{{Short description|Casino resort in Las Vegas, Nevada}} {{Use American English|date=September 2025}} {{Use mdy dates|date=October 2025}} {{Infobox casino | name = Rio | logo = | image = Rio Hotel & Casino Las Vegas at Night.jpg | image_caption = The Rio's Masquerade Tower at night, April 2025 | coordinates = {{Coord|36|7|3|N|115|11|17|W|type:landmark_region:US-NV|display=inline,title}} | address = {{nowrap|3700 West Flamingo Road}}<br />Paradise, Nevada<br />89103 | date_opened = {{Start date and age|1990|1|15}} | theme = Brazilian culture | rooms = 2,520 | space_gaming = {{cvt|117330|sqft}} | shows = Penn & Teller<br>Chippendales (2002–2024)<br>''The Empire Strips Back''<br>''Tony n' Tina's Wedding'' (2002–2009)<br>''WOW - The Vegas Spectacular'' | attractions = KISS by Monster Mini Golf |notable_restaurants = Canteen Food Hall<br>Guy Fieri's El Burro Borracho<br>Hash House a go go<br>KJ Dim Sum<br>Smashburger<br>VooDoo | owner = Kennedy Lewis Investment Management (majority owner)<br /> Dreamscape Companies LLC (minority owner) | casino_type = Land-based | license_holder = | architect = Marnell Corrao Associates | names_pre = | renovations = 1993–1999, 2004–06, 2023- | website = {{URL|riolasvegas.com}} }}
The '''Rio''' is a hotel and casino near the Las Vegas Strip in Paradise, Nevada, United States. It is owned and operated by Dreamscape Companies LLC. It includes a {{cvt|117330|sqft}} casino<ref>{{cite web |url=http://gaming.nv.gov/modules/showdocument.aspx?documentid=3428 |title=Listing of Financial Statements Square Footage (2017 data) |date=March 6, 2018 |publisher=Nevada Gaming Control Board |access-date=July 12, 2018 |page=8 |archive-date=December 25, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161225155040/http://gaming.nv.gov/modules/showdocument.aspx?documentid=3428 |url-status=live }}</ref> and 2,520 suites.<ref name=Revival/> It features a Brazilian theme based on Rio Carnival.
The Rio opened on January 15, 1990, with a {{cvt|44000|sqft}} casino and 424 suites. It was the first all-suite hotel in the Las Vegas Valley. It was owned by Anthony Marnell and built by Marnell Corrao Associates. The property struggled during its first two years because of its off-Strip location, but it would eventually thrive. The Rio's success prompted a number of hotel expansions in the 1990s. The hotel includes the three-wing Ipanema Tower, which stands at 20 stories. A 1997 renovation added Masquerade Village, a two-story retail and restaurant complex which also featured the ''Masquerade Show in the Sky''. The 41-story Masquerade Tower was added as well.
In 1999, Marnell sold the Rio to Harrah's Entertainment for $766 million. The property suffered financially after the sale, in part because of new competition. It would lose its popularity in the years to follow, as Harrah's would eventually turn its focus to other Las Vegas properties that it owned. From 2005 to 2021, the Rio was the host site for the World Series of Poker. Portions of the hotel were closed in 2007 for county inspections, after it was discovered that renovations had been done a few years earlier without permitting. Numerous repairs had to be made after the inspections revealed flaws and fire safety hazards.
Harrah's was renamed Caesars Entertainment in 2010. The Rio was sold to Dreamscape owner and New York investor Eric Birnbaum in 2019, at a cost of $516 million. Caesars continued to operate the casino through a lease agreement extending to October 2023, after which Dreamscape took over. A two-phase renovation began in August 2023, and will update the entire property. Marnell was hired as architect for the renovation project, due to his prior experience with the resort.
The Rio has hosted numerous entertainers, including Danny Gans and Prince. Magicians Penn & Teller have entertained at the resort since 2001, and the male revue Chippendales ran from 2002 to 2024.
==History== ===Marnell ownership (1990–99)=== The Rio was originally owned by Anthony Marnell,<ref>{{cite web |title=Gaming Hall of Fame: Tony Marnell |url=https://gaming.unlv.edu/hof/1998_marnell.html |website=University of Nevada, Las Vegas |access-date=October 31, 2021 |date=March 10, 2009 |archive-date=September 25, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210925015614/https://gaming.unlv.edu/hof/1998_marnell.html |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=February 15, 1997 |title='Rio' Theme is Expanded in Las Vegas |url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/archive/realestate/1997/02/15/rio-theme-is-expanded-in-las-vegas/46088856-1ef4-45a7-8b15-bdd98a85d702/ |access-date=October 31, 2021 |newspaper=The Washington Post |agency=Associated Press |archive-date=August 28, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170828215747/https://www.washingtonpost.com/archive/realestate/1997/02/15/rio-theme-is-expanded-in-las-vegas/46088856-1ef4-45a7-8b15-bdd98a85d702/ |url-status=live }}</ref> the chairman of MarCor.<ref name=MarCor/> The company purchased the vacant property in 1988, at a cost of $11 million. At the end of the year, it announced plans to build the Rio, which would be Las Vegas' first all-suite hotel-casino.<ref>{{cite news |title=MarCor buys 30 acres in Las Vegas |url=https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/152797095/ |work=Reno Gazette-Journal |date=June 20, 1988 |access-date=July 15, 2021 |via=Newspapers.com |url-access=subscription |archive-date=July 15, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210715152501/https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/152797095/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Partners |url=https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/152819814/ |work=Reno Gazette-Journal |date=December 26, 1988 |access-date=July 15, 2021 |via=Newspapers.com |url-access=subscription |archive-date=July 15, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210715152455/https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/152819814/ |url-status=live }}</ref> MarCor broke ground on the $80 million project on February 9, 1989. The groundbreaking ceremony included a 15-foot by 30-foot sand sculpture replica of the 21-story hotel.<ref name=UPI-1989/> The resort was designed and built by Marnell Corrao Associates.<ref>{{cite news |title=Ground Is Broken In Las Vegas on All-Suite Casino |url=https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1989-02-19-re-358-story.html |access-date=July 15, 2021 |work=Los Angeles Times |date=February 19, 1989 |archive-date=July 11, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210711104659/https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1989-02-19-re-358-story.html |url-status=live }}</ref>
The Rio opened on January 15, 1990.<ref name=Kicks/><ref>{{cite news |title=New Vegas resort |url=https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/310982192/ |work=The Press Democrat |date=January 16, 1990 |access-date=July 15, 2021 |via=Newspapers.com |url-access=subscription |archive-date=July 15, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210715152458/https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/310982192/ |url-status=live }}</ref> It featured a Brazilian theme based on Rio Carnival,<ref name=Kicks/><ref name=Mendes>{{cite news |title='Best-known Brazilian' Mendes to perform for opening of Rio Hotel |url=https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/175275146/ |work=Los Angeles Times |date=January 14, 1990 |access-date=July 15, 2021 |via=Newspapers.com |url-access=subscription |archive-date=July 15, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210715152503/https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/175275146/ |url-status=live }}</ref> and Brazilian musician Sérgio Mendes performed at the resort a few weeks later.<ref name=Mendes/><ref>{{cite news |title=Sergio Mendes, Jim Brown help kick off new Rio Suite resort |url=https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/176545247/ |work=Los Angeles Times |date=January 28, 1990 |access-date=July 15, 2021 |via=Newspapers.com |url-access=subscription |archive-date=July 15, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210715174827/https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/176545247/ |url-status=live }}</ref> The property included a {{cvt|44000|sqft}} casino,<ref name=Granted/> with 900 slot machines and 42 table games.<ref name=Kicks/> It also had 424 suites, five restaurants, five bars,<ref name=Granted>{{cite news |title=MarCor Granted Gaming License |url=https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1989-12-26-fi-924-story.html |work=Los Angeles Times |date=December 26, 1989 |access-date=July 15, 2021 |archive-date=July 11, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210711032518/https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1989-12-26-fi-924-story.html |url-status=live }}</ref> and a pool with a waterfall. It employed 1,500 workers,<ref name=Kicks/> including cocktail waitresses known as Ipanema Girls.<ref>{{cite news |last=Baird |first=Kirk |title=Skin City |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2000/feb/03/skin-city/ |access-date=October 3, 2023 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=February 3, 2000 |archive-date=October 11, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231011020929/https://lasvegassun.com/news/2000/feb/03/skin-city/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Gorman |first=Tom |title=Putting Their Feet Down |url=https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-2000-sep-12-cl-19450-story.html |access-date=October 3, 2023 |work=Los Angeles Times |date=September 12, 2000 }}</ref><ref name=Status/> The resort's target demographic would consist primarily of local residents and motorists from southern California. Resort officials believed that the property's location, just west of Interstate 15 and the Las Vegas Strip, would be appealing to tourists.<ref name=Kicks>{{cite news |last=Burbank |first=Jeff |title=Rio kicks off the '90s |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/1990/jan/15/rio-kicks-90s/ |access-date=July 15, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=January 15, 1990 |archive-date=July 14, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210714145233/https://lasvegassun.com/news/1990/jan/15/rio-kicks-90s/ |url-status=live }}</ref>
The Rio was the first casino opened by MarCor, which had largely focused on business parks and shopping centers.<ref name=UPI-1989>{{cite news |title=$80 million hotel project starts |url=https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/285248249/ |work=The Daily Spectrum |agency=United Press International |date=February 10, 1989 |access-date=July 15, 2021 |via=Newspapers.com |url-access=subscription |archive-date=July 15, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210715152459/https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/285248249/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Guests are in for a 'suite' treat at popular Rio Hotel & Casino |url=https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/571507281/ |work=Times-Advocate |date=December 9, 1990 |access-date=July 15, 2021 |via=Newspapers.com |url-access=subscription |archive-date=July 15, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210715152504/https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/571507281/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Marnell took over operations at the Rio 10 months after its opening, as he had found the early results dissatisfying.<ref name=Imprint>{{cite news |title=Marnell imprint on gaming properties nationwide |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/1997/feb/05/marnell-imprint-on-gaming-properties-nationwide/ |access-date=July 17, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=February 5, 1997 |archive-date=October 11, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231011020927/https://lasvegassun.com/news/1997/feb/05/marnell-imprint-on-gaming-properties-nationwide/ |url-status=live }}</ref> The resort struggled during its first two years, due to its location away from the Strip.<ref name=Status/> By 1992, MarCor had sold all of its other properties to focus solely on the Rio.<ref name=MarCor>{{cite news |title=Marcor Resorts Sells Properties |url=https://www.nytimes.com/1992/01/01/business/company-news-marcor-resorts-sells-properties.html |access-date=July 15, 2021 |work=The New York Times |date=January 1, 1992 |archive-date=July 11, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210711103351/https://www.nytimes.com/1992/01/01/business/company-news-marcor-resorts-sells-properties.html |url-status=live }}</ref>
====Expansions==== thumb|Ipanema Tower The hotel was soon successful, prompting a 437-unit addition, which broke ground on January 4, 1993.<ref>{{cite news |title=Rio Suite Hotel Breaks Ground for 430-Unit Addition |url=https://pressofatlanticcity.newsbank.com/ |website=The Press of Atlantic City |access-date=July 15, 2021 |date=January 10, 1993 |url-access=subscription |archive-date=March 13, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230313001615/https://pressofatlanticcity.newsbank.com/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name=SecondTower/> A $25 million expansion was announced later that year which would include more casino space.<ref>{{cite news |title=Another Las Vegas hotel announces expansion plans |url=https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/152699912/ |work=Reno Gazette-Journal |date=May 25, 1993 |access-date=July 15, 2021 |via=Newspapers.com |url-access=subscription |archive-date=July 15, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210715152500/https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/152699912/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Rio Suite Holds Double Ceremony for Tower, Casino |url=https://pressofatlanticcity.newsbank.com/ |website=The Press of Atlantic City |access-date=July 15, 2021 |date=August 1, 1993 |url-access=subscription |archive-date=March 13, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230313001615/https://pressofatlanticcity.newsbank.com/ |url-status=live }}</ref> The new hotel tower opened during Labor Day weekend, bringing the room count to 861.<ref name=SecondTower>{{cite news |title=Second all-suite tower to open |url=https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/712045063/ |work=Los Angeles Times |date=August 29, 1993 |access-date=July 16, 2021 |via=Newspapers.com |url-access=subscription |archive-date=July 15, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210715174828/https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/712045063/ |url-status=live }}</ref> The casino expansion opened at the end of 1993.<ref>{{cite news |title=Rio Hotel expands casino with Rain Forest, Coral Reef opening |url=https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/152762453/ |work=Reno Gazette-Journal |date=December 24, 1993 |access-date=July 15, 2021 |via=Newspapers.com |url-access=subscription |archive-date=July 15, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210715152507/https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/152762453/ |url-status=live }}</ref> A few months later, the resort announced a $75 million addition which would further expand the casino, and would increase the hotel with 549 rooms, for a total of 1,410.<ref>{{cite news |title=Rio to build $75 million addition |url=https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/152524182/ |work=Reno Gazette-Journal |date=March 4, 1994 |access-date=July 16, 2021 |via=Newspapers.com |url-access=subscription |archive-date=July 15, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210715174826/https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/152524182/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Rio Suite Hotel & Casino marks its 5th year in business |url=https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/158973804/ |work=Los Angeles Times |date=January 15, 1995 |access-date=July 16, 2021 |via=Newspapers.com |url-access=subscription |archive-date=July 15, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210715174828/https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/158973804/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name=Rio-95/> A dance and supper club, known as Club Rio, was opened in 1994,<ref>{{cite news |last=Dubin |first=Zan |title=No Dealing Just Wheeling |url=https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1998-sep-17-ca-23727-story.html |access-date=October 6, 2021 |work=Los Angeles Times |date=September 17, 1998 |archive-date=October 7, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211007160005/https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1998-sep-17-ca-23727-story.html |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Clubbing in Vegas |url=https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/149870769/ |access-date=October 29, 2021 |work=Reno Gazette-Journal |date=June 9, 2003 |url-access=subscription |archive-date=October 29, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211029170828/https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/149870769/ |url-status=live }}</ref> and was subsequently turned into a showroom.<ref name=RockAges/>
