Most folks who love Vegas are aware that the MGM Grand used to have this huge gold lion that you’d walk under (or into) when you entered the casino. But there were a few other Vegas joints that also tried the whole “giant gold statue entrance” thing at one point or another. Let me tell you about some of these lesser known Vegas golden statue entrances.
Nothing says double “circus” like a giant chimpanzee head! The imposing statue, with its striking features and size, evoked a sense of wonder and awe. The intricate details and lifelike expression were a testament to the artistry involved in its creation. As it overlooked the poor souls visiting Circus Circus, the juxtaposition of the playful concept of a circus with the commanding presence of the giant chimpanzee head created a unique and unforgettable spectacle.
The statue had stood tall for decades keeping watch over the double C. However, its fate took a dramatic turn when a powerful wind storm struck, causing it to break loose from its perch. The statue careened down Las Vegas Blvd, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake, and ending in a collision between the statue and the Riviera. The impact of the statue crashing into the Riviera was monumental. The once iconic Riviera, known for its glamour and history, was caught with its pants down after the unexpected head. The damage inflicted by the chimp’s head was so extensive that the underinsured Riviera made the decision to demolish the building in 2016, marking the end of an era for this historic Las Vegas landmark.
A magnificent golden horses’ ass used to adorn the entrance to the Horseshoe (formerly Ballys) casino. Every half an hour, to the delight and amusement of the onlookers, the horse would ceremoniously raise its tail, and a mesmerizing display would unfold. From the posterior of the golden steed, an array of items would be dispensed, including coupons for discounted meals at the casino’s restaurants, delectable Baby Ruth candy (already out of the wrapper), and on rare occasions, highly coveted real casino chips. The unique attraction became a symbol of the casino’s extravagant and playful nature, further enhancing the allure of the establishment for those seeking a memorable experience in Las Vegas. The golden horse’s “gifts” created a festive atmosphere surrounding the casino.
Unfortunately, the statue was dumped years ago after it was learned that in rodeo culture, it’s bad luck to walk under a horse’s rear end. The decision to remove the statue was met with mixed reactions. While some supported the gesture as a sign of respect for rodeo culture and its traditions, others argued that it was unnecessary and that the superstition should not dictate public installations. The controversy sparked a broader conversation about the intersection of tradition and modernity, and the role of superstitions in contemporary society. Despite the debate, the casino stood by its choice, and the statue became golden glue.