers.com |url-access=subscription |archive-date=June 26, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200626173844/https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/389145884/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Lowden finalized his purchase of the resort in August 1982,<ref>{{cite news |title=Sahara takeover approved |url=https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/149839759/ |work=Reno Evening Gazette |date=August 12, 1982 |access-date=June 26, 2020 |via=Newspapers.com |archive-date=June 29, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200629023300/https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/149839759/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Business in Brief |url=https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/401038190/ |work=Los Angeles Times |date=August 23, 1983 |access-date=June 26, 2020 |via=Newspapers.com |url-access=subscription |archive-date=June 29, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200629153403/https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/401038190/ |url-status=live }}</ref> and he acquired the rear parking lot from Del Webb the following year.<ref>{{cite news |title=Sahara Casino Parking Lot Purchased for $9 Million |url=https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/633598404/ |access-date=August 31, 2021 |work=Los Angeles Times |date=July 6, 1983 |via=Newspapers.com |url-access=subscription |archive-date=August 31, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210831165034/https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/633598404/ |url-status=live }}</ref>

Shortly before Lowden took over, a Sahara blackjack dealer and seven card players were indicted for taking part in a cheating scheme at the casino.<ref>{{cite news |last=Becker |first=Bill |title=Eight indicted in cheating scheme |url=http://www.lasvegassun.com/news/1982/jul/30/eight-indicted-cheating-scheme/ |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=July 30, 1982 |access-date=August 28, 2019 |archive-date=August 27, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190827211328/https://lasvegassun.com/news/1982/jul/30/eight-indicted-cheating-scheme/ |url-status=live }}</ref> In addition, 50 table game dealers and six supervisors were laid off because of a reduction in business.<ref>{{cite news |title=Casino furloughs |url=https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/120026116/ |work=The Arizona Republic |date=July 15, 1982 |access-date=June 26, 2020 |via=Newspapers.com |url-access=subscription |archive-date=June 29, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200629070812/https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/120026116/ |url-status=live }}</ref> The table dealers had previously voted to be represented by the [[Teamsters]] union, but Del Webb declined to discuss a contract. As Lowden assumed ownership, the dealers considered striking against him to protest the firing of longtime employees. They also wanted contract discussions to take place between Teamsters and Lowden.<ref>{{cite news |title=Sahara dealers to vote on strike |url=https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/285356798/ |agency=United Press International |date=August 29, 1982 |access-date=June 26, 2020 |via=Newspapers.com |url-access=subscription |archive-date=June 29, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200629025445/https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/285356798/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Sahara owner won't take stand on unions |url=https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/150003070/ |work=Reno Evening Gazette |date=September 2, 1982 |access-date=June 26, 2020 |via=Newspapers.com |url-access=subscription |archive-date=June 29, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200629114316/https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/150003070/ |url-status=live }}</ref> The dealers failed to get two-thirds support to go on strike.<ref>{{cite news |title=Sahara dealers short of strike-sanction votes |url=https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/150006075/ |work=Reno Evening Gazette |date=September 3, 1982 |access-date=June 26, 2020 |via=Newspapers.com |url-access=subscription |archive-date=June 26, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200626173846/https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/150006075/ |url-status=live }}</ref>

Shortly after taking over, Lowden, a [[born-again]] Christian, arranged for the hotel to host a convention of born-again Christians that would include speakers, singers, and teachers.<ref>{{cite news |last=Grant |first=Lee |title=Lowden: Sahara Owner Promises a Clean Sweep (page 1 of 2) |url=https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/389145833/ |work=Los Angeles Times |date=September 2, 1982 |access-date=June 26, 2020 |via=Newspapers.com |url-access=subscription |archive-date=June 29, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200629025443/https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/389145833/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Lowden also planned various improvements for the Sahara, including the hosting of boxing matches. A long-running production show, ''Bottoms Up'', would be removed. Lowden considered the Sahara overstaffed and intended to make the resort more cost-efficient. He also disliked the way some of the employees behaved: "I don't like to see the dealers leaning on the tables when no one is playing. There doesn't have to be regimentation, but they will stand up straight. The pit bosses won't be drinking coffee on the job. It's a firm but fair approach."<ref name=Sweep2/>

Lowden believed that the resort could no longer attract high rollers, and he instead focused on middle rollers. He also expanded the Sahara Space Center to attract mid-sized conventions and more business meetings. Lowden had the casino expanded to {{convert|34000|sqft|abbr=on}} and had columns removed for a spacious appearance. He also moved the hotel lobby to the south entrance, allowing hotel guests to skip walking through the casino. This design had previously been implemented at competitors such as Caesars Palace.<ref name=Moehring/> Because of interest costs, the Sahara failed to make a profit during the first four years of Lowden's ownership,<ref name=Beats/> but room occupancy was up in 1986 as a result of the renovations.<ref name=Moehring/>

In January 1987, Lowden announced the formation of Sahara Casino Partners, a [[master limited partnership]]. A portion of the interest in Sahara Casino Partners would be sold through an [[initial public offering]] to pay off debt and resume construction of the third hotel tower.<ref name=Moehring/><ref>{{cite news |title=New partnership planned |url=https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/149745062/ |work=Reno Gazette-Journal |date=January 29, 1987 |access-date=June 29, 2020 |via=Newspapers.com |url-access=subscription |archive-date=July 2, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200702091954/https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/149745062/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Casinos |url=https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/120994634/ |work=The Arizona Republic |date=June 14, 1987 |access-date=June 29, 2020 |via=Newspapers.com |url-access=subscription |archive-date=June 29, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200629235846/https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/120994634/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Later that year, Sahara Casino Partners became the first casino-based limited partnership to be traded on the [[New York Stock Exchange]].<ref>{{cite news |title=Sahara listed on N.Y. Stock Exchange |url=https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/404931707/ |work=Los Angeles Times |date=August 30, 1987 |access-date=June 29, 2020 |via=Newspapers.com |url-access=subscription |archive-date=June 29, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200629204150/https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/404931707/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Lowden top exec. |url=https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/404127300/ |work=Los Angeles Times |date=February 7, 1988 |access-date=June 29, 2020 |via=Newspapers.com |url-access=subscription |archive-date=July 2, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200702091933/https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/404127300/ |url-status=live }}</ref> The partnership raised $51 million,<ref>{{cite news |title=Persistence pays for Paul W. Lowden of Sahara Resorts Inc. |url=https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/404958149/ |work=Los Angeles Times |date=September 10, 1987 |access-date=January 7, 2020 |via=Newspapers.com |url-access=subscription |archive-date=March 5, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210305173213/https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/404958149/ |url-status=live }}</ref> and the debt was paid off later in 1987.<ref name=Beats/>

The proposed hotel addition would bring the Sahara to 1,500 rooms, helping it compete with other major resorts in Las Vegas.<ref name=Beats>{{cite news |title=Casino Owner Beats Odds (page 1 of 2) |url=https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/404127651/ |work=Los Angeles Times |date=March 13, 1988 |access-date=June 26, 2020 |via=Newspapers.com |url-access=subscription |archive-date=June 28, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200628133851/https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/404127651/ |url-status=live }}</ref> A new [[sportsbook]] was opened in early 1988,<ref>{{cite news |title=Race & Sports Center now open at Sahara Hotel |url=https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/404127737/ |work=Los Angeles Times |date=March 6, 1988 |access-date=June 29, 2020 |via=Newspapers.com |url-access=subscription |archive-date=June 29, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200629204731/https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/404127737/ |url-status=live }}</ref> and the hotel addition, ultimately known as the Tangiers Tower, was completed that September.<ref name=Moehring/><ref name=AP1989/> In 1989, Lowden announced plans for 600 additional rooms, with completion expected the following year, at an expected cost of $30 million.<ref name=AP1989>{{cite news |title=$105 million expansion planned for Sahara, Hacienda |url=https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/150823171/ |agency=Associated Press |date=May 25, 1989 |access-date=June 29, 2020 |via=Newspapers.com |url-access=subscription |archive-date=June 30, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200630085642/https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/150823171/ |url-status=live }}</ref> The new rooms were housed in an additional tower attached to the Tangiers Tower. This brought the Sahara up to 2,100 rooms.<ref name=Moehring/>

The Sahara continued to decline in popularity as newer, bigger resorts opened on the Las Vegas Strip, including [[The Mirage]] in 1989 and the new [[MGM Grand Las Vegas|MGM Grand]] in 1993.<ref name=Shemeligian/><ref name=Koch/> Lowden ultimately decided to sell the Sahara, saying later, "All you had to do was look at The Mirage and say 'How do you compete with that?' The only way is (room) price and you can only do that for so long. We would have had to do something very expensive and we chose not to."<ref name=Padgett-50th>{{cite news |last=Padgett |first=Sonya |title=50th Anniversary: Strip Survivor |url=http://www.reviewjournal.com/lvrj_home/2002/Oct-06-Sun-2002/living/19748682.html |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=October 6, 2002 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20021218023258/http://www.reviewjournal.com/lvrj_home/2002/Oct-06-Sun-2002/living/19748682.html |url-status=dead |archive-date=December 18, 2002}}</ref> The Sahara was also hurt by its location at the north end of the Las Vegas Strip, as newer resorts were opening further south.<ref name=Moehring/><ref name=Padgett-50th/><ref name=Survival>{{cite news |last=Berns |first=Dave |title=Survival of the Sahara: Owner Bennett puts millions into renovation |url=http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/1997/Sep-22-Mon-1997/business/6095930.html |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=September 22, 1997 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/19990428175703/http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/1997/Sep-22-Mon-1997/business/6095930.html |archive-date=April 28, 1999}}</ref>

====Bennett ownership====
{{multiple image
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 | image2 = Sahara casino dome entrance.jpg
 | footer = The Sahara's camel sign and domed entrance
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In June 1995, Lowden's [[Archon Corporation|Sahara Gaming Corporation]] announced that gaming executive [[William G. Bennett (gaming executive)|Bill Bennett]] had agreed to buy the Sahara.<ref name=Koch>{{cite news |last=Koch |first=Ed |title=Bill Bennett buys Sahara; Wet 'n Wild site part of $150 million agreement |url=http://www.lasvegassun.com/news/1995/jul/01/bennett-buys-sahara/ |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=July 1, 1995 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110703172919/http://www.lasvegassun.com/news/1995/jul/01/bennett-buys-sahara/ |archive-date=July 3, 2011}}</ref> Bennett completed his purchase later that year, at a cost of $193 million.<ref name=Starts/> Bennett owned the Sahara through his company, Gordon Gaming Corporation.<ref name=Higher>{{cite news |title=Higher roller coaster planned at casino |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/1999/aug/30/higher-roller-coaster-planned-at-casino/ |access-date=July 1, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=August 30, 1999 |archive-date=February 13, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230213094226/https://lasvegassun.com/news/1999/aug/30/higher-roller-coaster-planned-at-casino/ |url-status=live }}</ref> The opening of the nearby [[The Strat (Las Vegas)|Stratosphere]] resort in 1996 helped bring revenue back to the northern Las Vegas Strip and the Sahara.<ref name=Padgett-50th/>

Bennett hired [[Joel Bergman]] to redesign the Sahara.<ref name=Moehring/> A $65 million renovation began in March 1996, and was aimed at attracting midlevel gamblers.<ref name=Starts/> The original African theme had been largely discarded ever since Del Webb took over ownership, but Bennett restored it. His complete remodel featured a Moroccan theme throughout the resort. The prominent theming was in line with other new resorts on the Las Vegas Strip.<ref name=Moehring/>

Part of the renovation would include additional casino space and a new sportsbook. Two new restaurants would also be added, along with a new buffet. The renovation was funded entirely by Bennett and his company.<ref name=Starts/> The start of the renovation project was marked by the demolition of the original poolside motel structures, which had housed various celebrities such as [[Ann-Margret]], [[George Burns]], and [[Tony Bennett]].<ref name=Moehring/><ref name=Starts/> The renovation was scheduled for completion in January 1997, at which point a second phase of remodeling was scheduled to begin. The second phase was intended to add 1,300 rooms, for a total of more than 3,000.<ref name=Starts>{{cite news |title=Sahara starts up renovation plans |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/1996/mar/21/sahara-starts-up-renovation-plans/ |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=March 21, 1996 |access-date=August 28, 2019 |archive-date=August 27, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190827201321/https://lasvegassun.com/news/1996/mar/21/sahara-starts-up-renovation-plans/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Plans for an additional hotel tower were later put on hold in order to evaluate the performance of other new hotel additions in Las Vegas.<ref name=Survival/> Ultimately, construction never began on the new tower.<ref name=Moehring/>

As part of the renovation work, the resort's main entrance was relocated from the north side of the property to a new southwest entrance on the Las Vegas Strip. The casino was increased to {{convert|95000|sqft|abbr=on}}, with expansion into the southeast area of the property, bringing the gaming closer to the hotel and the newly relocated pool area. Chandeliers were placed throughout the resort. A $4.6 million [[porte-cochère]] was added, consisting of an expansive overhead Moroccan-style dome, measuring 140 feet high and 200 feet in diameter. Fountains and palm trees surrounded the hotel's circular entryway. A seven-story parking garage with 2,000 spaces was added as well,<ref name=Shemeligian>{{cite news |last=Shemeligian |first=Bob |title=New Sahara seeks past glory |url=http://www.lasvegassun.com/news/1997/oct/31/new-sahara-seeks-past-glory/ |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=October 31, 1997 |access-date=August 28, 2019 |archive-date=March 31, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220331061348/https://lasvegassun.com/news/1997/oct/31/new-sahara-seeks-past-glory/ |url-status=live }}</ref> replacing the 1954 motel addition. The demolition of the Sahara's old motel buildings reduced the room count from 2,100 to approximately 1,800.<ref name=Moehring/> A new sign, featuring two neon camels, was added along the Las Vegas Strip.<ref name=Camels/><ref name=Survey>{{cite web |title=Neon Survey: From Sunset to Sahara |url=https://gaming.unlv.edu/v_museum/neon_survey/surveys/sahara.html |website=University of Nevada, Las Vegas |access-date=July 1, 2020 |archive-date=July 3, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200703164238/https://gaming.unlv.edu/v_museum/neon_survey/surveys/sahara.html |url-status=dead }}</ref> A smaller neon camel sign was also added to the rear entrance on Paradise Road.<ref name=Survey/>

[[File:LasVegasMonorail.jpg|thumb|right|Sahara parking lot and [[Las Vegas Monorail]] in 2004]]
In January 1997, the resort opened its new Sahara Buffet, which had been relocated to the second floor for views of Sahara Avenue and the nearby Stratosphere tower. The new buffet was part of the ongoing renovation work,<ref name=Buffet/> and it occupied the site previously used for the Sahara Space Center.<ref name=Moehring/> With 1,154 seats, it was the second largest buffet in Las Vegas, only behind the buffet at the [[Excalibur Hotel and Casino]].<ref name=Buffet>{{cite news |last=Paskevich |first=Michael |title=New wave of brunches, buffets arrives |url=http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/1997/Apr-16-Wed-1997/lifestyles/5185449.html |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=April 16, 1997 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/19990224081411/http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/1997/Apr-16-Wed-1997/lifestyles/5185449.html |archive-date=February 24, 1999}}</ref> On October 10, 1997, the Sahara opened Speedworld, its $15 million race car simulator attraction.<ref>{{cite news |last=Macy |first=Robert |title=Auto Racing Package: Ride in tank simulator wins over casino chief |url=https://apnews.com/c6914e7ab83c0f8bcc482fa9e9e7eee2 |access-date=July 1, 2020 |agency=Associated Press |date=October 1, 1997 |archive-date=July 1, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200701195008/https://apnews.com/c6914e7ab83c0f8bcc482fa9e9e7eee2 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Start Your (Virtual) Engines |url=http://nl.newsbank.com/sites/lvrb/ |website=Las Vegas Review-Journal |access-date=July 1, 2020 |date=October 11, 1997 |url-access=subscription |archive-date=February 9, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190209232400/http://nl.newsbank.com/sites/lvrb/ |url-status=dead }}</ref> It measured {{convert|35000|sqft|abbr=on}} and featured 24 vehicles with a television screen built into each one.<ref name=Moehring/><ref name=Survival/> Bennett enjoyed auto racing,<ref>{{cite news |last1=Koch |first1=Ed |last2=Odierna |first2=Judy |title=Gaming pioneer Bennett dies |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2002/dec/23/gaming-pioneer-bennett-dies/ |access-date=July 2, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=December 23, 2002 |archive-date=February 13, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230213095213/https://lasvegassun.com/news/2002/dec/23/gaming-pioneer-bennett-dies/ |url-status=live }}</ref> and he had previously helped finance the [[Las Vegas Motor Speedway]].<ref name=RaceDay>{{cite news |last=Smith |first=Hubble |title=Almost Race Day; The Sahara moves forward with its NASCAR theme |url=http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/1999/Sep-06-Mon-1999/business/11887245.html |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=September 6, 1999 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20000817084632/http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/1999/Sep-06-Mon-1999/business/11887245.html |archive-date=August 17, 2000}}</ref><ref name=Macy-2000/>

The resort's renovation project ultimately cost $100 million. Part of the project included the new Sahara Steak House, which opened in December 1997, as the renovations were nearing completion.<ref>{{cite news |title=Sahara unveils new steakhouse |url=http://nl.newsbank.com/sites/lvrb/ |website=Las Vegas Review-Journal |access-date=July 1, 2020 |date=December 19, 1997 |url-access=subscription |archive-date=February 9, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190209232400/http://nl.newsbank.com/sites/lvrb/ |url-status=dead }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=White |first=Ken |title=Beyond Beef: Sahara Steak House brings diversity to its menu |url=http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/1999/Jul-02-Fri-1999/weekly/11432647.html |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=July 2, 1999 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/19990922031624/http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/1999/Jul-02-Fri-1999/weekly/11432647.html |archive-date=September 22, 1999}}</ref> Plans were approved in July 1998 for a new Sahara convention center to be built on the parking lot behind the resort. However, these plans were put on hold later that year as there was also a preliminary idea for a parking garage to be built on the land, for the upcoming [[Las Vegas Monorail]].<ref>{{cite news |last=Wilen |first=John |title=Sahara delays decision on convention center |url=https://www.lasvegassun.com/news/1998/sep/16/sahara-delays-decision-on-convention-center/ |access-date=July 1, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=September 16, 1998 |archive-date=December 24, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241224005154/https://lasvegassun.com/news/1998/sep/16/sahara-delays-decision-on-convention-center/ |url-status=live }}</ref>

{{multiple image
 | align = left
 | direction = vertical
 | image1 = NASCAR Cafe at Sahara hotel.jpg
 | caption1 = NASCAR Cafe
 | image2 = The Strip 03 (4068135196).jpg
 | caption2 =  Speed – The Ride's vertical loop
}}
In October 1998, plans were approved for a roller coaster that would be built inside the Sahara, with a height of 100 feet. The following year, the design plans changed so that the roller coaster would be located outside, with a new height of 244 feet. The coaster was part of a planned [[NASCAR]] restaurant that would be added to the resort.<ref name=Higher/> The original Congo Showroom was demolished in 1999, to make room for the NASCAR Cafe. The showroom was relocated to the second floor.<ref name=SkyDome>{{cite news |last=Paskevich |first=Michael |title=Magician Wyrick to open at Sahara's 'SkyDome' showroom |url=http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/1999/Sep-02-Thu-1999/news/11870427.html |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=September 2, 1999 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20000823225540/http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/1999/Sep-02-Thu-1999/news/11870427.html |archive-date=August 23, 2000}}</ref> The NASCAR Cafe was housed in a new {{convert|75000|sqft|abbr=on}} building constructed at the corner of [[Las Vegas Boulevard]] and Sahara Avenue. The restaurant and roller coaster were part of Bennett's $100 million renovation project.<ref name=RaceDay/>