The Rio had a $250,000 laser system for nighttime displays. The system had to be adjusted in 1994, to avoid temporarily blinding commercial pilots.<ref>{{cite news |title=Las Vegas laser displays moved away from pilots |url=https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/477157516/ |work=Elko Daily Free Press |agency=Associated Press |date=June 29, 1994 |access-date=July 16, 2021 |via=Newspapers.com |url-access=subscription |archive-date=July 15, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210715174825/https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/477157516/ |url-status=live }}</ref> In 1995, Zagat named the Rio number one in the categories of Best Overall, Best Dining, Best Rooms and Best Service.<ref name=Imprint/><ref>{{cite news |title=Travel 'Best' and highest Vegas hotels offer bettor |url=https://nl.newsbank.com/ |website=Boston Herald |access-date=October 29, 2021 |date=April 27, 1997 |url-access=subscription |via=NewsLibrary |archive-date=June 4, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190604174101/http://nl.newsbank.com/ |url-status=live }}</ref> A $20 million expansion began that year, adding 144 suites, more meeting room space, and a new health club and salon facility.<ref name=Rio-95>{{cite news |title=$20 million expansion for Rio Hotel & Casino |url=https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/153305280/ |work=Reno Gazette-Journal |date=March 15, 1995 |access-date=July 15, 2021 |via=Newspapers.com |url-access=subscription }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Vegas Wire / Rio Suite Breaks Ground for $20 Million Expansion |url=https://pressofatlanticcity.newsbank.com/ |website=The Press of Atlantic City |access-date=July 15, 2021 |date=April 16, 1995 |url-access=subscription |archive-date=March 13, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230313001615/https://pressofatlanticcity.newsbank.com/ |url-status=live }}</ref> The original hotel structure and its extensions make up the Ipanema Tower, which consists of three wings,<ref name=CCT/> built out in a "Y" shape.<ref name=Sealant/>
thumb|left|upright|Masquerade Tower A $187 million expansion was underway in 1996, including six new restaurants and the addition of a 41-story tower with 1,000 rooms.<ref>{{cite news |last=Calkins |first=Alison |title=Shareholders briefed on Rio plans |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/1996/may/24/shareholders-briefed-on-rio-plans/ |access-date=July 16, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=May 24, 1996 |archive-date=November 7, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211107045138/https://lasvegassun.com/news/1996/may/24/shareholders-briefed-on-rio-plans/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Construction impacts casino earnings |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/1996/oct/17/construction-impacts-casino-earnings/ |access-date=July 16, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=October 17, 1996 |archive-date=October 11, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231011020930/https://lasvegassun.com/news/1996/oct/17/construction-impacts-casino-earnings/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="Bravo">{{cite news |last=Berns |first=Dave |title=Experts say: Bravo, rio |url=http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/1997/Feb-07-Fri-1997/business/4821453.html |access-date=July 16, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=February 7, 1997 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/19991007221731/http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/1997/Feb-07-Fri-1997/business/4821453.html |archive-date=October 7, 1999 }}</ref> The new tower brought the room count to 2,563, ranking the Rio among the world's largest hotels.<ref name=Imprint/><ref>{{cite news |title=Mardi Gras - Vegas style - comes early |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/1997/feb/07/mardi-gras---vegas-style---comes-early/ |access-date=July 17, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=February 7, 1997 |archive-date=October 7, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211007160008/https://lasvegassun.com/news/1997/feb/07/mardi-gras---vegas-style---comes-early/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name=Thompson>{{cite news |last=Thompson |first=Gary |title=Masquerade Village to make unique niche |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/1997/feb/07/masquerade-village-to-make-unique-niche/ |access-date=July 17, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=February 7, 1997 |archive-date=April 25, 2025 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250425160356/https://lasvegassun.com/news/1997/feb/07/masquerade-village-to-make-unique-niche/ |url-status=live }}</ref> The tower rises 383 feet.<ref>{{cite news |last=Rogers |first=Keith |title=Holiday tree sprouts roots at Rio |url=http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/1998/Nov-28-Sat-1998/news/10124929.html |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20000105132820/http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/1998/Nov-28-Sat-1998/news/10124929.html |archive-date=January 5, 2000 }}</ref>
In February 1997, the Rio unveiled its indoor Masquerade Village, a Mardi Gras-themed attraction at the base of the new tower that included retail, restaurants, and a wine cellar.<ref>{{cite news |last=Weatherford |first=Mike |title=Rio Revival |url=http://nl.newsbank.com/sites/lvrb/ |access-date=July 16, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=February 7, 1997 |url-access=subscription |archive-date=February 9, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190209232400/http://nl.newsbank.com/sites/lvrb/ |url-status=dead }}</ref><ref name=Takes/><ref name=Stevens>{{cite news |last=Stevens |first=Muriel |title=Rio founder makes bid for to create largest wine cellar |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/1996/oct/18/columnist-muriel-stevens-rio-founder-makes-bid-for/ |access-date=July 16, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=October 18, 1996 |archive-date=July 11, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210711135239/https://lasvegassun.com/news/1996/oct/18/columnist-muriel-stevens-rio-founder-makes-bid-for/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name=Napa>{{cite news |title=Rio in touch with its artsy, feminine side in Napa eatery |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/1997/jan/31/rio-in-touch-with-its-artsy-feminine-side-in-napa-/ |access-date=July 16, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=January 31, 1997 |archive-date=July 9, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210709183429/https://lasvegassun.com/news/1997/jan/31/rio-in-touch-with-its-artsy-feminine-side-in-napa-/ |url-status=live }}</ref> The retail space consisted of 21 stores,<ref name=Imprint/> spread across two floors<ref>{{cite news |last=Shemeligian |first=Bob |title=Retail shops will 'play' to locals, tourists |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/1997/feb/07/retail-shops-will-play-to-locals-tourists/ |access-date=July 17, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=February 7, 1997 |archive-date=October 7, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211007160007/https://lasvegassun.com/news/1997/feb/07/retail-shops-will-play-to-locals-tourists/ |url-status=live }}</ref> and occupying a total of {{cvt|32000|sqft}}.<ref name=Thompson/> At the time, Marnell held a 25-percent interest in the resort and was its largest shareholder.<ref name=Imprint/>
Another expansion began at the end of 1997, adding more convention and retail space, and increasing the size of the resort's spa, among other areas. The project, expected for completion in 1999, would also add a valet parking garage,<ref name=Major/><ref name=Files/><ref name=Soar/> and the Palazzo Suites for high rollers.<ref>{{cite news |title=Rio on right track for new addition, train service |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/1997/oct/31/rio-on-right-track-for-new-addition-train-service/ |access-date=October 31, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=October 31, 1997 |archive-date=October 31, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211031171335/https://lasvegassun.com/news/1997/oct/31/rio-on-right-track-for-new-addition-train-service/ |url-status=live }}</ref> The nine suites are located in a separate building located on the Rio property.<ref>{{cite news |last=Segall |first=Eli |title=Las Vegas villa rents for $40,000 a night, includes private glass elevator |url=http://lasvegassun.com/news/2012/oct/15/strip-villa-rents-40000-night-includes-private-gla/ |access-date=October 31, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=October 15, 2012 |archive-date=November 1, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211101140612/https://lasvegassun.com/news/2012/oct/15/strip-villa-rents-40000-night-includes-private-gla/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last=Shallcross |first=Juliana |title=Caesars to Open Its High-Roller Suites for Online Bookings |url=https://www.cntraveler.com/stories/2014-02-13/caesars-opening-high-roller-suites-online-bookings |website=Condé Nast Traveler |access-date=October 31, 2021 |date=February 13, 2014 |archive-date=October 31, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211031171343/https://www.cntraveler.com/stories/2014-02-13/caesars-opening-high-roller-suites-online-bookings |url-status=live }}</ref>
The Rio was one of the fastest-growing resort properties in Las Vegas.<ref name=Pollack>{{cite news |last=Pollack |first=Andrew |title=Building a Classier Image; Las Vegas Hotels Woo Blue Chip Visitors |url=https://www.nytimes.com/1997/11/13/business/building-a-classier-image-las-vegas-hotels-woo-blue-chip-visitors.html |access-date=July 18, 2021 |work=The New York Times |date=November 13, 1997 |archive-date=July 11, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210711230145/https://www.nytimes.com/1997/11/13/business/building-a-classier-image-las-vegas-hotels-woo-blue-chip-visitors.html |url-status=live }}</ref> Its clientele was split between locals and tourists,<ref name=Major>{{cite news |title=Rio announces major expansion |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/1997/oct/30/rio-announces-major-expansion/ |access-date=July 18, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=October 30, 1997 |archive-date=October 7, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211007160005/https://lasvegassun.com/news/1997/oct/30/rio-announces-major-expansion/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name=Files>{{cite news |title=Rio files to sell stock |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/1997/nov/03/rio-files-to-sell-stock/ |access-date=July 18, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=November 3, 1997 |archive-date=October 7, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211007160010/https://lasvegassun.com/news/1997/nov/03/rio-files-to-sell-stock/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name=Soar>{{cite news |title=Rio sales soar 38 percent, profit up too |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/1998/apr/21/rio-sales-soar-38-percent-profit-up-too/ |access-date=July 18, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=April 21, 1998 |archive-date=April 27, 2025 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250427135629/https://lasvegassun.com/news/1998/apr/21/rio-sales-soar-38-percent-profit-up-too/ |url-status=live }}</ref> and the property began offering beach parties and targeting a younger clientele and international high rollers.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Berns |first1=Dave |last2=Puppel |first2=Doug |title=Harrah's, Rio said to be talking hotel deal |url=http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/1998/Aug-10-Mon-1998/news/8002273.html |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=August 10, 1998 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/19991221065916/http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/1998/Aug-10-Mon-1998/news/8002273.html |archive-date=December 21, 1999 }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Berns |first=Dave |title=Harrah's buys Rio for $888 million |url=http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/1998/Aug-11-Tue-1998/news/8007960.html |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=August 11, 1998 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20000915190452/http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/1998/Aug-11-Tue-1998/news/8007960.html |archive-date=September 15, 2000 }}</ref> In 1998, readers of ''Travel + Leisure'' named the Rio as the world's number one hotel value.