A Heart-Shaped Casino Resort Is Coming to the Las Vegas Strip

Dr. Annelies De Vos · 2026-07-23

Clark County commissioners have officially approved plans for a new 752-room casino resort on the south end of the Las Vegas Strip. This decision clears the way for redevelopment of a long-vacant site that's been an eyesore for over a decade. You know those two massive concrete columns near Mandalay Bay? They've been standing there since the unfinished SkyVue observation wheel project stalled out. Well, they're finally getting replaced. Developer Eli Applebaum, working through Kulik River Capital, is behind the project. The plan calls for a 29-story hotel-casino on nearly 12 acres of land directly across from Mandalay Bay. But here's the part that's turning heads: the central section of the proposed tower will feature a heart-shaped cutout. It's not just a gimmick either. The design is meant to create a unique visual landmark and give the resort a distinct identity on the Strip. ### What Makes This Resort Different? The heart-shaped element isn't just for show. It's a strategic move to stand out in a city packed with iconic architecture. Think about it: the Strip already has the Eiffel Tower, the Statue of Liberty, and the Bellagio fountains. A heart-shaped tower adds something fresh to the skyline. It's also a clever nod to romance and luxury, which could appeal to couples and high-end travelers. Here are some key details about the project: - **Location**: South end of the Las Vegas Strip, across from Mandalay Bay - **Size**: 752 rooms across 29 stories - **Land**: Nearly 12 acres - **Developer**: Eli Applebaum through Kulik River Capital - **Unique Feature**: Heart-shaped cutout in the tower's central section ### The Long Road to Approval This site has been empty for more than a decade. The SkyVue observation wheel was supposed to be a major attraction, but construction stopped before it ever got off the ground. All that was left were two large concrete columns that became a symbol of stalled development. Local residents and visitors alike have wondered when something would finally happen there. The approval process wasn't simple either. Clark County commissioners had to weigh the economic benefits against potential community impact. But with the Strip's ongoing recovery and demand for new attractions, the project got the green light. It's a sign that Las Vegas is still betting big on its future. ### What This Means for Visitors If you're planning a trip to Vegas, this resort could be a game-changer. The heart-shaped design isn't just a photo op—it's likely to become a must-see destination. Plus, being on the south end of the Strip puts it close to the airport and major convention centers. That's convenience and spectacle rolled into one. For professionals in the casino and hospitality industry, this project signals continued investment in the Strip's infrastructure. It's a reminder that even in a crowded market, there's room for innovation. The developers are clearly aiming for something that feels both modern and iconic. ### Looking Ahead Construction hasn't started yet, but the approval is a major milestone. Expect more details to emerge as the project moves forward. For now, it's a story of transformation: an empty lot with concrete columns becoming a landmark that could define the Strip's next chapter. Stay tuned. This heart-shaped resort might just steal the show.