New York-New York Hotel & Casino, Las Vegas (must see)

The New York-New York Hotel and Casino, located on the renowned Las Vegas Strip in Paradise, embodies the spirit of New York City through its captivating architecture and unique features. Under the ownership of Vici Properties and management by MGM Resorts International, this vibrant establishment pays homage to the iconic landmarks of the Big Apple.

Visitors are greeted by scaled-down replicas of famous structures like the Statue of Liberty, while the hotel's towering edifice showcases a collection of skyscrapers. The most prominent among them is a magnificent imitation of the Empire State Building, standing tall at 47 stories and reaching a height of 529 feet (161 meters). This impressive structure held the title of Nevada's tallest building until the unveiling of Wynn Las Vegas in 2005.

Within the premises, guests can enjoy the thrilling Big Apple Coaster, which encircles the hotel tower, offering an exhilarating experience. The casino, covering an area of 51,765 square feet (4,809.1 square meters), provides ample space for gaming enthusiasts, while the hotel boasts a grand total of 2,024 well-appointed rooms.

Construction commenced in March 1995. Finally, on January 3, 1997, the doors swung open, marking the inauguration of a joint venture between MGM and Primadonna Resorts. In 1999, MGM acquired Primadonna Resorts' ownership share, solidifying its position as the sole proprietor. In the aftermath of the tragic events of September 11, 2001, a spontaneous memorial site emerged near the Statue of Liberty replica, serving as a poignant tribute.

Recognizing the importance of honoring the victims, an official memorial was erected in 2003. However, during a subsequent remodeling of the resort's facade, this memorial was eventually removed a decade later. As part of the renovation, a delightful addition was made in 2014 in the form of Hershey's Chocolate World, further enhancing the overall guest experience.

Throughout its history, the resort has played host to a wide array of talented entertainers and captivating shows. From 2001 to 2006, the esteemed comedian Rita Rudner graced the stage, delivering laughter to delighted audiences. Another notable production, the enchanting show Zumanity, captivated viewers from 2003 until 2020, leaving a lasting impression on all who experienced its magic.