<ref>{{cite news |last=Puppel |first=Doug |title=Rio No. 1 hotel value in world, survey says |url=http://lvrj.com/lvrj_home/1998/Jan-30-Fri-1998/business/6867342.html |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=January 30, 1998 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/19990922024304/http://lvrj.com/lvrj_home/1998/Jan-30-Fri-1998/business/6867342.html |archive-date=September 22, 1999 }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Rio hotel-casino ranks first worldwide in value survey |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/1998/feb/02/rio-hotel-casino-ranks-first-worldwide-in-value-su/ |access-date=July 18, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=February 2, 1998 |archive-date=November 18, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211118015831/https://lasvegassun.com/news/1998/feb/02/rio-hotel-casino-ranks-first-worldwide-in-value-su/ |url-status=live }}</ref> {{clear}} ===Harrah's/Caesars ownership (1999–2019)=== In August 1998, Harrah's Entertainment (later Caesars Entertainment Corporation) agreed to purchase the Rio from Marnell.<ref>{{cite news |last=Thompson |first=Gary |title=Harrah's buys Rio hotel-casino |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/1998/aug/10/harrahs-buys-rio-hotel-casino/ |access-date=October 6, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=August 10, 1998 |archive-date=July 9, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210709185209/https://lasvegassun.com/news/1998/aug/10/harrahs-buys-rio-hotel-casino/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Sanchez |first=Jesus |title=Harrah's, Rio Hotel to Combine in $888-Million Deal |url=https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1998-aug-11-fi-12021-story.html |access-date=October 6, 2021 |work=Los Angeles Times |date=August 11, 1998 |archive-date=October 7, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211007160007/https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1998-aug-11-fi-12021-story.html |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Thompson |first=Gary |title=Harrah's to capitalize on Rio brand name |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/1998/aug/11/harrahs-to-capitalize-on-rio-brand-name/ |access-date=October 6, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=August 11, 1998 |archive-date=October 7, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211007160006/https://lasvegassun.com/news/1998/aug/11/harrahs-to-capitalize-on-rio-brand-name/ |url-status=live }}</ref> The sale was finalized five months later, at a cost of $766 million.<ref>{{cite news |last=Berns |first=Dave |title=Harrah's set to relocate to Las Vegas |url=http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/1999/Jan-22-Fri-1999/business/10459147.html |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/19991110054417/http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/1999/Jan-22-Fri-1999/business/10459147.html |archive-date=November 10, 1999 }}</ref> Harrah's considered the Rio to be among its top resorts.<ref name=Status/> Later in 1999, Harrah's and Rio began operating the short-lived National Airlines service.<ref>{{cite news |last=Sharkey |first=Joe |title=Fewer Flights to America's Playgrounds |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2008/07/13/business/13bug.html |access-date=October 6, 2021 |work=The New York Times |date=July 13, 2008 |quote=In 1999, Harrah's and the Rio casino in Las Vegas each invested $15 million to help start a low-fare carrier, National Airlines, to add more seat capacity into Las Vegas from the East Coast. (National went out of business in 2002.) |archive-date=October 7, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211007160006/https://www.nytimes.com/2008/07/13/business/13bug.html |url-status=live }}</ref> New villas were built for high rollers, and the casino's private baccarat area was redesigned.<ref>{{cite news |last=Berns |first=Dave |title=Harrah's: Rio fits into plan |url=http://lvrj.com/lvrj_home/1999/Mar-11-Thu-1999/business/10770499.html |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=March 11, 1999 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/19991011171851/http://lvrj.com/lvrj_home/1999/Mar-11-Thu-1999/business/10770499.html |archive-date=October 11, 1999 }}</ref> The resort also increased its convention center space from {{cvt|15000|sqft}} to {{cvt|110000|sqft}}.<ref>{{cite news |last=Berns |first=Dave |title=Rio Opens Meeting Facility |url=http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/1999/Mar-29-Mon-1999/business/10830695.html |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=March 29, 1999 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20010123193200/http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/1999/Mar-29-Mon-1999/business/10830695.html |archive-date=January 23, 2001 }}</ref>
In 2000, the National Labor Relations Board filed a complaint against the Rio, suspecting it of firing or harassing employees who sought unionization with the Culinary Workers Union.<ref>{{cite news |last=Berns |first=Dave |title=NLRB files complaint against Rio |url=http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Jul-25-Tue-2000/business/14033878.html |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=July 25, 2000 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20010910163215/http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Jul-25-Tue-2000/business/14033878.html |archive-date=September 10, 2001 }}</ref> Later that year, the union filed a lawsuit against the Rio, seeking to represent its 3,000 employees.<ref>{{cite news |last=Strow |first=David |title=Culinary sues over Rio battle |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2000/dec/13/culinary-sues-over-rio-battle/ |access-date=October 7, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=December 13, 2000 |archive-date=October 11, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231011022517/https://lasvegassun.com/news/2000/dec/13/culinary-sues-over-rio-battle/ |url-status=live }}</ref> The Rio was unionized in January 2001, after a majority of employees voiced their support.<ref>{{cite news |title=Rio workers choose union representation |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2001/jan/11/rio-workers-choose-union-representation/ |access-date=October 7, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=January 11, 2001 |archive-date=October 7, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211007160012/https://lasvegassun.com/news/2001/jan/11/rio-workers-choose-union-representation/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last=Benston |first=Liz |title=Culinary, Boyd in legal bout |publisher=Las Vegas Sun |date=March 23, 2005 |url=http://www.lasvegassun.com/news/2005/mar/23/culinary-boyd-in-legal-bout/ |access-date=October 4, 2008 |archive-date=July 23, 2008 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080723235544/http://www.lasvegassun.com/news/2005/mar/23/culinary-boyd-in-legal-bout/ |url-status=live }}</ref>
Undeveloped acreage near the Rio was a significant reason for Harrah's purchase, and the company considered using the site for additional hotel rooms.<ref>{{cite news |last=Berns |first=Dave |title=Room to Grow |url=http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Feb-10-Thu-2000/business/12929555.html |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=February 10, 2000 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20020105220435/http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Feb-10-Thu-2000/business/12929555.html |archive-date=January 5, 2002 }}</ref> However, profits were hurt in 2000 due to table game losses. The departure of entertainer Danny Gans was another factor for the property's poor performance,<ref>{{cite news |last=Berns |first=Dave |title=Rio hurts Harrah's results |url=http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Apr-15-Sat-2000/business/13380455.html |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=April 15, 2000 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20001213050700/http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Apr-15-Sat-2000/business/13380455.html |archive-date=December 13, 2000 }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Berns |first=Dave |title=Diminished Rio results hurt Harrah's in second quarter |url=http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Jul-20-Thu-2000/business/14001842.html |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=July 20, 2000 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20010707053532/http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Jul-20-Thu-2000/business/14001842.html |archive-date=July 7, 2001 }}</ref> along with competition from new resorts, including the Bellagio, Mandalay Bay, the Venetian, Paris, and the Aladdin.<ref name=Horizon/><ref name=Resign>{{cite news |last=Berns |first=Dave |title=Two Rio execs opt to resign |url=http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/Jul-10-Tue-2001/business/16502349.html |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=July 10, 2001 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20011226051631/http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/Jul-10-Tue-2001/business/16502349.html |archive-date=December 26, 2001 }}</ref><ref name=Plague/> The Rio laid off nearly 200 employees as a cost-saving measure.<ref>{{cite news |last=Simpson |first=Jeff |title=Rio lays off staff |url=http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/Mar-20-Tue-2001/business/15682158.html |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=March 20, 2001 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20011118113403/http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/Mar-20-Tue-2001/business/15682158.html |archive-date=November 18, 2001 }}</ref><ref name=Corner/>
The property saw financial improvement in 2001,<ref name=Corner>{{cite news |last=Strow |first=David |title=Rio casino said to be turning corner |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2001/apr/02/rio-casino-said-to-be-turning-corner/ |access-date=October 7, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=April 2, 2001 |archive-date=November 7, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211107045132/https://lasvegassun.com/news/2001/apr/02/rio-casino-said-to-be-turning-corner/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last1=Berns |first1=Dave |last2=Simpson |first2=Jeff |title=Harrah's executive sees better days |url=http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/Apr-22-Sun-2001/business/15902530.html |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=April 22, 2001 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20011225233740/http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/Apr-22-Sun-2001/business/15902530.html |archive-date=December 25, 2001 }}</ref> and Harrah's announced that it was in the early stages of planning for a new hotel tower at the Rio.<ref name=Horizon>{{cite news |last=Simpson |first=Jeff |title=Expansion on horizon for Rio |url=http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/May-04-Fri-2001/business/16020280.html |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=May 4, 2001 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20020225205444/http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/May-04-Fri-2001/business/16020280.html |archive-date=February 25, 2002 }}</ref> However, the property's revenue declined again later in the year, which Harrah's blamed on table game losses.<ref name=Plague>{{cite news |last=Strow |first=David |title=Bad hold, tough competition plague Rio |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2001/jul/19/bad-hold-tough-competition-plague-rio/ |access-date=October 7, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=July 19, 2001 |archive-date=May 22, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210522150444/https://lasvegassun.com/news/2001/jul/19/bad-hold-tough-competition-plague-rio/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Strow |first=David |title=Despite claims of bad luck, two execs leave Harrah's Rio casino |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2001/jul/10/despite-claims-of-bad-luck-two-execs-leave-harrahs/ |access-date=October 7, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=July 10, 2001 |archive-date=October 7, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211007160014/https://lasvegassun.com/news/2001/jul/10/despite-claims-of-bad-luck-two-execs-leave-harrahs/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Berns |first=Dave |title=Rio a puzzle to analysts |url=http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/Jul-19-Thu-2001/business/16569447.html |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=July 19, 2001 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20010813061342/http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/Jul-19-Thu-2001/business/16569447.html |archive-date=August 13, 2001 }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Strow |first=David |title=Harrah's earnings rise, but Rio still disappoints |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2001/jul/18/harrahs-earnings-rise-but-rio-still-disappoints/ |access-date=October 7, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=July 18, 2001 |archive-date=October 7, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211007160009/https://lasvegassun.com/news/2001/jul/18/harrahs-earnings-rise-but-rio-still-disappoints/ |url-status=live }}</ref> The Rio's younger clientele had since moved on to newer resorts, and the property partnered with the men's magazine ''Maxim'' in an effort to recapture the demographic. Through the partnership, the Rio would be advertised in the magazine, and parties – known as Maxim Lounge – would be held at the Rio.<ref>{{cite news |title=Rio in deal with men's magazine |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2001/oct/30/rio-in-deal-with-mens-magazine/ |access-date=October 7, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=October 30, 2001 |archive-date=October 7, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211007160014/https://lasvegassun.com/news/2001/oct/30/rio-in-deal-with-mens-magazine/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Strow |first=David |title=Palms opens tonight, competitors ready |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2001/nov/15/palms-opens-tonight-competitors-ready/ |access-date=October 7, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=November 15, 2001 |archive-date=May 20, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210520222825/https://lasvegassun.com/news/2001/nov/15/palms-opens-tonight-competitors-ready/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Cash flow subsequently improved,<ref>{{cite news |last=Berns |first=Dave |title=Rio reverses flat cash flow trend |url=http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2002/Feb-07-Thu-2002/business/18044410.html |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=February 7, 2002 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20021002234638/http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2002/Feb-07-Thu-2002/business/18044410.html |archive-date=October 2, 2002 }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Robison |first=Jennifer |title=Marnell Corrao thinking big |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2002/may/24/marnell-corrao-thinking-big/ |access-date=October 8, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=May 24, 2002 |archive-date=October 31, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211031223613/https://lasvegassun.com/news/2002/may/24/marnell-corrao-thinking-big/ |url-status=live }}</ref> and Harrah's submitted plans to the county in 2002, for a new hotel and casino on the undeveloped acreage.<ref>{{cite news |title=Rio project planned |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2003/dec/23/rio-project-planned/ |access-date=October 8, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=December 23, 2003 |archive-date=October 31, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211031223615/https://lasvegassun.com/news/2003/dec/23/rio-project-planned/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Marnell had previously planned to build another resort on the same property.<ref>{{cite news |title=Rio to build new 3,000-room hotel |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/1997/oct/30/rio-to-build-new-3000-room-hotel/ |access-date=October 31, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=October 30, 1997 |archive-date=July 9, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210709190328/https://lasvegassun.com/news/1997/oct/30/rio-to-build-new-3000-room-hotel/ |url-status=live }}</ref>