The NASCAR Cafe opened on March 2, 2000. The grand opening was attended by 20 NASCAR racers.<ref name=Macy-2000>{{cite news |last=Macy |first=Robert |title=Who's who of drivers turn out for newest Vegas attraction |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2000/mar/03/whos-who-of-drivers-turn-out-for-newest-vegas-attr/ |access-date=July 1, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=March 3, 2000 |archive-date=February 13, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230213095211/https://lasvegassun.com/news/2000/mar/03/whos-who-of-drivers-turn-out-for-newest-vegas-attr/ |url-status=live }}</ref> The NASCAR roller coaster, known as [[Speed – The Ride]], opened a month later.<ref name=Moehring/><ref name=Loop/> The $6 million roller coaster included a 79-foot loop and a 224-foot tower peak.<ref>{{cite news |title=Two casino companies pushing ties with NASCAR |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2000/feb/28/two-casino-companies-pushing-ties-with-nascar/ |access-date=July 1, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=February 28, 2000 |archive-date=February 13, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230213095208/https://lasvegassun.com/news/2000/feb/28/two-casino-companies-pushing-ties-with-nascar/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name=Fastest>{{cite news |last=Velotta |first=Richard N. |title=Sahara coaster to be Las Vegas' fastest |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2000/feb/28/sahara-coaster-be-las-vegas-fastest/ |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=February 28, 2000 |access-date=August 28, 2019 |archive-date=August 27, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190827201328/https://lasvegassun.com/news/2000/feb/28/sahara-coaster-be-las-vegas-fastest/ |url-status=live }}</ref> At 70 miles per hour, it was the fastest roller coaster in Las Vegas. It was designed and built by [[Premier Rides]].<ref name=Fastest/> The Sahara Speedworld was renamed as the Las Vegas Cyber Speedway,<ref name=Fastest/><ref>{{cite news |last=Smith |first=Hubble |title=Fast Food Dining: Themed eateries hope to capitalize on racing craze |url=http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Feb-28-Mon-2000/business/13045229.html |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=February 28, 2000 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20010417055918/http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Feb-28-Mon-2000/business/13045229.html |archive-date=April 17, 2001}}</ref> and it was included as part of the new NASCAR-themed attraction,<ref name=Macy-2000/> which was owned by a company separate from the Sahara.<ref name=Loop>{{cite news |last=Hogan |first=Jan |title=Loop de Grace: Thrill ride a highlight at new NASCAR cafe |url=http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Mar-04-Sat-2000/business/13039919.html |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=March 4, 2000 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20010417204426/http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Mar-04-Sat-2000/business/13039919.html |archive-date=April 17, 2001}}</ref> The Sahara received $2 million a year through a lease agreement, as well as 50 percent of the gross revenue.<ref name=Rademacher/> A video game arcade was also added in 2000 along with the NASCAR attraction,<ref name=Benston/> and the Sahara Theater was added later that year.<ref name=SkyDome/><ref>{{cite news |last=Weatherford |first=Mike |title=Sahara combining showrooms |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/entertainment/entertainment-columns/mike-weatherford/sahara-combining-showrooms/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=February 4, 2010 |archive-date=July 16, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200716200353/https://www.reviewjournal.com/entertainment/entertainment-columns/mike-weatherford/sahara-combining-showrooms/ |url-status=live }}</ref> At the time, Bennett was still considering the addition of a convention center to the rear parking lot, which was under-used.<ref name=Loop/>

The Sahara began appealing to middle-class customers under Bennett's ownership,<ref name=Benston/> offering dollar specials to stay competitive against newer resorts.<ref name=CNN/> UNLV professor Moehring considered the Moroccan and race car themes to be an awkward combination.<ref name=Moehring/> He stated that Bennett's idea of combining "Arabs with NASCAR" was a desperate move that ultimately did not work, and that the Sahara mainly attracted low rollers from the 1990s onward.<ref name=Kanigher>{{cite news |last=Kanigher |first=Steve |title=Once 'jewel of the desert,' Sahara entertains last weekend guests before closing |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2011/may/14/sahara/ |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=May 14, 2011 |access-date=August 27, 2019 |archive-date=February 13, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230213092741/https://lasvegassun.com/news/2011/may/14/sahara/ |url-status=live }}</ref>

A modest celebration was held in October 2002, marking the resort's 50th anniversary.<ref name=Benston>{{cite news |last=Benston |first=Liz |title=After 50 colorful years, resort remains a 'jewel' |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2002/oct/04/after-50-colorful-years-resort-remains-jewel/ |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=October 4, 2002 |access-date=August 28, 2019 |archive-date=August 27, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190827201329/https://lasvegassun.com/news/2002/oct/04/after-50-colorful-years-resort-remains-jewel/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name=Strolls/><ref name=Fink/> By that time, the capacity for the Congo Room theater had been reduced from 1,000 people to 850, and dinner was no longer served with the show.<ref name=Fink>{{cite news |last=Fink |first=Jerry |title=Desert Oasis: Sahara's rich entertainment history recalled at 50 |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2002/oct/04/desert-oasis-saharas-rich-entertainment-history-re/ |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=October 4, 2002 |access-date=August 28, 2019 |archive-date=November 18, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231118014013/https://lasvegassun.com/news/2002/oct/04/desert-oasis-saharas-rich-entertainment-history-re/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Bennett was suffering from an illness at the time, and employees stated that he was micromanaging the resort, having a negative effect on the staff.<ref name=Midlife>{{cite news |last=McDarrah |first=Timothy |title=At 50, Sahara suffering mid-life crisis |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2002/oct/07/vegasbeat----timothy-mcdarrah-at-50-sahara-sufferi/ |access-date=July 2, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=October 7, 2002 |archive-date=February 13, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230213095205/https://lasvegassun.com/news/2002/oct/07/vegasbeat----timothy-mcdarrah-at-50-sahara-sufferi/ |url-status=live }}</ref> During 2002, the Sahara had gone through three general managers.<ref name=Padgett-50th/><ref name=Midlife/> Bennett died in December 2002.<ref>{{cite news |last=Simpson |first=Jeff |title=Casino pioneer Bennett, 78, dies; Sahara owner's properties catered to middle class |url=http://www.reviewjournal.com/lvrj_home/2002/Dec-24-Tue-2002/news/20345961.html |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=December 24, 2002 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20050308190449/http://www.reviewjournal.com/lvrj_home/2002/Dec-24-Tue-2002/news/20345961.html |archive-date=March 8, 2005}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Smith |first=John L. |title=Bill Bennett thrived despite snickers, snubs from Strip's power barons |url=http://www.reviewjournal.com/lvrj_home/2002/Dec-24-Tue-2002/news/20343721.html |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=December 24, 2002 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20050308183836/http://www.reviewjournal.com/lvrj_home/2002/Dec-24-Tue-2002/news/20343721.html |archive-date=March 8, 2005}}</ref> Following his death, there were no plans to sell the Sahara.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Koch |first1=Ed |last2=Benston |first2=Liz |title=Wynn, others recall Bennett |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2002/dec/24/wynn-others-recall-bennett/ |access-date=July 2, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=December 24, 2002 |archive-date=February 13, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230213095202/https://lasvegassun.com/news/2002/dec/24/wynn-others-recall-bennett/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Bennett's wife, Lynn, oversaw daily operations from that point forward along with her brother, Al Hummel, who served as the resort's chief executive officer.<ref name=Dec7/> The steakhouse reopened under the House of Lords name on April 30, 2003.<ref name=History/><ref name=Seven/>

[[File:Sahara casino aerial view.jpg|thumb|right|Aerial view of the resort in 2006]]
In June 2003, Gordon Gaming sought to evict the NASCAR Cafe and owner Dyer Ventures. The attempted eviction was in response to alleged breaches in its lease regarding maintenance.<ref name=Rademacher>{{cite news |last=Rademacher |first=Kevin |title=Sahara looking to evict NASCAR Cafe |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2003/jun/17/sahara-looking-to-evict-nascar-cafe/ |access-date=July 2, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=June 17, 2003}}</ref><ref name=Evict>{{cite news |last=Smith |first=Rod |title=Sahara parent trying to evict NASCAR Cafe |url=http://www.reviewjournal.com/lvrj_home/2003/Jun-17-Tue-2003/business/21544757.html |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=June 17, 2003 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20041215235652/http://www.reviewjournal.com/lvrj_home/2003/Jun-17-Tue-2003/business/21544757.html |archive-date=December 15, 2004}}</ref> Efram Rosenfeld, an attorney for Dyer Ventures, said, "We had an excellent relationship with [Bennett]. The current management has become very hostile. They just want to see if they can grab the money." Rosenfeld believed that the resort wanted to operate the NASCAR attraction on its own to avoid sharing revenue.<ref name=Rademacher/> Gordon Gaming stated that the cafe was not being operated in a way that would maximize its gross sales.<ref name=Evict/> Later that month, the two companies resolved the issue, with Dyer agreeing to make improvements to the attraction.<ref>{{cite news |last=Smith |first=Rod |title=NASCAR Cafe to stay at Sahara; Resort, restaurant parent, reach accord |url=http://www.reviewjournal.com/lvrj_home/2003/Jun-26-Thu-2003/business/21608055.html |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=June 26, 2003 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20050101093923/http://www.reviewjournal.com/lvrj_home/2003/Jun-26-Thu-2003/business/21608055.html |archive-date=January 1, 2005}}</ref> Gordon Gaming later purchased the attraction in 2005. The sale included Speed – The Ride, the race car simulators, and a NASCAR store. The cafe remained under Dyer's ownership.<ref>{{cite news |title=Company to purchase NASCAR attraction |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2005/mar/11/company-to-purchase-nascar-attraction/ |access-date=July 2, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=March 11, 2005 |archive-date=February 13, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230213095201/https://lasvegassun.com/news/2005/mar/11/company-to-purchase-nascar-attraction/ |url-status=live }}</ref>

The opening of the Las Vegas Monorail increased visitation to the Sahara.<ref>{{cite news |last=Stutz |first=Howard |title=Investors may turn to Sahara; Analysts see offers rolling in for property |url=http://www.reviewjournal.com/lvrj_home/2006/May-27-Sat-2006/business/7625014.html |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=May 27, 2006 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060909045216/http://www.reviewjournal.com/lvrj_home/2006/May-27-Sat-2006/business/7625014.html |archive-date=September 9, 2006}}</ref> By February 2006, Hummel had turned down hundreds of offers to purchase the resort, saying that the prospective buyers and the timing never seemed right.<ref>{{cite web |last=Benston |first=Liz |url=http://www.lasvegassun.com/news/2006/feb/13/offers-they-can-refuse-for-now-no-changes-on-tap-a/ |title=Offers they can refuse: For now, no changes on tap at Sahara |access-date=February 15, 2015 |newspaper=Las Vegas Sun |date=February 13, 2006 |archive-date=February 16, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150216010221/http://www.lasvegassun.com/news/2006/feb/13/offers-they-can-refuse-for-now-no-changes-on-tap-a/ |url-status=live }}</ref> By June, the Sahara site was reportedly up for sale.<ref>{{cite web |last=Miller |first=Brian K. |url=http://www.globest.com/news/7_171/lasvegas/Archon-Selling-27-Acres-on-Strip-for-450M-147057-1.html |title=Archon Selling 27 Acres on 'Strip' for $450M |publisher=GlobeSt.com |date=June 30, 2006 |access-date=February 15, 2015 |archive-date=February 16, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150216013127/http://www.globest.com/news/7_171/lasvegas/Archon-Selling-27-Acres-on-Strip-for-450M-147057-1.html |url-status=dead }}</ref> Lynn Bennett died in December 2006, at the age of 64.<ref name=Dec7>{{cite news |last=Stutz |first=Howard |title=Services today for owner of Sahara |url=http://www.reviewjournal.com/lvrj_home/2006/Dec-07-Thu-2006/news/11268214.html |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=December 7, 2006 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070125035355/http://www.reviewjournal.com/lvrj_home/2006/Dec-07-Thu-2006/news/11268214.html |archive-date=January 25, 2007}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Clarke |first=Norm |title=Sahara co-owner Lynn Bennett dies |url=http://www.reviewjournal.com/lvrj_home/2006/Dec-04-Mon-2006/news/11210474.html |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=December 4, 2006 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070120143619/http://www.reviewjournal.com/lvrj_home/2006/Dec-04-Mon-2006/news/11210474.html |archive-date=January 20, 2007}}</ref>

====SBE and Stockbridge====
In March 2007, [[Sam Nazarian]]'s [[SBE Entertainment Group]], along with [[Stockbridge Capital Group|Stockbridge Real Estate Group]], agreed to purchase the Sahara from the Bennett family,<ref>{{cite web |last=Stutz |first=Howard |title=Sahara buyer sees new life for old resort |work=Casino City Times |date=March 5, 2007 |access-date=February 15, 2015 |url=http://www.casinocitytimes.com/article/sahara-buyer-sees-new-life-for-old-resort-55421 |archive-date=February 16, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150216011412/http://www.casinocitytimes.com/article/sahara-buyer-sees-new-life-for-old-resort-55421 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Sahara sold to Los Angeles partnership |url=http://www.lasvegassun.com/news/2007/mar/09/sahara-sold-los-angeles-partnership/ |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=March 9, 2007 |access-date=August 28, 2019 |archive-date=August 27, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190827201325/https://lasvegassun.com/news/2007/mar/09/sahara-sold-los-angeles-partnership/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Benston |first=Liz |title=Sahara to get some L.A. glitz |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2007/apr/08/sahara-to-get-some-la-glitz/ |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=April 8, 2007 |access-date=August 28, 2019 |archive-date=August 27, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190827201321/https://lasvegassun.com/news/2007/apr/08/sahara-to-get-some-la-glitz/ |url-status=live }}</ref> at a cost of $331.8 million.<ref name=Knightly>{{cite news |last=Knightly |first=Arnold M. |title=Sahara closing some towers |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/sahara-closing-some-towers/ |access-date=July 5, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=December 16, 2009 |archive-date=June 21, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200621093939/https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/sahara-closing-some-towers/ |url-status=live }}</ref> The purchase would include the Sahara and its 17.45 acres, but not the rear parking lot.<ref name=LVRJ-Mar3>{{cite news |last=Stutz |first=Howard |title=Sahara sold to California businessman; Resort facing 'tremendous' renovation |url=http://www.reviewjournal.com/lvrj_home/2007/Mar-03-Sat-2007/news/12940462.html |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=March 3, 2007 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070314003718/http://www.reviewjournal.com/lvrj_home/2007/Mar-03-Sat-2007/news/12940462.html |archive-date=March 14, 2007}}</ref> Stockbridge would be the majority owner. Nazarian considered the Sahara ideal because of its proximity to the Las Vegas Convention Center, the planned [[Echelon Place]] resort, and several new high-rise condominiums.<ref name=LVRJ-Mar4>{{cite news |last=Stutz |first=Howard |title=Sahara buyer sees new life for old resort – Nazarian: 'Fresh ideas' to work wonders |url=http://www.reviewjournal.com/lvrj_home/2007/Mar-04-Sun-2007/news/12952261.html |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=March 4, 2007 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070315083829/http://www.reviewjournal.com/lvrj_home/2007/Mar-04-Sun-2007/news/12952261.html |archive-date=March 15, 2007}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Stutz |first=Howard |title=Eye on past, hand in future – Sahara owner says he's found a buyer with sense of history, fresh ideas |url=http://www.reviewjournal.com/lvrj_home/2007/Mar-06-Tue-2007/business/12980067.html |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=March 6, 2007 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070316130023/http://www.reviewjournal.com/lvrj_home/2007/Mar-06-Tue-2007/business/12980067.html |archive-date=March 16, 2007}}</ref>

SBE and Stockbridge completed their purchase on August 1, 2007.<ref>{{cite news |title=SBE Entertainment takes over as owner of Sahara |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/sbe-entertainment-takes-over-as-owner-of-sahara/ |access-date=July 4, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=August 2, 2007}}</ref> Under the new ownership, the Sahara's casino portion was operated by [[Navegante Group]].<ref name=LVRJ-Mar3/><ref name=GetsOK/> SBE and Stockbridge also filed for their own gaming licenses.<ref>{{cite news |title=Sahara edges step closer to new ownership |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/sahara-edges-step-closer-to-new-ownership/ |access-date=July 4, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=July 12, 2007 |archive-date=June 21, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200621071305/https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/sahara-edges-step-closer-to-new-ownership/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Navegante had a one-year lease, and was to operate the casino only until SBE and Stockbridge received their licenses,<ref name=GetsOK>{{cite news |title=Navegante gets OK to take over Sahara |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/navegante-gets-ok-to-take-over-sahara/ |access-date=July 4, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=July 27, 2007 |archive-date=June 20, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200620145329/https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/navegante-gets-ok-to-take-over-sahara/ |url-status=live }}</ref> but Navegante ultimately operated it for the next four years until the resort closed.<ref name=Goodbyes>{{cite news |last=Stutz |first=Howard |title=Sahara offers last goodbyes after nearly 60 years |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/casinos-gaming/sahara-offers-last-goodbyes-after-nearly-60-years/ |access-date=July 5, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=May 14, 2011 |archive-date=June 21, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200621054520/https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/casinos-gaming/sahara-offers-last-goodbyes-after-nearly-60-years/ |url-status=live }}</ref> SBE managed the hotel and restaurants.<ref name=EndEra/>

Nazarian had plans to renovate and redesign the Sahara.<ref name=LVRJ-Mar3/> In the months after taking ownership, the companies spent $2 million on various upgrades, including new carpeting, seating and wallpaper in the hotel lobby. Hotel employees received new uniforms and the landscaping was also improved. [[Mini-baccarat]] was added to attract an Asian clientele, and casino specials were added to lure more local residents to the property. Revenue improved following the changes, and there were plans for a complete renovation of the resort. The companies intended to keep much of the historic hotel intact rather than demolish it, although there was the possibility of a name change.<ref>{{cite news |last=Stutz |first=Howard |title=That old 'Pack' magic |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/that-old-pack-magic/ |access-date=July 4, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=November 23, 2007 |archive-date=June 21, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200621105953/https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/that-old-pack-magic/ |url-status=live }}</ref> The [[Clark County Commission]] approved renovation plans in February 2008. The plans would include the demolition of the original Tunis Tower, the renovation of the two newer high-rise towers, and the addition of a new tower measuring 520 feet in height. The plans were scheduled for completion in 2011,<ref name=Knightly/><ref>{{cite news |last=Stutz |first=Howard |title=Commission green-lights Sahara remodeling plan |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/commission-green-lights-sahara-remodeling-plan/ |access-date=July 4, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=February 23, 2008 |archive-date=June 22, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200622050001/https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/commission-green-lights-sahara-remodeling-plan/ |url-status=live }}</ref> but construction never began due to the [[Great Recession]],<ref name=Knightly/> which negatively impacted the Sahara and the northern Las Vegas Strip.<ref>{{cite news |last=Finnegan |first=Amanda |title=With demise of Sahara, what's next for north Las Vegas Strip? |url=https://vegasinc.lasvegassun.com/business/gaming/2011/may/13/demise-sahara-whats-next-north-strip/ |access-date=July 5, 2020 |work=VegasInc |date=May 13, 2011 |archive-date=September 27, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190927100325/https://vegasinc.lasvegassun.com/business/gaming/2011/may/13/demise-sahara-whats-next-north-strip/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name=Goodbyes/><ref>{{cite news |title=End of an era as Vegas casino closes |url=https://www.independent.co.uk/travel/news-and-advice/end-of-an-era-as-vegas-casino-closes-2284922.html |access-date=July 5, 2020 |work=The Independent |date=May 16, 2011}}</ref>

