Silver Legacy Resort Casino

History and Founding

Silver Legacy Resort & Casino was born from a vision to revitalize downtown Reno's tourism in the early 1990s. Conceived by Don Carano, CEO of Eldorado Hotel Casino, and Clyde Turner, CEO of Circus Circus Enterprises, the project aimed to create a destination resort that could compete with the growing appeal of Las Vegas. Approved in July 1993 and named through a public contest in December 1994, the resort opened on July 28, 1995. To enhance its Victorian mining motif, the developers crafted a fictional backstory that the casino was built atop a silver mine discovered in 1895. This narrative is embodied by the property's signature 120-foot mining rig, which looms over the casino floor, and a nightly laser light show that adds to the spectacle.

Design and Theme

The resort's design is a tribute to the Comstock Lode era, with Victorian-style architecture, period-appropriate décor, and mining-themed attractions throughout. The centerpiece remains the massive mining rig, complete with moving parts and lights, which has become an iconic symbol of the Reno skyline. The fictional backstory is woven into the guest experience, with staff sometimes dressed in period costumes and historical artifacts displayed. The resort originally featured 1,720 rooms across 42 floors, and subsequent renovations have maintained that count while modernizing finishes and amenities.

Gaming and Dining

Gaming facilities span 89,200 square feet, offering a wide variety of slot machines, table games such as blackjack, roulette, and craps, a dedicated poker room, and a race and sportsbook. The casino floor is designed to evoke an underground mining cavern, with dark woods and brass accents. Dining options have evolved over the years; current venues include Ruth's Chris Steak House (opened 2018), Canter's Delicatessen (2017), The Pearl Oyster Bar & Grill, Café Central, Sips Coffee and Tea, and a Starbucks. These range from fine dining to quick-service options, catering to both hotel guests and local visitors.

Hotel and Amenities

The hotel features 1,720 rooms and suites, all of which have been refreshed in a $47 million renovation completed between 2019 and 2021. The renovation, designed by local firm MBA Architecture and Design, introduced modern furnishings, updated bathrooms, and a contemporary color palette while retaining the Victorian-inspired touches. Non-gaming amenities include a full-service spa, a year-round pool, a fitness center, and a Topgolf Swing Suite, which was added as part of a $100 million master renovation of THE ROW completed in 2019. The resort also offers extensive meeting and event space, hosting conventions, weddings, and live entertainment.

Ownership and Corporate History

Silver Legacy operated as a joint venture between Eldorado Resorts and MGM Resorts International for nearly two decades. In 2015, Eldorado Resorts acquired MGM's 50% stake, becoming the sole owner. The property then became part of Eldorado Resorts' portfolio until the company merged with Caesars Entertainment in 2020. Today, Silver Legacy is managed as part of Caesars' regional operations, with a regional president overseeing daily activities. The property participates in Caesars Rewards loyalty program and is also affiliated with the Wyndham Hotels Trademark Collection, allowing guests to book through that channel.

Recent Developments

In 2021, the resort completed a significant $47 million renovation of 1,199 guest rooms, with design by MBA Architecture and Design. The renovation was part of a broader effort to modernize the property and maintain competitiveness. Silver Legacy has also been featured in popular culture, appearing in films such as Kingpin (1996) and Waking Up in Reno (2002). As part of Caesars Entertainment, the resort continues to host live shows, events, and promotions, leveraging its connections with Circus Circus and Eldorado to offer a combined experience across THE ROW complex.