From Desert Water Stop to Global Destination, Las Vegas Celebrates 120 Years of Iconic History

Las Vegas celebrates its 120th birthday, honoring more than a century of growth, innovation, and unforgettable moments that have redefined tourism and shaped the city into the Sports and Entertainment Capital of the World. Founded on May 15, 1905, as a small railroad stop in the desert, Las Vegas quickly evolved into a global powerhouse for tourism, hospitality, and entertainment. From the legalization of gaming in 1931 to the opening of the Flamingo Hotel in 1946, Las Vegas set the stage for a new era of excitement. The iconic “Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas” sign, erected in 1959, became a symbol of the city’s vibrant spirit.