In 2008, the Sahara designated a portion of its casino space as "Locals Lane," part of an effort to appeal to local residents. Slot machines in this area gave higher payouts, and a separate slot club redemption center was also set up for locals. In addition, the slot club provided such customers with discounts on hotel rooms, restaurants, and shows.<ref>{{cite news |title=Sahara fills locals' wish list – loose slots, cheap food |url=https://nl.newsbank.com/ |website=Las Vegas Business Press |access-date=July 4, 2020 |date=July 7, 2008 |url-access=subscription |via=NewsLibrary |archive-date=June 4, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190604174101/http://nl.newsbank.com/ |url-status=live }}</ref> In 2009, the [[Equal Employment Opportunity Commission]] filed a lawsuit on behalf of a Sahara employee who said he was repeatedly harassed because of his Egyptian heritage.<ref>{{cite news |last=Green |first=Steve |title=Sahara faces lawsuit alleging discrimination |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2009/jul/31/sahara-sued-discriminating-against-employee/ |access-date=July 5, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=July 31, 2009 |archive-date=February 13, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230213095830/https://lasvegassun.com/news/2009/jul/31/sahara-sued-discriminating-against-employee/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Gordon Gaming, SBE and Stockbridge subsequently agreed to pay a total of $100,000 to settle the lawsuit.<ref>{{cite news |last=Green |first=Steve |title=Sahara to pay $100,000 to settle discrimination lawsuit |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2010/dec/07/sahara-pay-100000-settle-discrimination-lawsuit/ |access-date=July 5, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=December 7, 2010 |archive-date=February 2, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230202221922/https://lasvegassun.com/news/2010/dec/07/sahara-pay-100000-settle-discrimination-lawsuit/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Sahara agrees to pay $100,000 to settle case for name-calling |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/sahara-agrees-to-pay-100000-to-settle-case-for-name-calling/ |access-date=July 5, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=December 8, 2010 |archive-date=July 6, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200706120558/https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/sahara-agrees-to-pay-100000-to-settle-case-for-name-calling/ |url-status=live }}</ref> In December 2009, the Sahara closed its buffet and two of its hotel towers due to weak demand during the holiday season. The Tangiers Tower remained open.<ref name=Knightly/><ref>{{cite news |title=Sahara mothballing Vegas hotel rooms, cites demand |url=https://www.sandiegouniontribune.com/sdut-sahara-mothballing-vegas-hotel-rooms-cites-demand-2009dec15-story.html |access-date=July 5, 2020 |agency=Associated Press |date=December 15, 2009 |archive-date=July 3, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200703043326/https://www.sandiegouniontribune.com/sdut-sahara-mothballing-vegas-hotel-rooms-cites-demand-2009dec15-story.html |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Green |first=Steve |title=Sahara cites weak demand in closing hotel towers; Strip resort not sure when towers might reopen after holidays |url=http://www.lasvegassun.com/news/2009/dec/15/sahara-cites-weak-demand-closing-hotel-towers/ |access-date=August 27, 2019 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=December 15, 2009}}</ref> In 2010, Nazarian was in negotiations with [[lender]]s to restructure the Sahara's debt, ultimately reaching a [[forbearance]] agreement with [[Royal Bank of Scotland Group]], the primary lender.<ref name=EndEra/><ref name=Green/>

===Closure===
{{multiple image
 | direction = vertical
 | image1 = Sahara Hotel and Casino.jpg
 | caption1 = Casino floor in April 2011
 | image2 = Las Vegas (35809515223).jpg
 | caption2 = Camel sign at the [[Neon Museum]], 2017
}}
On March 11, 2011, it was announced that the Sahara would close in two months.<ref>{{cite news |last=Scott |first=Dylan |title=Sahara guests, workers fondly remember 'the last of the oldies' |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2011/mar/12/guests-workers-fondly-remember-last-oldies/ |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=March 12, 2011 |access-date=August 27, 2019}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Stutz |first=Howard |title=Workers react to closing of Sahara |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/casinos-gaming/workers-react-to-closing-of-sahara/ |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=March 11, 2011 |access-date=August 27, 2019 |archive-date=August 27, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190827201257/https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/casinos-gaming/workers-react-to-closing-of-sahara/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=The good old days: Memories from Sahara employees who knew her well |url=https://lasvegasweekly.com/news/2011/may/12/good-old-days/ |work=Las Vegas Weekly |date=May 12, 2011 |access-date=August 27, 2019 |archive-date=August 27, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190827201258/https://lasvegasweekly.com/news/2011/may/12/good-old-days/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Berzon |first=Alexandra |title=Sahara Hotel in Las Vegas Closes Amid Losses |url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/SB10001424052748703597804576194823035537498 |access-date=August 27, 2019 |work=The Wall Street Journal |date=March 11, 2011 |archive-date=August 27, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190827201256/https://www.wsj.com/articles/SB10001424052748703597804576194823035537498 |url-status=live }}</ref> At the time, the Sahara had 1,720 hotel rooms and {{convert|85000|sqft|abbr=on}} of casino space,<ref name=EndEra/> and offered the only $1 blackjack on the Las Vegas Strip.<ref name=Goodbyes/> The resort featured two primary restaurants at the time: House of Lords steakhouse, and the NASCAR Cafe. The Sahara had 1,050 employees who would be affected by the closure. SBE intended to help find new jobs for Sahara employees at [[MGM Resorts]]' properties. Hotel customers with reservations following the planned closing date would also be transferred to MGM Resorts' properties.<ref name=EndEra/>

At the time of the closing announcement, Nazarian, the CEO of SBE, said, "We are working with our partners to assess a variety of options for the property, including a complete renovation and repositioning. While no final decisions have been made at this point, the continued operation of the aging Sahara was no longer economically viable."<ref name=EndEra>{{cite news |last=Green |first=Steve |title=Sahara's closure on May 16 will mark 'the end of an era' |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2011/mar/11/sahara-hotel-casino-close-may-16/ |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=March 11, 2011 |access-date=August 27, 2019 |archive-date=August 27, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190827201259/https://lasvegassun.com/news/2011/mar/11/sahara-hotel-casino-close-may-16/ |url-status=live }}</ref> [[Jerry Lewis]], once a performer at the Sahara, said, "We are losing what was considered by most of us Las Vegans as one of the trademarks of the city."<ref name=Hint>{{cite news |last=Katsilometes |first=John |title=At the end, 59-year-old Sahara isn't a hint of what it once was |url=https://lasvegassun.com/blogs/kats-report/2011/mar/11/end-sahara-isnt-hint-what-it-once-was/ |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=March 12, 2011 |access-date=August 27, 2019 |archive-date=August 27, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190827201258/https://lasvegassun.com/blogs/kats-report/2011/mar/11/end-sahara-isnt-hint-what-it-once-was/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Lowden said he was not saddened by the closure: "I like progress. I like change. It's fun to look back, but this might be a chance for the Sahara to move forward."<ref>{{cite news |last=Stutz |first=Howard |title=Closure doesn't sadden Sahara's former owner |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/casinos-gaming/closure-doesnt-sadden-saharas-former-owner/ |access-date=July 5, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=May 14, 2011}}</ref>

Speed – The Ride closed on May 1, 2011.<ref>{{cite news |last=Finnegan |first=Amanda |title=Sahara shuts down roller coaster ahead of May 16 closure |url=https://vegasinc.lasvegassun.com/business/gaming/2011/may/03/sahara-shuts-down-roller-coaster-ahead-may-16-clos/ |work=VegasInc |date=May 3, 2011 |access-date=August 27, 2019 |archive-date=August 27, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190827201257/https://vegasinc.lasvegassun.com/business/gaming/2011/may/03/sahara-shuts-down-roller-coaster-ahead-may-16-clos/ |url-status=live }}</ref> It was later sold and removed.<ref>{{cite web|title=Akita Retail and Events Center to get a roller coaster...|date=December 28, 2011|author=Breslin Builders|access-date=April 20, 2012|url=http://www.breslinbuilders.com/blog/2011/12/akita-retail-and-events-center-to-get-a-roller-coaster/|archive-date=March 3, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160303213613/http://www.breslinbuilders.com/blog/2011/12/akita-retail-and-events-center-to-get-a-roller-coaster/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="APC">{{cite web|title=SPEED The Ride – Sahara Roller Coaster Removal Starting...|date=April 12, 2012|author=Breslin Builders|access-date=April 19, 2012|url=http://www.breslinbuilders.com/blog/2012/04/speed-the-ride-sahara-roller-coaster-removal-starting/|archive-date=March 4, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304000102/http://www.breslinbuilders.com/blog/2012/04/speed-the-ride-sahara-roller-coaster-removal-starting/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.vegasbright.com/2017/01/24/speed-the-ride-sits-in-the-sun/|title=Five Years Later: Speed the Ride Sits in the Sun, Maybe Rebuild it Downtown? • Vegas Bright|access-date=August 11, 2019|archive-date=August 11, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190811060749/https://www.vegasbright.com/2017/01/24/speed-the-ride-sits-in-the-sun/|url-status=live}}</ref> The sports book and Sahara Theater closed later in May 2011.<ref>{{cite news |last=Katsilometes |first=John |title=After 59 years, final curtain closing on Sahara |url=https://lasvegassun.com/blogs/kats-report/2011/may/15/final-curtain-sahara/ |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=May 15, 2011 |access-date=August 27, 2019 |archive-date=August 27, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190827201256/https://lasvegassun.com/blogs/kats-report/2011/may/15/final-curtain-sahara/ |url-status=live }}</ref> The resort's hotel and casino closed at 2:00&nbsp;p.m. on May 16, 2011, marking the end of the Sahara's 58-year operation.<ref>{{cite news |last=Stutz |first=Howard |title=Slots go quiet as Sahara closes 59-year run on Las Vegas Strip |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/casinos-gaming/slots-go-quiet-as-sahara-closes-59-year-run-on-las-vegas-strip/ |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=May 17, 2011 |access-date=August 27, 2019 |archive-date=August 27, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190827201259/https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/casinos-gaming/slots-go-quiet-as-sahara-closes-59-year-run-on-las-vegas-strip/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Katsilometes |first=John |title=Guests say goodbye as Sahara goes dark |url=https://vegasinc.lasvegassun.com/blogs/kats-report/2011/may/16/bars-closed-casino-floor-action-winds-down-sahara/ |work=VegasInc |date=May 16, 2011 |access-date=August 27, 2019}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Staff, customer-driven philosophy kept Sahara standing |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/news/staff-customer-driven-philosophy-kept-sahara-standing/ |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=May 17, 2011 |access-date=August 27, 2019 |archive-date=August 27, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190827201255/https://www.reviewjournal.com/news/staff-customer-driven-philosophy-kept-sahara-standing/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name=CNN>{{cite news |title=Las Vegas' Sahara Hotel and Casino closing after more than 58 years |url=http://news.blogs.cnn.com/2011/05/16/las-vegas-sahara-hotel-and-casino-closing-after-more-than-58-years/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110519101833/http://news.blogs.cnn.com/2011/05/16/las-vegas-sahara-hotel-and-casino-closing-after-more-than-58-years/ |url-status=dead |archive-date=May 19, 2011 |access-date=August 27, 2019 |publisher=CNN |date=May 16, 2011}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Pratt |first=Timothy |title=Las Vegas' once-glamorous Sahara hotel-casino closes |url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-sahara-vegas/las-vegas-once-glamorous-sahara-hotel-casino-closes-idUSTRE74G01S20110517 |access-date=August 27, 2019 |work=Reuters |date=May 17, 2011 |archive-date=August 27, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190827201259/https://www.reuters.com/article/us-sahara-vegas/las-vegas-once-glamorous-sahara-hotel-casino-closes-idUSTRE74G01S20110517 |url-status=live }}</ref> National Content Liquidators began a two-month liquidation sale at the Sahara in June 2011, with more than 600,000 items available for sale on the first day.<ref>{{cite news |last=Finnegan |first=Amanda |title=Sahara unloads pieces of 58-year history at liquidation sale |url=https://vegasinc.lasvegassun.com/business/gaming/2011/jun/16/sahara-unloads-pieces-58-year-history-liquidation-/ |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=June 17, 2011 |access-date=August 27, 2019 |archive-date=August 27, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190827201257/https://vegasinc.lasvegassun.com/business/gaming/2011/jun/16/sahara-unloads-pieces-58-year-history-liquidation-/ |url-status=live }}</ref> The contents of the NASCAR Cafe were initially excluded from the sale,<ref>{{cite news |last=Stutz |first=Howard |title=Sahara cashing out with piece-by-piece sale |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/casinos-gaming/sahara-cashing-out-with-piece-by-piece-sale/ |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=June 15, 2011 |access-date=August 27, 2019}}</ref> although an auction was later held for 2,000 items from the restaurant.<ref>{{cite news |last=Robison |first=Jennifer |title=NASCAR enthusiasts, start your debit cards |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/sports/motor-sports/nascar-enthusiasts-start-your-debit-cards/ |access-date=July 5, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=August 2, 2011 |archive-date=June 21, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200621224449/https://www.reviewjournal.com/sports/motor-sports/nascar-enthusiasts-start-your-debit-cards/ |url-status=live }}</ref> The sale of the resort items concluded in September 2011, and it attracted thousands of people over the course of its run. It was the largest liquidation sale in Las Vegas history. Items that did not sell were donated.<ref>{{cite news |last=Goldberg |first=Delen |title=Picked clean, Sahara liquidation sale ends |url=https://vegasinc.lasvegassun.com/business/gaming/2011/sep/15/picked-clean-sahara-sale-ends/ |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=September 15, 2011 |access-date=August 27, 2019}}</ref> The camel sign at the rear entrance was donated to the city's [[Neon Museum]].<ref>{{cite news |last=Garcia |first=Oskar |title=Sahara in Vegas donating sign to Neon Museum |url=https://www.sandiegouniontribune.com/sdut-sahara-in-vegas-donating-sign-to-neon-museum-2011jun28-story.html |access-date=July 16, 2020 |agency=Associated Press |date=June 29, 2011 |archive-date=July 12, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200712180106/https://www.sandiegouniontribune.com/sdut-sahara-in-vegas-donating-sign-to-neon-museum-2011jun28-story.html |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last=Sprague |first=Tracey |title=Closing Sign |url=https://www.neonmuseum.org/the-collection/blog/closing-sign |website=Neon Museum |access-date=July 16, 2020 |date=September 7, 2017 |archive-date=July 13, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200713171737/https://www.neonmuseum.org/the-collection/blog/closing-sign |url-status=live }}</ref>

===SLS Las Vegas===
In September 2011, plans to redevelop the Sahara were accelerated, as SBE and Stockbridge announced the purchase of the resort's [[mortgage debt]].<ref name=Green/> [[Gensler]] was hired as the architectural design firm, while Penta Building Group would serve as the general contractor.<ref name=Green>{{cite news |last=Green |first=Steve |title=Sahara owners step up redevelopment planning after closure |url=https://vegasinc.lasvegassun.com/business/gaming/2011/sep/15/sahara-owners-step-redevelopment-planning-after-cl/ |work=VegasInc |date=September 15, 2011 |access-date=August 27, 2019 |archive-date=August 27, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190827201256/https://vegasinc.lasvegassun.com/business/gaming/2011/sep/15/sahara-owners-step-redevelopment-planning-after-cl/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name=Stutz2012/> [[Philippe Starck]] would handle the interior design.<ref>{{cite news |title=Owners of Sahara secure $300 million to redevelop Strip site |url=https://vegasinc.lasvegassun.com/blogs/elsewhere/2012/apr/30/owners-sahara-secure-300-million-redevelop-strip-s/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=VegasInc |date=April 30, 2012 |archive-date=February 13, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230213100209/https://vegasinc.lasvegassun.com/blogs/elsewhere/2012/apr/30/owners-sahara-secure-300-million-redevelop-strip-s/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Starck was a longtime partner of Nazarian, and his design plans for the Sahara dated to 2007.<ref name=Kats2014/>

Later in 2011, the Clark County Commission approved renovation plans for the resort.<ref name=Minus>{{cite news |last=Schoenmann |first=Joe |title=Permits OK'd for remodel of Sahara — minus roller coaster |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2011/nov/02/permits-approved-remodel-sahara-minus-roller-coast/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=November 2, 2011}}</ref> The Sahara would be renamed as SLS Las Vegas, part of SBE's growing chain of SLS-branded hotels in the United States.<ref name=Good-bye/> The name "SLS" stood for style, luxury, and service.<ref name=Goodbye2013/> Nazarian planned to remodel the Sahara into a luxurious boutique hotel, matching his other properties.<ref>{{cite news |last=Leach |first=Robin |title=Sahara to reopen 'sooner than later,' Sam Nazarian says |url=https://lasvegassun.com/vegasdeluxe/2012/jan/03/strip-scribbles-sahara-open-sooner-later-nazarian-/ |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=January 3, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150913045651/https://lasvegassun.com/vegasdeluxe/2012/jan/03/strip-scribbles-sahara-open-sooner-later-nazarian-/ |archive-date=September 13, 2015}}</ref> The Las Vegas location would include restaurant and nightlife brands affiliated with SBE,<ref name=Good-bye>{{cite news |last=Stutz |first=Howard |title=Good-bye Sahara, hello SLS Las Vegas |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/casinos-gaming/good-bye-sahara-hello-sls-las-vegas/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=April 30, 2012 |archive-date=August 6, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190806014742/https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/casinos-gaming/good-bye-sahara-hello-sls-las-vegas/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name=VIP/> and would provide a [[Beverly Hills]] experience.<ref name=Sylvester>{{cite news |last=Sylvester |first=Ron |title=One year after it closed, can Sahara site become a symbol of Las Vegas' rebound? |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2012/may/16/one-year-after-it-closed-can-sahara-become-symbol-/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=May 16, 2012 |archive-date=February 13, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230213100320/https://lasvegassun.com/news/2012/may/16/one-year-after-it-closed-can-sahara-become-symbol-/ |url-status=live }}</ref> The room count would be reduced from 1,720 to 1,622 as a result of the renovations.<ref name=Green2012/> The plans would also include the demolition of Speed – The Ride.<ref name=Minus/> The SLS Las Vegas would oversee all amenities, unlike other casinos which would lease such space to third-party operators.<ref name=LA/>

Nazarian hoped to have SLS Las Vegas opened in the second quarter of 2014, and he needed to raise $415 million from investors and lenders to convert the Sahara into the new resort. The project was expected to cost a total of $744 million, with SBE and Stockbridge contributing $329 million. The project's financing plan would include investors through the [[EB-5]] program.<ref name=Green2012>{{cite news |last=Green |first=Steve |title=Financing details unveiled for Sahara renovation into 'SLS Las Vegas' |url=https://vegasinc.lasvegassun.com/business/gaming/2012/apr/04/financing-details-unveiled-sahara-renovation-sls-l/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=VegasInc |date=April 4, 2012}}</ref><ref name=Stutz2012>{{cite news |last=Stutz |first=Howard |title=Ratings assignment marks sign of Sahara rebirth |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/casinos-gaming/ratings-assignment-marks-sign-of-sahara-rebirth/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=April 4, 2012}}</ref> [[Moody's]] and [[Standard & Poor's]] considered the project risky because of its location, and they questioned the owners' ability to pay off future debt.<ref>{{cite news |last=Green |first=Steve |title=Plan to redevelop Sahara risky for investors, debt-rating agency says |url=https://vegasinc.lasvegassun.com/business/2012/apr/06/plan-redevelop-sahara-risky-investors-debt-rating-/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=VegasInc |date=April 6, 2012 |archive-date=February 13, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230213100532/https://vegasinc.lasvegassun.com/business/2012/apr/06/plan-redevelop-sahara-risky-investors-debt-rating-/ |url-status=live }}</ref>

{{multiple image
| direction  = vertical
| image1    = Sahara hotel towers in Las Vegas.jpg
| caption1  = Rear view of Tangiers and Alexandria towers, 2011
| image2    = SLS Las Vegas hotel towers.jpg|
| caption2  = Towers after SLS renovation
}}
In April 2012, the project secured $300 million in funding through [[JPMorgan Chase]]. Nazarian said the Sahara hotel towers would be "stripped down to their skeletons" to allow for renovation work.<ref name=Good-bye/> SBE was known for redeveloping old hotels into new ones rather than demolishing them.<ref name=Goodbye2013/> Nazarian said, "Instead of exploding an Old Vegas landmark like everybody else does, I am reusing the bones to build something new. I'm making it smaller and more personal, though, so the experience is more manicured. Bigger isn't better."<ref>{{cite web |last=Leach |first=Robin |title=Strip Scribbles: SLS Sahara plans and The Hotel at Mandalay Bay makeover |url=https://lasvegassun.com/vegasdeluxe/2013/oct/07/strip-scribbles-sls-sahara-plans-and-hotel-mandala/ |work=Las Vegas Sun |date= October 7, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181215224927/https://lasvegassun.com/vegasdeluxe/2013/oct/07/strip-scribbles-sls-sahara-plans-and-hotel-mandala/ |archive-date=December 15, 2018}}</ref> Retaining the hotel buildings would allow the SLS to offer low room rates.<ref name=Sylvester/>

