The Oldest Casino In Nevada Has A Truly Incredible History
By Lea Monroe
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Published August 02, 2016
We’re all familiar with the fact that Nevada is known for being home to the Entertainment Capital of the World, but do you know the history behind our state’s oldest casino? It’s celebrating its 85th birthday, and you’ll be fascinated to learn about Railroad Pass Hotel & Casino, located in the city of Henderson:
The most historic casino you'll find within our state, Railroad Pass Hotel & Casino should be on your bucket list!
Within the past couple years, new ownership has taken place and roughly $2 million dollars worth of upgrades have gone into repairing the historic hotel and casino. The remodeling that was done to Railroad Pass was done in an effort to help preserve the history of the casino and all of its nostalgic appeal.
The casino was built back in 1931, the same year gambling was made legal in the state of Nevada.
Construction on the Hoover Dam, just minutes down the road, began the same year that Railroad Pass opened. Quickly becoming a popular spot for workers to come and unwind after a hard day's work, the casino was instantly a local favorite. How interesting!
Pictured below, you can see a framed picture of the casino from the 1930's hanging inside of Railroad Pass. A shot from the very beginning of this casino's long history.
Railroad Pass was issued the fourth gaming license in the state. With the first three license holders no longer in business, this historic spot is officially the oldest casino in Nevada!
The hotel has 120 rooms, all of which have now been remodeled.
Snug between the surrounding mountains of Henderson, this place delivers some truly scenic views.
This historic source of entertainment has always been a local favorite, but with it falling right near the border of our state and Arizona, it also serves as a fantastic place to stop on your way in or out of Nevada!
Behind the casino, you'll find train tracks and the popular River Mountains trailhead.
Pictured above, you can see the casino in the distance with the train tracks and trail in the foreground. The River Mountains trail provides a scenic loop that gives you views of the trains and surrounding mountains. So, if you have zero interest in staying inside all day and gambling, this is a great alternative to give you a breath of fresh air.
To view the River Mountains Loop Trail,
click here.
At the casino you can get your fill of nostalgia in the Heritage Room with old slot machines, memorabilia from the casino and vintage pictures.
The Heritage Room is filled with a variety of things from the casino's history that will fascinate you, and is open 24/7, no admission charged!
You can also find the Safe Room at Railroad Pass. Wondering what the Safe Room is? Right off of the casino floor you'll find the safe that was once used to hold the payroll for the workers at the Hoover Dam and the Railroad! The safe was built in the late 1800's and its door remains permanently open.
Another reason why Railroad Pass has become a local favorite? The food!
There are a few ways you can fill your stomach at Railroad Pass but the most talked about dining establishment inside of this casino is hands down, DeSimone’s Steakhouse. The delicious steakhouse draws in customers outside of those who are already enjoying the casino and hotel, becoming a regular favorite for many.
Other ways you can quench your hunger here? Check out The Box Car Buffet or the Iron Rail Cafe which is open 24/7!
Did you enjoy reading about this historical gem of Nevada? Then check out this Incredible Wonder Of The World That’s Right Here in our state that will take your breath away!
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