The Gateway to Motel Row: What the Sign Welcomed Visitors to in 1959

A Forgotten Era of Las Vegas

In 1959, the iconic sign that stood at 5100 Las Vegas Boulevard South, marked the entrance to the city's Motel Row. This neon-lit strip was a hub of activity, catering to travelers driving up Highway 91 from Los Angeles. The sign, a beacon of hope and hospitality, welcomed weary drivers to a world of comfort and entertainment.

The Rise of Motel Row

Motel Row was a product of the post-war era, when the demand for affordable accommodations skyrocketed. The strip, which stretched from the southern end of the Las Vegas Valley to the outskirts of the city, was home to over 200 motels, each one vying for the attention of travelers. The motels offered a range of amenities, from swimming pools and restaurants to casinos and entertainment venues.

A World of Comfort and Entertainment

The motels on Motel Row were designed to cater to the needs of travelers. They offered comfortable rooms, equipped with modern amenities such as air conditioning and televisions. The motels also featured a range of entertainment options, including casinos, restaurants, and bars. The strip was a hub of activity, with travelers and locals alike flocking to the motels to enjoy the entertainment and amenities on offer.

The Decline of Motel Row

As the years passed, the megaresorts of the Las Vegas Strip began to take over, drawing visitors away from the humble motels of Motel Row. The once-thriving strip began to decline, as the megaresorts offered a more luxurious and sophisticated experience. The iconic sign that stood at 5100 Las Vegas Boulevard South was eventually replaced, marking the end of an era for Motel Row.

A Legacy of Hospitality

Despite its decline, Motel Row left a lasting legacy in the city of Las Vegas. The strip's emphasis on hospitality and comfort helped to establish Las Vegas as a destination for travelers, and its influence can still be seen in the city's modern resorts. The iconic sign that stood at 5100 Las Vegas Boulevard South may be gone, but its legacy lives on in the hearts of those who remember the forgotten era of Las Vegas' Motel Row.