Groundbreaking for the SLS Las Vegas project took place on February 13, 2013, after the EB-5 program provided the remainder of the $415 million needed to renovate the Sahara.<ref>{{cite news |last=Stutz |first=Howard |title=SBE Entertainment secures last of $415 million in financing for Sahara |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/casinos-gaming/sbe-entertainment-secures-last-of-415-million-in-financing-for-sahara/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=February 12, 2013 |archive-date=June 22, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200622135023/https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/casinos-gaming/sbe-entertainment-secures-last-of-415-million-in-financing-for-sahara/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Construction begins at shuttered Sahara |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2013/feb/13/nv-sahara-renovation-vegas/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |agency=Associated Press |date=February 13, 2013 |archive-date=February 13, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230213100622/https://lasvegassun.com/news/2013/feb/13/nv-sahara-renovation-vegas/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Hudson |first=Alexandra Berzon and Kris |title=Closed Casino Banks on U.S. Program |url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/SB10001424127887323511804578300380568358910 |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=The Wall Street Journal |date=February 13, 2013 |archive-date=July 2, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160702010225/http://www.wsj.com/articles/SB10001424127887323511804578300380568358910 |url-status=live }}</ref> Senator [[Harry Reid]], the U.S. [[Senate Majority Leader]], later received criticism for using his power to expedite the EB-5 process for Asian investors in the SLS. Reid defended his action, stating that the project otherwise could have lost funding, resulting in the loss of future jobs.<ref>{{cite news |title=Reid uses muscle to expedite visa reviews for Strip investors |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/uncategorized/reid-uses-muscle-to-expedite-visa-reviews-for-strip-investors/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=December 11, 2013 |archive-date=June 22, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200622135020/https://www.reviewjournal.com/uncategorized/reid-uses-muscle-to-expedite-visa-reviews-for-strip-investors/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Myers |first=Laura |title='Favoritism' in SLS investors' visa requests tied to Reid |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/local/local-nevada/favoritism-in-sls-investors-visa-requests-tied-to-reid/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=March 24, 2015 |archive-date=June 25, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200625063244/https://www.reviewjournal.com/local/local-nevada/favoritism-in-sls-investors-visa-requests-tied-to-reid/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Tetreault |first=Steve |title=Reid calls visa whistleblowers 'a bunch of whiners' |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/casinos-gaming/reid-calls-visa-whistleblowers-a-bunch-of-whiners/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=March 30, 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Tetreault |first=Steve |title=Homeland security official defends handling of Las Vegas visas |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/uncategorized/homeland-security-official-defends-handling-of-las-vegas-visas/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=April 30, 2015}}</ref> The EB-5 financing came from 800 Chinese investors.<ref name=Morris/> A three-month demolition phase was underway in March 2013, with much of the interior gutted.<ref name=Goodbye2013>{{cite news |last=Sylvester |first=Ron |title=Goodbye, Sahara; Hello, SLS Las Vegas |url=https://vegasinc.lasvegassun.com/business/2013/mar/14/goodbye-sahara-hello-sls-las-vegas/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=VegasInc |date=March 14, 2013 |archive-date=September 20, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190920073312/https://vegasinc.lasvegassun.com/business/2013/mar/14/goodbye-sahara-hello-sls-las-vegas/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Peterson |first=Kristen |title=The slow, agonizing death of the old Sahara |url=https://lasvegasweekly.com/as-we-see-it/2013/mar/20/breaking-sahara-hard-do/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Weekly |date=March 20, 2013 |archive-date=February 13, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230213100828/https://lasvegasweekly.com/as-we-see-it/2013/mar/20/breaking-sahara-hard-do/ |url-status=live }}</ref> The Sahara's camel sign on the Las Vegas Strip was dismantled,<ref name=Camels>{{cite news |title=So long, Camels: Sahara sign dismantled on the Strip |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2013/mar/12/so-long-camels-sahara-sign-dismantled-strip/ |access-date=August 28, 2019 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=March 12, 2013 |archive-date=August 28, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190828205735/https://lasvegassun.com/news/2013/mar/12/so-long-camels-sahara-sign-dismantled-strip/ |url-status=live }}</ref> followed by the removal of the Moroccan-style dome.<ref name=Goodbye2013/>

In early 2014, it was announced that the SLS Las Vegas would open later that year on August 29, during the Labor Day weekend.<ref name=Labor>{{cite news |last=Stutz |first=Howard |title=SLS Las Vegas, formerly the Sahara, will open Labor Day weekend |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/sls-las-vegas-formerly-the-sahara-will-open-labor-day-weekend/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=February 5, 2014 |archive-date=June 22, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200622190016/https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/sls-las-vegas-formerly-the-sahara-will-open-labor-day-weekend/ |url-status=live }}</ref> In June 2014, it was announced that the SLS would be part of Hilton's [[Curio (brand)|Curio]] brand, which allowed customers to use and earn points at select hotels.<ref>{{cite news |last=Stutz |first=Howard |title=SLS Las Vegas joins independently operated Hilton hotels chain |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/casinos-gaming/sls-las-vegas-joins-independently-operated-hilton-hotels-chain/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=June 2, 2014 |archive-date=June 21, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200621180948/https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/casinos-gaming/sls-las-vegas-joins-independently-operated-hilton-hotels-chain/ |url-status=live }}</ref> The SLS was also part of the [[Preferred Hotels & Resorts]] guest loyalty program, increasing the potential for a customer base.<ref name=Future>{{cite news |last=Stutz |first=Howard |title=SLS builds future of its own on Sahara's past |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/casinos-gaming/sls-builds-future-of-its-own-on-saharas-past/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=August 16, 2014 |archive-date=November 18, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231118014009/https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/casinos-gaming/sls-builds-future-of-its-own-on-saharas-past/ |url-status=live }}</ref> SBE also had a loyalty program of its own with more than five million customers in its database,<ref name=Tap>{{cite news |last=Stutz |first=Howard |title=Officials will tap Rat Pack-era memories to market SLS Las Vegas |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/officials-will-tap-rat-pack-era-memories-to-market-sls-las-vegas/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=July 28, 2014 |archive-date=June 21, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200621182126/https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/officials-will-tap-rat-pack-era-memories-to-market-sls-las-vegas/ |url-status=live }}</ref> with an average age of 38 years.<ref name=Kats2014/> Many of those customers lived in southern California.<ref name=Warm>{{cite news |last=Stutz |first=Howard |title=SLS, and visionary behind it, get warm Strip welcome |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/business-columns/inside-gaming/sls-and-visionary-behind-it-get-warm-strip-welcome/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=September 6, 2014 |archive-date=June 23, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200623015443/https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/business-columns/inside-gaming/sls-and-visionary-behind-it-get-warm-strip-welcome/ |url-status=live }}</ref>

Construction progressed ahead of schedule, prompting a new opening date of August 23, 2014.<ref>{{cite news |last=Taylor |first=John |title=Newest Strip casino SLS Las Vegas moves opening up a week to Aug. 23 |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2014/jun/17/newest-strip-casino-sls-las-vegas-moves-opening-we/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=June 17, 2014 |archive-date=February 13, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230213100927/https://lasvegassun.com/news/2014/jun/17/newest-strip-casino-sls-las-vegas-moves-opening-we/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Stutz |first=Howard |title=SLS preparing countdown to Aug. 23 grand opening |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/casinos-gaming/sls-preparing-countdown-to-aug-23-grand-opening/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=June 17, 2014 |archive-date=June 20, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200620043931/https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/casinos-gaming/sls-preparing-countdown-to-aug-23-grand-opening/ |url-status=live }}</ref> A $5.2 million marketing campaign was launched to promote the opening. The campaign honored the original Sahara through photographs taken during the 1960s, alongside modern images of the SLS. Historical photos were also featured inside the SLS.<ref name=Tap/> Carpeting throughout the resort featured the images of celebrities who had performed at the Sahara over the years, including [[Dean Martin]].<ref name=Carpet>{{cite news |last=Katsilometes |first=John |title=Dean Martin carpet controversy, nightlife shakeup the latest from SLS |url=https://lasvegassun.com/blogs/kats-report/2015/jan/31/dean-martin-carpet-controversy-nightlife-shakeup-l/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=February 1, 2015 |archive-date=February 13, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230213100927/https://lasvegassun.com/blogs/kats-report/2015/jan/31/dean-martin-carpet-controversy-nightlife-shakeup-l/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Approximately 50 S-shaped Sahara door handles were turned into a chandelier for the SLS.<ref name=Kats2014/>

Stockbridge received state approval to operate the casino two days prior to the scheduled opening. Stockbridge would operate it through a subsidiary known as SB Gaming. The Nevada Gaming Commission requested that Nazarian and SBE not have any involvement in the casino operation until his license investigation was concluded, a process that was expected to take up to five months.<ref>{{cite news |last=Stutz |first=Howard |title=SLS Las Vegas operators recommended for Nevada gaming license |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/casinos-gaming/sls-las-vegas-operators-recommended-for-nevada-gaming-license/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=August 6, 2014 |archive-date=June 22, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200622075429/https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/casinos-gaming/sls-las-vegas-operators-recommended-for-nevada-gaming-license/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Stutz |first=Howard |title=Gaming regulators OK licensing for SLS Las Vegas |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/casinos-gaming/gaming-regulators-ok-licensing-for-sls-las-vegas/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=August 21, 2014 |archive-date=June 22, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200622182155/https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/casinos-gaming/gaming-regulators-ok-licensing-for-sls-las-vegas/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Nazarian and SBE would manage all other areas of the SLS. Stockbridge owned 90 percent of the resort, while SBE owned the remainder.<ref name=Morris>{{cite news |last=Morris |first=J. D. |title=Just in time: SLS Las Vegas gets gaming license |url=https://vegasinc.lasvegassun.com/business/2014/aug/21/just-time-sls-las-vegas-gets-gaming-license/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=VegasInc |date=August 21, 2014 |archive-date=February 13, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230213100712/https://vegasinc.lasvegassun.com/business/2014/aug/21/just-time-sls-las-vegas-gets-gaming-license/ |url-status=live }}</ref>

====Opening====
[[File:SLS Las Vegas 2018.jpg|thumb|right|SLS Las Vegas and ''[[Sam by Starck]]'' statue]]
SLS Las Vegas hosted a VIP party on the night of August 22, 2014, ahead of the public opening at midnight.<ref name=BigFan/> The VIP party hosted 3,600 guests,<ref name=VIP>{{cite news |last=Stutz |first=Howard |title=VIP reception, fireworks herald debut of $415 million SLS Las Vegas |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/casinos-gaming/vip-reception-fireworks-herald-debut-of-415-million-sls-las-vegas/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=August 22, 2014}}</ref> including various celebrities. Thousands of local residents arrived for the midnight opening,<ref name=Global/><ref name=Leach2014/> which was celebrated with performances by [[Iggy Azalea]], [[Rita Ora]], and [[Lenny Kravitz]]. A fireworks display also marked the celebration.<ref name=BigFan/><ref>{{cite news |last=Chareunsy |first=Don |title=SLS Las Vegas is open for business: 'Let's go have some fun!' |url=http://www.lasvegassun.com:80/vegasdeluxe/2014/aug/23/sls-las-vegas-open-business-lets-go-have-some-fun |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=August 23, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140826095059/http://www.lasvegassun.com:80/vegasdeluxe/2014/aug/23/sls-las-vegas-open-business-lets-go-have-some-fun |archive-date=August 26, 2014}}</ref><ref name=Leach2014>{{cite news |last=Leach |first=Robin |title=SLS Las Vegas opening: Iggy Azalea, Bahamas prime minister, Joe Francis, Pamela Anderson, Tiesto |url=http://lasvegassun.com/vegasdeluxe/2014/aug/26/sls-las-vegas-grand-opening-iggy-azalea-bahamas-pr/ |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=August 26, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140901234738/http://lasvegassun.com/vegasdeluxe/2014/aug/26/sls-las-vegas-grand-opening-iggy-azalea-bahamas-pr/ |archive-date=September 1, 2014}}</ref> It was the first new resort to open on the Las Vegas Strip since the [[Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas|Cosmopolitan]] in 2010.<ref>{{cite news |last=Stutz |first=Howard |title=Capacity crowd packs opening of SLS Las Vegas |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/casinos-gaming/capacity-crowd-packs-opening-of-sls-las-vegas/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=August 23, 2014 |archive-date=October 17, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201017070732/https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/casinos-gaming/capacity-crowd-packs-opening-of-sls-las-vegas/ |url-status=live }}</ref> The SLS employed 3,400 people, including nearly 100 former Sahara employees.<ref>{{cite news |last=Clarke |first=Norm |title=Sahara memories enhance SLS Las Vegas |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/entertainment/celebrity/sahara-memories-enhance-sls-las-vegas/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=August 25, 2014 |archive-date=June 22, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200622184600/https://www.reviewjournal.com/entertainment/celebrity/sahara-memories-enhance-sls-las-vegas/ |url-status=live }}</ref>

The SLS Las Vegas was SBE's flagship property with 1,620 rooms, the most of any of its hotel properties.<ref>{{cite news |last=Stutz |first=Howard |title=SLS Las Vegas poised to be SBE Entertainment's flagship property |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/casinos-gaming/sls-las-vegas-poised-to-be-sbe-entertainments-flagship-property/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=June 4, 2014 |archive-date=June 19, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200619033447/https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/casinos-gaming/sls-las-vegas-poised-to-be-sbe-entertainments-flagship-property/ |url-status=live }}</ref> The SLS featured a [[chic]] and modern design.<ref name=Reignites/> The target demographic consisted of residents from southern California,<ref name=Labor/> as well as younger people.<ref name=Warm/> The resort had a focus on offering amenity brands that were popular in Los Angeles, where Nazarian owned several businesses such as nightclubs. The SLS also sought to attract between 35 and 40 percent of its business through local residents, a demographic that generally did not venture to the Las Vegas Strip.<ref name=Reignites>{{cite news |last=Katsilometes |first=John |title=As it reignites north end of the Strip, SLS means Seeking Local Support |url=https://lasvegassun.com/blogs/kats-report/2014/aug/22/it-re-ignites-north-end-strip-sls-means-seeking-lo/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=August 22, 2014 |archive-date=February 13, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230213101641/https://lasvegassun.com/blogs/kats-report/2014/aug/22/it-re-ignites-north-end-strip-sls-means-seeking-lo/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Restaurants and nightclubs were priced low to attract locals,<ref>{{cite news |last=Elfman |first=Doug |title=How's the parking at SLS? And can I buy a drink in the nightclub line? |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/entertainment/hows-the-parking-at-sls-and-can-i-buy-a-drink-in-the-nightclub-line/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=August 22, 2014 |archive-date=June 21, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200621180951/https://www.reviewjournal.com/entertainment/hows-the-parking-at-sls-and-can-i-buy-a-drink-in-the-nightclub-line/ |url-status=live }}</ref> and resort entrances were situated to allow locals to easily access the eateries.<ref>{{cite news |last=Knapp Rinella |first=Heidi |title=SLS restaurants bring LA to Las Vegas |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/life/fooddining/sls-restaurants-bring-la-las-vegas |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=August 21, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140824115600/https://www.reviewjournal.com/life/fooddining/sls-restaurants-bring-la-las-vegas |archive-date=August 24, 2014}}</ref> The SLS would also appeal to local residents through gaming and restaurant promotions. The Sahara's original entrance for the Las Vegas Monorail was demolished and rebuilt for easier access from the casino.<ref name=LA/> The resort also took advantage of its proximity to the Las Vegas Convention Center by offering convention guests with discounts on the monorail.<ref name=Future/>

{{multiple image
| align     = left
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| footer    = SLS casino floor
| image1    = SLS Las Vegas casino.jpg
| image2    = SLS Las Vegas casino floor and color tiles.jpg
| image3 = Casino interior at SLS Las Vegas.jpg
}}
Little remained of the earlier Sahara resort, aside from the exterior shell of its buildings.<ref name=Tap/> The Sahara hotel towers were renamed as the Lux, Story, and World towers, catering respectively to luxury travelers, younger people, and tourists.<ref name=Future/> Kravitz designed four suites for the SLS,<ref name=Future/><ref name=VIP/> and the former Alexandria Tower was turned into an all-suite building.<ref name=LA/> The World tower was the largest, with 1,100 rooms. The rooms in the Story tower featured a basic design with gray walls and exposed concrete ceilings.<ref name=Koren>{{cite news |last=Koren |first=James Rufus |title=Alex Meruelo sees L.A. Latinos as key part of his highest-profile bet: a Las Vegas casino |url=https://www.latimes.com/business/la-fi-meruelo-sls-20180420-story.html |access-date=August 29, 2019 |work=Los Angeles Times |date=April 20, 2018}}</ref><ref name=Pushes/><ref name=LVS-Jan19/> Nazarian's plans made the resort more spacious and provided easier access to the hotel towers and the {{convert|45000|sqft|abbr=on}} conference center.<ref name=LA/> The Sahara's Congo Room was renamed as the Congo Ballroom.<ref name=Reignites/> A portion of the former NASCAR Cafe was turned into space for gambling, nightclubs, and the Bazaar Meat steakhouse.<ref name=LA/><ref name=BigFan/> Along the Las Vegas Strip, an indoor-outdoor patio area was added to serve as a [[beer garden]], taking the place where Speed – The Ride once operated.<ref name=LA>{{cite news |last=Stutz |first=Howard |title=L.A. company exec details redevelopment of SLS Las Vegas |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/l-a-company-exec-details-redevelopment-of-sls-las-vegas/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=October 19, 2013 |archive-date=June 21, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200621082457/https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/l-a-company-exec-details-redevelopment-of-sls-las-vegas/ |url-status=live }}</ref>

Nazarian had the casino floor redesigned for a darker appearance resembling a nightclub, with a high ceiling and exposed ductwork.<ref name=Koren/> Part of the casino featured floor tiles that changed colors.<ref name=Impressions>{{cite news |last=Radke |first=Brock |title=First impressions: How far, how cool and how different is SLS Las Vegas? |url=http://lasvegasweekly.com/column/incidental-tourist/2014/aug/26/first-impressions-how-far-how-cool-and-how-differe/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Weekly |date=August 26, 2014 |archive-date=December 23, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241223235920/https://lasvegasweekly.com/column/incidental-tourist/2014/aug/26/first-impressions-how-far-how-cool-and-how-differe/ |url-status=live }}</ref> The casino measured {{convert|56000|sqft|abbr=on}} and included 790 slot machines, as well as 74 table games.<ref>{{cite news |title=SLS officially joins Las Vegas Strip hotel-casinos |url=https://nl.newsbank.com/ |website=Las Vegas Review-Journal |access-date=July 16, 2020 |date=August 22, 2014 |url-access=subscription |via=NewsLibrary |archive-date=June 4, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190604174101/http://nl.newsbank.com/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name=Dining/> The casino was small compared to others on the Las Vegas Strip. In contrast to the Sahara casino, the number of slot machines in the SLS was reduced to allow more table games. The updated SLS floor plan had gaming throughout the property, including table games in one of the nightclubs and in a restaurant's lounge area.<ref name=Small>{{cite news |last=Morris |first=J. D. |title=With its small casino floor, is SLS offering a look at the future of Las Vegas? |url=https://vegasinc.lasvegassun.com/news/2014/aug/22/its-small-casino-floor-sls-offering-look-future-ve/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=VegasInc |date=August 22, 2014 |archive-date=August 23, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190823080813/https://vegasinc.lasvegassun.com/news/2014/aug/22/its-small-casino-floor-sls-offering-look-future-ve/ |url-status=live }}</ref> The casino also included a sports book operated by [[William Hill (bookmaker)|William Hill]].<ref name=VIP/><ref>{{cite news |last=Komenda |first=Ed |title=William Hill to bring 'traditional sports book model to a whole new level' at SLS Las Vegas |url=https://vegasinc.lasvegassun.com/business/gaming/2013/aug/29/william-hill-bring-traditional-sports-book-model-w/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=VegasInc |date=August 29, 2013 |archive-date=October 21, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191021075433/https://vegasinc.lasvegassun.com/business/gaming/2013/aug/29/william-hill-bring-traditional-sports-book-model-w/ |url-status=live }}</ref>

