Las Vegas is buzzing as the iconic Rio hotel-casino shakes off years of neglect with a massive makeover. Dreamscape Companies is pumping new life into this 35-year-old gem, bringing back its famous buffet and eyeing big plans for extra land. What’s next for this off-Strip favorite? Dive in to find out.
Upgrades Transform Rio After Tough Years
The Rio Las Vegas has faced rough times, but change is here. Dreamscape Companies took over operations in October 2023, after buying the property from Caesars Entertainment in 2019 for $516.3 million. CEO Patrick Miller told the Nevada Gaming Control Board last week that past owners let the place fall into disrepair.
Now, a $340 million renovation is turning things around. So far, crews have redone 1,500 of the 2,500 rooms. The outside shines with fresh paint, bright lights, and a thrilling nighttime light show that lights up the Strip skyline.
Miller, who once worked at Mirage Resorts, said the 90-acre site is huge, and they’ve cleaned up the pool and convention areas too. The main casino floor got new carpets, better lighting, and other fixes to make it feel welcoming again.
Work started right after Dreamscape stepped in. They’ve focused on both locals and tourists, aiming to bring back the fun vibe that made Rio famous.
Buffet Makes a Comeback Amid Food Scene Shake-Up
Food lovers, rejoice. Rio is bringing back its beloved buffet, a move that has fans excited. The Carnival World Buffet closed years ago, but plans are in motion to revive it, fitting into the property’s push for fresh dining options.
This resurrection comes as part of wider changes to the food hall. In January 2024, the Canteen Food Hall opened in the old buffet space, featuring spots like Shogun Ramen and Tony Luke’s cheesesteaks. Now, the buffet’s return adds to that mix, promising all-you-can-eat classics with a modern twist.
Why now? Miller explained that the property wants to appeal to everyone, from quick bites to full meals. It’s a smart play in a city where buffets are making a slow comeback after the pandemic hit them hard.
- Popular new eateries include Southland Burrito Co. and Tender Crush chicken tenders.
- The buffet will likely feature weekend breakfasts and dinners, with prices around $30 to $35 based on similar spots in town.
- Expect fresh seafood, carving stations, and dessert bars to draw crowds.
These updates show Rio’s focus on fun, affordable eats that keep guests coming back.
Plans for Excess Land Spark Excitement
Rio sits on 90 acres, but not all of it is in use. Leaders are now thinking about what to do with the extra space, and ideas are flying.
Miller hinted at options like new entertainment venues or even sports facilities. Back in 2023, there was talk of the Oakland A’s baseball team eyeing the land for a stadium, though that plan shifted elsewhere.
A table of potential uses could look like this:
| Idea | Details | Potential Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Entertainment Zone | Add shows or clubs | Boost nightlife and jobs |
| Sports Complex | Fields or arenas | Attract families and events |
| Retail Expansion | Shops and eateries | Increase visitor spending |
Whatever they choose, it could change Rio’s role in Las Vegas. The property already has two hotel towers and a casino, so extra land offers room to grow without crowding the main areas.
Discussions are early, but Miller said they’re looking at ways to make the most of the space. This fits the bigger renovation goal: make Rio a top spot again.
Challenges and Wins in the Renovation Push
Turning around a big property like Rio isn’t easy. Miller admitted to the gaming board that the building’s size made fixes tough, but they’ve made real progress.
One big win: a $176.5 million loan in August 2025 to keep the work going. This cash helped finish phase one last year, including room updates and a fresh look for the Ipanema and Masquerade towers.
Still, more work lies ahead. The team plans to remodel the rest of the rooms and add more gaming options. They’ve even switched from Pepsi to Coke products across the site, a small but telling change under new management.
These efforts aim to wow both locals and visitors. A January 2025 report from The Nevada Independent noted the upgrades have already modernized the gaming floor and added new restaurants.
The Rio’s story is one of revival in a city that never stops evolving. From disrepair to dazzle, this property is betting big on its future, blending old charm with new thrills. As Las Vegas keeps growing, moves like these could inspire other spots to step up their game.
