Steve Wynn makes first major Las Vegas appearance since 2018

Former casino executive Steve Wynn returned to a Las Vegas stage on October 22 for a public speaking event at the Golden Nugget. Hosted by the Neon Museum as part of its annual Duck Duck Shed celebration, the event drew a sold-out crowd of 600 people.

Wynn spoke for nearly two hours regarding the development and impact of The Mirage, which opened in November 1989. He noted that the $630 million project was considered a massive risk at the time due to high operating costs, but claimed the resort was profitable within its first hour of operation. The success of the 3,044-room property is credited with triggering the building boom on the Las Vegas Strip during the 1990s.

During the presentation, Wynn recounted the challenges of securing land for the resort, specifically mentioning how he eventually persuaded Grace Hayes to sell the last private home on the Strip. Although Wynn is currently barred from Nevada’s gaming industry, his settlement allows for such public appearances.