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Circa Resort & Casino stands as a striking addition to the Las Vegas skyline, captivating visitors with its modern design and luxurious amenities. Located in downtown Las Vegas, this adults-only destination has quickly become a popular spot for tourists and locals alike since its opening in 2020.
Circa Resort & Casino is owned by brothers Derek and Greg Stevens, prominent figures in the Las Vegas hospitality industry. The Stevens brothers have a track record of successful ventures in the city, including ownership of other downtown properties such as the D Las Vegas and Golden Gate Hotel & Casino.
Their vision for Circa was to create a resort that pays homage to Las Vegas’s rich history while incorporating cutting-edge technology and design elements. This ambitious project represents a significant investment in the downtown area and has contributed to its ongoing revitalization.
Key Takeaways
- Circa Resort & Casino is owned by Derek and Greg Stevens
- The property opened in 2020 as an adults-only destination in downtown Las Vegas
- Circa combines historical elements with modern amenities and design
Ownership of Circa Resort & Casino
Circa Resort & Casino in Las Vegas is owned by brothers Derek and Greg Stevens, who have a significant presence in downtown Las Vegas’ casino scene.
Primary Owner: Derek Stevens
Derek Stevens is the primary owner and driving force behind Circa Resort & Casino. He has been instrumental in shaping downtown Las Vegas’ revitalization efforts. Stevens acquired the property in stages, beginning with the purchase of the Las Vegas Club in 2015.
He later bought adjacent properties Mermaids Casino and Glitter Gulch in 2016. These acquisitions allowed Stevens to envision a larger, more ambitious project. His experience in the casino industry, coupled with his vision for downtown Las Vegas, played a crucial role in Circa’s development.
Stevens is known for his hands-on approach and innovative ideas in casino management. He has been actively involved in every aspect of Circa’s creation, from design to operations.
Ownership Structure and Affiliates
While Derek Stevens is the face of Circa Resort & Casino, the ownership structure includes his brother Greg Stevens as a co-owner. The Stevens brothers have collaborated on several downtown Las Vegas properties.
Their portfolio includes other notable establishments:
- Golden Gate Hotel and Casino
- The D Las Vegas
These properties operate under the Stevens’ ownership umbrella, creating a significant footprint in the downtown area. The brothers’ strategy involves revitalizing older properties and creating new attractions to draw visitors to downtown Las Vegas.
Circa Resort & Casino represents their most ambitious project to date, showcasing their commitment to the area’s growth and development.
Development and Construction
The Circa Resort & Casino project transformed a prime location on Fremont Street, replacing several older establishments with a modern, upscale destination. The development process spanned several years and overcame numerous challenges.
Historical Development
Derek and Greg Stevens acquired the Las Vegas Club in 2015, marking the beginning of the Circa project. They soon added adjacent properties Mermaids Casino and Glitter Gulch to their holdings. These acquisitions allowed for a more ambitious resort plan.
The brothers initially considered renovating the existing structures but ultimately decided on complete demolition. This choice opened up possibilities for a entirely new design. By 2017, the old buildings had been razed, clearing the way for Circa’s construction.
Circa’s name was unveiled in January 2019, paying homage to Las Vegas casino history. The Stevens brothers aimed to create a resort that honored past visionaries while pushing boundaries.
Construction Timeline
Construction on Circa began in February 2019. The project faced unique challenges due to its downtown location. Limited space meant careful logistics were crucial, with only three days’ worth of materials deliverable at a time.
The COVID-19 pandemic hit during construction, forcing adaptations. Social distancing measures reduced worker capacity, particularly on upper floors. Supply chain disruptions also posed obstacles.
To meet their planned 2020 opening, the Stevens brothers and construction team pivoted. They expedited work on the first five floors, allowing for a partial opening in October 2020. This included the casino, restaurants, and pool areas.
The hotel tower was topped out in June 2020, standing as the tallest building in the Fremont Street area. The full resort, including 512 hotel rooms, opened on December 28, 2020.
The Circa Resort & Casino Experience
Circa Resort & Casino offers a blend of modern luxury and classic Las Vegas charm. The property provides an array of experiences for guests, from gaming and accommodations to dining and entertainment.
Gaming and Casino Operations
The casino floor at Circa spans 8,002 square meters, featuring a wide selection of games. Visitors can try their luck at over 1,350 slot machines, ranging from classic reels to the latest video slots. Table game enthusiasts have access to 55 tables offering popular options like blackjack, craps, and roulette.
Circa’s sportsbook is a standout attraction. The three-story, stadium-style venue boasts a 78-million-pixel high-definition screen, creating an immersive viewing experience. The facility can accommodate up to 1,000 guests, making it one of the largest sportsbooks in the world.
For poker players, Circa offers a dedicated room with 18 tables. The space hosts cash games and tournaments, catering to both casual players and serious enthusiasts.
Hotel and Accommodations
Circa’s hotel tower rises 35 stories above downtown Las Vegas, housing 777 rooms and suites. Each room features a sleek, modern design with subtle nods to Vegas history.
Standard rooms offer king or two-queen configurations, equipped with premium amenities. These include refrigerators, in-room safes, and high-speed Wi-Fi.
Suites range from 980 to 1,830 square feet, providing luxurious spaces for discerning guests. Many rooms boast floor-to-ceiling windows, offering panoramic views of the Las Vegas skyline or the nearby mountains.
The property’s adults-only policy (21 and over) creates a sophisticated atmosphere throughout the resort.
Dining and Culinary Options
Circa presents diverse dining experiences across its eight restaurants. Barry’s Downtown Prime, the steakhouse, serves premium cuts in an upscale setting. For casual fare, guests can visit Victory Burger & Wings Co. or Project BBQ.
Saginaw’s Delicatessen offers classic deli sandwiches and comfort food 24/7. 8 East brings Asian fusion cuisine to the property, featuring dishes inspired by metropolitan Asian food markets.
The rooftop Legacy Club provides craft cocktails alongside stunning views of Las Vegas. For sports fans, the massive sportsbook includes an integrated bar and restaurant experience.
Circa’s restaurants emphasize quality ingredients and innovative preparations, catering to a range of tastes and dining preferences.
Entertainment Venues
Stadium Swim stands out as Circa’s premier entertainment venue. This multi-level pool amphitheater features six temperature-controlled pools and two spas. A 143-foot LED screen broadcasts sporting events and other programming, creating a unique aquatic viewing experience.
Inside, the Mega Bar stretches 165 feet, claiming the title of Nevada’s longest bar. It offers a lively atmosphere for socializing and enjoying drinks.
The Legacy Club on the 60th floor provides a more refined entertainment option. Guests can enjoy handcrafted cocktails while taking in panoramic views of Las Vegas.
Circa also hosts live music performances and DJ sets at various locations throughout the property, adding to the vibrant atmosphere.