In December 2003, Harrah's announced a partnership with Voyager Entertainment to build what would have been the world's tallest observation wheel, rising 600 feet. It would be part of an $86 million complex that would include three floors of retail, restaurants, and a nightclub. The project would be built on the Rio parking lot's southeast side. Construction was scheduled to begin within three months, with the opening in July 2005. Another hotel tower was also a possibility, although there were no immediate plans to build one. Despite a lack of financing, Voyager stated that it would have no issues in raising the necessary funds.<ref>{{cite news |last=Smith |first=Rod |title=Rio makes plans for wheel in sky |url=http://www.reviewjournal.com/lvrj_home/2003/Dec-24-Wed-2003/news/22858598.html |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=December 24, 2003 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20050121113519/http://www.reviewjournal.com/lvrj_home/2003/Dec-24-Wed-2003/news/22858598.html |archive-date=January 21, 2005 }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Benston |first=Liz |title=Rio looking at observation wheel |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2003/dec/24/rio-looking-at-observation-wheel/ |access-date=October 8, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=December 24, 2003 }}</ref> Negotiations between Voyager and Harrah's eventually derailed, and the project was canceled in April 2004.<ref>{{cite news |last=Smith |first=Rod |title=Thrill is gone from Rio parking lot |url=http://www.reviewjournal.com/lvrj_home/2004/May-01-Sat-2004/business/23785199.html |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=May 1, 2004 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20041213205716/http://www.reviewjournal.com/lvrj_home/2004/May-01-Sat-2004/business/23785199.html |archive-date=December 13, 2004 }}</ref>
In May 2004, the Rio began preliminary operations of a power plant which would ultimately provide 40 percent of the property's power.<ref>{{cite news |last=Sodoma |first=Brian |title=Rio generating plant running, casinos are looking for similar power savings |url=https://reviewjournal.newsbank.com/ |access-date=October 8, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Business Press |date=June 18, 2004 |url-access=subscription }}</ref> A month later, construction began on a $39 million expansion of the Rio Pavilion Convention Center. It was built north of the resort's existing facilities, and was opened in 2005.<ref>{{cite news |last=Smith |first=Rod |title=Meeting space project gets under way at Rio |url=http://www.reviewjournal.com/lvrj_home/2004/Jun-03-Thu-2004/business/24019226.html |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=June 3, 2004 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20041030013514/http://www.reviewjournal.com/lvrj_home/2004/Jun-03-Thu-2004/business/24019226.html |archive-date=October 30, 2004 }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Harrah's hopes to grab larger share of convention industry |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2005/feb/15/harrahs-hopes-to-grab-larger-share-of-convention-i/ |access-date=October 8, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=February 15, 2005 |archive-date=October 11, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231011022442/https://lasvegassun.com/news/2005/feb/15/harrahs-hopes-to-grab-larger-share-of-convention-i/ |url-status=live }}</ref>
The Rio became the host casino for the World Series of Poker in 2005,<ref>{{cite news |last=McManus |first=James |title=Inside America's Other Favorite Pastime |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2005/06/25/sports/othersports/inside-americas-other-favorite-pastime.html |access-date=October 8, 2021 |work=The New York Times |date=June 25, 2005 |archive-date=October 31, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211031223610/https://www.nytimes.com/2005/06/25/sports/othersports/inside-americas-other-favorite-pastime.html |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Stutz |first=Howard |title=World Series of Poker hits big at Rio |url=http://www.reviewjournal.com/lvrj_home/2005/Jul-12-Tue-2005/news/26869035.html |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20051201061146/http://www.reviewjournal.com/lvrj_home/2005/Jul-12-Tue-2005/news/26869035.html |archive-date=December 1, 2005 |date=July 12, 2005 }}</ref><ref name=Montero>{{cite news |last=Montero |first=David |title=Put your hands together for the World Series of Poker, turning 50 this year |url=https://www.latimes.com/nation/la-na-world-series-poker-anniversary-20190528-story.html |access-date=October 8, 2021 |work=Los Angeles Times |date=May 28, 2019 |archive-date=October 31, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211031223611/https://www.latimes.com/nation/la-na-world-series-poker-anniversary-20190528-story.html |url-status=live }}</ref> boosting the resort's popularity.<ref>{{cite news |last=Benston |first=Liz |title=Rio flush with success |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2005/jul/19/rio-flush-with-success/ |access-date=October 8, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=July 19, 2005 |archive-date=November 6, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211106233711/https://lasvegassun.com/news/2005/jul/19/rio-flush-with-success/ |url-status=live }}</ref> The Rio's importance to Harrah's was diminished after the company purchased Caesars Entertainment in 2005, thereby acquiring several resorts on the Las Vegas Strip.<ref name=Status/> In 2005, the Rio's cocktail servers were fitted with RFID tracking tags in their uniforms, allowing management to determine how long customers were waiting to be served.<ref>{{cite news |last=Miller |first=Valerie |title=Rio's use of radio tags on servers causes concern |url=http://www.lvbusinesspress.com/articles/2006/01/09/news/news01.txt |work=Las Vegas Business Press |date=January 9, 2006 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060505031248/http://www.lvbusinesspress.com/articles/2006/01/09/news/news01.txt |archive-date=May 5, 2006 |access-date=October 2, 2025 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Miller |first=Valerie |title=Harrah's expands its RFID use |url=http://www.lvbusinesspress.com/articles/2007/03/19/news/iq_13160854.txt |work=Las Vegas Business Press |date=March 19, 2007 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090420192735/http://www.lvbusinesspress.com/articles/2007/03/19/news/iq_13160854.txt |archive-date=April 20, 2009 |access-date=October 2, 2025 |url-status=live }}</ref>
====Renovation project==== Various hotel renovations took place from 2004 to 2006, in the Ipanema Tower.<ref>{{cite news |last=Whitely |first=Joan |title=Harrah's: Rio tower ruled safe |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/harrahs-rio-tower-ruled-safe/ |access-date=October 28, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=October 23, 2007 |archive-date=October 31, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211031223614/https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/harrahs-rio-tower-ruled-safe/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name=Blowing/> In October 2007, a number of hotel rooms in the tower were closed for county inspections, after a two-month investigation by the ''Las Vegas Review-Journal'' found that the remodeling had taken place without permits and inspections.<ref name=CCT/><ref name=Blowing>{{cite news |last=Whitely |first=Joan |title=Blowing whistle on a giant |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/blowing-whistle-on-a-giant/ |access-date=October 28, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=December 9, 2007 }}</ref> The county had briefly looked into the renovation work, but quickly dismissed concerns about the lack of permits, until the news investigation prompted a reopening of the case.<ref name=Blowing/><ref>{{cite news |title=County to order audit of process |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/news/county-to-order-audit-of-process/ |access-date=October 28, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=October 25, 2007 |archive-date=October 31, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211031223622/https://www.reviewjournal.com/news/county-to-order-audit-of-process/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Blowing whistle satisfies 'crybaby' |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/news/blowing-whistle-satisfies-crybaby/ |access-date=October 28, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=March 14, 2008 |archive-date=October 31, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211031223614/https://www.reviewjournal.com/news/blowing-whistle-satisfies-crybaby/ |url-status=live }}</ref> At one point prior to the case's reopening, a building inspection supervisor claimed to have examined 37 rooms throughout the tower, finding no major issues. It was later discovered that the supervisor had only been at the Rio for 38 minutes.<ref>{{cite news |last=Whitely |first=Joan |title=Reinstatement of inspector Maddox detailed |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/news/reinstatement-of-inspector-maddox-detailed/ |access-date=October 28, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=August 28, 2009 |archive-date=October 31, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211031223616/https://www.reviewjournal.com/news/reinstatement-of-inspector-maddox-detailed/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=The Incredible 38-Minute Man |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/opinion/the-incredible-38-minute-man/ |access-date=October 28, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=August 23, 2009 |archive-date=October 31, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211031223612/https://www.reviewjournal.com/opinion/the-incredible-38-minute-man/ |url-status=live }}</ref>
The renovations had occurred on floors 3 through 19,<ref name=CCT>{{cite news |last=Whitely |first=Joan |title=Building permits and safety inspections: Rio rooms close |url=https://www.casinocitytimes.com/joan-whitely/article/building-permits-and-safety-inspections-rio-rooms-close-55697 |access-date=October 28, 2021 |work=Casino City Times |date=October 3, 2007 |archive-date=October 31, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211031223613/https://www.casinocitytimes.com/joan-whitely/article/building-permits-and-safety-inspections-rio-rooms-close-55697 |url-status=live }}</ref> and there were concerns about whether the renovated floors were up to fire safety standards.<ref name=CCT/><ref>{{cite news |title=Some work proves tougher to inspect |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/news/some-work-proves-tougher-to-inspect/ |access-date=October 28, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=October 3, 2007 |archive-date=October 31, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211031223609/https://www.reviewjournal.com/news/some-work-proves-tougher-to-inspect/ |url-status=live }}</ref> The entire 19th floor was gutted, except for the walls of the central hallway.<ref name=CCT/><ref name=OpenSafe>{{cite news |title=Harrah's: Tower open, safe |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/news/harrahs-tower-open-safe/ |access-date=October 28, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=October 4, 2007 |archive-date=October 31, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211031223617/https://www.reviewjournal.com/news/harrahs-tower-open-safe/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Harrah's initially dismissed concerns about the renovations,<ref name=Blowing/> stating that they were cosmetic and did not require permits.<ref name=Sealant/> Of the tower's 1,448 rooms, 12 were closed for inspections.<ref name=OpenSafe/> Within a few days, the closure extended to 140 rooms across the 18th and 19th floors. Concrete slabs in between the two floors were lacking fire sealant following the renovations,<ref>{{cite news |last=Whitely |first=Joan |title=Two Rio floors closed |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/news/two-rio-floors-closed/ |access-date=October 28, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=October 6, 2007 |archive-date=October 31, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211031223615/https://www.reviewjournal.com/news/two-rio-floors-closed/ |url-status=live }}</ref> and such repairs were eventually undertaken on 360 rooms in an entire wing of the Ipanema Tower that dated to the property's opening in 1990. Various other problems were discovered as well, including the unauthorized installation of ceiling lights and electrical outlets.<ref name=Sealant>{{cite news |last=Whitely |first=Joan |title=Fire sealant added at Rio |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/news/fire-sealant-added-at-rio/ |access-date=October 28, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=October 20, 2007 |archive-date=October 31, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211031223610/https://www.reviewjournal.com/news/fire-sealant-added-at-rio/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name=Sites>{{cite news |last=Whitely |first=Joan |title=More damaged sites discovered at Rio |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/more-damaged-sites-discovered-at-rio/ |access-date=October 28, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=November 15, 2007 |archive-date=October 31, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211031223612/https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/more-damaged-sites-discovered-at-rio/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Post-tension cables were also damaged in some rooms during the remodeling.<ref name=Sites/><ref>{{cite news |last=Whitely |first=Joan |title=Cable flaws suspected at Rio |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/news/cable-flaws-suspected-at-rio/ |access-date=October 28, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=October 21, 2007 |archive-date=October 31, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211031223638/https://www.reviewjournal.com/news/cable-flaws-suspected-at-rio/ |url-status=live }}</ref>
