Harrah's Casino Reno was the founding property of the legendary Harrah's casino chain, established by William F. Harrah in 1937. Located at 219 North Center Street in downtown Reno, this historic casino hotel operated for over 80 years before closing in March 2020.
Harrah's Casino Reno stands as a landmark in American gaming history, representing the birthplace of one of the world's most recognized casino brands. Located in the heart of downtown Reno at 219 North Center Street, this property witnessed the transformation of Nevada gaming from modest beginnings to a sophisticated entertainment industry. Understanding Harrah's Reno requires examining its historical significance, operational excellence, and lasting impact on the casino landscape.
William F. Harrah opened his first bingo parlor on October 29, 1937, marking the beginning of what would become a gaming empire. Though that initial venture closed by December 1937, Harrah's determination led him to reopen as Harrah's Plaza Tango, later renamed Harrah's Heart Tango. This strategic location between Virginia and Center streets positioned the casino in the epicenter of Reno's gaming district, allowing Harrah to gradually acquire neighboring properties and expand his operation.
The property earned recognition as a Mobil Three Star Award recipient and AAA Three Diamond hotel, reflecting its commitment to quality service and guest experience. Harrah's Reno operated continuously for over eight decades before closing on March 17, 2020. The site is currently owned by Madison Capital Group, a Charlotte-based real estate developer planning a mixed-use development called Revival.
The evolution of Harrah's Reno reflects strategic vision and architectural ambition. William F. Harrah's approach to casino development emphasized gradual, calculated expansion rather than rapid growth. By slowly acquiring adjacent casinos along Virginia Street, he created an integrated resort complex that maximized operational efficiency and guest convenience.
In 1968, Harrah acquired The Reno Golden Hotel and commissioned renowned casino architect Martin Stern Jr. to design a luxury 24-story hotel tower. Built atop the former Grand Hotel structure, this tower opened on October 10, 1969, establishing Harrah's as a major player in Reno's hospitality market. The West Tower addition in 1969 was followed by a 100-room South Tower in 1981, demonstrating the property's continued growth.
The 1995 East Tower expansion further increased capacity, bringing the total room count to 928 across multiple towers. This phased development approach allowed Harrah's to respond to market demand while maintaining operational continuity. Each tower addition incorporated contemporary design elements and amenities that kept the property competitive with newer Las Vegas resorts.
Harrah's Reno gained cultural recognition through its brief appearance in the 1961 film The Misfits, the final movie starring Marilyn Monroe and Clark Gable. This Hollywood connection added to the property's mystique and positioned it as more than just a gaming venue but as part of American popular culture. The casino's reputation for fair gaming and exceptional customer service became legendary in the industry.
The property featured 928 rooms and 48 suites distributed across its tower structures, offering various accommodation levels from standard rooms to luxury suites. Each room included full-size bath amenities and modern conveniences designed for both leisure and business travelers. The 24-floor main tower provided panoramic views of downtown Reno and the surrounding Sierra Nevada mountains.
Guest rooms incorporated comfortable furnishings, climate control systems, and entertainment options that met contemporary hospitality standards. The property maintained an environment-friendly policy, implementing sustainable practices throughout its operations. Check-in time was set at 4:00 PM with an 11:00 AM checkout, providing flexibility for guests arriving from various time zones.
The full-size health club and spa offered fitness equipment, exercise classes, and wellness treatments. This amenity distinguished Harrah's from competitors by addressing the growing demand for health-conscious travel options. Business travelers appreciated the in-room work spaces and high-speed internet connectivity that facilitated remote work capabilities.
Harrah's Reno transformed from a modest bingo parlor into a premier gaming destination through strategic expansion and architectural innovation. The property featured a 60,000 square foot casino floor operating 24 hours daily, offering slot machines, table games, and poker rooms that attracted both casual players and serious gamblers.
The casino maintained its competitive edge through continuous renovations and technology upgrades. From the original Heart Tango location between Virginia and Center streets, William F. Harrah systematically acquired neighboring properties to create an integrated resort complex that set industry standards for customer service and gaming excellence.
Harrah's Reno featured seven distinct restaurants catering to diverse culinary preferences and budgets. The dining portfolio evolved through strategic renovations that introduced new concepts while maintaining signature establishments. This variety ensured guests could enjoy multiple dining experiences without leaving the property.
Harrah's Steak House, established in 1967, became a cornerstone of the property's fine dining reputation. The restaurant specialized in premium cuts of beef, fresh seafood, and an extensive wine selection. Carvings Buffet, formerly Fresh Market Square Buffet and renovated in 2006, offered all-you-can-eat dining with multiple cuisine stations and live cooking demonstrations.
Hash House a go go, which replaced Café Napa in 2011, brought a contemporary twist to comfort food with oversized portions and creative presentations. Ichiban, added in 2005, provided authentic Japanese cuisine including sushi, teppanyaki, and traditional entrees. Joy Luck Noodle Bar offered quick-service Asian noodle dishes for guests seeking casual dining options.
Sammy's Showroom, formerly the Headliner Room, hosted live entertainment ranging from comedy acts to musical performances. The venue's intimate setting created memorable experiences for guests seeking nighttime entertainment beyond gaming. The property regularly featured headline acts and revue shows that attracted both hotel guests and local residents.