Prior to its opening, observers were concerned that the SLS did not have enough of a focus on its casino portion. The Cosmopolitan, also a modern resort with a limited focus on gaming, had lost money since its opening in 2010. However, gaming was no longer a primary source of revenue for most casino resorts in Las Vegas.<ref>{{cite news |last=Stutz |first=Howard |title=SLS aims to avoid Cosmo's mistakes |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/business-columns/inside-gaming/inside-gaming-sls-aims-to-avoid-cosmos-mistakes/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=December 14, 2013}}</ref><ref name=Small/> As the opening approached, analysts believed the SLS would perform better than the Cosmopolitan.<ref name=Future/>

The SLS opened with nine restaurants, many of which were popular in Los Angeles.<ref name=Future/><ref>{{cite news |last=Erickson |first=Matt |title=A preview of Bazaar, Ku Noodle, Katsuya and more |url=http://www.lasvegassun.com:80/vegasdeluxe/2014/jul/29/sls-las-vegas-culinary-king-matt-erickson-preview-/ |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=July 29, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140802181625/http://www.lasvegassun.com:80/vegasdeluxe/2014/jul/29/sls-las-vegas-culinary-king-matt-erickson-preview-/ |archive-date=August 2, 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Jones |first=Jay |url=https://www.latimes.com/travel/destinations/lasvegas/la-trb-las-vegas-sls-resort-to-open-fall-2014-20130213,0,2428284.story |title=Las Vegas: SLS resort to open in fall 2014 in the former Sahara |newspaper=[[Los Angeles Times]] |date=February 14, 2013 |access-date=February 15, 2015 |archive-date=March 15, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130315085701/http://www.latimes.com/travel/destinations/lasvegas/la-trb-las-vegas-sls-resort-to-open-fall-2014-20130213,0,2428284.story |url-status=live }}</ref> [[José Andrés]] had two restaurants at the resort,<ref name=Dining/> including Bazaar Meat.<ref name=BigFan/><ref>{{cite news |last=Clarke |first=Norm |title=Chef Andres' Bazaar Meat keeping it simple |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/entertainment/chef-andres-bazaar-meat-keeping-it-simple/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=September 1, 2014}}</ref> Andrés had been a partner of SBE for six years.<ref name=BigFan>{{cite news |last=Clarke |first=Norm |title=Star chef Andrés has big fan on SLS Las Vegas team |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/entertainment/celebrity/star-chef-andres-has-big-fan-on-sls-las-vegas-team/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=August 22, 2014 |archive-date=June 22, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200622114214/https://www.reviewjournal.com/entertainment/celebrity/star-chef-andres-has-big-fan-on-sls-las-vegas-team/ |url-status=live }}</ref> The resort also included an [[Umami Burger]],<ref name=Dining/><ref>{{cite news |last=Radke |first=Brock |title=At last, Umami joins the Vegas burger bash |url=http://www.lasvegasweekly.com/news/2014/aug/21/last-umami-joins-vegas-burger-bash/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Weekly |date=August 21, 2014 |archive-date=December 28, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151228235219/http://lasvegasweekly.com/news/2014/aug/21/last-umami-joins-vegas-burger-bash/ |url-status=live }}</ref> the SLS Buffet, the Griddle Cafe,<ref name=Dining>{{cite news |last=Leach |first=Robin |title=Dining at SLS: Bazaar Meat, Ku Noodle, Cleo, Katsuya, 800 Degrees, Griddle Cafe and more |url=http://www.lasvegassun.com:80/vegasdeluxe/2014/aug/27/dining-sls-bazaar-meat-ku-noodle-cleo-katsuya-800-/ |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=August 27, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140830102536/http://www.lasvegassun.com:80/vegasdeluxe/2014/aug/27/dining-sls-bazaar-meat-ku-noodle-cleo-katsuya-800-/ |archive-date=August 30, 2014}}</ref> and a Mediterranean restaurant known as Cleo.<ref name=BigFan/><ref>{{cite news |last=Elmaleh |first=Danny |title=SLS Las Vegas brings taste of Mediterranean to the Strip |url=https://lasvegassun.com/vegasdeluxe/2014/aug/21/chef-danny-elmaleh-sls-las-vegas-brings-taste-medi/ |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=August 21, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160822004705/https://lasvegassun.com/vegasdeluxe/2014/aug/21/chef-danny-elmaleh-sls-las-vegas-brings-taste-medi/ |archive-date=August 22, 2016}}</ref>

The SLS had three nightclubs: Foxtail, Life, and Sayers Club.<ref>{{cite news |last=Rilling |first=Deanna |title=SLS nightlife 101: How to party hop at the Strip's newest resort |url=http://www.lasvegasweekly.com/news/2014/aug/21/sls-nightlife-101-how-party-hop-sls-new-resort/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Weekly |date=August 21, 2014 |archive-date=November 1, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221101191230/https://lasvegasweekly.com/news/2014/aug/21/sls-nightlife-101-how-party-hop-sls-new-resort/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name=Nightlife>{{cite news |last=Leach |first=Robin |title=Nightlife at SLS Las Vegas: Life Nightclub, The Sayers Club and Foxtail |url=http://www.lasvegassun.com/vegasdeluxe/2014/aug/28/nightlife-sls-las-vegas-life-nightclub-sayers-club/ |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=August 28, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140903132123/http://www.lasvegassun.com/vegasdeluxe/2014/aug/28/nightlife-sls-las-vegas-life-nightclub-sayers-club/ |archive-date=September 3, 2014}}</ref> Foxtail had an {{convert|8000|sqft|abbr=on}} interior space. It also featured a {{convert|43000|sqft|abbr=on}} exterior area known as Foxtail Pool Club, open during certain times of the year.<ref>{{cite news |last=Elfman |first=Doug |title=New details emerge on Foxtail, Vegas' next club |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/entertainment/new-details-emerge-on-foxtail-vegas-next-club/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=May 14, 2014 |archive-date=June 24, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200624110918/https://www.reviewjournal.com/entertainment/new-details-emerge-on-foxtail-vegas-next-club/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Foxtail Pool Club parties included 3D images projected onto the wall of the resort's parking garage.<ref name=Impressions/> Life measured {{convert|20000|sqft|abbr=on}}, and took the space formerly occupied by the Sahara Theater. Life had capacity for 1,800 people,<ref name=Bracelin>{{cite news |last=Bracelin |first=Jason |title=SLS nightclubs offer something for everyone |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/entertainment/nightlife/sls-nightclubs-offer-something-for-everyone/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=August 21, 2014 |archive-date=June 22, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200622135025/https://www.reviewjournal.com/entertainment/nightlife/sls-nightclubs-offer-something-for-everyone/ |url-status=live }}</ref> and included three bars, 70 VIP tables, DJ music, and a rooftop pool smaller than the one at Foxtail.<ref name=Global/><ref>{{cite news |last=Rilling |first=Deanna |title=Life at SLS promises to break the formulaic EDM bubble |url=http://www.lasvegasweekly.com/nightlife/2014/aug/19/life-sls-promises-break-formulaic-edm-bubble/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Weekly |date=August 19, 2014 |archive-date=August 21, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140821165304/http://lasvegasweekly.com/nightlife/2014/aug/19/life-sls-promises-break-formulaic-edm-bubble/ |url-status=live }}</ref> The Sayers Club originated in Hollywood in 2011, and the SLS Las Vegas marked its second location. The club measured {{convert|4700|sqft|abbr=on}} and included capacity for 168 people. It doubled as a live music venue.<ref name=Nightlife/><ref name=Bracelin/><ref>{{cite news |last=Patterson |first=Spencer |title=SLS' Sayers Club promises a unique live-music experience |url=https://lasvegasweekly.com/news/2014/aug/21/sls-sayers-club-promises-unique-live-music-experie/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Weekly |date=August 21, 2014 |archive-date=February 13, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230213101641/https://lasvegasweekly.com/news/2014/aug/21/sls-sayers-club-promises-unique-live-music-experie/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Ventura |first=Leslie |title=A first listen at SLS' Sayers Club with Tove Lo |url=https://lasvegasweekly.com/ae/music/2014/aug/30/first-listen-sls-sayers-club-tove-lo/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Weekly |date=August 30, 2014 |archive-date=February 13, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230213101641/https://lasvegasweekly.com/ae/music/2014/aug/30/first-listen-sls-sayers-club-tove-lo/ |url-status=live }}</ref>

[[File:800 Degrees restaurant at SLS Las Vegas.jpg|thumb|A restaurant near the casino]]
Clothing retailer [[Fred Segal]] operated seven stores throughout the SLS, each offering different merchandise and taking up a total of {{convert|10000|sqft|abbr=on}}. Fred Segal was a well known retailer in the Los Angeles area and was added to SLS Las Vegas to provide southern California tourists with familiarity. It marked the first time that Fred Segal opened a location outside of southern California.<ref>{{cite news |last=Sylvester |first=Ron |title=SLS resort, formerly Sahara, to feature Fred Segal stores |url=https://vegasinc.lasvegassun.com/business/gaming/2012/nov/20/sls-resort-formerly-sahara-feature-fred-segal-stor/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=VegasInc |date=November 20, 2012 |archive-date=November 11, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201111175837/https://vegasinc.lasvegassun.com/business/gaming/2012/nov/20/sls-resort-formerly-sahara-feature-fred-segal-stor/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Stutz |first=Howard |title=Old Sahara to have L.A. feel |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/tourism/old-sahara-to-have-l-a-feel/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=November 20, 2012 |archive-date=June 21, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200621003404/https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/tourism/old-sahara-to-have-l-a-feel/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Friedman |first=Ann |title=Top L.A. brand anchors SLS Las Vegas |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/top-l-a-brand-anchors-sls-las-vegas/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=August 21, 2014 |archive-date=June 22, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200622184554/https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/top-l-a-brand-anchors-sls-las-vegas/ |url-status=live }}</ref>

A 32-foot-tall abstract statue, known as ''[[Sam by Starck]]'', was designed by Starck and placed in front of the SLS, as a homage to Nazarian. The statue, resembling a silver starfish, was compared by some observers to the [[Stay Puft Marshmallow Man]] and the [[Pillsbury Doughboy]].<ref name=Global>{{cite news |last=Leach |first=Robin |title=SLS Las Vegas opens with global guests, shows by Iggy Azalea and Lenny Kravitz |url=http://lasvegassun.com:80/vegasdeluxe/2014/aug/23/sls-las-vegas-opens-global-guests-shows-iggy-azale/ |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=August 23, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140826210458/http://lasvegassun.com:80/vegasdeluxe/2014/aug/23/sls-las-vegas-opens-global-guests-shows-iggy-azale/ |archive-date=August 26, 2014}}</ref><ref name=Starck>{{cite news |last=Katsilometes |first=John |title=SLS/Sahara Las Vegas says goodbye to 'Sam by Starck' statue |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/entertainment/entertainment-columns/kats/sls-sahara-las-vegas-says-goodbye-to-sam-by-starck-statue-1835972/ |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=August 28, 2019 |access-date=August 28, 2019 |archive-date=August 28, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190828205734/https://www.reviewjournal.com/entertainment/entertainment-columns/kats/sls-sahara-las-vegas-says-goodbye-to-sam-by-starck-statue-1835972/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name=Bowers>{{cite news |last=Bowers |first=Nikki |title=SLS Las Vegas says goodbye to statue |url=https://www.8newsnow.com/news/sls-las-vegas-says-goodbye-to-statue/ |access-date=August 28, 2019 |publisher=KLAS |date=August 27, 2019 |archive-date=August 28, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190828205745/https://www.8newsnow.com/news/sls-las-vegas-says-goodbye-to-statue/ |url-status=live }}</ref> The statue, which used an internal steel frame,<ref name=Duck/> was constructed on-site and in pieces. A 12-foot metal duck statue, also by Starck, was added to the hotel's pool area.<ref name=Sam>{{cite news |last=Katsilometes |first=John |title='Sam' statue at SLS/Sahara Las Vegas wasn't going to be saved |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/entertainment/entertainment-columns/kats/sam-statue-at-sls-sahara-las-vegas-wasnt-going-to-be-saved-1836205/ |access-date=August 29, 2019 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=August 28, 2019 |archive-date=August 28, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190828220928/https://www.reviewjournal.com/entertainment/entertainment-columns/kats/sam-statue-at-sls-sahara-las-vegas-wasnt-going-to-be-saved-1836205/ |url-status=live }}</ref> The duck statue was filled with Styrofoam and was glued in place.<ref name=Duck/>

The opening of the SLS was considered a positive step for the north Las Vegas Strip following the Great Recession.<ref>{{cite news |last=Morris |first=J. D. |title=SLS signals better times for Las Vegas Strip, broker says |url=https://vegasinc.lasvegassun.com/news/2014/aug/21/sls-signals-better-times-las-vegas-strip/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=VegasInc |date=August 21, 2014 |archive-date=February 13, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230213101850/https://vegasinc.lasvegassun.com/news/2014/aug/21/sls-signals-better-times-las-vegas-strip/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name=Kats2014>{{cite news |last=Katsilometes |first=John |title=Can SLS Las Vegas bring life back to the north end of the Strip? |url=https://lasvegasweekly.com/news/2014/aug/21/can-sls-las-vegas-bring-life-back-north-end-strip/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Weekly |date=August 21, 2014 |archive-date=February 13, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230213100320/https://lasvegasweekly.com/news/2014/aug/21/can-sls-las-vegas-bring-life-back-north-end-strip/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name=Reignites/> The resort soon became a popular hangout for celebrities.<ref>{{cite news |last=Chareunsy |first=Don |title=Joe Jonas, Lauren Conrad, Dirty South, Jose Andres, Desiree Hartsock at SLS Las Vegas |url=http://www.lasvegassun.com/vegasdeluxe/2014/nov/02/joe-jonas-lauren-conrad-dirty-south-desiree-hartso/ |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=November 2, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141113134216/http://www.lasvegassun.com/vegasdeluxe/2014/nov/02/joe-jonas-lauren-conrad-dirty-south-desiree-hartso/ |archive-date=November 13, 2014}}</ref>

====Changes====
The SLS opening was followed by the winter season, typically a weaker business period for Las Vegas resorts.<ref name=Stormy/> The SLS experienced various hardships during its first year.<ref name=Rough/><ref name=Stormy/><ref name=Worse/><ref name=Loyalty/> In October 2014, the SLS laid off less than two percent of its workers. A reduction in staffing was common for Las Vegas Strip casinos shortly after opening, as business is difficult to predict prior to that point. The number of layoffs was low for a Las Vegas resort.<ref name=Stormy/><ref>{{cite news |last=Visconti |first=Katie |title=SLS Las Vegas announces layoffs soon after opening |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2014/oct/13/sls-las-vegas-announces-layoffs/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=October 13, 2014 |archive-date=February 13, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230213102110/https://lasvegassun.com/news/2014/oct/13/sls-las-vegas-announces-layoffs/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Stutz |first=Howard |title=Layoffs at recently opened SLS Las Vegas |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/casinos-gaming/layoffs-at-recently-opened-sls-las-vegas/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=October 13, 2014 |archive-date=September 1, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190901052216/https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/casinos-gaming/layoffs-at-recently-opened-sls-las-vegas/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Rob Oseland, the president of SLS Las Vegas, announced later that month that he would depart the property to work on a new project.<ref>{{cite news |last=Morris |first=J. D. |title=2 months after SLS opens, President Rob Oseland is leaving |url=https://vegasinc.lasvegassun.com/business/gaming/2014/oct/27/2-months-after-sls-opens-president-rob-oseland-lea/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=VegasInc |date=October 27, 2014 |archive-date=December 17, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211217150829/https://vegasinc.lasvegassun.com/business/gaming/2014/oct/27/2-months-after-sls-opens-president-rob-oseland-lea/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name=Jumps>{{cite news |last=Stutz |first=Howard |title=Two months after debut, SLS Las Vegas president jumps ship |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/casinos-gaming/two-months-after-debut-sls-las-vegas-president-jumps-ship/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=October 27, 2014 |archive-date=June 22, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200622202130/https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/casinos-gaming/two-months-after-debut-sls-las-vegas-president-jumps-ship/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Such departures are also common following a resort opening.<ref name=Stormy/> He was replaced by Scott Kreeger, a former executive for [[MGM Resorts]] and [[Station Casinos]].<ref name=Jumps/> The buffet did not perform as hoped, due to its location on the second floor. It was temporarily closed for the season in November 2014, with an expected reopening the next year.<ref>{{cite news |last=Stutz |first=Howard |title=SLS Las Vegas buffet to close, reopen in 2015 |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/casinos-gaming/sls-las-vegas-buffet-to-close-reopen-in-2015/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=November 11, 2014 |archive-date=June 22, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200622184557/https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/casinos-gaming/sls-las-vegas-buffet-to-close-reopen-in-2015/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name=Rough>{{cite news |last=Katsilometes |first=John |title=SLS off to rough start but looking forward to 2015 |url=https://lasvegassun.com/blogs/kats-report/2014/nov/23/sls-rough-start-looking-forward-2015/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=November 23, 2014 |archive-date=August 12, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190812065235/https://lasvegassun.com/blogs/kats-report/2014/nov/23/sls-rough-start-looking-forward-2015/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name=Stormy>{{cite news |last=Morris |first=J. D. |title=After stormy start, do better days lie ahead for SLS Las Vegas? |url=https://vegasinc.lasvegassun.com/news/2015/jan/02/after-stormy-start-do-better-days-lie-ahead-sls-la/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=VegasInc |date=January 2, 2015 |archive-date=February 13, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230213101850/https://vegasinc.lasvegassun.com/news/2015/jan/02/after-stormy-start-do-better-days-lie-ahead-sls-la/ |url-status=live }}</ref>

In December 2014, during a hearing with the Nevada Gaming Control Board, Nazarian admitted to drug use earlier in the year. The board had concerns about this and also questioned Nazarian's handling of an extortionist who received money from Nazarian to leave him alone. The board was concerned that Nazarian could be easily manipulated, but ultimately recommended him for a limited gaming license.<ref>{{cite news |last=Morris |first=J. D. |title=Seeing red flags, regulators recommend limited license for Nazarian at SLS |url=https://vegasinc.lasvegassun.com/business/gaming/2014/dec/03/red-flags-keep-sam-nazarian-full-license-sls/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=VegasInc |date=December 3, 2014 |archive-date=September 4, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190904201526/https://vegasinc.lasvegassun.com/business/gaming/2014/dec/03/red-flags-keep-sam-nazarian-full-license-sls/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Stutz |first=Howard |title=Regulators recommend Nazarian for one-year limited license |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/casinos-gaming/regulators-recommend-nazarian-for-one-year-limited-license/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=December 3, 2014 |archive-date=June 22, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200622231103/https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/casinos-gaming/regulators-recommend-nazarian-for-one-year-limited-license/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Later that month, Nazarian and Stockbridge came to a mutual agreement that he step back from all daily operations at the SLS. Nazarian said he wanted to focus on other SBE brands, while SBE would continue to operate the non-gaming areas of the SLS.<ref>{{cite news |last=Morris |first=J. D. |title=Nazarian out of day-to-day operations at SLS |url=https://vegasinc.lasvegassun.com/business/gaming/2014/dec/16/nazarian-out-day--day-operations-sls/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=VegasInc |date=December 16, 2014 |archive-date=February 13, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230213102241/https://vegasinc.lasvegassun.com/business/gaming/2014/dec/16/nazarian-out-day--day-operations-sls/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Stutz |first=Howard |title=Nazarian to step back from SLS Las Vegas daily duties |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/casinos-gaming/nazarian-to-step-back-from-sls-las-vegas-daily-duties/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=December 16, 2014}}</ref>