The county inspection expanded to other floors in December 2007, after additional fire safety hazards were found. These included unsealed holes which would allow the infiltration of smoke in the event of a fire.<ref>{{cite news |last=Whitely |first=Joan |title=Inspectors expand search for Rio remodeling flaws |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/news/inspectors-expand-search-for-rio-remodeling-flaws/ |access-date=October 28, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=December 21, 2007 }}</ref> More than 1,000 rooms were inspected, and 50 were closed for a lengthy period of time.<ref>{{cite news |last=Whitely |first=Joan |title=Work at resorts leads to charges |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/news/work-at-resorts-leads-to-charges/ |access-date=October 28, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=February 6, 2008 |archive-date=October 31, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211031223619/https://www.reviewjournal.com/news/work-at-resorts-leads-to-charges/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Harrah's received four criminal misdemeanor citations for the unauthorized renovations.<ref>{{cite news |last=Whitely |first=Joan |title=Criminal citations set in Harrah's remodeling |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/news/criminal-citations-set-in-harrahs-remodeling/ |access-date=October 28, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=December 15, 2007 |archive-date=October 31, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211031223620/https://www.reviewjournal.com/news/criminal-citations-set-in-harrahs-remodeling/ |url-status=live }}</ref>
====Later years==== thumb|Overlooking the casino floor in 2013 Following the Great Recession, most of Harrah's cash flow went to its Strip properties, leaving the Rio to become neglected.<ref name=Status/><ref>{{cite news |last=Adams |first=Ken |title=The Rio Rumor: True or False? |url=https://www.cdcgamingreports.com/commentaries/the-rio-rumor-true-or-false/ |access-date=October 30, 2021 |work=CDC Gaming Reports |date=October 11, 2021 }}</ref> At the end of 2008, the Rio launched an opt-in mobile marketing campaign, providing promotions to customers via text messages.<ref>{{cite news |last=Knightly |first=Arnold M. |title=Rio rolls out mobile marketing campaign |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/rio-rolls-out-mobile-marketing-campaign/ |access-date=October 29, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=February 14, 2009 }}</ref> Two years later, it began offering resident discounts in an effort to attract more locals.<ref>{{cite news |last=Sieroty |first=Chris |title=Rio ratchets up discounts to attract more locals to resort |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/casinos-gaming/rio-ratchets-up-discounts-to-attract-more-locals-to-resort/ |access-date=October 29, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=December 28, 2010 }}</ref>
As of 2010, Harrah's had considered several purchase offers for the Rio, including a $450 million proposal by Penn National Gaming. Out of Harrah's 10 local properties, 9 of them were on the Las Vegas Strip, with the Rio as the outlier. The Rio's off-Strip location made it difficult for Harrah's to market the resort to customers of its other properties. Furthermore, the Rio had lost the popularity it had under Marnell's ownership in the 1990s. The property had received numerous complaints relating to maintenance and service, which employees blamed on cost-cutting measures by Harrah's. However, an imminent sale did not occur,<ref name=LostShine>{{cite news |last=Benston |first=Liz |title=Has the Rio lost its shine for buyers? |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2010/jun/21/has-rio-lost-its-shine-buyers/ |access-date=October 30, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=June 21, 2010 |archive-date=October 31, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211031223609/https://lasvegassun.com/news/2010/jun/21/has-rio-lost-its-shine-buyers/ |url-status=live }}</ref> and the Rio remained under the same ownership for the next decade.<ref name=Status/>
Harrah's was renamed Caesars Entertainment Corporation later in 2010.<ref name=Montero/> At the time, the Rio was valued at approximately $500 million. It included a {{cvt|117300|sqft}} casino with 1,100 slot machines and 90 table games, as well as {{cvt|160000|sqft}} of convention space.<ref>{{cite news |last=Knightly |first=Arnold M. |title=Harrah's mum about rumors the Rio is for sale |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/harrahs-mum-about-rumors-the-rio-is-for-sale/ |access-date=October 29, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=April 26, 2010 }}</ref>
thumb|left|DEF CON 2014 The Rio stayed competitive in the 2010s thanks to the World Series of Poker, as well as Caesars' database of 55 million rewards club members.<ref name=Status/> Superkarts USA (SKUSA) also held its SuperNationals kart racing event at the Rio each year, taking place on a temporary circuit set up in the resort's parking lot.<ref>{{cite news |last=Ammerman |first=Sean |title=Henderson's Todd Olcott competes close to home in Superkarts USA Supernationals |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2008/nov/26/hendersons-todd-olcott-competes-close-home-superka/ |access-date=October 31, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=November 26, 2008 |archive-date=November 30, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241130125540/https://lasvegassun.com/news/2008/nov/26/hendersons-todd-olcott-competes-close-home-superka/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Vegas karter Jaskol battles with F1 stars in Supernationals |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/uncategorized/vegas-karter-jaskol-battles-with-f1-stars-in-supernationals/ |access-date=October 31, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=December 4, 2009 }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Go-kart racers get their need for speed at Rio in Las Vegas |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/sports/go-kart-racers-get-their-need-for-speed-at-rio-in-las-vegas-1899997/ |access-date=October 31, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=November 24, 2019 |archive-date=October 31, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211031183301/https://www.reviewjournal.com/sports/go-kart-racers-get-their-need-for-speed-at-rio-in-las-vegas-1899997/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Kantowski |first=Ron |title=As Michael Schumacher turns 50, only Las Vegas race recalled |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/sports/motor-sports/as-michael-schumacher-turns-50-only-las-vegas-race-recalled-1564912/ |access-date=October 31, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=January 3, 2019 |archive-date=October 31, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211031183300/https://www.reviewjournal.com/sports/motor-sports/as-michael-schumacher-turns-50-only-las-vegas-race-recalled-1564912/ |url-status=live }}</ref> The Rio has also hosted a ''Star Trek'' convention every year since 2011.<ref>Retrieved October 31, 2021:{{ubl |{{cite news |last=Goldberg |first=Delen |title=Set a course for the Rio, Star Trek convention |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2011/aug/10/set-course-rio-star-trek-convention/ |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=August 10, 2011 |archive-date=October 31, 2021 |access-date=October 31, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211031183259/https://lasvegassun.com/news/2011/aug/10/set-course-rio-star-trek-convention/ |url-status=live }} |{{cite news |last=Miller |first=Ken |title=Las Vegas' Star Trek Convention is five days of heaven for the faithful |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2011/aug/17/las-vegas-star-trek-convention-five-days-heaven-fa/ |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=August 17, 2011 |archive-date=October 31, 2021 |access-date=October 31, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211031183300/https://lasvegassun.com/news/2011/aug/17/las-vegas-star-trek-convention-five-days-heaven-fa/ |url-status=live }} |{{cite news |last=Nordli |first=Brian |title=Klingon wedding, fuzzy aliens, Capt. Kirk's clothes: Rio hosts out-of-this world convention |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2013/aug/11/klingon-wedding-fuzzy-aliens-capt-kirks-clothes-ri/ |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=August 11, 2013 |archive-date=October 31, 2021 |access-date=October 31, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211031183259/https://lasvegassun.com/news/2013/aug/11/klingon-wedding-fuzzy-aliens-capt-kirks-clothes-ri/ |url-status=live }} |{{cite news |last=Przybys |first=John |title=Official Star Trek Convention returns to the Rio |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/entertainment/tv/official-star-trek-convention-returns-to-the-rio/ |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=August 1, 2017 }} |{{cite news |title=Star Trek convention taking shape at Rio Las Vegas during 55th anniversary |url=https://www.ktnv.com/vegas-things-to-do/star-trek-convention-taking-shape-at-rio-las-vegas-during-55th-anniversary |work=KTNV |date=August 12, 2021 |archive-date=October 31, 2021 |access-date=October 31, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211031183305/https://www.ktnv.com/vegas-things-to-do/star-trek-convention-taking-shape-at-rio-las-vegas-during-55th-anniversary |url-status=live }} }}</ref> In addition, it hosted the DEF CON hacker convention from 2011 to 2014.<ref>{{cite news |last=Sutter |first=John D. |title=DEF CON: The event that scares hackers |url=http://www.cnn.com/2011/TECH/web/08/05/def.con.hackers/index.html |access-date=October 31, 2021 |work=CNN |date=August 6, 2011 |archive-date=October 31, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211031183258/http://www.cnn.com/2011/TECH/web/08/05/def.con.hackers/index.html |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Feldberg |first=Sarah |title=How does a Vegas casino stay safe during DEF CON? |url=https://lasvegasweekly.com/as-we-see-it/2013/aug/03/vegas-casino-stay-safe-during-def-con/ |access-date=October 31, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Weekly |date=August 3, 2013 |archive-date=September 9, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220909072958/https://lasvegasweekly.com/as-we-see-it/2013/aug/03/vegas-casino-stay-safe-during-def-con/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite magazine |last=Nicks |first=Denver |title=A 'Federal Agent' Plays Slots and Talks at Las Vegas Hacker Convention |url=https://time.com/3100793/a-federal-agent-plays-slots-and-talks-at-las-vegas-hacker-convention/ |access-date=October 31, 2021 |magazine=Time |date=August 11, 2014 }}</ref>
A robbery occurred in 2011, with $33,200 in casino chips stolen. Two men were arrested in connection with the robbery,<ref>{{cite news |last=Takahashi |first=Paul |title=Police nab 2 men in armed robbery at Rio, third man sought |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2011/feb/25/police-arrest-2-thursday-robbery-rio/ |access-date=October 27, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=February 25, 2011 |archive-date=November 4, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211104174550/https://lasvegassun.com/news/2011/feb/25/police-arrest-2-thursday-robbery-rio/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=2 arrested in Vegas casino heist of $33,000 in chips |url=https://www.denverpost.com/2011/02/25/2-arrested-in-vegas-casino-heist-of-33000-in-chips/ |access-date=October 27, 2021 |agency=Associated Press |date=February 25, 2011 }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Toplikar |first=Dave |title=Rio robbery case goes to district court |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2011/apr/26/rio-robbery-case-goes-district-court/ |access-date=October 27, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=April 26, 2011 |archive-date=October 31, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211031223612/https://lasvegassun.com/news/2011/apr/26/rio-robbery-case-goes-district-court/ |url-status=live }}</ref> and a third was apprehended nine years later.<ref>{{cite news |last=Puit |first=Glenn |title=Man sought in 2011 Rio chip heist arrested by FBI in Los Angeles |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/crime/robberies/man-sought-in-2011-rio-chip-heist-arrested-by-fbi-in-los-angeles-2026329/ |access-date=October 27, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=May 12, 2020 |archive-date=October 27, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211027170507/https://www.reviewjournal.com/crime/robberies/man-sought-in-2011-rio-chip-heist-arrested-by-fbi-in-los-angeles-2026329/ |url-status=live }}</ref> In 2013, a norovirus outbreak occurred among 100 people staying at the Rio for a youth football tournament taking place in Las Vegas.<ref>{{cite news |title=Young football players sickened in Las Vegas; parents want answers |url=https://abc13.com/archive/9345572/ |access-date=October 29, 2021 |work=ABC |date=December 1, 2013 }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Ley |first=Ana |title=As many as 100 visiting Rio catch stomach bug during youth football event, organizers say |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2013/nov/29/13-children-5-adults-hospitalized-after-getting-si/ |access-date=October 29, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=November 29, 2013 |archive-date=November 6, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211106193058/https://lasvegassun.com/news/2013/nov/29/13-children-5-adults-hospitalized-after-getting-si/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Nordli |first=Brian |title=Health District: Norovirus to blame for 100 falling ill at Rio |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2013/dec/02/health-department-norovirus-caused-100-sicknesses-/ |access-date=October 29, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=December 2, 2013 |archive-date=October 31, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211031223610/https://lasvegassun.com/news/2013/dec/02/health-department-norovirus-caused-100-sicknesses-/ |url-status=live }}</ref>
