Plans for the first Jewish-themed hotel on the Las Vegas Strip have been unveiled, marking a significant milestone for the city’s diverse cultural landscape. The proposed King David Hotel, featuring a shul, kosher restaurants, and banquet facilities, has been submitted for approval to Clark County.
Designed by Vegas developer Ray Korghli, the King David Hotel would stand tall at 648 feet, resembling Manhattan’s iconic Citicorp Center. With 486 rooms, retail spaces, and convention facilities, it aims to cater to both tourists and locals seeking kosher amenities.
The initiative has garnered support from Jewish leaders who have long advocated for a Jewish hub on the Strip. Currently, observant Jews face challenges accessing synagogue services and kosher dining options, often located miles away from the Strip. A permanent establishment like the King David Hotel would not only fill this gap but also elevate Las Vegas as a year-round destination for Jewish tourism.The proposed hotel site holds a peculiar history, adding intrigue to the project. Located at 3601 Vegas Plaza Drive, the half-acre plot was once the center of a contentious dispute between casino magnate Steve Wynn and its former owner, Mike Flores.
In 1987, Wynn sought to acquire the land surrounding The Mirage for development purposes. However, Flores, the owner of the Villa De Flores apartment complex situated on the parcel, demanded a substantial sum, sparking a legal battle. Despite setbacks and a fiery incident involving propane tanks in 1999, the land eventually changed hands.
Today, Koroghli envisions transforming this historic site into a vibrant Jewish enclave, bridging the gap between tradition and modernity on the bustling Las Vegas Strip. As the proposal progresses through the approval process, stakeholders eagerly await the outcome, anticipating the potential impact of the King David Hotel on the city’s cultural landscape.
While challenges and discussions lie ahead, the vision of a Jewish hotel and temple amidst the glitz and glamour of Las Vegas symbolizes the city’s commitment to inclusivity and diversity in its tourism offerings.
