The Nevada Gaming Commission (NGC) has chosen to fast-track the transfer of the Mirage from MGM Resorts to Hard Rock International. Rather than having their planned discussion on Dec. 22, the commission convened today and granted Hard Rock a Nevada gaming license.
The Mirage will be sold to Hard Rock and the sale will conclude on Monday, December 19.
The Nevada Gaming Control Board (NGCB) recommended Hard Rock and its key employees for a license to operate in Las Vegas slightly over a week before the approval was given. This approval now allows for the finalization of the Mirage’s sale from MGM Resorts to Hard Rock.
At the NGCB meeting, Hard Rock CEO, Jim Allen, divulged several particulars about the Mirage’s future. He emphasized that the Mirage is undergoing a major overhaul to align with the Hard Rock brand, stating that this is more than just a minor renovation.
Allen stated that although the company doesn’t intend to shut down the Mirage during the construction process, it might be necessary to do so at some stage within the 30-month construction timeline. This closure would be to facilitate the transformation of the property into Hard Rock.
To ensure a smooth transition, MGM Resorts will offer transition services to Hard Rock for 120 days following the completion of the deal.
Essentially, the company is establishing a new property in the location where the Mirage now functions. Hard Rock was compelled to issue a statement clarifying that they do not have a specific plan to shut down the Mirage during the construction phase.
What’s staying at the Mirage
After Hard Rock takes over, The Mirage will continue operating under its current name. This detail was initially disclosed when the deal between the two companies was first announced.
Although the property might undergo changes next year, it seems that major construction at the Mirage won’t kick off until late 2025 or 2025. A significant portion of the casino is expected to stay the same for some time.
Several venues within the Mirage are set to continue operations into next year. The Beatles LOVE, a Cirque Du Soliel show, will also be extended into next year, following an agreement signed by Hard Rock.
Despite some performers from previous years relocating their shows to other venues, the Aces of Comedy series will persist after Hard Rock assumes control.
Certain popular dining spots at the Mirage will remain open, including California Pizza Kitchen and Tom Colicchio’s Heritage Steakhouse, which will continue operating into next year. Hard Rock has yet to reveal further details about the bars and restaurants at the Mirage.
Hard Rock intends to refurbish all the hotel rooms eventually, but this probably won’t happen immediately.
Additionally, Hard Rock will retain the Villas for high-rolling guests, with plans to eventually refurbish these exclusive accommodations in the future.
The Mirage sportsbook in Las Vegas will remain under the operation of BetMGM even after Hard Rock assumes control. However, this arrangement is temporary and will change at some point in the future. The precise timeframe for this change has not been disclosed by the company.
What’s going at the Mirage
Hard Rock has been rather secretive about its plans to shut down at the Mirage. There are a few attractions that are assuredly being discontinued.
The Secret Garden and Dolphin Habitat of Siegfried & Roy is currently shut down with no plans to reopen. In the future, the Hard Rock is set to close their pool as well. The company has plans to construct a new pool complex.
The volcano outside The Mirage casino is set to eventually close and be demolished to pave way for the new guitar hotel tower.
The Mirage will undergo a complete renovation and transformation to embody the Hard Rock brand.
What’s coming to the Mirage
The conversion of the Mirage into Hard Rock will span over a few years. The company appears to aim at rebranding the property to Hard Rock by 2025, but the construction process could potentially extend beyond this timeframe.
A divisive new feature is set to be added to the property – a large guitar-shaped hotel tower, which will take the place of the volcano on the Vegas Strip. The hotel tower will boast approximately 800 suites, eateries, a compact casino, and an infinity pool.
A music memorabilia museum will also be added to the front of the property by Hard Rock.
Hard Rock intends to enlarge the casino floor from 94,000 square feet to 174,000 square feet. In time, Hard Rock will have over double the current number of slot machines. Additionally, the number of table games is projected to increase by more than three times.
Once renovations are completed at the Hard Rock, The Mirage will boast an increased number of restaurants. The company has plans to expand the current count of 18 restaurants to 21 or possibly more. The new guitar hotel tower is also expected to feature at least one restaurant.
Guests will first notice a new rewards program as one of the initial changes. As soon as the company takes over, The Mirage will join the Unity rewards program of Hard Rock. Visitors planning to visit The Mirage can register for an account here.
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