On the evening of December 28, 2016, water from a clogged sink overflowed into an electrical conduit, in a service area of the Masquerade Tower. It caused a fuse to blow, cutting out power for 400 rooms located on the 22nd floor and onward. The blown fuse had also sparked a small fire in a service elevator, which was put out by sprinklers. However, the next morning, leftover sprinkler water trickled down and shorted out a fuse in the backup generator, which cut out power for another 500 rooms. Guests had to be evacuated to other hotels.<ref>{{cite news |last=Moore |first=Thomas |title=Power outage at Rio in Las Vegas prompts evacuation of 900 rooms |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2016/dec/29/guests-evacuated-from-rio-after-fires-loss-of-powe/ |access-date=October 30, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=December 29, 2016 |archive-date=October 31, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211031223612/https://lasvegassun.com/news/2016/dec/29/guests-evacuated-from-rio-after-fires-loss-of-powe/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Rindels |first=Michelle |title=Lights out at Vegas' Rio casino forces 900-room evacuation |url=https://apnews.com/article/57f81ae0b3a64488a797d49a6d321f23 |access-date=October 30, 2021 |work=Associated Press |date=December 29, 2016 }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last1=Hershkovitz |first1=Rachel |last2=Crosby |first2=Rachel |title=Electrical short that caused Rio evacuations direct result of Wednesday fire |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/local/local-las-vegas/electrical-short-that-caused-rio-evacuations-direct-result-of-wednesday-fire/ |access-date=October 30, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=December 29, 2016 |archive-date=October 28, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211028103633/https://www.reviewjournal.com/local/local-las-vegas/electrical-short-that-caused-rio-evacuations-direct-result-of-wednesday-fire/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name=NewYears/> Six guests received minor injuries during the evacuation.<ref>{{cite news |last=Jones |first=Jay |title=Some rooms reopen at Las Vegas' Rio hotel, but hundreds of guests will have to be reaccommodated for the New Year's Eve weekend |url=https://www.latimes.com/travel/la-tr-fire-rio-fire-displaces-guests-newyears-20161230-story.html |access-date=October 30, 2021 |work=Los Angeles Times |date=December 30, 2016 |archive-date=October 29, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211029170832/https://www.latimes.com/travel/la-tr-fire-rio-fire-displaces-guests-newyears-20161230-story.html |url-status=live }}</ref> Power to the lower portion of the tower was restored within a day,<ref name=NewYears>{{cite news |last=Crosby |first=Rachel |title=Continued power outage to leave 500 Rio rooms dark through New Year's Eve weekend |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/local/local-las-vegas/continued-power-outage-to-leave-500-rio-rooms-dark-through-new-years-eve-weekend/ |access-date=October 30, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=December 30, 2016 |archive-date=October 28, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211028103655/https://www.reviewjournal.com/local/local-las-vegas/continued-power-outage-to-leave-500-rio-rooms-dark-through-new-years-eve-weekend/ |url-status=live }}</ref> and full power was gradually restored over the course of a week.<ref>{{cite news |last=Terrones |first=Jessica |title=Power restored to 11 floors of the Rio's Masquerade Tower |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/casinos-gaming/power-restored-to-11-floors-of-the-rios-masquerade-tower/ |access-date=October 30, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=January 3, 2017 |archive-date=October 28, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211028101931/https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/casinos-gaming/power-restored-to-11-floors-of-the-rios-masquerade-tower/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Terrones |first=Jessica |title=Power fully restored at Rio after outage |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/local/local-las-vegas/power-fully-restored-at-rio-after-outage/ |access-date=October 30, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=January 5, 2017 |archive-date=October 28, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211028010706/https://www.reviewjournal.com/local/local-las-vegas/power-fully-restored-at-rio-after-outage/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Jones |first=Jay |title=Las Vegas' Rio reopens tower rooms, VooDoo lounge after last week's fire and power outage |url=https://www.latimes.com/travel/deals/la-tr-las-vegas-rio-fire-rooms-open-20170106-story.html |access-date=October 30, 2021 |work=Los Angeles Times |date=January 6, 2017 |archive-date=October 29, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211029171405/https://www.latimes.com/travel/deals/la-tr-las-vegas-rio-fire-rooms-open-20170106-story.html |url-status=live }}</ref>
In 2017, two guests contracted Legionnaires' disease during separate stays at the Rio hotel.<ref>{{cite news |last=Rossman |first=Sean |title=Guests leave Las Vegas' Rio hotel with Legionnaires' disease |url=https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation-now/2017/06/10/legionnaires-disease-las-vegas-rio-hotel/386558001/ |access-date=October 29, 2021 |work=USA Today |date=June 10, 2017 |archive-date=October 29, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211029144048/https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation-now/2017/06/10/legionnaires-disease-las-vegas-rio-hotel/386558001/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last1=Chavez |first1=Nicole |last2=Hanna |first2=Jason |title=2 Las Vegas hotel guests contract Legionnaires' disease |url=https://www.cnn.com/2017/06/10/health/las-vegas-hotel-legionnaires-disease/index.html |access-date=October 29, 2021 |work=CNN |date=June 10, 2017 |archive-date=October 29, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211029144048/https://www.cnn.com/2017/06/10/health/las-vegas-hotel-legionnaires-disease/index.html |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Crosby |first=Rachel |title=2 recent guests at Rio contract Legionnaires' disease |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/local/local-las-vegas/2-recent-guests-at-rio-contract-legionnaires-disease/ |access-date=October 29, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=June 9, 2017 }}</ref> The property's water systems were disinfected upon the discovery of ''Legionella'' bacteria.<ref>{{cite news |last=Bekker |first=Jessie |title=Rio disinfects water systems of Legionnaires'-causing bacteria |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/life/health/rio-disinfects-water-systems-of-legionnaires-causing-bacteria/ |access-date=October 29, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=June 13, 2017 |archive-date=October 27, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211027213707/https://www.reviewjournal.com/life/health/rio-disinfects-water-systems-of-legionnaires-causing-bacteria/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Additional cases of Legionnaires' disease were diagnosed among Rio guests later that year, in addition to 56 suspected cases of Pontiac fever, also caused by ''Legionella''.<ref>{{cite news |last=Bekker |first=Jessie |title=7 cases of Legionnaires' disease tied to Las Vegas' Rio hotel |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/local/local-las-vegas/7-cases-of-legionnaires-disease-tied-to-las-vegas-rio-hotel/ |access-date=October 29, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=November 15, 2017 |archive-date=October 28, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211028103841/https://www.reviewjournal.com/local/local-las-vegas/7-cases-of-legionnaires-disease-tied-to-las-vegas-rio-hotel/ |url-status=live }}</ref> One of the infected guests sued Caesars Entertainment over the outbreak.<ref>{{cite news |last=Bekker |first=Jessie |title=California man sues over Legionnaire's case blamed on Rio stay |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/local/local-las-vegas/california-man-sues-over-legionnaires-case-blamed-on-rio-stay/ |access-date=October 29, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=December 5, 2017 |archive-date=October 28, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211028010648/https://www.reviewjournal.com/local/local-las-vegas/california-man-sues-over-legionnaires-case-blamed-on-rio-stay/ |url-status=live }}</ref>
As of 2019, Caesars had spent $600 million on renovations for various properties over the past five years, with the exception of the Rio, which now competed with older, low-budget resorts such as Circus Circus. Marnell, who was disappointed by the property's deterioration, speculated that it would need $300 million in renovations to be highly competitive once again.<ref name=Status>{{cite news |last=Prince |first=Todd |title=After 30 years, Rio in Las Vegas is losing its status and shine |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/casinos-gaming/after-30-years-rio-in-las-vegas-is-losing-its-status-and-shine-1660527/ |access-date=October 30, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=May 10, 2019 |archive-date=October 31, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211031223616/https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/casinos-gaming/after-30-years-rio-in-las-vegas-is-losing-its-status-and-shine-1660527/ |url-status=live }}</ref>
===Dreamscape ownership (2019–present)=== In December 2019, Caesars sold the Rio for $516 million to New York-based real estate developer Eric Birnbaum. Under the deal, Caesars would continue to operate the Rio under lease for at least two years, paying $45 million a year in rent.<ref>{{cite news |title=Caesars Entertainment completes $516 million sale of Rio |newspaper=Las Vegas Sun |date=December 5, 2019 |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2019/dec/05/caesars-entertainment-completes-516-million-sale-o/ |access-date=December 5, 2019 |archive-date=November 18, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211118015825/https://lasvegassun.com/news/2019/dec/05/caesars-entertainment-completes-516-million-sale-o/ |url-status=live }}</ref> The Rio is owned through Birnbaum's company, Dreamscape Companies LLC. His plans for a significant renovation were delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic in Nevada, which resulted in the state-ordered closure of casinos in March 2020.<ref>{{cite news |last=Velotta |first=Richard N. |title=Owner of Rio hints at what's next for the off-Strip suite property |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/casinos-gaming/owner-of-rio-hints-at-whats-next-for-the-off-strip-suite-property-2244645/ |access-date=October 30, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=January 7, 2021 }}</ref> The Rio partially reopened on December 22, 2020, but with hotel operations limited mostly to weekends. Full operations resumed four months later. It was the last Caesars property nationwide to reopen.<ref>{{cite news |last=Horwath |first=Bryan |title=Touting Las Vegas comeback, Caesars CEO says Rio to open before 2021 |url=https://vegasinc.lasvegassun.com/business/gaming/2020/nov/05/touting-las-vegas-comeback-caesars-ceo-rio-open/ |access-date=October 30, 2021 |work=VegasInc |date=November 5, 2020 |archive-date=October 31, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211031223610/https://vegasinc.lasvegassun.com/business/gaming/2020/nov/05/touting-las-vegas-comeback-caesars-ceo-rio-open/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Schulz |first=Bailey |title=Rio reopens with huge turkey giveaway |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/casinos-gaming/rio-reopens-with-huge-turkey-giveaway-2228737/ |access-date=October 30, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=December 22, 2020 }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Horwath |first=Bryan |title=Rio to return full-week hotel operations April 19 |url=https://vegasinc.lasvegassun.com/business/tourism/2021/mar/31/rio-to-return-full-week-hotel-operations-april-19/ |access-date=October 30, 2021 |work=VegasInc |date=March 31, 2021 |archive-date=October 15, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211015231329/https://vegasinc.lasvegassun.com/business/tourism/2021/mar/31/rio-to-return-full-week-hotel-operations-april-19/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Because of the pandemic, Caesars and Dreamscape extended their lease arrangement, allowing Caesars to continue operating the property for several years.<ref name=Rebranding/><ref name=Ross2023>{{cite news |last=Ross |first=McKenna |title=Luxury designers tapped to lead Rio renovation |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/casinos-gaming/luxury-designers-tapped-to-lead-rio-renovation-2800961/ |access-date=July 3, 2023 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=June 29, 2023 }}</ref> Dreamscape took over operations on October 1, 2023.<ref name=SharesVision/><ref>{{cite web |last=Curtis |first=Anthony |title=Las Vegas Advisor: Rio casino set for a remake after changing hands |url=https://www.staradvertiser.com/2023/10/01/travel/las-vegas-advisor/las-vegas-advisor-rio-casino-set-for-a-remake-after-changing-hands/ |website=Honolulu Star-Advertiser |access-date=October 3, 2023 |date=October 1, 2023 |archive-date=October 2, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231002070843/https://www.staradvertiser.com/2023/10/01/travel/las-vegas-advisor/las-vegas-advisor-rio-casino-set-for-a-remake-after-changing-hands/ |url-status=live }}</ref>
In March 2021, Dreamscape announced a partnership with Hyatt, which would rebrand one of the hotel towers as a Hyatt Regency. The hotel was originally scheduled to open in 2023, with 1,501 rooms. The remaining rooms are also expected to be affiliated with Hyatt.<ref name=Rebranding>{{cite news |last1=Shoro |first1=Mike |last2=Schulz |first2=Bailey |title=Rio to undergo renovations, rebranding |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/casinos-gaming/rio-to-undergo-renovations-rebranding-2307798/ |access-date=October 30, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=March 18, 2021 }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.hospitalitynet.org/announcement/41006065/the-rio-las-vegas.html |title=The Rio Las Vegas Will Be Repositioned To Multiple Hyatt Full-service Offerings, Starting With A Hyatt Regency Hotel |first=Hospitality |last=Net |website=Hospitality Net }}</ref> The resort has 2,520 rooms, including the Palazzo Suites.<ref name=Revival/> Aside from the hotel portion, the property will maintain the Rio name and its theme.<ref name=Rebranding/><ref name=Revival/>
