LAS VEGAS — One of the original Las Vegas resort hotels is scheduled to be demolished next week.

The implosion of Tropicana Las Vegas will take place at 2:30 a.m. PDT on Oct. 9, paving the way for the construction of a state-of-the-art MLB ballpark, as well as an entertainment resort destination created in partnership with Bally’s Corporation.

Tropicana Las Vegas prior to its 1957 grand opening (photo credit Bally’s Corporation)

The new fixed-roof ballpark will be home to the Las Vegas A’s, in transition from the Oakland A’s. The team is expected to play at its new stadium after completion in 2028.

The implosion of the Tropicana will be marked by a spectacle featuring 555 drones and fireworks. There will be no public viewing areas of the implosion, due to safety restrictions. A live stream of the implosion will be presented by the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA) on X at x.com/lvcva and by Bally Live at ballylive.com and via the Bally Live app, available for download on all major platforms. The implosion will also be shown on most major networks’ local affiliates.

Tropicana Las Vegas attracted high-rollers from the very start (photo credit Bally’s Corporation)

“The Tropicana Las Vegas was one of the original pioneers of the Strip, setting the stage for the vibrant, larger-than-life entertainment destination we know and love today,” said Soo Kim, Chairman of Bally’s Corporation. “It’s fitting that this iconic site now represents the future of Las Vegas as we look forward to welcoming Major League Baseball, the Athletics, and an exciting new entertainment complex. This moment in Las Vegas history represents more than just the next chapter – it’s the evolution of the Strip, where legend meets innovation to create something truly unforgettable.”

The Tropicana Las Vegas opened in 1957. With its South Beach-inspired architecture and tropical theme, the fast favourite had the largest casino in Las Vegas when it opened.

Tropicana Las Vegas (photo credit Bally’s Corporation)

Directed by GGG Demolition in coordination with Controlled Demolition, Inc. (CDI), the implosion will take down the Tropicana’s two towers, with a total of 917,400 square feet being demolished. The demolition sequence will start with the Paradise Tower, and both structures are expected to collapse within approximately 22 seconds after the implosion button is pressed.

Rendering of the interior of the A’s Las Vegas ballpark (rendering courtesy Negativ)