Downtown Las Vegas will see the removal of the historic "Prime Rib $19.95" neon sign, as the El Cortez Hotel & Casino has donated it to The Neon Museum. The sign, which has been displayed in the hotel’s parking structure since 1974, will become part of the museum's collection of iconic Vegas signage, as per the KTNV.
According to KTNV, the El Cortez is undergoing renovations that make the moving of the sign timely. Kenny Epstein, CEO and Chairman of El Cortez, remarked on the donation, saying, "We are honored to donate a piece of our hotel to The Neon Museum, for locals and travelers to appreciate it for years to come." In what seems like a rare act for a city that often opts for the new over the nostalgic, El Cortez is ensuring its past has a place in the future.
As the El Cortez undergoes a $20 million upgrade to its 83-year-old property, the donation of the sign to The Neon Museum enhances a collection that celebrates Las Vegas's history.
Despite El Cortez’s aesthetic updates and modern additions, such as a high-limit slot room and new restaurant venues, the property retains its historical essence. Aaron Berger, The Neon Museum’s executive director, underscored this sentiment in an interview with KTNV, stating, "El Cortez has maintained the integrity of its building for over 80 years. The property has intentionally embraced its past and made updates to meet the needs of today’s visitors without tearing down."
Visitors to The Neon Museum can explore the legacy of the El Cortez, helping to preserve a part of the city's spirited past. The museum is open daily and features an outdoor exhibition space displaying many of Las Vegas's most famous neon signs, according to a Las Vegas Review-Journal report.
