A Googie Gem on the Strip

The Las Vegas Strip has always been a place of reinvention, but few properties demonstrate that evolution as clearly as the El Morocco Motel and Casino. Opening in 1964, nestled between the iconic La Concha Motel and the ever-present Peppermill Restaurant, the El Morocco was more than just another roadside stop. It was a statement of modern ambition, perfectly embodying the optimistic spirit of the mid-60s. Designed by the legendary Paul Revere Williams – a name synonymous with architectural brilliance in Southern California and Las Vegas – the building’s Googie design mirrored the aesthetic of its sister property, the La Concha, creating a striking visual harmony along the burgeoning Strip. Think soaring curves, boomerang shapes, and a futuristic vibe – a truly iconic look for its time.

Banking on Vegas – A Unique Feature

What truly set the El Morocco apart in 1964 wasn’t just its architecture, it was its unusual tenant: a full-service branch of the Bank of Las Vegas. Yes, you read that right. A bank, operating inside a motel and casino! This was a groundbreaking concept, highlighting the rapidly expanding and increasingly sophisticated nature of Las Vegas. Imagine checking out of your room, placing a bet, and handling your finances – all under one stylish roof. This demonstrated a forward-thinking approach to convenience and catered to the growing number of tourists and residents flocking to the city.

Food, Fun, and Beauty

Beyond banking and gambling, the El Morocco offered a delightful array of amenities. Restaurateur Jack Dennison launched his popular Copper Cart restaurant (later known as the Carving Cart) which became a favorite spot for both locals and visitors. A coffee shop kept guests caffeinated, a cocktail lounge provided swanky evening entertainment, and a beauty salon ensured guests always looked their best. It was a self-contained resort experience, catering to a wide range of needs.

From Casino to Souvenir Shop

The winds of change, as they always do in Vegas, eventually blew through the El Morocco. The bank branch was replaced with a casino in the 1970s, reflecting the continuing shift toward entertainment and gaming. However, by 1983, the casino itself was converted into a gift shop – a sign of changing times and perhaps a less-than-stellar performance. Further transformations followed, with the lobby becoming a Korean restaurant. By the early 2000s, it had fully embraced the souvenir shop and internet cafe concept.

A Lost Piece of Vegas History

The El Morocco’s demolition in 2006 and 2008 marked the sad end of an era. Though only fragments remain in photographs and memories, its legacy lives on as a symbol of a mid-century Las Vegas that was both innovative and undeniably cool. Today, the site sits vacant, owned by The Siegel Group, with plans for a new hotel/casino – a testament to the enduring allure of the Strip and the constant evolution of this ever-changing city. It serves as a poignant reminder of what was lost, and a hope for what might be built in its place, always echoing the spirit of its Googie past.