Historical Significance
Located at the corner of Fremont and Main streets, the Golden Gate Hotel & Casino retains elements of its original structure, including seven narrow windows along Fremont and 11 on Main that outline the first guest rooms.
The hotel traces its roots to a 1905 land auction, where John F. Miller acquired the site for $1,750 and briefly operated a tent hotel before opening the Hotel Nevada in 1906.
The establishment featured modern amenities for its time, such as electric lighting and basic ventilation, attracting travelers due to its proximity to the railroad depot. The hotel recorded several milestones, including installing the city’s first phone number in 1907 and showcasing one of downtown’s earliest neon signs.
Commitment to Preserving Legacy
In 2006, brothers Derek and Greg Stevens purchased Golden Gate and led a remodel that blended modernization and historic preservation. Derek noted the hotel’s uniqueness as a key asset, stating, “No one else was going to be able to copy it.” Following the acquisition, construction crews discovered a concealed kitchen area featuring exposed brick and decorative archways from early renovations.
Today, the basement reveals further historical elements, including old refrigerator markings, century-old bricks, and remnants of early elevator systems. Vintage slot machines and a preserved 1909 fountain coexist with newer features, while the Prohibition Bar, once frequented by stars like Frank Sinatra and Michael Jackson, remains a vibrant part of Sin City.
Gaming Experience Over the Years
Golden Gate Hotel & Casino has been a pioneer in the gaming industry, introducing dancing dealers to its casino before extending the concept to other properties owned by the Steven brothers. However, in August 2025, the hotel shifted from live dealer table games to electronic versions to align with changing guest preferences.
A new promotion, “Night Starts Here”, now offers complimentary drinks from 6 to 7 pm. Jeff Victor, vice president of operations for Circa Hospitality Group, highlighted the hotel’s historical importance, stating, “This is, literally, the birthplace of hotel tourism and casino as we know it today in Las Vegas.”
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