Because of his prior experience with the property, Marnell was hired as architect for the renovations, which were originally expected to begin in 2022.<ref name=Revival>{{cite news |last=Shoro |first=Mike |title=Rio revival: New owners plan major renovations inspired by hotel's heyday |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/casinos-gaming/rio-revival-new-owners-plan-major-renovations-inspired-by-hotels-heyday-2370800/ |access-date=October 30, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=June 7, 2021 }}</ref> The project was rescheduled, eventually beginning in August 2023.<ref name=Emerge>{{cite news |last=Velotta |first=Richard N. |title=New details emerge on big Rio renovation, Fontainebleau opening |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/casinos-gaming/new-details-emerge-on-big-rio-renovation-fontainebleau-opening-2870764/ |access-date=July 14, 2023 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=July 12, 2023 |archive-date=July 14, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230714015248/https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/casinos-gaming/new-details-emerge-on-big-rio-renovation-fontainebleau-opening-2870764/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name=McCarver>{{cite news |last=McCarver |first=Katie Ann |title=Dreamscape plans major transformation with renovations at Rio |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2023/aug/05/dreamscape-plans-major-transformation-with-renovat/ |access-date=October 3, 2023 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=August 5, 2023 |archive-date=October 11, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231011020939/https://lasvegassun.com/news/2023/aug/05/dreamscape-plans-major-transformation-with-renovat/ |url-status=live }}</ref> The Rio will remain open throughout the multi-year renovation, which will update the entire resort.<ref name=Ross2023/><ref>{{cite news |last=Stutz |first=Howard |title=With or without A's, new Rio owners prepared for multi-million dollar renovation |url=https://thenevadaindependent.com/article/with-or-without-as-new-rio-owners-prepared-for-multi-million-dollar-renovation |access-date=July 3, 2023 |work=The Nevada Independent |date=February 28, 2023 |archive-date=July 3, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230703194703/https://thenevadaindependent.com/article/with-or-without-as-new-rio-owners-prepared-for-multi-million-dollar-renovation |url-status=live }}</ref> The two-phase renovation project will cost $350 million,<ref name=Emerge/> and is intended to restore the Rio's early popularity.<ref>{{cite news |last=Kachelriess |first=Rob |title=Rio Las Vegas is reclaiming its mojo with a series of renovations |url=https://lasvegasweekly.com/ae/2024/feb/15/rio-las-vegas-is-reclaiming-its-mojo-with-a-series/ |access-date=April 8, 2024 |work=Las Vegas Weekly |date=February 15, 2024 |archive-date=April 8, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240408150443/https://lasvegasweekly.com/ae/2024/feb/15/rio-las-vegas-is-reclaiming-its-mojo-with-a-series/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Matthey |first=Ryan |title='Bringing The Rio back,' new owner of historic Las Vegas hotel expects near $860M investment to sway perception |url=https://www.8newsnow.com/news/local-news/bringing-the-rio-back-new-owner-of-historic-las-vegas-hotel-expects-near-860m-investment-to-sway-perception/ |access-date=April 8, 2024 |work=KLAS |date=March 21, 2024 |archive-date=April 8, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240408150443/https://www.8newsnow.com/news/local-news/bringing-the-rio-back-new-owner-of-historic-las-vegas-hotel-expects-near-860m-investment-to-sway-perception/ |url-status=live }}</ref>
Renovations began with the Ipanema Tower, and continued with renovations to the restaurant space, the pool, and the exterior lighting.<ref name=Emerge/> On the hotel's exterior, the original red and blue neon lighting was replaced with new LED displays that are capable of producing various colors.<ref>{{cite news |last=Emerson |first=Elaine |title=Rio Las Vegas debuts new light show following renovation |url=https://www.fox5vegas.com/2024/04/03/rio-las-vegas-debuts-new-light-show-following-renovation/ |access-date=April 8, 2024 |work=KVVU |date=April 3, 2024 |archive-date=April 8, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240408150444/https://www.fox5vegas.com/2024/04/03/rio-las-vegas-debuts-new-light-show-following-renovation/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Iconic Rio Las Vegas to shine brighter with dazzling new LED upgrade |url=https://news3lv.com/news/local/rio-las-vegas-upgrades-light-display-to-create-evolving-show |access-date=April 8, 2024 |work=KSNV |date=April 3, 2024 |archive-date=April 8, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240408150443/https://news3lv.com/news/local/rio-las-vegas-upgrades-light-display-to-create-evolving-show |url-status=live }}</ref> The LEDs were programmed by Chris Kuroda, the lighting director for the band Phish.<ref>{{cite news |last=Carter |first=Geoff |title=Radiant City: Las Vegas' skyline is getting an LED makeover |url=https://lasvegasweekly.com/ae/2024/apr/04/radiant-city-las-vegas-skyline-is-getting-an-led-m/ |access-date=April 8, 2024 |work=Las Vegas Weekly |date=April 4, 2024 }}</ref> The renovation project also added 400 new slot machines.<ref>{{cite news |last=Ross |first=McKenna |title=New paint, slot upgrades under way at Rio |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/casinos-gaming/new-paint-slot-upgrades-under-way-at-rio-2921169/ |access-date=January 21, 2024 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=October 13, 2023 |archive-date=January 20, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240120095503/https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/casinos-gaming/new-paint-slot-upgrades-under-way-at-rio-2921169/ |url-status=live }}</ref> The Hyatt partnership took effect on March 1, 2024.<ref>{{cite news |last=Cruz |first=Martha |title=Rio Las Vegas to add new tavern, joins World of Hyatt as renovations continue |url=https://news3lv.com/news/instagram/rio-las-vegas-to-add-new-tavern-joins-world-of-hyatt-as-renovations-continue-luckley-grill-american-dining-all-american-bar-grill-remodeling |access-date=April 8, 2024 |work=KSNV |date=March 1, 2024 |archive-date=April 8, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240408150443/https://news3lv.com/news/instagram/rio-las-vegas-to-add-new-tavern-joins-world-of-hyatt-as-renovations-continue-luckley-grill-american-dining-all-american-bar-grill-remodeling |url-status=live }}</ref>
Phase one of the remodel completed on September 30, 2024.<ref>{{cite news |last=Cruz |first=Martha |title=Rio Hotel & Casino completes phase one of multi-year renovation project |url=https://news3lv.com/news/local/rio-hotel-casino-completes-phase-one-of-multi-year-renovation-project |access-date=March 25, 2025 |work=KSNV |date=September 30, 2024 |archive-date=October 2, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241002152806/https://www.news3lv.com/news/local/rio-hotel-casino-completes-phase-one-of-multi-year-renovation-project |url-status=live }}.</ref> Phase two, which would include the Masquerade Tower, may begin some time in 2025.<ref name=Wow>{{cite news |last=Stutz |first=Howard |title=Rio operator aims to wow locals and visitors with upgrades |url=https://thenevadaindependent.com/article/indy-gaming-rio-operator-aims-to-wow-locals-and-visitors-with-upgrades |access-date=March 25, 2025 |work=The Nevada Independent |date=January 23, 2025 |archive-date=March 22, 2025 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250322045017/https://thenevadaindependent.com/article/indy-gaming-rio-operator-aims-to-wow-locals-and-visitors-with-upgrades |url-status=live }}</ref> Rio secured a $176 million loan for these renovations in August 2025.<ref>[https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/casinos-gaming/off-strip-casino-resort-closes-176m-loan-for-renovations-3426600/ Off-Strip casino-resort closes $176M loan for renovations]</ref> As of January 2026, phase two of the renovations have not started.
Dreamscape was reduced to minority ownership in April 2026, when casino executive Bill McBeath's shares were acquired by private equity firm Kennedy Lewis Investment Management, to gain a majority stake.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Roeben |first=Scott |date=2026-04-03 |title=Dreamscape Out as Majority Owner of Rio, Executive Shake-Up Ensues |url=https://www.casino.org/vitalvegas/dreamscape-out-as-primary-owner-of-rio-executive-shake-up-ensues/ |access-date=2026-04-06 |website=Vital Vegas |language=en-US}}</ref>
====Sports venue proposals==== thumb|The Rio's northeastern parking lot, where a sports arena could be built
In 2023, Dreamscape offered to sell the Rio's northeastern parking lot for $1 to the MLB's Oakland Athletics franchise, which had announced that it would relocate to Las Vegas. The team turned down the offer, choosing to build its new stadium elsewhere.<ref>{{cite web |title=Oakland Athletics exploring Rio Las Vegas site for possible ballpark |website=KSNV |date=February 17, 2023 |access-date=December 30, 2024 |url=https://news3lv.com/news/local/rio-las-vegas-owner-confirms-interest-in-possible-ballpark-as-as-continue-search |archive-date=December 30, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241230182540/https://news3lv.com/news/local/rio-las-vegas-owner-confirms-interest-in-possible-ballpark-as-as-continue-search |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last1=Stutz |first1=Howard |last2=Mueller |first2=Tabitha |title=A's turned down $1 plot in resort corridor before settling on site for $1.5B Vegas stadium |url=https://thenevadaindependent.com/article/as-turned-down-1-plot-in-resort-corridor-before-settling-on-site-for-1-5b-vegas-stadium |access-date=December 30, 2024 |work=The Nevada Independent |date=April 27, 2023 |archive-date=May 30, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230530021447/https://thenevadaindependent.com/article/as-turned-down-1-plot-in-resort-corridor-before-settling-on-site-for-1-5b-vegas-stadium |url-status=live }}</ref> That year, Oak View Group proposed building an NBA arena south of the Strip, but reportedly began considering the Rio as an alternative site in 2024.<ref>{{cite news |last=Akers |first=Mick |title=Proposed south Strip NBA-ready arena could shift sites |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/proposed-south-strip-nba-ready-arena-hotel-project-hits-snag-3173922/ |access-date=December 30, 2024 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=September 20, 2024 |archive-date=December 25, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241225015309/https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/proposed-south-strip-nba-ready-arena-hotel-project-hits-snag-3173922/ |url-status=live }}</ref>
==Features== ===Restaurants=== The Rio was particularly well known for its restaurants, five of which were listed in a top-40 list by Zagat in the 1990s. Six new restaurants were added in 1997.<ref name=Takes/><ref>{{cite news |last=Paskevich |first=Michael |title=A Global Gourmet |url=http://nl.newsbank.com/sites/lvrb/ |access-date=July 16, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=February 7, 1997 |url-access=subscription |archive-date=February 9, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190209232400/http://nl.newsbank.com/sites/lvrb/ |url-status=dead }}</ref> Among them was Napa, which was overseen by chef Jean-Louis Palladin.<ref name=Napa/><ref name=Pollack/><ref>{{cite news |last=Virbila |first=S. Irene |title=Betting on Good Taste |url=https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1998-sep-13-tm-22174-story.html |access-date=July 3, 2023 |work=Los Angeles Times |date=September 13, 1998 |archive-date=July 11, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230711183252/https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1998-sep-13-tm-22174-story.html |url-status=live }}</ref> The top of the Masquerade Tower featured a restaurant and lounge known as VooDoo,<ref name=Takes/><ref>{{cite news |last=Paskevich |first=Michael |title=That VooDoo That You Do |url=http://nl.newsbank.com/sites/lvrb/ |access-date=July 16, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=May 23, 1997 |url-access=subscription |archive-date=February 9, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190209232400/http://nl.newsbank.com/sites/lvrb/ |url-status=dead }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Foyt |first=Elizabeth |title=Rio's new Voodoo Cafe as mysterious as it is high |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/1997/may/28/columnist-elizabeth-foyt-rios-new-voodoo-cafe-as-m/ |access-date=July 17, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=May 28, 1997 |archive-date=July 9, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210709185921/https://lasvegassun.com/news/1997/may/28/columnist-elizabeth-foyt-rios-new-voodoo-cafe-as-m/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Foyt |first=Elizabeth |title=Designers get intimate look at Rio's most private side |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/1997/jun/25/columnist-elizabeth-foyt-designers-get-intimate-lo/ |access-date=July 17, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=June 25, 1997 |archive-date=April 24, 2025 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250424175046/https://lasvegassun.com/news/1997/jun/25/columnist-elizabeth-foyt-designers-get-intimate-lo/ |url-status=live }}</ref> which remains as of 2025.<ref name=Wow/> An Italian restaurant, Mama Marie's Cucina, was named after Rio founder Tony Marnell's mother. The resort also featured the new Seafood Village Buffet,<ref name=Takes/> a separate eatery from the Carnival World Buffet.<ref name=Perrico>{{cite news |last=Katsilometes |first=John |title=David Perrico casts line to Britney Spears band; Rio closing Village Seafood Buffet |url=https://lasvegassun.com/blogs/kats-report/2015/nov/03/david-perrico-casts-line-to-britney-spears-band-ri/ |access-date=October 29, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=November 3, 2015 |archive-date=October 31, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211031210315/https://lasvegassun.com/blogs/kats-report/2015/nov/03/david-perrico-casts-line-to-britney-spears-band-ri/ |url-status=live }}</ref> As of 1999, the Rio's 15 restaurants served an average of 20,000 people each day. Its busiest eatery was the Carnival World Buffet, averaging 7,000 diners daily.<ref>{{cite news |last=Berns |first=Dave |title=Busy Rio buffet a vast waistland |url=http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/1999/Jul-06-Tue-1999/business/11504124.html |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=July 6, 1999 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20000823214536/http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/1999/Jul-06-Tue-1999/business/11504124.html |archive-date=August 23, 2000 }}</ref> The Rio hosted the annual James Beard Foundation benefit dinner for several years during the 1990s.<ref>{{cite news |last= |first= |title=Top chefs gather at Rio eatery |url=https://reviewjournal.newsbank.com/ |access-date=October 8, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=August 29, 1997 |url-access=subscription |archive-date=October 8, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211008151028/https://reviewjournal.newsbank.com/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Stevens |first=Muriel |title=James Beard Foundation dinner an Epicurean dream come true |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/1998/jul/10/columnist-muriel-stevens-james-beard-foundation-di/ |access-date=October 27, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=July 10, 1998 |archive-date=October 6, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211006160430/https://lasvegassun.com/news/1998/jul/10/columnist-muriel-stevens-james-beard-foundation-di/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Stevens |first=Muriel |title=A fabulous night for foodies at Rio's Beard benefit |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2000/may/12/columnist-muriel-stevens-a-fabulous-night-for-food/ |access-date=October 27, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=May 12, 2000 }}</ref> The resort also hosted an annual Italian food festival.<ref name=Stevens/><ref>{{cite news |title=Now that's Italian |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/entertainment/now-thats-italian/ |access-date=October 31, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=October 15, 2009 |archive-date=October 31, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211031200246/https://www.reviewjournal.com/entertainment/now-thats-italian/ |url-status=live }}</ref>
