Watch as an iconic Vegas hotel and casino is demolished

Once known as a classic mob joint, “The Riv” was used in three of the most famous movies ever filmed in Las Vegas.

THE LAST TOWER at the iconic Riviera Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas has come down.

The Monte Carlo wing of the hotel came down early this morning in a controlled explosion.

The 2,075-room property closed in May 2015 after 60 years hosting headliners from Liberace to Dean Martin. It also was a backdrop for movies including the Rat Pack original Ocean’s 11 in 1960.

The Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority now owns the property and is spending $42 million to level the 13-building site. The tourism agency plans to use the site to expand the Las Vegas Convention Centre.

Once known as a classic mob joint, “The Riv” was used in three of the most famous movies ever filmed in Las Vegas, including Ocean’s 11, the 1971 James Bond film Diamonds Are Forever and 1995′s Casino.

Read: Johnny Depp to pay $7 million after finalising divorce from Amber Heard

Making a difference

A mix of advertising and supporting contributions helps keep paywalls away from valuable information like this article. Over 5,000 readers like you have already stepped up and support us with a monthly payment or a once-off donation.

For the price of one cup of coffee each week you can make sure we can keep reliable, meaningful news open to everyone regardless of their ability to pay.

Support us Learn More