Hey there, fellow Vegas enthusiasts! If you’re a true local, you know that Sin City isn’t just about the glitz and glam of the Strip—it’s also about the hidden gems and nostalgic spots that hold a special place in our hearts. Sadly, as the city evolves, some of our favorite haunts have been lost to the sands of time. But fear not, because I’m here to take you on a trip down memory lane with six places around the valley that we locals can’t help but miss.
Bonnie Springs Ranch Yee-haw! Who could forget the charm of Bonnie Springs Ranch, nestled along Route 159? This Old West replica town was a beloved escape from the neon lights, where locals could kick back, enjoy some mock gunfights, and even go on ghost tours. But alas, in 2019, it closed its doors for the last time, making way for The Ranch at Red Rock. While the new development may be fancy, it just can’t compete with the rustic charm of Bonnie Springs.
Henderson Pavilion Ah, the sweet sounds of live music under the stars—there was nothing quite like it at the Henderson Pavilion. This open-air amphitheater was a hotspot for concerts and events, but sadly, it was demolished in 2020 to make room for the Dollar Loan Center Arena. Despite protests from Henderson residents, the arena rose from the ashes, but it just doesn’t have the same magic as the pavilion.
Fry’s Electronics at Town Square Remember walking into Fry’s Electronics and feeling like a kid in a candy store? With its giant slot machine facade and endless aisles of gadgets, it was a techie’s paradise. But in 2021, after 18 glorious years, the store closed its doors for good, leaving behind a void in our hearts (and our wallets).
Cinerama Dome Lights, camera, nostalgia! Back in the day, the Cinerama Dome was the place to be for movie buffs in Vegas. This iconic theater, located on Paradise Road, was a marvel of modern architecture and a mecca for cinephiles. Sadly, it met its demise in 1985 to make way for retail and office space, but its memory lives on in the hearts of those who experienced its silver screen magic.
Sam Boyd Stadium From Rebel football games to epic tailgates, Sam Boyd Stadium was a Vegas institution for nearly half a century. But with the arrival of Allegiant Stadium in 2020, it became little more than a relic of the past. Now, its future is uncertain, but one thing’s for sure—it’ll always hold a special place in the hearts of UNLV fans.
Wet ‘n’ Wild on the Strip Who could forget the thrill of speeding down water slides and lazily floating along the Lazy River at Wet ‘n’ Wild? This iconic water park was a summertime staple for Vegas families, but sadly, it closed its doors in 2004 to make room for future developments that never materialized. While a new Wet ‘n’ Wild has since risen from the ashes in the southwest valley, it just isn’t the same as the one we grew up with on the Strip.
So there you have it, folks—six spots around the valley that we Vegas locals can’t help but miss. While the city may be ever-changing, these nostalgic haunts will always hold a special place in our hearts. Here’s to the memories and the hope that one day, we’ll be able to revisit these beloved spots once again. Until then, keep the Vegas spirit alive!
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