Although Nazarian was no longer involved in operations, state law still required that he be licensed, as he owned more than five percent of the resort. A few days after Nazarian's departure, the Nevada Gaming Commission held a hearing in regard to his licensing. Although the commission intended to deny him, Nazarian apologized for his past actions and convinced the commission to grant him a one-year limited gaming license. Because of the prior concerns regarding Nazarian, there were several conditions relating to his license, including random drug testing and no involvement in casino operations.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Fleming |first1=Charles |last2=Martin |first2=Hugo |title=Sam Nazarian wins casino license, must submit to random drug testing |url=https://www.latimes.com/business/la-fi-nazarian-gaming-license-20141219-story.html |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=Los Angeles Times |date=December 18, 2014 |archive-date=June 22, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200622212829/https://www.latimes.com/business/la-fi-nazarian-gaming-license-20141219-story.html |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Stutz |first=Howard |title=Nazarian issues apologies, and gaming regulators OK limited license |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/casinos-gaming/nazarian-issues-apologies-and-gaming-regulators-ok-limited-license/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=December 18, 2014 |archive-date=June 23, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200623140725/https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/casinos-gaming/nazarian-issues-apologies-and-gaming-regulators-ok-limited-license/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Morris |first=J. D. |title=SLS visionary Sam Nazarian gets limited gaming license |url=https://vegasinc.lasvegassun.com/business/gaming/2014/dec/18/sls-visionary-sam-nazarian-gets-limited-gaming-lic/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=VegasInc |date=December 18, 2014 |archive-date=February 13, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230213102240/https://vegasinc.lasvegassun.com/business/gaming/2014/dec/18/sls-visionary-sam-nazarian-gets-limited-gaming-lic/ |url-status=live }}</ref>

Although the Griddle Cafe was popular among customers, its owner chose to close it in January 2015, to focus on new locations. The restaurant was renamed as Northside Cafe the following month.<ref>{{cite news |title=Griddle Cafe out, Northside Cafe in at SLS |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2015/jan/29/griddle-cafe-out-northside-cafe-sls/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=January 29, 2015 |archive-date=February 13, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230213102246/https://lasvegassun.com/news/2015/jan/29/griddle-cafe-out-northside-cafe-sls/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Stutz |first=Howard |title=Griddle Cafe at SLS Las Vegas will close |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/casinos-gaming/griddle-cafe-at-sls-las-vegas-will-close/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=January 29, 2015 |archive-date=June 23, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200623143653/https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/casinos-gaming/griddle-cafe-at-sls-las-vegas-will-close/ |url-status=live }}</ref> At the time, there were no plans to reopen the buffet, and the Foxtail club had seen poor revenue. In addition, Dean Martin's family had requested a $50,000 licensing fee for using his image on the resort's carpeting. The family stated that the image infringed on Martin's [[right of publicity]], and legal action was threatened if the SLS did not either remove the carpet image or pay the fee. The SLS filed a lawsuit against Martin's family and sought a [[declaratory judgment]] that the carpeting was not infringement.<ref name=Carpet/> In May 2015, the [[Teamsters]] union picketed for several days outside the SLS, alleging that the resort refused to let its valet parkers form a union.<ref>{{cite news |last=Stutz |first=Howard |title=Teamsters set up picket lines at SLS Las Vegas |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/local/local-las-vegas/teamsters-set-up-picket-lines-at-sls-las-vegas/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=May 20, 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Stutz |first=Howard |title=Teamsters halt pickets at SLS over organizing valet staff |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/casinos-gaming/teamsters-halt-pickets-at-sls-over-organizing-valet-staff/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=May 23, 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Stutz |first=Howard |title=SLS valet workers say majority don't want union |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/casinos-gaming/sls-valet-workers-say-majority-dont-want-union/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=June 1, 2015 |archive-date=June 22, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200622225731/https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/casinos-gaming/sls-valet-workers-say-majority-dont-want-union/ |url-status=live }}</ref>

The SLS experienced revenue losses during the first half of 2015.<ref>{{cite news |last=Stutz |first=Howard |title=SLS lost $35m in first quarter |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/casinos-gaming/sls-lost-35m-in-first-quarter/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=June 23, 2015 |archive-date=June 25, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200625034817/https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/casinos-gaming/sls-lost-35m-in-first-quarter/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name=Worse>{{cite news |last=Stutz |first=Howard |title=At SLS Las Vegas, things may worsen before they get better |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/business-columns/inside-gaming/at-sls-las-vegas-things-may-worsen-before-they-get-better/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=July 5, 2015 |archive-date=June 22, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200622215241/https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/business-columns/inside-gaming/at-sls-las-vegas-things-may-worsen-before-they-get-better/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name=Second>{{cite news |last=Stutz |first=Howard |title=SLS Las Vegas net loss reaches $48.6 million in second quarter |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/casinos-gaming/sls-las-vegas-net-loss-reaches-48-6-million-in-second-quarter/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=August 18, 2015 |archive-date=June 25, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200625024825/https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/casinos-gaming/sls-las-vegas-net-loss-reaches-48-6-million-in-second-quarter/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Walk-in traffic was poor due to the resort's location, surrounded by unbuilt projects.<ref name=Worse/> The SLS was also half a mile away from its nearest rival resorts, further contributing to a lack of walk-in business.<ref name=Impressions/> However, the monorail helped increase customer numbers. Kreeger estimated that a complete turnaround at the resort could take 18 to 24 months as adjustments were made.<ref name=Worse/> In response to the losses, there were plans to turn the Life nightclub into a live music venue with a third-party operator to manage it.<ref name=Second/> The casino's loyalty club was revamped in a further effort to attract locals,<ref>{{cite news |last=Morris |first=J. D. |title=Amid struggles, SLS reaffirms its efforts to attract locals |url=https://vegasinc.lasvegassun.com/business/gaming/2015/jul/17/amid-financial-struggles-sls-reaffirms-efforts-att/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=VegasInc |date=July 17, 2015 |archive-date=February 13, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230213102646/https://vegasinc.lasvegassun.com/business/gaming/2015/jul/17/amid-financial-struggles-sls-reaffirms-efforts-att/ |url-status=live }}</ref> and Kreeger wanted to double the resort's convention space.<ref>{{cite news |last=Katsilometes |first=John |title=Despite slow start, SLS boss confident in future |url=https://lasvegassun.com/blogs/kats-report/2015/jul/13/despite-slow-start-sls-boss-confident-future/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=July 13, 2015 |archive-date=August 7, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190807023724/https://lasvegassun.com/blogs/kats-report/2015/jul/13/despite-slow-start-sls-boss-confident-future/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name=Hope>{{cite news |last=Katsilometes |first=John |title=New partnership gives SLS hope for turnaround |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2015/nov/15/new-partnership-gives-sls-hope-for-turnaround/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=November 15, 2015}}</ref> There was consideration given to turning the closed buffet into additional meeting space.<ref name=Second/>

Two SLS restaurants were sold to restaurant operator One Group in July 2015, although SBE continued to manage them.<ref>{{cite news |last=Katsilometes |first=John |title=The One Group orders a double: Katsuya and Cleo at SLS Las Vegas |url=https://lasvegassun.com/blogs/kats-report/2015/jul/09/one-group-orders-double-katsuya-and-cleo-sls-las-v/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=July 9, 2015 |archive-date=February 13, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230213102800/https://lasvegassun.com/blogs/kats-report/2015/jul/09/one-group-orders-double-katsuya-and-cleo-sls-las-v/ |url-status=live }}</ref> The following month, Fred Segal closed its stores at the SLS, and the resort opened three of its own retailers as a replacement. Kreeger said that local customers were not interested in the high-priced clothing at the Fred Segal stores, and tourists from southern California already have such stores to shop at, leading to the closure of the SLS locations.<ref>{{cite news |last=Katsilometes |first=John |title=SLS Las Vegas-Fred Segal 'productive collaboration' closes out |url=https://lasvegassun.com/blogs/kats-report/2015/sep/10/sls-las-vegas-fred-segal-productive-collaboration-/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=September 10, 2015 |archive-date=February 13, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230213102800/https://lasvegassun.com/blogs/kats-report/2015/sep/10/sls-las-vegas-fred-segal-productive-collaboration-/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Stutz |first=Howard |title=LA retailer closes 7 shops at SLS Las Vegas |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/casinos-gaming/la-retailer-closes-7-shops-at-sls-las-vegas/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=September 11, 2015}}</ref> The SLS continued to suffer financially.<ref name=ThirdQ>{{cite news |last=Stutz |first=Howard |title=SLS Las Vegas suffers $38.7 million net loss in third quarter |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/casinos-gaming/sls-las-vegas-suffers-38-7-million-net-loss-in-third-quarter/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=November 13, 2015 |archive-date=August 10, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200810225127/https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/casinos-gaming/sls-las-vegas-suffers-38-7-million-net-loss-in-third-quarter/ |url-status=live }}</ref>

[[File:SLS Las Vegas sign.jpg|upright|left|thumb|Sign for SLS and W Las Vegas]]
In October 2015, it was announced that Nazarian would sell his 10-percent interest to Stockbridge, which would pay a licensing fee to SBE to continue using the SLS name. Stockbridge stated that the deal would be more cost-efficient and would give greater flexibility to open new restaurants at the resort. Nazarian also considered the deal beneficial.<ref>{{cite news |last=Stutz |first=Howard |title=Nazarian selling 10 percent stake in SLS Las Vegas |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/casinos-gaming/nazarian-selling-10-percent-stake-in-sls-las-vegas/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=October 6, 2015 |archive-date=June 23, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200623003236/https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/casinos-gaming/nazarian-selling-10-percent-stake-in-sls-las-vegas/ |url-status=live }}</ref> The acquisition was approved by the state in November 2015,<ref>{{cite news |title=Stockbridge approved to acquire remaining 10 percent of SLS; Nazarian, SBE Entertainment out |url=https://vegasinc.lasvegassun.com/business/gaming/2015/nov/19/stockbridge-approved-to-acquire-remaining-10-perce/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=VegasInc |date=November 19, 2015 |archive-date=February 13, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230213102646/https://vegasinc.lasvegassun.com/business/gaming/2015/nov/19/stockbridge-approved-to-acquire-remaining-10-perce/ |url-status=live }}</ref> and Stockbridge ended its affiliation with Hilton and its Curio collection.<ref name=ThirdQ/><ref name=Loyalty>{{cite news |last=Morris |first=J. D. |title=SLS Las Vegas, Hilton loyalty program no longer affiliated |url=https://vegasinc.lasvegassun.com/business/gaming/2015/nov/06/sls-las-vegas-hilton-loyalty-program-no-longer-aff/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=VegasInc |date=November 6, 2015 |archive-date=March 28, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180328090855/https://vegasinc.lasvegassun.com/business/gaming/2015/nov/06/sls-las-vegas-hilton-loyalty-program-no-longer-aff/ |url-status=live }}</ref>

That month, Stockbridge announced a partnership with [[Starwood Hotels and Resorts|Starwood]] to take over the 289-room Lux tower and reopen it in 2016 under the name W Las Vegas. [[W Hotels]] was considered a luxury brand, and the new project was expected to increase revenue by attracting a more upscale demographic. In addition, the two SLS towers were to be added to [[Tribute Portfolio]], a chain of independent four-star hotels. Both companies financed the W Las Vegas project, while the other two towers remained part of the SLS Las Vegas. Starwood managed the W Las Vegas, while Stockbridge continued managing the SLS. It would mark the first W hotel in Las Vegas after several previous attempts to build one, including [[W Las Vegas (canceled project)|a failed project]] near the Las Vegas Strip.<ref name=Hope/><ref>{{cite news |last=Jones |first=Jay |title=Las Vegas getting a W Hotel as part of existing SLS Hotel on the Strip |url=http://www.latimes.com/travel/lasvegas/la-trb-w-sls-hotel-las-vegas-20151109-story.html |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=Los Angeles Times |date=November 9, 2015 |archive-date=July 18, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200718231709/https://www.latimes.com/travel/lasvegas/la-trb-w-sls-hotel-las-vegas-20151109-story.html |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Stutz |first=Howard |title=Deal will remake SLS hotel tower as W Las Vegas |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/casinos-gaming/deal-will-remake-sls-hotel-tower-as-w-las-vegas/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=November 9, 2015 |archive-date=June 22, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200622205612/https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/casinos-gaming/deal-will-remake-sls-hotel-tower-as-w-las-vegas/ |url-status=live }}</ref>

The Life nightclub reopened as a live music venue, The Foundry, in February 2016.<ref>{{cite news |last=Katsilometes |first=John |title=BMG bananas at new Luxor venue; Life to be resurrected as Foundry Hall at SLS |url=https://lasvegassun.com/blogs/kats-report/2015/nov/12/bmg-is-bananas-over-new-luxor-venue-life-to-be-res/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=November 12, 2015 |archive-date=February 13, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230213102800/https://lasvegassun.com/blogs/kats-report/2015/nov/12/bmg-is-bananas-over-new-luxor-venue-life-to-be-res/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Chareunsy |first=Don |title=Preview: Venue has new lease on Life as the Foundry at SLS Las Vegas |url=https://lasvegassun.com/vegasdeluxe/2016/jan/18/preview-venue-has-new-lease-on-life-as-the-foundry/ |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=January 18, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160120220043/https://lasvegassun.com/vegasdeluxe/2016/jan/18/preview-venue-has-new-lease-on-life-as-the-foundry/ |archive-date=January 20, 2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Lil Wayne dazzles full house at the Foundry grand opening |url=http://lasvegassun.com/vegasdeluxe/2016/feb/09/lil-wayne-dazzles-full-house-foundry-grand-opening/ |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=February 9, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160211101249/http://lasvegassun.com/vegasdeluxe/2016/feb/09/lil-wayne-dazzles-full-house-foundry-grand-opening/ |archive-date=February 11, 2016}}</ref> The Foundry had capacity for 1,800 standing guests, or seating for 600. Musical acts were handled by [[Live Nation Entertainment]].<ref>{{cite news |last=Weatherford |first=Mike |title=SLS will finally open a venue for live entertainment |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/entertainment/shows/sls-will-finally-open-a-venue-for-live-entertainment/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=January 21, 2016}}</ref> The Sayers Club had begun offering comedy acts, which were also offered at The Foundry in addition to its musical performances.<ref>{{cite news |last=Katsilometes |first=John |title=SLS Las Vegas has a fighting chance with the Foundry |url=https://lasvegassun.com/blogs/kats-report/2016/jan/19/sls-las-vegas-has-a-fighting-chance-with-the-found/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=January 19, 2016 |archive-date=February 13, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230213102759/https://lasvegassun.com/blogs/kats-report/2016/jan/19/sls-las-vegas-has-a-fighting-chance-with-the-found/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name=Glamorous/>

W Las Vegas had been scheduled to open in September 2016, but this was delayed when Starwood was acquired by [[Marriott International]] that month. W Las Vegas ultimately opened on December 1, 2016, becoming the city's latest hotel-within-a-hotel after others such as [[Delano Las Vegas]]. It included its own entrance at the rear of the SLS. It also featured a W-branded spa, and a three-floor building with {{convert|15000|sqft|abbr=on}} of event and meeting space.<ref>{{cite news |last=Velotta |first=Richard N. |title=W Hotels Worldwide logo lights up Las Vegas |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/tourism/w-hotels-worldwide-logo-lights-up-las-vegas/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=December 1, 2016}}</ref><ref name=W-sign>{{cite news |last=Moore |first=Thomas |title='W' lifted into place on north Strip |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2016/oct/14/w-lifted-into-place-on-north-strip/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=October 14, 2016 |archive-date=July 24, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190724194142/https://lasvegassun.com/news/2016/oct/14/w-lifted-into-place-on-north-strip/ |url-status=live }}</ref> The three-story building was a new addition.<ref>{{cite news |last=Radke |first=Brock |title=As SLS evolves, an intimate, boutique-ish vibe becomes evident |url=https://lasvegasweekly.com/column/incidental-tourist/2016/mar/02/sls-evolution-foundry-w-hotel-starwood/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Weekly |date=March 2, 2016 |archive-date=September 26, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210926184423/https://lasvegasweekly.com/column/incidental-tourist/2016/mar/02/sls-evolution-foundry-w-hotel-starwood/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Morris |first=J. D. |title=County approves new Wynn shopping center, convention building and pool at SLS |url=https://vegasinc.lasvegassun.com/business/gaming/2016/feb/03/county-approves-new-wynn-shopping-center-conventio/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=VegasInc |date=February 3, 2016 |archive-date=February 13, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230213102957/https://vegasinc.lasvegassun.com/business/gaming/2016/feb/03/county-approves-new-wynn-shopping-center-conventio/ |url-status=live }}</ref> A 13,500-pound neon "W" letter was added atop the SLS sign on the Las Vegas Strip.<ref name=W-sign/>

Kreeger resigned as SLS Las Vegas president at the end of 2016, to work for another company.<ref>{{cite news |last=Velotta |first=Richard N. |title=Top executive at SLS Las Vegas leaving his post |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/casinos-gaming/top-executive-at-sls-las-vegas-leaving-his-post/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=December 17, 2016 |archive-date=June 25, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200625233535/https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/casinos-gaming/top-executive-at-sls-las-vegas-leaving-his-post/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Several weeks later, Terry Downey was named as the new president and chief operating officer, while Robert Schaffhauser was named as chief financial officer. They had previously worked as executives for the [[Aliante Casino and Hotel|Aliante]] hotel-casino in [[North Las Vegas]].<ref>{{cite news |last=Velotta |first=Richard N. |title=2 former Aliante execs to take reins at SLS Las Vegas |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/casinos-gaming/2-former-aliante-execs-to-take-reins-at-sls-las-vegas/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=January 4, 2017}}</ref> Downey and Schaffhauser subsequently hired 13 executives from the Aliante for new positions at the SLS.<ref name=Stocks>{{cite news |last=Prince |first=Todd |title=SLS stocks senior management team with Aliante recruits |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/local/the-strip/sls-stocks-senior-management-team-with-aliante-recruits/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=July 8, 2017 |archive-date=May 5, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210505182926/https://www.reviewjournal.com/local/the-strip/sls-stocks-senior-management-team-with-aliante-recruits/ |url-status=live }}</ref>

====Sale to Meruelo====
[[File:SLS Las Vegas exterior (night).jpg|upright|thumb|SLS at night, 2017]]
In May 2017, it was announced that Reno businessman [[Alex Meruelo]] and his company, Meruelo Group, would purchase the SLS Las Vegas from Stockbridge. The sale was initially expected to be finalized later that year,<ref>{{cite news |last=Moore |first=Thomas |title=SLS on Strip sold to owners of Reno casino |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2017/may/23/sls-on-strip-sold-to-owners-of-reno-casino/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=May 23, 2017 |archive-date=August 4, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190804134802/https://lasvegassun.com/news/2017/may/23/sls-on-strip-sold-to-owners-of-reno-casino/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Prince |first=Todd |title=Can Reno businessman turn around the SLS Las Vegas? |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/casinos-gaming/can-reno-businessman-turn-around-the-sls-las-vegas/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=May 31, 2017 |archive-date=June 22, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200622232836/https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/casinos-gaming/can-reno-businessman-turn-around-the-sls-las-vegas/ |url-status=live }}</ref> although continued price negotiations between Meruelo and Stockbridge pushed back the completion of the purchase.<ref>{{cite news |last=Prince |first=Todd |title=Sale of SLS Las Vegas may not be completed until 2018 |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/casinos-gaming/sale-of-sls-las-vegas-may-not-be-completed-until-2018/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=October 27, 2017 |archive-date=June 23, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200623005602/https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/casinos-gaming/sale-of-sls-las-vegas-may-not-be-completed-until-2018/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Following the announcement of the sale, the SLS renamed its rewards program from "The Code" to "Club 52", referencing the resort's initial opening in 1952. The "SLS" name was not popular among gamblers, and there were rumors that the resort would revert to its "Sahara" name once Meruelo took over ownership.<ref name=Stocks/><ref>{{cite news |last=Prince |first=Todd |title=SLS Las Vegas rewards program rebranded as 'homage' to Sahara |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/casinos-gaming/sls-las-vegas-rewards-program-rebranded-as-homage-to-sahara/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=July 5, 2017}}</ref> At the time, the casino measured {{convert|50662|sqft|abbr=on}}, excluding an {{convert|1800|sqft|abbr=on}} sports book.<ref name=Listing>{{cite web|url=http://gaming.nv.gov/modules/showdocument.aspx?documentid=3428|title=Listing of Financial Statements Square Footage (2017 data)|date=March 6, 2018|publisher=[[Nevada Gaming Control Board]]|access-date=July 16, 2020 |page=9}}</ref> Downey and Schaffhauser stepped down from their positions in July 2017. Such departures were common during an ownership transition.<ref>{{cite news |last=Prince |first=Todd |title=2 top executives at SLS Las Vegas step down |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/casinos-gaming/2-top-executives-at-sls-las-vegas-step-down/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=July 10, 2017}}</ref>