The 40,200 square foot casino floor operated around the clock, featuring a comprehensive selection of gaming options. Slot machines dominated the floor space, offering denominations from penny slots to high-limit machines. The variety ensured accessibility for casual players while accommodating serious gamblers seeking substantial wagering opportunities.
Traditional table games included blackjack, craps, roulette, and baccarat, staffed by experienced dealers trained in Harrah's customer service philosophy. The poker room provided dedicated space for cash games and tournaments, attracting both recreational players and professionals. Caesars Rewards program integration allowed players to earn comps, room upgrades, and other benefits across the entire Harrah's network.
The casino maintained Nevada Gaming Control Board licensing and adhered to strict regulatory standards. This commitment to fair gaming and responsible gambling practices reinforced Harrah's reputation as a trustworthy operator. Security systems and surveillance technology ensured game integrity and guest safety throughout the property.
The Convention Center encompassed 14,000 square feet of flexible meeting space distributed across 14 separate rooms. This configuration accommodated events ranging from small business meetings to large conferences and conventions. The property earned a Groups and Meetings rating of 10.0 out of 10, reflecting its capability to handle complex event requirements.
Meeting rooms featured audiovisual equipment, high-speed internet access, and customizable seating arrangements. Dedicated event planning staff assisted with logistics, catering coordination, and technical support. The downtown location provided convenient access to additional Reno attractions, enhancing the appeal for convention attendees seeking off-site activities.
Situated at 219 North Center Street in downtown Reno, Harrah's occupied a prime location within walking distance of numerous attractions. The Reno-Tahoe International Airport was approximately 10 minutes away by car, with taxi service and Bell Airport Shuttle providing convenient transportation options. The property's proximity to Interstate 80 facilitated access for guests driving from California and other western states.
Nearby attractions included the National Automobile Museum, Nevada Museum of Art, Truckee River Walk, and the Reno Aces Ballpark. Lake Tahoe's world-class skiing and outdoor recreation opportunities were just 45 minutes away, making Harrah's an ideal base for exploring the region. The downtown location also provided access to specialty shops, additional restaurants, and cultural venues.
Harrah's Reno ceased operations on March 17, 2020, ending more than eight decades of continuous operation. The closure marked the end of an era for downtown Reno gaming and the Harrah's brand legacy. Madison Capital Group acquired the property with plans to redevelop it into a mixed-use project called Revival.
The Revival development aims to transform the site into a modern urban destination incorporating residential units, retail spaces, dining establishments, and entertainment venues. This redevelopment reflects broader trends in downtown Reno's evolution from gaming-centric to diversified mixed-use development. The project preserves the historical significance of the site while adapting to contemporary urban planning principles.
Harrah's Casino Reno represents a pivotal chapter in American gaming history, serving as the foundation for one of the industry's most successful brands. From William F. Harrah's modest bingo parlor in 1937 to a full-service resort with nearly 1,000 rooms, the property demonstrated the potential for gaming entertainment to evolve into sophisticated hospitality operations. Its architectural development, dining innovations, and commitment to customer service established standards that influenced the entire industry.
While the property no longer operates as a casino, its legacy endures through the Harrah's brand and its impact on Reno's development. The planned Revival project promises to honor this history while creating new opportunities for downtown revitalization. For gaming enthusiasts and hospitality professionals, Harrah's Reno remains an important case study in strategic expansion, brand building, and operational excellence.
William F. Harrah opened his first bingo parlor on October 29, 1937, which later evolved into Harrah's Casino Reno. The property operated continuously for over 80 years until closing in March 2020.
The property featured 928 rooms and 48 suites distributed across multiple towers including the West Tower, South Tower, and East Tower. The main structure reached 24 floors in height.
The property offered seven restaurants including Harrah's Steak House, Carvings Buffet, Hash House a go go, Ichiban, Joy Luck Noodle Bar, and Starbucks. Each restaurant provided distinct dining experiences ranging from fine dining to casual options.
No, Harrah's Reno closed permanently on March 17, 2020. The property is now owned by Madison Capital Group, which plans to redevelop it into a mixed-use project called Revival.
The casino floor encompassed 40,200 square feet of gaming space, operating 24 hours daily with slot machines, table games, and a dedicated poker room.
Lake Tahoe is approximately 45 minutes from downtown Reno, making the property an ideal base for guests wanting to explore both gaming entertainment and outdoor recreation opportunities.
The Convention Center provided 14,000 square feet of meeting space across 14 separate rooms, earning a perfect 10.0 rating for groups and meetings capabilities.
Renowned casino architect Martin Stern Jr. designed the luxury 24-story hotel tower that opened in 1969, establishing the architectural foundation for subsequent expansions.
Harrah's Reno maintained relationships with leading hospitality and gaming industry organizations throughout its operational history.
Explore the remarkable story of William F. Harrah, who transformed a single bingo parlor into a gaming empire that revolutionized the casino industry.
Discover the vibrant downtown Reno gaming corridor where Harrah's played a central role in establishing the city as a premier Nevada gaming destination.
Madison Capital Group continues planning for the Revival mixed-use development on the former Harrah's Reno site.
Community stakeholders discuss preserving architectural elements from the original Harrah's property in the new development.
The former Harrah's site represents a key component of downtown Reno's evolution toward mixed-use urban development.