If it’s been a few years since you’ve been to Las Vegas, you probably remember Planet Hollywood Resort and Casino as The Aladdin. Owned by Harrah’s Entertainment, Planet Hollywood is in an enviable position on the Strip and is, in many ways, a great starting point for exploring some of the best highlights on Las Vegas Boulevard.
At one time, the resort was just another hotel on the Strip, but in recent years it has become a hip place to hang out, especially with the addition of the Miracle Mile (a collection of fun and eclectic shops beyond the name brands, though you can find those too) and the PH Towers.
The first hotel on this location was opened in 1963 under the name of Tally-Ho. Less than two years later it failed when it was denied the gaming license.
In 1966, the hotel was bought and renovated. The theme became Arabian Nights, and The Aladdin opened on April 1, 1966; there was even a 9-hole golf course within the resort. After several renovations and new additions to the building, the Aladdin reopened in 1976. In 1981 it was home to Iron Maiden’s first ever American concert. The property was closed in 1997 and imploded in 1998 to provide space for an entirely new casino.
The new Aladdin opened on August 17, 2000. Unfortunately it was in financial trouble from the beginning and sold in 2003.
After yet another renovation, new restaurants, bars and retail space were added. It opened on April 17, 2007, as Planet Hollywood Resort and Casino. Harrah’s officially acquired the property in February 2010, and a new wing of the resort—the PH Hotel Towers by Westgate—opened.
Location
NightlifePlanet Hollywood isn’t known for its wild nightclubs, but there are a variety of bars and lounges throughout the casino and the Miracle Mile. Some close in the early hours of the morning while others, such as the Heart Bar, are open 24 hours a day. You can frequently find live music at Cabo Wabo Cantina.
What Planet Hollywood lacks in nightclubs, it makes up for in entertainment. Peepshow, a nursery rhyme-themed striptease, is a permanent fixture at the resort, as are several variety shows, magicians and hypnotists in the Miracle Mile. Planet Hollywood is also the site of the Theatre for the Performing Arts, and a variety of big-name concerts and shows frequently circulate throughout the venue. Movie premieres, Miss USA and Miss Universe pageants, and other major events are also held here.
Planet Hollywood may be known for its shows and restaurants, but it also caters to those who want to golf, relax by the pool or be pampered at the spa. It is possible to spend hours in the Miracle Mile browsing through the eclectic stores, but take some time to enjoy the free fountain and laser shows as well.
Considering its prices and variety of activities, restaurants and entertainment, Planet Hollywood Resort and Casino is most ideally suited to college students and 30-somethings on vacation or visiting for a bachelor or bachelorette party. The resort isn’t necessarily catered to families (though there are some fun shows the kids would enjoy), its central location makes it a good place to stay on the Las Vegas Strip. Its location also makes it a good choice for people who are visiting Las Vegas for the first time.
Photo credit: Ivi PC (feature photo), nellyfus (neon margarita)