At the end of 2017, a lawsuit was filed by 60 Chinese residents who had invested in the SLS through the EB-5 program. The suit was filed against Stockbridge, SBE, and Meruelo. The investors had yet to receive a green card through the program, and they alleged that the resort had never made a profit. They sought $255 million in [[damages]] and other costs, and stated that Meruelo's purchase would nullify their chances at getting a green card. Meruelo negotiated with the investors regarding their loan money, which was due back in 2018 and 2019.<ref>{{cite news |last=Prince |first=Todd |title=SLS Las Vegas on 'verge of bankruptcy,' investors allege |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/casinos-gaming/sls-las-vegas-on-verge-of-bankruptcy-investors-allege/ |access-date=July 15, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=December 8, 2017}}</ref> The dispute further delayed the sale to Meruelo.<ref name=Reno/>

In February 2018, the [[Culinary Workers Union]] was in a labor dispute with Meruelo regarding his employees at the [[Grand Sierra Resort]] in Reno, Nevada. The union subsequently called for a state investigation into Meruelo's impending purchase of the SLS Las Vegas, citing concerns about his suitability to own and operate the resort. The union also cited objections from the EB-5 investors regarding the proposed sale.<ref>{{cite news |last=Prince |first=Todd |title=Culinary asks for investigation of prospective owner of SLS Las Vegas |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/casinos-gaming/culinary-asks-for-investigation-of-prospective-owner-of-sls-las-vegas/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=February 12, 2018}}</ref> Meruelo Group completed its purchase of the SLS in April 2018.<ref>{{cite news|title=Industry veteran to manage struggling SLS Las Vegas|newspaper=Las Vegas Review-Journal|first=Todd|last=Prince|date=April 5, 2018|url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/casinos-gaming/industry-veteran-to-manage-struggling-sls-las-vegas/|access-date=December 8, 2018}}</ref> At the time, the SLS employed 1,800 people.<ref name=Reno/>

Alex Meruelo had plans for a $100 million renovation of the resort,<ref name=Reno>{{cite news |last=Prince |first=Todd |title=Reno businessman plans $100M investment to revitalize SLS |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/casinos-gaming/reno-businessman-plans-100m-investment-to-revitalize-sls/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=March 22, 2018}}</ref> and he was also expected to rebrand it in 2019.<ref name=prince-millward>{{cite news|title=Grand Sahara Resort is temporary 'working name' for SLS Las Vegas|newspaper=Las Vegas Review-Journal|first1=Todd|last1=Prince|first2=Wade Tyler|last2=Millward|date=July 12, 2018|url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/casinos-gaming/grand-sahara-resort-is-temporary-working-name-for-sls-las-vegas/|access-date=December 8, 2018}}</ref> Observers speculated that the resort would revive the Sahara name, and renovation plans used a "working name" of "Grand Sahara Resort", mirroring the Grand Sierra Resort.<ref name=prince-millward /> Paul Hobson was hired as general manager and would oversee the renovations. Meruelo considered the Hispanic clientele in Las Vegas underserved, and stated that it would be among the target demographics for the resort under his ownership.<ref name=Koren/> Meruelo owned two television and three radio stations in California, which he would use to promote the SLS.<ref name=Reno/>

In August 2018, the W Las Vegas was renamed as the Grand Tower and brought back under in-house management, as part of Meruelo's plans for the resort. At the time, the SLS had a total of 1,616 rooms.<ref name=Vanish>{{cite news |last=Velotta |first=Richard N. |title=W Hotel brand will vanish from the Las Vegas Strip on Friday |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/casinos-gaming/w-hotel-brand-will-vanish-from-the-las-vegas-strip-on-friday/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=August 16, 2018}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=SLS to assume control of W hotel |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2018/aug/16/sls-to-assume-control-of-w-hotel/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |agency=Associated Press |date=August 16, 2018}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|title=Out with the W Hotel, in with the Grand Tower at the SLS Las Vegas|newspaper=Travel Weekly|first=Sarah|last=Feldberg|date=August 20, 2018|url=https://www.travelweekly.com/North-America-Travel/Out-with-the-W-Hotel-in-with-the-Grand-Tower-at-the-SLS-Las-Vegas|access-date=December 8, 2018}}</ref> Meruelo's $100 million renovation began in October 2018,<ref name=Akers2018>{{cite news |last=Akers |first=Mick |title=SLS Las Vegas starts $100 million renovation project |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2018/oct/08/sls-las-vegas-starts-100-million-renovation-projec/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=October 8, 2018}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Segall |first=Eli |title=SLS Las Vegas begins $100M renovation |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/casinos-gaming/sls-las-vegas-begins-100m-renovation/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=October 8, 2018}}</ref> and included upgrades to the hotel's rooms, hallways, and lobby.<ref name=Pushes/><ref name=LVS-Jan19>{{cite news |last=Radke |first=Brock |title=SLS Las Vegas reveals details of $100 million renovation |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2019/jan/29/sls-renovation-hotel-casino-uno-mas-restaurant/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=January 29, 2019}}</ref> Meruelo had the casino floor brightened, as he considered it too dark. The Story tower was updated to remove its basic design in favor of a more conventional appearance, as most guests did not like the earlier design.<ref name=Koren/><ref name=Pushes/><ref name=LVS-Jan19/><ref>{{cite news |last=Radke |first=Brock |title=SLS aims to enhance its assets and prepare for the future north Strip |url=https://lasvegasweekly.com/column/incidental-tourist/2018/may/03/sls-aims-to-enhance-its-assets-and-prepare/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Weekly |date=May 3, 2018}}</ref> Meruelo's construction firm handled the upgrades.<ref name=Pushes>{{cite news |last=Prince |first=Todd |title=SLS Las Vegas turns profitable, pushes ahead with upgrade |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/casinos-gaming/sls-las-vegas-turns-profitable-pushes-ahead-with-upgrade-1585236/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=January 29, 2019}}</ref> The SLS became profitable near the end of 2018, and there was optimism that the resort would continue to improve in the coming years with the scheduled resort openings of [[The Drew Las Vegas|The Drew]] and [[Resorts World Las Vegas|Resorts World]], as well as an expansion of the Las Vegas Convention Center.<ref name=Pushes/><ref name=Akers2018/>

===Return to Sahara===
Meruelo held an enormous ceremony involving fireworks and a light show on June 27, 2019, to announce an upcoming name change to Sahara Las Vegas, as part of the ongoing renovation.<ref>{{cite news |last=Forgione |first=Mary |title=Sahara hotel returns to Las Vegas in splashy renaming ceremony. Bye bye, SLS |url=https://www.latimes.com/travel/lasvegas/la-tr-travel-sahara-las-vegas-is-new-name-for-sls-20190628-story.html |access-date=July 4, 2019 |work=Los Angeles Times |date=June 28, 2019}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Katsilometes |first=John |title=SLS: Las Vegas Strip loves Sahara, as classic name returns |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/entertainment/entertainment-columns/kats/sls-las-vegas-strip-loves-sahara-as-classic-name-returns-1697379/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=June 28, 2019}}</ref> The resort would continue to operate under the SLS name for several months until the Sahara name was fully implemented throughout the resort. The process to replace the SLS branding, including exterior signage, was expected to conclude in September or October 2019, at which point the resort would be marketed under the Sahara name.<ref name=Horwath>{{cite web|url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2019/jun/27/sls-seeks-to-restore-famous-sahara-identity|title=SLS Las Vegas to restore familiar Sahara identity with name change|first=Bryan|last=Horwath|date=June 27, 2019|access-date=June 28, 2019|publisher=Las Vegas Sun}}</ref>

On the night of August 27, 2019, the Sam by Starck statue was removed during a ceremony and subsequently disposed, as part of the Sahara rebranding. The ceremony began with flames that were set off at the base of the statue, followed by a fireworks show. A crane subsequently tore the statue down. Palm trees are expected to take the place of the former statue.<ref name=Starck/><ref name=Bowers/><ref name=Sam/> Because of the way that the statue was constructed, a company spokesman stated that it would be nearly impossible to disassemble the statue and restore it elsewhere for display.<ref name=Sam/> The pool area's duck statue was expected to be relocated to the pool at the Grand Sierra Resort.<ref name=Duck/>

The resort reverted back to Sahara Las Vegas on August 29, 2019,<ref>{{cite news |last=Casper |first=Ashley |title=Sahara rebrand is a champagne-popping affair in Las Vegas |url=https://www.fox5vegas.com/more/sahara-rebrand-is-a-champagne-popping-affair-in-las-vegas/article_c77c5842-cab6-11e9-a14d-170a9b082a24.html |access-date=August 30, 2019 |publisher=KVVU |date=August 29, 2019}}</ref> and renovations were expected to continue into 2020.<ref name=Starck/><ref>{{cite news |last=Valencia |first=Peter |title=SLS to Sahara transition date announced |url=https://news3lv.com/news/local/official-date-for-sls-to-sahara-transition-announced |access-date=August 24, 2019 |publisher=KSNV |date=August 21, 2019}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Gartner |first=Jordan |title=Date set for Sahara Las Vegas official return to Vegas Strip |url=https://www.ktnv.com/news/date-set-for-sahara-las-vegas-to-return-to-strip |access-date=August 23, 2019 |publisher=KTNV |date=August 21, 2019}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Schulz |first=Bailey |title=SLS to officially make change to Sahara Las Vegas on Thursday |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/casinos-gaming/sls-to-officially-make-change-to-sahara-las-vegas-on-thursday-1836433/ |access-date=August 29, 2019 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=August 28, 2019}}</ref> A renovation of the pool area was scheduled to begin in September 2019.<ref name=Duck/> The Sahara's new lounge was named Casbar Lounge, after the resort's original live-music venue.<ref name=Starck/> The Sayers Club was renamed Club 101.<ref>{{cite news |last=Lawrence |first=Christopher |title=Eddie Griffin brings his Las Vegas residency to Showtime |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/entertainment/entertainment-columns/christopher-lawrence/eddie-griffin-brings-his-las-vegas-residency-to-showtime-1907375/ |access-date=August 31, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=December 4, 2019}}</ref> The new Sahara is modern in its design and does not feature a Moroccan theme as before, although it features references to the original Sahara. Hobson said, "You might see some camels in artwork around the property, but nothing in terms of a theme. There will be reference to the original Sahara era that reflects what we want for the modern era. There's some nostalgia, but we are defining it for today."<ref name=Duck>{{cite news |last=Katsilometes |first=John |title=Sahara plans pool renovation; famed duck headed to Reno |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/entertainment/entertainment-columns/kats/sahara-plans-pool-renovation-famed-duck-headed-to-reno-1837187/ |access-date=August 30, 2019 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=August 29, 2019}}</ref> A few months after its opening, the Sahara Las Vegas sought donations of old memorabilia from the original Sahara for display in the resort.<ref>{{cite news |last=Lilly |first=Caitlin |title=Sahara Las Vegas looking for memorabilia from the original Sahara casino |url=https://www.fox5vegas.com/news/sahara-las-vegas-looking-for-memorabilia-from-the-original-sahara-casino/article_eb40c89c-0578-11ea-b02d-8b9b75945717.html |access-date=July 9, 2020 |publisher=KVVU |date=November 12, 2019}}</ref>

A poker room opened in February 2020, as part of the renovation project. Poker had been absent from the casino for nearly a decade, and many Las Vegas casinos had shut their poker rooms in recent years due to a decline in popularity.<ref>{{cite news |last=Schulz |first=Bailey |title=Poker returning to Sahara Las Vegas after nearly 10-year hiatus |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/casinos-gaming/poker-returning-to-sahara-las-vegas-after-nearly-10-year-hiatus-1960141/ |access-date=February 19, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=February 18, 2020}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Schulz |first=Bailey |title=Sahara Las Vegas bucks trend with poker room opening |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/sahara-las-vegas-bucks-trend-with-poker-room-opening-1964990/ |access-date=July 9, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=February 24, 2020}}</ref> The resort also planned to add a restaurant row, which would replace Club 101.<ref>{{cite news |last=Radke |first=Brock |title=The Sahara Has Big 2021 Plans for Dining and Entertainment |url=https://lasvegasweekly.com/ae/2020/dec/10/the-sahara-has-big-2021-plans-for-dining-and-enter/ |access-date=August 31, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Weekly |date=December 10, 2020}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Clemons |first=Marvin |title=Sahara remodeling to include 4 new restaurants facing Strip |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/casinos-gaming/sahara-remodeling-to-include-4-new-restaurants-facing-strip-2186547/ |access-date=August 31, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=November 19, 2020}}</ref> Sahara executives intended to use the resort's restaurant space and pool decks to host meetings and conventions, recapturing a demographic that was largely ignored when the resort operated as SLS Las Vegas.<ref>{{cite news |last=Velotta |first=Richard N. |title=Sahara gearing to get back to meetings, conventions business |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/conventions/sahara-gearing-to-get-back-to-meetings-conventions-business-2063205/ |access-date=July 9, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=June 28, 2020}}</ref>

In September 2021, the resort opened its {{convert|35000|sqft|abbr=on}} renovated pool area, known as Azilo Ultra Pool.<ref>{{cite news |last=Radke |first=Brock |title=The Sahara readies Azilo Ultra Pool for its big debut |url=https://lasvegasweekly.com/nightlife/2021/sep/02/the-sahara-readies-azilo-ultra-pool-for-big-debut/ |access-date=October 11, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Weekly |date=September 2, 2021}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last=Stapleton |first=Susan |title=The Sahara Reveals Its Revamped Pool, Part of a $150 Million Renovation at the Resort |url=https://vegas.eater.com/2021/9/7/22660930/azilo-ultra-pool-sahara-opens |website=Eater |access-date=October 11, 2021 |date=September 7, 2021}}</ref> The Moroccan-inspired pool area would also be available as event space. It includes two giant LED walls, measuring two stories in height.<ref>{{cite news |last=Komenda |first=Ed |title=Sahara Las Vegas unveils new 'Ultra Pool' |url=https://www.rgj.com/story/news/2021/04/09/renderings-sahara-las-vegas-unveils-new-ultra-pool/7126897002/ |access-date=April 9, 2021 |work=Reno Gazette Journal |date=April 8, 2021}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Katsilometes |first=John |title=Sahara Las Vegas pool on the Strip gets splashy upgrade |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/entertainment/entertainment-columns/kats/sahara-las-vegas-pool-on-the-strip-gets-splashy-upgrade-2325283/ |access-date=April 9, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=April 9, 2021}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last1=Manna |first1=Orko |last2=Wright |first2=Lucas |title=Sahara Las Vegas reveals plans for new pool, restaurants set to open later this year |url=https://www.8newsnow.com/news/local-news/sahara-las-vegas-to-reveal-new-details-about-renovation-project/ |access-date=April 9, 2021 |publisher=KLAS |date=April 8, 2021}}</ref> The pool area replaces the Foxtail club, and is part of the resort's $150 million renovation plans, which also include several restaurants such as [[Chickie's & Pete's]].<ref name=Alive>{{cite news |last=Radke |first=Brock |title=Sahara Las Vegas comes alive with new entertainment options |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2021/aug/30/sahara-comes-alive-with-new-entertainment/ |access-date=August 31, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=August 30, 2021}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=DeLancey |first=Sean |title=Famous Philly sports bar Chickie's and Pete's opens at Sahara Las Vegas |url=https://www.ktnv.com/news/famous-philly-sports-bar-opening-on-north-end-of-the-strip |access-date=October 11, 2021 |publisher=KTNV |date=October 6, 2021}}</ref>

==Entertainers==
[[File:Marlene Dietrich Sahara Las Vegas.jpg|upright|thumb|Marlene Dietrich performing at the Sahara.]]
Numerous performers have entertained at the resort over the years, including [[Buddy Hackett]], [[Liberace]], [[Edgar Bergen]] and [[Charlie McCarthy]], [[George Burns]], and [[Sammy Davis Jr.]]<ref name=Chawkins/><ref name=Splendor/><ref name=Fink/> Other performers included [[Bobby Darin]], [[Red Skelton]],<ref name=Shemeligian/> [[Ann Blyth]], [[Martha Raye]], [[Lena Horne]], [[Liza Minnelli]], [[Donald O'Connor]], [[Louis Prima]], [[Kathryn Grayson]], [[Mae West]],<ref>{{cite news |title=Pay Goes Up–And Up |url=https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/148578874/ |work=Reno Evening Gazette |date=January 3, 1955 |access-date=January 3, 2020 |via=Newspapers.com |url-access=subscription}}</ref> [[Jack Benny]],<ref>{{cite news |title=Casino Owner Beats Odds (page 2 of 2) |url=https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/404127708/ |work=Los Angeles Times |date=March 13, 1988 |access-date=June 26, 2020 |via=Newspapers.com |url-access=subscription}}</ref> [[Frank Sinatra]],<ref name=Vanish/> [[Dean Martin]],<ref name=Carpet/> [[Ann-Margret]],<ref name=Future/> [[George Carlin]],<ref>{{cite news |last=Delaney |first=Joe |title=Recalling the Strip's storied past from end to end |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2002/feb/14/columnist-joe-delaney-recalling-the-strips-storied/ |access-date=July 2, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=February 14, 2002}}</ref> [[Tina Turner]],<ref name=Padgett-50th/> and [[drag queen]] Kenny Kerr.<ref>{{cite news |last=Friess |first=Steve |title=The real diva: Kenny Kerr |url=https://lasvegasweekly.com/ae/stage/2009/dec/29/real-diva-kenny-kerr/ |access-date=October 15, 2019 |work=Las Vegas Weekly |date=December 29, 2009}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Katsilometes |first=John |title=Drag pioneer Kenny Kerr will be remembered for opening doors in Las Vegas |url=https://lasvegassun.com/blogs/kats-report/2013/apr/29/drag-pioneer-kenny-kerr-will-be-remembered-opening/ |access-date=October 15, 2019 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=April 29, 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Weatherford |first=Mike |title=Kerr, a drag queen star in Las Vegas, dies |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/entertainment/shows/kerr-a-drag-queen-star-in-las-vegas-dies/ |access-date=October 15, 2019 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=April 29, 2013}}</ref>

In 1952, Sahara owner Milton Prell booked [[transgender]] woman [[Christine Jorgensen]] to sing at the Sahara, without hearing her first. Prell learned prior to her two-week gig that she could not sing well, and he canceled her performances by claiming that he did not know about her transgender status.<ref name=Burbank/> [[Bill Miller (impresario)|Bill Miller]], the resort's entertainment director at the time,<ref name=LVRJ/> sent a letter to Jorgensen reading, "I'm not going to pull a farce on my customers. I won't give them a man dressed in women's clothing. I bought a 'she.'" In 1953, after Jorgensen gave a performance in Pittsburgh that was positively reviewed, Prell signed her back up for a two-week gig at the Sahara, which proved to be a success.<ref name=Burbank>{{cite book |last=Burbank |first=Jeff |title=Las Vegas Babylon: True Tales of Glitter, Glamour and Greed |date=2006 |publisher=Franz Steiner Verlag |isbn=978-1-86105-966-6 |chapter-url=https://books.google.com/books?id=P3BklV6IFssC&pg=PA95 |access-date=July 16, 2020 |chapter=The Sahara's Freak Show: Christine Jorgensen |pages=95–97}}</ref>

