Two Towers at Riviera to Be Imploded August 16, 2016

The date’s been set, and the classic Riviera isn’t long for this world.

Two of Riviera’s remaining structures, the Monte Carlo Tower (not to be confused with the Monte Carlo hotel) and South Tower are set to be imploded on August 16, 2016, at 2:00 a.m.

Previously, it was thought just the Monte Carlo would be imploded, but it appears the South Tower is tool tall for the demolition equipment to handle, so that one’s getting all blowed up, too.

Riviera demolition
The Riviera on July 26, 2016. The Monte Carlo is that taller one in the back.

If you’ve been following the Riviera saga, you know we’ve been following the casino’s demolition pretty closely. Which might be the biggest understatement since, “This blog has had a Captain Morgan and diet or two in its time.”




Our friends at Vegas Bright first floated the possible date of the implosion, and now it’s been confirmed, thanks to a notice distributed to nearby residents. The notice was shared by someone nearly as obsessive about the Riviera’s demise as we are, Austin Shepard, the person we’re rooting for in the creation of a Las Vegas Casino Museum.

The implosion in the early morning hours of August 16 (or, if you prefer, the late hours of August 15) should be accompanied by the requisite amount of hoopla, although no specifics have been given by the owner of the site, the Las Vegas Visitors and Convention Authority.

Riviera Las Vegas demolition
The buildings currently being demolished were erected in 1955, and not just because we love saying “erected.”

Demolition crews are making quick work of the few remaining low-rise buildings at the Riviera site, and the Monte Carlo Tower and South Tower may be the only structures standing by the time it’s imploded.

Riviera demolition
Remember that casino in the movie “Casino” and that abandoned rooftop pool and that underground parking? Now, not so much.

Soon, even the Riviera’s mirrored facade, with some of the most distinctive, old-school neon in Las Vegas will be a memory. Stop by and bid the old girl farewell while you can.