From Sundance to Swing: The Early Years

Fitzgeralds Las Vegas, a name synonymous with a specific era of Downtown vibrancy, arrived on the scene in 1987. It wasn’t entirely new though. The casino occupied the location of the long-standing Sundance Hotel and Casino, a pioneer in Fremont Street’s early days. Fitzgerald’s took over, rebranding and injecting a new kind of energy – a jazz-age vibe meant to evoke the glamour of the Fitzgerald era, a nod to the legendary F. Scott and Zelda. The casino quickly became a popular spot, contributing to the bustling atmosphere of a Fremont Street still very much the place to be in Las Vegas. It offered a more relaxed, less overtly flashy experience compared to the burgeoning mega-resorts that were beginning to appear on the Strip. This was a destination for locals and tourists alike seeking a taste of classic Vegas charm.

A Pivotal Moment: Don Barden and a Changing Landscape

The late 1990s and early 2000s weren’t kind to Fitzgeralds. Facing financial hardship, the casino was part of a larger Fitzgeralds Gaming portfolio that declared bankruptcy in December 2001. However, a significant chapter began with the purchase by Don Barden’s Majestic Star Casino, LLC. What made this acquisition particularly important wasn’t just the business deal itself, but the historical significance of Barden being the first African American casino owner in Las Vegas. He was a force for change in an industry historically dominated by others.

Barden recognized the potential of the Fitzgeralds property and quickly separated it from the Majestic Star group to allow for much-needed investment. The subsequent multimillion-dollar renovation breathed new life into the casino, revitalizing its appearance and attracting a renewed customer base. It became a symbol of Barden’s commitment to Downtown Las Vegas and a testament to his business acumen.

The D Las Vegas: Legacy and Evolution

Despite Barden’s efforts and the casino’s renewed success, financial challenges persisted. Plans for expansion into Pittsburgh ultimately fell through, and tragedy struck with Barden’s passing in 2011. His estate eventually sold Fitzgeralds Las Vegas to the Stevens brothers, Derek and Greg, owners of the historic Golden Gate Casino. In 2012, the Fitzgeralds name faded, giving way to “The D Las Vegas,” a name reflecting a modern, edgy vibe and honoring Barden’s legacy through a subtle nod to his initials (“D” for Don).

While the name is gone, the spirit of Fitzgeralds Las Vegas – its Downtown location, its focus on a classic Vegas experience – endures within The D. The location remains a cornerstone of Fremont Street, a constant reminder of a pivotal era in Las Vegas history and the enduring impact of one man’s vision.