In a move that celebrates the rich history of Las Vegas, Hard Rock International has announced its decision to donate several iconic artifacts from The Mirage Hotel and Casino to the Neon Museum. This donation includes significant pieces such as the 17-foot-tall Siegfried & Roy sculpture and the 30-foot-tall Mirage hotel entrance sign. The collaboration between Hard Rock, The PENTA Building Group, and The Neon Museum aims to preserve these historic items for future generations, ensuring that the legacy of The Mirage continues to shine brightly in the city’s cultural landscape.
Preserving Las Vegas History
The Mirage, a landmark on the Las Vegas Strip, has been a symbol of luxury and entertainment since its opening in 1989. With its recent closure, Hard Rock International, the new owner of the property, has taken steps to ensure that the legacy of The Mirage is not forgotten. By donating key artifacts to the Neon Museum, Hard Rock is preserving a piece of Las Vegas history. The Neon Museum, known for its extensive collection of vintage signs and memorabilia, is the perfect home for these iconic pieces.
Among the artifacts being donated is the famous Siegfried & Roy sculpture, which has been a beloved feature of The Mirage for decades. This sculpture, along with other significant items, will be carefully preserved and displayed at the museum. The donation also includes the Mirage hotel entrance sign and the neon sign from the Volcano Lagoon, both of which have welcomed and entertained countless visitors over the years.
The collaboration between Hard Rock and the Neon Museum highlights the importance of preserving the cultural heritage of Las Vegas. These artifacts are not just pieces of history; they are symbols of the city’s vibrant entertainment industry and its evolution over the years. By placing these items in the Neon Museum, Hard Rock is ensuring that future generations can appreciate and learn about the rich history of The Mirage and its impact on Las Vegas.
A Collaborative Effort
The donation of The Mirage artifacts to the Neon Museum is the result of a collaborative effort between Hard Rock International, The PENTA Building Group, and the Neon Museum. The PENTA Building Group, which has been involved in the demolition and construction projects at The Mirage, played a crucial role in identifying and preserving these historic items. Through their PENTA CARES Foundation, they have worked closely with Hard Rock and the Neon Museum to ensure that these artifacts are safely transported and displayed.
Joe Lupo, President of Mirage Hotel and Casino, expressed his gratitude for the collaboration, stating that it is an honor to contribute to the preservation of Las Vegas history. The Neon Museum’s Executive Director, Aaron Berger, also emphasized the significance of this donation, noting that it has been a year-long process to identify the most iconic and historically significant pieces from The Mirage.
This joint effort underscores the commitment of all parties involved to preserving the cultural heritage of Las Vegas. The donation not only honors the legacy of The Mirage but also enhances the Neon Museum’s collection, making it an even more valuable resource for the community and visitors alike. The artifacts will be displayed in a way that tells the story of The Mirage and its role in shaping the Las Vegas Strip.
Looking to the Future
As The Mirage transitions into a new chapter under Hard Rock International, the donation of its artifacts to the Neon Museum marks a significant milestone. This gesture reflects Hard Rock’s dedication to honoring the past while looking forward to the future. The Neon Museum’s planned expansion into the Las Vegas Arts District will provide a larger space to showcase these artifacts, allowing more people to experience and appreciate the history of The Mirage.
The donation also comes at a time when the Neon Museum is undergoing significant growth. With plans to triple its size, the museum will be able to accommodate more artifacts and offer a richer experience for visitors. The addition of The Mirage artifacts will be a highlight of this expansion, drawing attention to the museum’s role in preserving the history of Las Vegas.
Future generations will benefit from this donation, as they will have the opportunity to learn about the iconic Mirage and its contributions to the city’s entertainment landscape. The artifacts will serve as a reminder of the innovation and creativity that have defined Las Vegas over the years. By preserving these pieces, Hard Rock and the Neon Museum are ensuring that the legacy of The Mirage continues to inspire and captivate audiences for years to come.
