Located in the heart of downtown Las Vegas, Nevada, the Four Queens Hotel and Casino stands as a beacon of classic Vegas charm amidst the modern glitz of the Fremont Street Experience. This iconic property, which opened its doors in 1966, offers a unique blend of historic allure and contemporary excitement, making it a must-visit destination for both seasoned travelers and first-time visitors to Sin City.
The Four Queens was the brainchild of Ben Goffstein, a former president of the Riviera Hotel-Casino, who envisioned a property that would pay homage to his four daughters. Each daughter was symbolically represented as a queen from a deck of cards: Faith (the Queen of Hearts), Hope (the Queen of Diamonds), Benita (the Queen of Clubs), and Michele (the Queen of Spades). This familial tribute is not just a charming backstory but also a testament to the personal touch that has defined the Four Queens since its inception.
Construction of the Four Queens began with a groundbreaking ceremony on November 16, 1964. Despite some delays, the casino portion opened on June 2, 1966, with a grand promotional giveaway totaling $250,000 in prizes. The hotel followed shortly after, opening its doors on August 12, 1966, with an initial offering of 115 rooms. Over the years, the property has expanded and evolved, adding a 10-story addition in 1969 and an 18-story tower in 1981, bringing the total room count to 690.
The Four Queens has seen its fair share of changes in ownership and management over the decades. From 1973 to 2003, it was owned by Elsinore Corporation, a subsidiary of the Hyatt Corporation until 1979. During this period, Jeanne Hood became the property's president in 1977, following the death of her husband, David Hood. Jeanne Hood was one of the few women in Las Vegas to oversee a gaming property, a testament to the progressive spirit of the Four Queens.
In 2003, local businessman Terry Caudill acquired the Four Queens through his company, TLC Casino Enterprises. Caudill's vision and experience in the local gaming market have helped revitalize the property, leading to a $20 million renovation that concluded in 2007. This renovation included updates to all hotel rooms, ensuring that guests enjoy a blend of historic charm and modern amenities.
Spanning 27,269 square feet, the Four Queens casino offers a vibrant and exciting gaming experience. The casino floor features a wide variety of slot machines, table games, and a keno lounge, catering to both casual players and high rollers. One of the standout attractions in the casino's history was the Queen's Machine, the world's largest slot machine, which measured 9 feet high, 18 feet long, and 8 feet wide. Although it has since been retired, the Queen's Machine remains a legendary part of the Four Queens' storied past.
The Four Queens also made history in 2003 by becoming the first Las Vegas casino to offer Geoff Hall's blackjack variant, Blackjack Switch. This innovative game has since become widely available throughout the area, further cementing the Four Queens' reputation as a pioneer in the gaming industry.
No trip to the Four Queens would be complete without indulging in its culinary offerings. Hugo's Cellar, a gourmet restaurant that originated as Hugo's Rotisserie in 1976, is a beloved dining destination known for its romantic ambiance and exquisite cuisine. The Chicago Brewing Company, added during Caudill's renovation, offers a more casual dining experience with a selection of craft beers and delicious fare.
Over the years, the Four Queens has also been a hub for entertainment. In 1982, it launched Monday Night Jazz, a weekly show featuring nationally known jazz performers that ran for 14 years. The Fun House comedy club, which opened in 1997, provided another venue for live entertainment in the downtown area. More recently, the property added the Canyon Club, a 10,000-square-foot nightclub built in partnership with Lance Sterling, the founder of the House of Blues in Las Vegas.
One of the Four Queens' most appealing features is its prime location on the Fremont Street Experience, a pedestrian mall that offers a dazzling array of lights, music, and entertainment. Visitors can enjoy nightly light shows on the Viva Vision canopy, live performances, and a variety of street vendors and artists. The Fremont Street Experience is a vibrant and dynamic destination that perfectly complements the historic charm of the Four Queens.
The Four Queens Hotel and Casino is more than just a place to stay or play; it's a piece of Las Vegas history that continues to thrive in the heart of downtown. With its rich heritage, modern amenities, and prime location on the Fremont Street Experience, the Four Queens offers a unique and unforgettable experience for all who visit. Whether you're a history buff, a gaming enthusiast, or simply looking for a memorable getaway, the Four Queens is a timeless destination that captures the spirit of Las Vegas like no other.
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