Permits reveal next steps in Mirage’s transformation on Las Vegas Strip

LAS VEGAS, Nev. (FOX5) - Permits obtained by FOX5 are revealing the demolition plans for the Mirage and the plans to build the Hard Rock in its place.

Last month, the Mirage announced that it would be closing on July 17 to begin its transformation into the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino and Guitar Hotel Las Vegas. The hotel will feature a nearly 700-foot-tall guitar-shaped hotel in the center of the Strip.

Once the hotel closes its doors, demolition of the property — including the hotel’s iconic volcano — will begin. Permits indicate that it may involve the removal of asbestos before the buildings are torn down.

Construction is expected to last around 18 months, though a timeline for that is yet to be released.

While phase one will involve demolition, phase two will include the excavation of a deep foundation for the construction of the 660-foot-high guitar-shaped marquee, as well as its interior hotel rooms.

Phase three will finalize “surface improvements,” which will include building new walkways and landscaping moments.

Las Vegas locals spoke to FOX5 following the announcement of the hotel’s closure. Some expressed how disappointed they were, though others highlighted their excitement for the future.

“As much as I would love for The Mirage to last forever, I’ve got to go back to that fundamental belief that we do well when we’re willing to part with some of the things in the past and try new things,” former Mirage executive Alan Feldman said. “Am I sad the volcano is going to go away? Of course. But I’ve got to tell you, I’m pretty excited about a huge guitar-shaped hotel coming right to the Strip. That’s pretty cool.”