Hull converted a garage into a
When Was the First Casino Built in Las Vegas Guide
The first casino in Las Vegas opened March 26, 1931, as the Northern Club by Tommy Hull. This 2026 guide traces milestones from legalization to Strip dominance, with timelines and facts.
Gambling legalized via Nevada Assembly Bill 98, sparking a boom.
1931: Northern Club Opening
Checklist: headline clarity, internal links, and fresh examples.
10-machine casino, drawing LA crowds via Highway
Hull converted a garage into a 10-machine casino, drawing LA crowds via Highway 91.
- Date: March 26, 1931
- Games: Slots, roulette
- Capacity: 30 patrons
1941: El Rancho Vegas Resort
First on what became the Strip.
First on what became the Strip.
- Built by Bunny Lee
- 63 rooms, 100% match play
- November 1941 debut
1946: Flamingo by Bugsy Siegel
Analysis panel
Glitzy pioneer despite delays.
- December 26 opening
- $6M cost (huge then)
- Chippendales shows
Post-War Boom: 1950s Landmarks
Pros
Sands, Desert Inn transformed Vegas.
Trade-offs
Sands, Desert Inn transformed Vegas.
Sands, Desert Inn transformed Vegas.
- Sands 1952: Rat Pack era
- Desert Inn 1950: Wilbur Clark
Modern Era Reflections 2026
Analysis panel
From 1931 garages to $4B resorts.
- Legalization anniversary events
- Virtual tours of originals