LAS VEGAS, NEV.- The Neon Museum – the Las Vegas non-profit illuminating the city’s cultural legacy through historic signage and storytelling – will present "Reflections of The Mirage: A Conversation with Steve Wynn” on October 22. Taking place in the showroom at Golden Nugget Las Vegas, the evening will examine the conception, development and legacy of The Mirage Resort & Casino, a project that helped usher in a new era for Las Vegas and the modern destination resort.

“The Mirage represents a pivotal chapter of modern Las Vegas. The conversation will focus on 1987 - 1992 and provide an opportunity for Mr. Wynn to reflect on the concept, construction, opening, and operations of a resort whose influence continues to be felt today," said Aaron Berger, CEO of The Neon Museum. "Las Vegas remains one of the most iconic cities in the world and Mr. Wynn’s role in that is undeniable.”

During the program, Wynn will share reflections on the ideas, challenges and decisions that shaped The Mirage and its role in the evolution of hospitality, entertainment and resort development. Through personal anecdotes, historical context and candid insight, the conversation will trace the origins of the storied property, from an audacious idea that challenged the prevailing economics and aesthetics of Las Vegas, to the unprecedented risks taken to finance, design and build a resort unlike anything the city had seen before.





Opened in 1989, The Mirage is widely credited with pioneering the megaresort era on the Las Vegas Strip. Originally designed as a Polynesian-themed oasis in the desert, the property was nothing short of revolutionary. Debuting a myriad of innovative attractions, from Siegfried & Roy's legendary white tiger show to the debut of Cirque du Soleil's tented Nouvelle Experience, the resort enjoyed widespread acclaim. Through architectural detail and unparalleled amenities, it was the iconic Volcano that wowed millions of guests at over 400,000 shows. It closed its doors in 2024 and will be the site of the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino.

This year alone, numerous donors stepped forward to provide hundreds of items into The Neon Museum’s permanent collection ranging from branded play money to a beloved ceramic sculpture from the Secret Garden to the property’s Lagoon sign and an original Volcano FireShooter™, which are now on view in the Neon Boneyard.