In 1953, singer [[Marlene Dietrich]] was paid $90,000 to give performances for three weeks at the Sahara.<ref>{{cite news |title=Triviascope |url=https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/148503229/ |work=Reno Evening Gazette |date=December 19, 1953 |access-date=January 3, 2020 |via=Newspapers.com |url-access=subscription}}</ref> A $200,000 contract was later announced that would have Dietrich perform in two separate engagements at the hotel, each spanning four weeks.<ref>{{cite news |title=Marlene Gets Contract |url=https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/75116903/ |agency=Associated Press |date=November 3, 1954 |access-date=January 3, 2020 |via=Newspapers.com |url-access=subscription}}</ref> The Sahara subsequently took credit for pioneering the concept of high-priced acts, citing Dietrich's initial performances there in 1953.<ref>{{cite news |last=Becker |first=Bill |title=Will Golden Bubble Burst? |url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/13336339/ben_goffstein_will_golden_bubble_burst/ |work=Reno Evening Gazette |date=January 14, 1956 |access-date=January 3, 2020 |via=Newspapers.com }}</ref> In late 1954, Miller hired jazz musician [[Louis Prima]] to be their late night [[Lounge singer|lounge act]], one of the earliest ones on the Las Vegas Strip.<ref name=NYTBillObit>{{cite news|last=Kelley|first = Tina|title=Bill Miller, 98, an Impresario In the Golden Age of Las Vegas |newspaper=[[The New York Times]]|date=December 12, 2002 |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2002/12/12/arts/bill-miller-98-an-impresario-in-the-golden-age-of-las-vegas.html  }}</ref><ref name=LVRJ>{{cite news|last=Evanslas  |first=K.J. |title= Bill Miller  |newspaper=[[Las Vegas Review-Journal]]|date=February 7, 1999 |url= https://www.reviewjournal.com/news/bill-miller/ }}</ref> Along with his then-wife [[Keely Smith]] and sax player [[Sam Butera]], they created one of the most popular late-night attractions on the Strip.<ref name=Strolls>{{cite news |last=Fink |first=Jerry |title=Sahara strolls toward 50th birthday celebration |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2002/sep/13/columnist-jerry-fink-sahara-strolls-toward-50th-bi/ |access-date=July 2, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=September 13, 2002}}</ref>

In 1956, [[Abbott and Costello]] appeared together for the last time on the Sahara stage before their permanent breakup.{{Citation needed|date=April 2009}} [[Don Rickles]] was a regular performer at the Sahara and launched his Las Vegas career there in 1959.<ref>{{cite news |title=Rickles Signed |url=https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/151455005/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |agency=Associated Press |date=December 29, 1976 |via=Newspapers.com}}</ref> In 1961, [[Eleanor Powell]] came out of retirement after 14 years to star in a musical revue at the Sahara.<ref name=Romero/><ref>{{cite news |title=Eleanor Powell Returns |url=https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/458295859/ |work=San Francisco Examiner |date=February 28, 1961 |access-date=July 16, 2020 |via=Newspapers.com |url-access=subscription}}</ref> [[Judy Garland]] performed at the resort in 1962,<ref name=Chawkins/><ref name=Irwin/><ref>{{cite news |last=Oleksinski |first=Johnny |title=Judy Garland's wild final years of drugs and cruelty |url=https://nypost.com/2019/09/11/judy-garlands-wild-final-years-of-drugs-and-cruelty/ |access-date=January 9, 2020 |work=New York Post |date=September 11, 2019}}</ref> and [[Johnny Carson]] regularly appeared at the Sahara's Congo Room from 1962 to 1974.<ref>{{cite web |title=The Del Webb Point of View (From Many Points) |url=https://delwebbsuncitiesmuseum.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/1975-1978.pdf |website=The Webb Spinner |access-date=July 16, 2020 |page=11 |date=March 1977 |archive-date=September 16, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180916022646/https://delwebbsuncitiesmuseum.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/1975-1978.pdf |url-status=dead }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Del Webb Surprises Johnny Carson At Hotel Sahara |url=https://delwebbsuncitiesmuseum.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/1971-1974.pdf |work=The Webb Spinner |date=May 1971 |access-date=January 9, 2020 |page=11}}</ref> In 1965, [[Milton Berle]] starred in a comedy show at the Sahara known as ''Never Too Late''.<ref name=Romero/><ref>{{cite news |title=Milton Berle Scores Hit |url=https://newspaperarchive.com/las-vegas-sun-feb-25-1965-p-9/ |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=February 25, 1965 |access-date=July 16, 2020 |via=NewspaperArchive.com |url-access=subscription}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Milton Berle Defines A Comedian |url=https://newspaperarchive.com/las-vegas-sun-mar-10-1965-p-11/ |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=March 10, 1965 |access-date=July 16, 2020 |via=NewspaperArchive.com |url-access=subscription}}</ref>

Several live albums were recorded at the Sahara, including ''Live from Las Vegas'' by Prima and Smith,<ref>{{cite web |last=Jurek |first=Thom |title=Live from Las Vegas |url=https://www.allmusic.com/album/live-from-las-vegas-mw0000148247 |website=AllMusic |access-date=July 16, 2020}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Abowitz |first=Richard |title=Noise: Legends Brought to Life |url=https://lasvegasweekly.com/news/archive/2005/jun/02/noise-legends-brought-to-life/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Weekly |date=June 2, 2005}}</ref> ''Live at the Sahara: Las Vegas, 1964'' by [[Tony Bennett]],<ref>{{cite web |last=Leggett |first=Steve |title=Live at the Sahara: Las Vegas, 1964 |url=https://www.allmusic.com/album/live-at-the-sahara-las-vegas-1964-mw0002579224 |website=AllMusic |access-date=July 16, 2020}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Lewis |first=Randy |title=Tony Bennett hits blogosphere Oct. 8 for digital catalog release |url=https://www.courant.com/la-et-ms-tony-bennett-sahara-online-catalog-albums-20131004-story.html |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=Hartford Courant |date=October 4, 2013}}</ref> ''[[Live at The Sahara in Las Vegas]]'' by [[Connie Francis]], and ''[[Live in Las Vegas Vol. 2]]'' by [[Sonny & Cher]].<ref>{{cite web |last=Viglione |first=Joe |title=Live in Las Vegas, Vol. 2 |url=https://www.allmusic.com/album/live-in-las-vegas-vol-2-mw0000848510 |website=AllMusic |access-date=July 16, 2020}}</ref> The resort was the site of the annual [[The Jerry Lewis MDA Labor Day Telethon|Jerry Lewis Labor Day Telethon]] for many years,<ref name=Kanigher/> first from 1973 to 1981 and again from 1991 to 1994.<ref>[[The Jerry Lewis MDA Labor Day Telethon#1966 through the 1970s|MDA Telethon Venues]]</ref>{{better source needed|date=August 2019}} [[Jerry Lewis]] himself also performed at the resort.<ref>{{cite web |title=Sahara's Big New Year's Eve |url=https://newspaperarchive.com/las-vegas-sun-dec-30-1977-p-20/ |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=December 30, 1977 |access-date=January 9, 2020 |via=NewspaperArchive.com |url-access=subscription}}</ref> The Sahara Space Center hosted events such as boxing matches,<ref>{{cite news |title=U.S. Vs. Russians Here; Pair Of Rematches On Tap|url=https://newspaperarchive.com/las-vegas-sun-nov-18-1975-p-19/ |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=November 18, 1975 |access-date=January 9, 2020 |via=NewspaperArchive.com |url-access=subscription}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title='Casey' To Get 'Bad News' At Sahara Space Center |url=https://newspaperarchive.com/las-vegas-sun-oct-25-1977-p-23/ |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=October 25, 1977 |access-date=January 9, 2020 |via=NewspaperArchive.com |url-access=subscription}}</ref> and the Jerry Lewis telethon.<ref>{{cite magazine |title=Musical Variety Shows Spark TV Production Activity |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=DwkEAAAAMBAJ&pg=PA42-IA7 |magazine=Billboard |access-date=January 9, 2020 |page=11 |date=December 8, 1973}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=French Compare Lewis to Chaplin |url=https://newspaperarchive.com/las-vegas-sun-aug-20-1976-p-23/ |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=August 20, 1976 |access-date=January 9, 2020 |via=NewspaperArchive.com |url-access=subscription}}</ref> It also hosted the bands [[Kiss (band)|Kiss]] and [[Rush (band)|Rush]] in 1975.<ref>{{cite news |last=Patterson |first=Spencer |title=The 25 most legendary Las Vegas rock concerts |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2007/apr/26/25-most-legendary-rock-concerts-las-vegas-history/ |access-date=January 9, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=April 26, 2007}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Zaleski |first=Annie |title=Vegas Kisstory: Over five decades, the band has made its mark here through gigs and beyond |url=https://lasvegasweekly.com/ae/music/2019/feb/14/vegas-kisstory-over-five-decades-the-band/ |access-date=January 9, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Weekly |date=February 14, 2019}}</ref>

In early 2000, [[The Amazing Johnathan]] hosted a magic act at the Sahara during a five-week period.<ref>{{cite news |last=McGee |first=Kimberley |title=The Amazing Johnathan brings his dangerous act to Las Vegas |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2000/jan/12/the-amazing-johnathan-brings-his-dangerous-act-to-/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=January 12, 2000}}</ref> Shortly thereafter, the hotel launched a [[Rat Pack]] tribute show known as ''The Rat Pack is Back''.<ref>{{cite news |title=Sahara tribute still packs an attitude |url=http://www.lasvegassun.com/news/2001/jun/15/sahara-tribute-still-packs-an-attitude/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=June 15, 2001}}</ref> Later in 2000, [[Steve Wyrick]] began hosting a magic show at the Sahara Theater. Resort owner Bill Bennett gave Wyrick full control over the design of the new theater, which had seating for 860 people.<ref name=SkyDome/><ref>{{cite news |title=Magician moving from Lady Luck to Sahara |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/1999/sep/02/magician-moving-from-lady-luck-to-sahara/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=September 2, 1999}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Weatherford |first=Mike |title=Departure Time: Steve Wyrick launches his aeronautic-themed magic show at the Sahara |url=http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Sep-15-Fri-2000/weekly/14296338.html |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=September 15, 2000 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20010628064314/http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Sep-15-Fri-2000/weekly/14296338.html |archive-date=June 28, 2001}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Baird |first=Kirk |title=Wyrick's Tricks |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2002/jul/26/wyricks-tricks/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=July 26, 2002}}</ref> [[Charo]], who made her headliner debut at the Sahara two decades earlier, started a concert show at the resort in 2002.<ref name=Benston/> The following year, the Sahara launched "World's Greatest Magic Show", a variety style show featuring eight to ten magicians, each performing their best trick.<ref>{{cite news |title='World's Greatest Magic Show' to make its debut at Sahara |url=http://www.reviewjournal.com/lvrj_home/2003/Oct-10-Fri-2003/weekly/22252417.html|work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=October 10, 2003 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20041228190506/http://www.reviewjournal.com/lvrj_home/2003/Oct-10-Fri-2003/weekly/22252417.html |archive-date=December 28, 2004}}</ref>

The Amazing Johnathan opened another magic show at the Sahara in 2005. He left two years later to focus on television production,<ref>{{cite news |last=Weatherford |first=Mike |title=Amazing Johnathan to bid farewell |url=http://www.reviewjournal.com/lvrj_home/2007/Mar-08-Thu-2007/living/12836045.html |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=March 8, 2007 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070930201024/http://www.reviewjournal.com/lvrj_home/2007/Mar-08-Thu-2007/living/12836045.html |archive-date=September 30, 2007}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Clarke |first=Norm |title=Sahara kept eye on dressing room |url=http://www.reviewjournal.com/lvrj_home/2007/Mar-14-Wed-2007/news/13162032.html |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=March 14, 2007 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070324060921/http://www.reviewjournal.com/lvrj_home/2007/Mar-14-Wed-2007/news/13162032.html |archive-date=March 24, 2007}}</ref> and was replaced by comedian [[Roseanne Barr]].<ref>{{cite news |last=Weatherford |first=Mike |title=Roseanne replacing Johnathan at Sahara |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/entertainment/entertainment-columns/mike-weatherford/roseanne-replacing-johnathan-at-sahara/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=February 7, 2008}}</ref> [[The Scintas]] performed at the Sahara for a year, before departing in 2007.<ref>{{cite news |last=Weatherford |first=Mike |title=It's survival of the fittest in jungle on Strip |url=http://www.reviewjournal.com/lvrj_home/2007/Mar-25-Sun-2007/living/13302441.html|work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=March 25, 2007 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080706010956/http://www.reviewjournal.com/lvrj_home/2007/Mar-25-Sun-2007/living/13302441.html |archive-date=July 6, 2008}}</ref> In 2008, the Sahara launched a dance show called ''Raw Talent Live'', focusing on the relationship between humans and technology.<ref>{{cite news |last=Clarke |first=Norm |title=Sahara gets set for 'Raw Talent' |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/news/sahara-gets-set-for-raw-talent/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=June 11, 2008}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Weatherford |first=Mike |title=Daring to Dream |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/entertainment/entertainment-columns/mike-weatherford/daring-to-dream/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=October 3, 2008}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Weatherford |first=Mike |title=Raw Talent Live |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/entertainment/entertainment-columns/mike-weatherford/raw-talent-live/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=October 17, 2008}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Fink |first=Jerry |title=Strip veteran's musical dark, ambitious, meandering |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2008/oct/09/headline-here/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=October 9, 2008}}</ref> In 2009, The Comedy Stop relocated from the [[Tropicana Las Vegas|Tropicana]] resort to the Sahara, offering a rotating lineup of comedians.<ref>{{cite news |last=Katz |first=Bobbie |title=The Comedy Stop, a Vegas Standby, Moves to the Sahara |url=https://www.bizbash.com/production-strategy/programming-entertainment/article/13229057/the-comedy-stop-a-vegas-standby-moves-to-the-sahara |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=BizBash |date=August 6, 2009}}</ref> During the same year, the Sahara debuted an act by magician Rick Thomas,<ref>{{cite news |last=Fink |first=Jerry |title=Magician Rick Thomas aborts tour to play Sahara |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2009/jun/08/magician-rick-thomas-aborts-tour-play-sahara/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=June 8, 2009}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Weatherford |first=Mike |title=Rick Thomas |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/entertainment/entertainment-columns/mike-weatherford/rick-thomas/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=September 25, 2009}}</ref> and a new Rat Pack tribute show by [[Sandy Hackett]].<ref>{{cite news |last=Green |first=Steve |title=Sahara to host new Rat Pack show amid litigation |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2009/oct/29/sahara-host-new-rat-pack-show-amid-litigation/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=October 29, 2009}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Weatherford |first=Mike |title=Hackett brings own Rat Pack to Sahara |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/entertainment/entertainment-columns/mike-weatherford/hackett-brings-own-rat-pack-to-sahara/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=November 5, 2009}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Craig |first=Pat |title=Hackett's back with 'Rat Pack' |url=https://www.mercurynews.com/2010/04/06/hacketts-back-with-rat-pack/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=The Mercury News |date=April 6, 2010}}</ref>

Comedian [[Eddie Griffin]] has been a frequent performer at the resort since 2018.<ref>{{cite news |last=Radke |first=Brock |title=Catching up with comedian Eddie Griffin, now performing at SLS |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2018/may/22/eddie-griffin-interview-comedy-sls-sayers-club/ |access-date=August 31, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=May 22, 2018}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Radke |first=Brock |title=After a busy pandemic year, comedian Eddie Griffin is ready to return to his Las Vegas stage |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2021/jul/14/vegas-strip-podcast-eddie-griffin-comedian-sahara/ |access-date=August 31, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=July 14, 2021}}</ref> ''Blanc de Blanc'', a [[cabaret]]-style variety show, debuted at The Foundry in August 2019,<ref name=Duck/><ref name=Glamorous>{{cite news |last=Radke |first=Brock |title=The glamorous 'Blanc de Blanc' opens this week at SLS |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2019/aug/12/blanc-de-blanc-sls-foundry-new-show-opening/ |access-date=August 29, 2019 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=August 12, 2019}}</ref> and ended in November after a poor financial performance.<ref>{{cite news |last=Katsilometes |first=John |title='Blanc de Blanc' goes blank at Sahara Las Vegas |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/entertainment/entertainment-columns/kats/blanc-de-blanc-goes-blank-at-sahara-las-vegas-1903518/ |access-date=December 26, 2019 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=November 29, 2019}}</ref> Another show, ''[[Magic Mike Live]]'', opened in August 2021,<ref name=Alive/> after several delays caused by the [[COVID-19 pandemic]].<ref>{{cite news |last=Katsilometes |first=John |title='Magic Mike Live' sets spring 2020 move to Sahara Las Vegas |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/entertainment/entertainment-columns/kats/magic-mike-live-sets-spring-2020-move-to-sahara-las-vegas-1857497/ |access-date=December 26, 2019 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=September 26, 2019}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Radke |first=Brock |title='Magic Mike Live Las Vegas' moves opening at Sahara to August 27 |url=https://lasvegasweekly.com/ae/2021/mar/02/magic-mike-live-las-vegas-opening-sahara-august/ |access-date=April 9, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Weekly |date=March 2, 2021}}</ref>

==Film history==
* Club Bingo was used as a filming location in the 1951 film ''[[Painting the Clouds with Sunshine (film)|Painting the Clouds with Sunshine]]''.<ref name=CCTN>{{cite web |last=Goertler |first=Pam |title=The Las Vegas Strip: The early years |url=http://www.ccgtcc-ccn.com/LV%20Strip%20The%20Early%20Years.pdf |website=Casino Chip and Token News |access-date=July 16, 2020 |page=33 |date=Summer 2007}}</ref>
* The Sahara was a prominent filming location for the 1960 film ''[[Ocean's 11]]''.<ref name=CCTN/><ref>Block, Marcelline (2011). ''World Film Locations: Las Vegas''. Intellect Books. Page 12. {{ISBN|9781841505886}}.</ref>
* A scene was shot in the resort's parking lot for the 1964 film ''[[Viva Las Vegas]]''.<ref>{{cite news |last=Reible |first=Gloria |title=Las Vegas the scene of new Elvis film |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/1963/jul/24/las-vegas-scene-new-elvis-film/ |access-date=July 16, 2020 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=July 24, 1963}}</ref>
* The Sahara appears in the first episode of ''[[Hardcastle and McCormick]]'' (1983)
* The 1986 documentary film ''[[Stripper (film)|Stripper]]'' takes place at a convention held in the Sahara's Congo Room.<ref name=CCTN/><ref>{{cite news |title='Stripper' doesn't hide pain |url=https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/437565385/ |work=The Boston Globe |date=March 21, 1986 |access-date=July 16, 2020 |via=Newspapers.com |url-access=subscription}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Stripper Review |url=https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/501912863/ |work=The Province |date=June 20, 1986 |access-date=July 16, 2020 |via=Newspapers.com |url-access=subscription}}</ref>
* The Sahara sign briefly appeared in the 2003 film ''[[Looney Tunes: Back in Action]]''.
* In 2011, the TV show ''[[Storage Wars]]'' filmed their special "Storage Wars Unlocked" at the closed hotel/casino.

==Gallery==
<gallery>
File:SaharaStationery.jpg|Hotel Sahara stationery featuring the 14-story tower {{circa}} 1960
File:Sahara casino.jpg|Sahara's camel sign, 2007
File:Sahara Casino1.jpg|Casino in 2011
File:SLS Las Vegas interior (2014).jpg|SLS interior, 2014
</gallery>

==See also==
{{Portal|Nevada}}
* [[Hard Rock Hotel and Casino (Stateline)]], formerly Sahara Tahoe
* [[The Montage Reno]], formerly Sahara Reno
* [[Sahara Boardwalk Hotel and Casino]], proposed for Atlantic City in the 1970s
* [[SLS Brickell]]
* [[SLS Lux]]
* [[SLS South Beach Hotel]]
* [[List of integrated resorts]]

==References==
{{Reflist}}

==External links==
{{Commons category|Sahara Las Vegas}}
* {{Official website|https://saharalasvegas.com/}}
* [https://digital.library.unlv.edu/index.php/skyline/drawings Historic photo gallery] from [[University of Nevada, Las Vegas]]
* [https://sls-lifestyle.com/ SLS Lifestyle: Unleashing Luxury Living and Exquisite Experiences]

{{Las Vegas casinos}}
{{Las Vegas hotels}}
{{Las Vegas skyscrapers}}
{{Las Vegas Strip}}

[[Category:Casinos completed in 1952]]
[[Category:Hotel buildings completed in 1952]]
[[Category:Hotel buildings completed in 1963]]
[[Category:Hotel buildings completed in 1988]]
[[Category:Skyscraper hotels in Winchester, Nevada]]
[[Category:Landmarks in Nevada]]
[[Category:Hotels established in 1952]]
[[Category:Resorts in the Las Vegas Valley]]
[[Category:Las Vegas Strip]]
[[Category:Casinos in the Las Vegas Valley]]
[[Category:1952 establishments in Nevada]]
[[Category:Casino hotels in the Las Vegas Valley]]