The Mirage Las Vegas is closing to make way for Hard Rock guitar-shaped hotel

LAS VEGAS (KVVU/Gray News) - An iconic hotel and casino on the Las Vegas Strip is closing this summer.

The Hard Rock International announced that The Mirage is scheduled to cease operations on July 17.

Officials say the closure is to begin the transformation of the property into the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino and Guitar Hotel Las Vegas.

The hotel is planned to feature a nearly 700-foot guitar-shaped hotel in the center of the Strip.

“We’d like to thank the Las Vegas community and team members for warmly welcoming Hard Rock after enjoying 34 years at The Mirage,” Jim Allen, chairman of Hard Rock International, said. “We’d also like to thank the Unions, community leaders, local and state government organizations and the Gaming Commission for their support and fair negotiations over the past year. Also, we are grateful to MGM for assisting with our transition.”

The president of The Mirage also thanked team members for their service at the property.

“While we pause for the incredible transformation of this iconic property, I’d like to thank all team members at The Mirage for their incredible commitment and helping us provide memorable experiences for our guests,” Joe Lupo, president of The Mirage, said. “We are planning to host collaborative hiring events with other employers in the Las Vegas community over the coming months. Connecting the thousands of talented Mirage team members who provide outstanding service with new employment opportunities is a top priority.”

Hard Rock officials said the new property will double the number of jobs currently available at The Mirage and will offer severance packages for eligible employees.

Guests with room reservations or show tickets beyond July 14 are said to be automatically canceled and refunded.