Harrah’s Lake Tahoe has a rich history dating back to the 1950s, closely tied to the vision and entrepreneurial spirit of William F. Harrah. From its humble beginnings as the Harrah’s Lake Club to its current status as a premier destination, this iconic casino has played a significant role in shaping the entertainment landscape of Lake Tahoe.
Establishment and Early Years
In 1955, William F. Harrah, the founder of the Harrah’s casino empire, purchased the George’s Gateway Club for $500,000 and opened the Harrah’s Lake Club on June 20, 1955. This establishment would later become known as Harveys Lake Tahoe. Just a year later, in 1956, Harrah’s Lake Club was sold to Harvey Gross for a record-breaking $5.25 million.
In 1958, Harrah acquired an interest in the Stateline Country Club and Nevada Club, opening the Harrah’s Stateline Club, further expanding his presence in the Lake Tahoe region.
The South Shore Room and Entertainment
One of the most significant developments in Harrah’s Lake Tahoe history was the opening of the South Shore Room in 1959. This 750-seat showroom, costing $3.5 million, was designed to prioritize entertainment and quickly became a central part of the Harrah’s Lake Tahoe experience. The South Shore Room’s inaugural headlining act was the legendary comedian Red Skelton.
In 1960, the iconic Guy Lombardo and his Royal Canadians Orchestra performed at Harrah’s, captivating audiences with their popular songs composed by Lombardo’s brother, Carmen.
Expansion and Challenges
As Harrah’s Lake Tahoe continued to grow, the company embarked on a major expansion project in 1971. Harrah began building his premier five-star flagship hotel in Tahoe, designed by renowned architect Martin Stern Jr. The hotel opened in 1973 and was the first casino to receive a 5-star diamond rating from the American Automobile Association (AAA).
In 1976, the hotel underwent further expansion, adding 290 additional rooms to accommodate the increasing number of visitors.
However, Harrah’s Lake Tahoe faced a significant challenge in 1980 when a bomb planted by John Birges exploded at Harveys Lake Tahoe, causing damage to Harrah’s, which was connected to Harveys via a tunnel.
Current Status
In 2001, Harrah’s acquired Harveys Lake Tahoe Resort Casino, making it the largest and most popular combination of hotel and casinos at Lake Tahoe.
Today, Harrah’s Lake Tahoe is owned by Vici Properties and operated by Caesars Entertainment, offering year-round entertainment, world-class dining, and easy access to the stunning outdoor activities that Lake Tahoe is renowned for.
Key Statistics
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| Address | 15 U.S. Route 50, Stateline, Nevada, U.S. |
| Total Gaming Space | 65,000 sq ft (6,000 m²) |
| Number of Rooms | 512 |
| Coordinates | 38°57′34″N 119°56′30″W / 38.959425°N 119.941628°W |
Harrah’s Lake Tahoe has undoubtedly left an indelible mark on the history of Lake Tahoe, serving as a hub for entertainment, gaming, and hospitality for decades. Its rich legacy continues to captivate visitors from around the world, who come to experience the magic and allure of this iconic destination.