The Gold Coast Casino: A Local Treasure in Las Vegas
1986 - Present
1986 - Present
The Gold Coast Hotel and Casino is a prominent resort and gaming establishment located in Las Vegas, Nevada. Opened in December 1986, it was the first casino built from the ground up by renowned Las Vegas casino operator Michael Gaughan, who was already known for the Barbary Coast on the Las Vegas Strip. The Gold Coast was a pioneer in catering to the growing "locals" market of Las Vegas, distinguishing itself from casinos focused solely on tourists. Over the years, it has played a significant role in shaping the west side of Las Vegas and contributing to the city's expanding entertainment landscape.
Founding and Early Development: The Gold Coast opened its doors on December 21, 1986, marking the first major resort built west of Interstate 15 since Palace Station, ten years prior. The original theme was a classic Western gambling hall. Notably, it was also the first Las Vegas casino to introduce a first-run movie theater. Major Milestones: In 1995, the casino grabbed headlines when a record jackpot of $10,918,881 was won on a Megabucks slot machine, the largest in Nevada at the time. The property underwent significant renovations in 2002, modernizing its facilities and adding more space for parking, restaurants, and gaming. The theme also shifted from Western to a contemporary style. The Gold Coast became part of Boyd Gaming in 2004, following a merger with Michael Gaughan’s Coast Casinos brand.
Community and Events: Throughout its history, Gold Coast has hosted many notable events, such as performances in its 490-seat showroom and monthly meetings of the Southern Nevada Casino Collectibles Club. Gaming Options: The casino floor offers a wide variety of games, including slots, table games, a Race and Sports Book, and a spacious 700-seat bingo room. Unique among local casinos, the Gold Coast is noted for accessible gaming with lower minimums, such as $3 minimum bets at roulette tables. Poker rooms, once part of the casino, were closed in 2011 due to financial reasons. Entertainment: The Gold Coast Showroom has hosted numerous acts and productions over the years, including performances by The Jordanaires and the musical Forever Plaid. There is a significant focus on live entertainment, events, and nightlife.
Dining and Culinary Experiences: The resort features five restaurants, including Cornerstone, a steakhouse that opened in 2016, as well as various casual and upscale dining options. There are also bars and lounges for more casual fare. Additional Attractions: Guests can enjoy a 70-lane bowling center and access to beauty and barber shops. A variety of amenities cater to both tourists and locals. Benefits of Visiting the Gold Coast Casino: The Gold Coast is favored by both locals and visitors for its convenient location, relaxed atmosphere, and diverse gaming options. It offers a more affordable and accessible experience compared to many larger Strip properties, making it attractive for casual gamers and families.
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