Iconic Las Vegas Attractions 2023 – A Movie Enthusiast’ Guide

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Iconic Las Vegas Attractions for Movie buffs 2023

Introduction

Las Vegas has always been a staple when it comes to the silver screen. An embodiment of glamor, extravagance, and thrilling action, the city’s bright lights and iconic architecture have painted the backdrop for countless films across various genres. From the electrifying casino scenes to the breathtaking fountains, Las Vegas has been the cinematic universe for movie enthusiasts, making it a must-visit for any film buff.

This article takes you on a reel-to-real journey, spotlighting some of the most famous Las Vegas Attractions that have been featured in blockbuster hits. So, grab your popcorn, and let’s delve into the cinematic side of Sin City.

Caesars Palace: A Cinematic Las Vegas Attraction

Caesar's Palace Las Vegas
Caesar’s Palace Las Vegas

Caesars Palace has long been a favorite among filmmakers, with its grand Roman-inspired architecture and opulent interiors as the perfect setting for many famous movies. Perhaps the most recognizable is the 2009 hit “The Hangover“, where many of the film’s hilarious antics unfold.

The hotel resort’s lobby, casino floor, and the Garden of the Gods pool area have all enjoyed their moments of cinematic fame. From Iron Man’s gambling escapades in 2008 to the blackjack scenes in “Rain Man” (1988), Caesars Palace is a must-visit Las Vegas Attraction for movie fans.

Tropicana Las Vegas: A Classic Setting with Mob Ties

Tropicana Las Vegas
Tropicana Las Vegas

The Tropicana Las Vegas boasts a long history and a classic appeal, making it an ideal filming location for movies set in the past. Its most famous appearance is in the classic mob film “The Godfather” (1972). Although the casino has undergone several renovations since the movie’s release, the spirit of the “Tropigala” remains.

With its classic allure, the iconic casino has been the setting for many a film scene. It’s where James Bond spun his web of intrigue in “Diamonds Are Forever” and where Elvis Presley brought the house down in “Viva Las Vegas.” Whether you’re drawn to the gritty allure of mob films or the timeless charm of classic cinema, visiting the Tropicana is like stepping directly into a cherished movie scene.

Bellagio Las Vegas: A Fountain of Cinematic Beauty

Bellagio Las Vegas
The Fountains of Bellagio

The Bellagio’s fountains have taken center stage in many films. Still, perhaps their most memorable role was in the 2001 “Ocean’s Eleven” blockbuster. In this film, the cascading waters and synchronized light show provide a dramatic backdrop for the movie’s pivotal moments.

Whether it’s the animated Disney movie “Bolt,” the apocalyptic film “2012,” or musical performances in Bruno Mars’ “24K Magic” and Britney Spears’ concerts, the Fountains at Bellagio always steal the show.

Westgate Las Vegas: From Bond to Elvis

Westgate Las Vegas
Westgate Las Vegas

While Westgate Las Vegas may not have been featured in recent movies, it has a rich cinematic history. Known as the International in the past, it was showcased as the Whyte House casino in the James Bond film, “Diamonds Are Forever”.

The Westgate is also linked to the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll, Elvis Presley. This Las Vegas Attraction was the site of the concert documentary “Elvis: That’s The Way It Is,” covering several of Elvis’s performances.

The Mirage Las Vegas: A Tropical Paradise on Screen

The Mirage Las Vegas
The Mirage Las Vegas

The Mirage has been a popular choice for filmmakers looking to capture a tropical ambiance amidst the desert landscape of Las Vegas. With its unique allure, this casino was featured in numerous films. However, its most memorable role was undoubtedly in the 1997 comedy “Vegas Vacation”, the fourth film in the laugh-out-loud National Lampoon’s Vacation series.

The Mirage’s volcano attraction, casino, and poker room have all had moments on the big screen. Video game enthusiasts may also recognize the hotel-casino in games like “Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas” and “Need for Speed: Carbon”.

Circus Circus: A Place of Fun and Fear

Circus Circus Las Vegas
Circus Circus Las Vegas

With its vibrant, festival-like setting, Circus Circus has been a hot spot for filming various movies, including the surreal “Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas” (1998) and several James Bond escapades. Famed for its live circus performances and indoor amusement park, this casino provides a unique and family-friendly glimpse into Las Vegas’s colorful past.

Fremont Street: The Original Vegas Strip

Fremont Street Las Vegas
Fremont Street Las Vegas

Fremont Street, with its vintage charm and dazzling light shows, has been featured in a variety of films and music videos. From “Honey, I Blew Up the Kid” to Katy Perry’s “Waking Up in Vegas,” this iconic street offers a taste of old-school Vegas.

The Neon Museum: A Graveyard of Glitz and Glamour

Neon Museum Las Vegas
Neon Museum Las Vegas

The Neon Museum, also known as the Neon Boneyard, is a vibrant archive of Las Vegas’s illuminated history, with its collection of vintage neon signs. This distinctive museum has graced the silver screen in several films, including the eccentric “Mars Attacks!” and the humorous “Vegas Vacation.”

Mandalay Bay: A Ring-Side View of Cinematic Action

Mandalay Bay Las Vegas
Mandalay Bay Las Vegas

Mandalay Bay has been a popular choice for filmmakers looking for a modern, luxurious setting. Its most notable appearance is in ” Rocky Balboa” (2006), where the final title fight was filmed in an actual ring at the hotel.

More Silver Screen Hotspots in Las Vegas

Beyond these iconic locations, Las Vegas is brimming with other spots that have made their way onto the silver screen. From the bustling energy of the Strip to the quiet charm of downtown, there’s no shortage of cinematic locations to explore.

So, you’re a movie buff looking to follow your favorite characters’ footsteps. In that case, Las Vegas offers an array of iconic filming locations that bring the magic of the movies to life. Experience the city lights through a different lens and dive into the cinematic universe that awaits in Las Vegas.

With these popular Las Vegas attractions, you can also see our picks for the 7 Best Hotels in Las Vegas in 2023 and see which hotel appeals to you the most!

For more exciting updates and insider tips on the best of Las Vegas, follow @melindasheckells

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  • Melinda Sheckells

    I’m Melinda Sheckells, your go-to source for all things Las Vegas. My journey has led me through the heart of Vegas’ top media outlets, from steering...

FAQ’s

What are some iconic filming locations in Las Vegas? 

Some iconic filming locations in Las Vegas include Caesars Palace, Tropicana Las Vegas, Bellagio Las Vegas, Westgate Las Vegas, The Mirage, Circus Circus, Fremont Street, The Neon Museum, and Mandalay Bay.

Which Las Vegas hotel was featured in “The Hangover”? 

The Caesars Palace was prominently featured in the 2009 hit movie “The Hangover”.

What films have been shot at Circus Circus in Las Vegas?  

Circus Circus has been the setting for several films, including “Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas” (1998) and several James Bond movies.

Which Las Vegas hotel was featured in “Rocky Balboa”?  

Mandalay Bay was featured in “Rocky Balboa” (2006), where the final title fight was filmed in an actual ring at the hotel.

What are some must-visit places in Las Vegas for movie fans?   

Movie fans should consider visiting Caesars Palace, Tropicana Las Vegas, Bellagio Las Vegas, Westgate Las Vegas, The Mirage, Circus Circus, Fremont Street, The Neon Museum, and Mandalay Bay, all of which have been featured in various films

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