thumb|left|Carnival World Buffet, 2014 The property added four new restaurants beginning in 2002. Among them was Rosemary's, which replaced Napa after Palladin's death in 2001.<ref name=Four/><ref>{{cite news |last=Knapp Rinella |first=Heidi |title=Rosemary's readies for Rio opening |url=http://www.reviewjournal.com/lvrj_home/2002/Aug-21-Wed-2002/living/19282328.html |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=August 21, 2002 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20050409234317/http://www.reviewjournal.com/lvrj_home/2002/Aug-21-Wed-2002/living/19282328.html |archive-date=April 9, 2005 }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Rosemary's opening Friday at casino |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2002/sep/03/rosemarys-opening-friday-at-casino/ |access-date=October 27, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=September 3, 2002 |archive-date=April 27, 2025 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250427011929/https://lasvegassun.com/news/2002/sep/03/rosemarys-opening-friday-at-casino/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Another addition was the Gaylord Indian restaurant, part of a worldwide chain.<ref name=Four>{{cite news |last=Knapp Rinella |first=Heidi |title=Rio to add four restaurants, nightclub |url=http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2002/Jun-12-Wed-2002/business/18953092.html |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=June 12, 2002 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20021027004623/http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2002/Jun-12-Wed-2002/business/18953092.html |archive-date=October 27, 2002 }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Changes on tap at The Rio |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2002/jun/12/changes-on-tap-at-the-rio/ |access-date=October 29, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=June 12, 2002 |archive-date=October 29, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211029170827/https://lasvegassun.com/news/2002/jun/12/changes-on-tap-at-the-rio/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Stevens |first=Muriel |title=New Gaylord adds spice to Rio's cuisine |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2003/jan/17/columnist-muriel-stevens-new-gaylord-adds-spice-to/ |access-date=October 27, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=January 17, 2003 |archive-date=November 7, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211107045105/https://lasvegassun.com/news/2003/jan/17/columnist-muriel-stevens-new-gaylord-adds-spice-to/ |url-status=live }}</ref> In 2006, musician Prince opened an Asian restaurant known as 3121 Jazz Cuisine, named after his recent album ''3121''.<ref name=Leeds/><ref name=Block/>
In 2011, the Rio added a Burger King Whopper Bar. It seated 58 people, and was one of five Whopper Bars in the U.S. Unlike typical Burger King locations, it offered beer and included a hamburger bar with 30 toppings and sauces.<ref>{{cite news |last=Stutz |first=Howard |title=Late-night crowd at Rio loves having it their way |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/late-night-crowd-at-rio-loves-having-it-their-way/ |access-date=October 27, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=April 20, 2011 |archive-date=October 31, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211031210309/https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/late-night-crowd-at-rio-loves-having-it-their-way/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Finnegan |first=Amanda |title=Burgers and brews: Whopper Bar opens at the Rio |url=https://vegasinc.lasvegassun.com/business/gaming/2011/apr/09/burgers-and-booze-whopper-bar-opens-rio/ |access-date=October 27, 2021 |work=VegasInc |date=April 9, 2011 |archive-date=July 11, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210711055138/https://vegasinc.lasvegassun.com/business/gaming/2011/apr/09/burgers-and-booze-whopper-bar-opens-rio/ |url-status=live }}</ref> It was replaced by a Smashburger in 2016.<ref>{{cite news |last=Curtis |first=Anthony |title=Las Vegas: 'Lake resort' coming to Wynn |url=https://www.azcentral.com/story/travel/destinations/las-vegas/2016/04/19/las-vegas-wynn-lake-resort/83006592/ |access-date=July 3, 2023 |work=The Arizona Republic |date=April 19, 2016 |archive-date=July 3, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230703194655/https://www.azcentral.com/story/travel/destinations/las-vegas/2016/04/19/las-vegas-wynn-lake-resort/83006592/ |url-status=live }}</ref>
KJ Dim Sum, a {{cvt|4600|sqft}} dim sum restaurant, was added in 2012, with seating for 350 people.<ref>{{cite news |last=Goldberg |first=Delen |title=New dim sum, Chinese seafood restaurant opening at the Rio |url=https://vegasinc.lasvegassun.com/business/2011/nov/23/new-dim-sum-chinese-seafood-restaurant-opening-rio/ |access-date=October 29, 2021 |work=VegasInc |date=November 23, 2011 |archive-date=October 31, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211031210310/https://vegasinc.lasvegassun.com/business/2011/nov/23/new-dim-sum-chinese-seafood-restaurant-opening-rio/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Padgett |first=Sonya |title=Dim sum fans can find a lot to like at KJ's Kitchen |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/entertainment/food/dim-sum-fans-can-find-a-lot-to-like-at-kjs-kitchen/ |access-date=October 29, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=April 4, 2012 |archive-date=October 29, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211029144049/https://www.reviewjournal.com/entertainment/food/dim-sum-fans-can-find-a-lot-to-like-at-kjs-kitchen/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Gaylord, a longtime Indian restaurant, was renovated and renamed as Royal India in 2013.<ref>{{cite news |title=Royal India Bistro Now Open at Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino |url=https://www.fsrmagazine.com/industry-news/royal-india-bistro-now-open-rio-all-suite-hotel-casino/ |access-date=November 14, 2023 |work=FSR |date=June 1, 2013 |archive-date=November 14, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231114173037/https://www.fsrmagazine.com/industry-news/royal-india-bistro-now-open-rio-all-suite-hotel-casino/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Radke |first=Brock |title=Rio's renovated Royal India Bistro remains a favorite |url=https://lasvegasweekly.com/dining/reviews/2013/jun/19/rios-renovated-royal-india-bistro-remains-favorite/ |access-date=November 14, 2023 |work=Las Vegas Weekly |date=June 19, 2013 |archive-date=November 14, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231114173037/https://lasvegasweekly.com/dining/reviews/2013/jun/19/rios-renovated-royal-india-bistro-remains-favorite/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Hash House a go go opened a location in 2014.<ref>{{cite web |last=Stapleton |first=Susan |title=Hash House a Go Go Infiltrates the Rio with Massive Portions |url=https://vegas.eater.com/2014/2/10/6282287/hash-house-a-go-go-infiltrates-the-rio-with-massive-portions |website=Eater |access-date=November 14, 2023 |date=February 10, 2014 |archive-date=November 14, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231114173036/https://vegas.eater.com/2014/2/10/6282287/hash-house-a-go-go-infiltrates-the-rio-with-massive-portions |url-status=live }}</ref> Guy Fieri opened a Mexican restaurant, El Burro Borracho, at the Rio in 2016, replacing a seafood restaurant known as Buzio's.<ref>Retrieved October 31, 2021:{{ubl |{{cite news |last=Radke |first=Brock |title=Guy Fieri is bringing his drunken donkey to the Rio |url=https://lasvegasweekly.com/dining/dining-news/2015/oct/29/guy-fieri-el-burro-borracho-rio-las-vegas/ |work=Las Vegas Weekly |date=October 29, 2015 |archive-date=October 31, 2021 |access-date=October 31, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211031200246/https://lasvegasweekly.com/dining/dining-news/2015/oct/29/guy-fieri-el-burro-borracho-rio-las-vegas/ |url-status=live }} |{{cite web |last=Stapleton |first=Susan |title=You Can't Avert Your Eyes from Guy Fieri's El Burro Borracho |url=https://vegas.eater.com/2016/3/16/11243440/you-cant-avert-your-eyes-from-guy-fieris-el-burro-borracho |website=Eater |date=March 16, 2016 |access-date=October 31, 2021 |archive-date=October 31, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211031200248/https://vegas.eater.com/2016/3/16/11243440/you-cant-avert-your-eyes-from-guy-fieris-el-burro-borracho |url-status=live }} |{{cite news |last=Jones |first=Jay |title=Chef Guy Fieri toys with Mexican classics at new El Burro Borracho in Las Vegas |url=https://www.latimes.com/travel/deals/la-trb-las-vegas-el-burro-borracho-20160413-story.html |work=Los Angeles Times |date=April 14, 2016 }} |{{cite news |last=Miller |first=Ken |title=Truly off the hook: Guy Fieri's El Burro Burracho |url=https://lasvegasmagazine.com/dining/2016/may/06/guy-fieri-el-burro-burracho-rio/ |work=Las Vegas Magazine |date=May 6, 2016 |archive-date=November 30, 2024 |access-date=October 31, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241130133204/https://lasvegasmagazine.com/dining/2016/may/06/guy-fieri-el-burro-burracho-rio/ |url-status=live }} }}</ref>
The Carnival World Buffet was frequently considered among the best in Las Vegas,<ref>{{cite news |title=Carnival World Buffet |url=https://lasvegassun.com/places/carnival-world-buffet/ |access-date=October 29, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Sun |quote=Voted the "Best Buffet in Las Vegas" by the Las Vegas Review-Journal year after year, the Carnival World Buffet's global feast features more than 1,000 international items daily. |archive-date=August 21, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160821215318/http://lasvegassun.com/places/carnival-world-buffet/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Yeager |first=Melissa |title=Best Las Vegas buffets 2020: 22 all-you-can-eat restaurants on the Strip |url=https://www.azcentral.com/story/travel/destinations/las-vegas/2019/06/12/best-las-vegas-buffets-prices-wynn-bellagio-mgm-caesars-palace-rio/3708981002/ |access-date=October 29, 2021 |work=The Arizona Republic |date=March 11, 2020 |archive-date=September 18, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210918054533/https://www.azcentral.com/story/travel/destinations/las-vegas/2019/06/12/best-las-vegas-buffets-prices-wynn-bellagio-mgm-caesars-palace-rio/3708981002/ |url-status=live }}</ref> and was the city's largest buffet as of 2011, with seating for 733 people.<ref>{{cite news |last=McDonnall |first=John P. |title=The Land of More: a venture into the kitchen of the Rio's Carnival World Buffet |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2011/feb/17/land-of-more/ |access-date=October 29, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=February 17, 2011 |archive-date=November 30, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241130203850/https://lasvegassun.com/news/2011/feb/17/land-of-more/ |url-status=live }}</ref> The Seafood Village Buffet was merged into the Carnival World Buffet in 2015.<ref name=Perrico/><ref>{{cite news |last=Stapleton |first=Susan |title=Village Seafood Buffet Merges with Carnival World Buffet at the Rio |url=https://vegas.eater.com/2015/11/17/9748938/las-vegas-restaurants-village-seafood-buffet-merges-with-carnival-world-buffet-rio |access-date=October 29, 2021 |work=Eater |date=November 17, 2015 |archive-date=October 29, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211029170828/https://vegas.eater.com/2015/11/17/9748938/las-vegas-restaurants-village-seafood-buffet-merges-with-carnival-world-buffet-rio |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Radke |first=Brock |title=The Legends Oyster Bar brings Vegas casino classics to the neighborhood |url=https://lasvegasweekly.com/dining/2021/jan/14/the-legends-oyster-bar-brings-vegas-casino-classic/ |access-date=October 29, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Weekly |date=January 14, 2021 |archive-date=October 29, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211029170828/https://lasvegasweekly.com/dining/2021/jan/14/the-legends-oyster-bar-brings-vegas-casino-classic/ |url-status=live }}</ref> The buffet closed during the pandemic and never reopened.<ref name=McCarver/><ref>{{cite web |last=Roeben |first=Scott |title=End of an Era: Rio Walls Off Former Buffet to Make Way for Food Hall |url=https://www.casino.org/vitalvegas/end-of-an-era-rio-walls-off-former-buffet-to-make-way-for-food-hall/ |website=Casino.org |access-date=July 3, 2023 |date=April 5, 2023 |archive-date=July 3, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230703194703/https://www.casino.org/vitalvegas/end-of-an-era-rio-walls-off-former-buffet-to-make-way-for-food-hall/ |url-status=live }}</ref> As part of Dreamscape's renovations, the buffet was replaced by the Canteen Food Hall,<ref>{{cite news |last=Wright |first=Johnathan L. |title=Another Vegas hotel-casino is replacing its buffet with a food hall |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/entertainment/food/another-vegas-hotel-casino-is-replacing-its-buffet-with-a-food-hall-2935197/ |access-date=November 14, 2023 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=November 7, 2023 |archive-date=November 14, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231114173036/https://www.reviewjournal.com/entertainment/food/another-vegas-hotel-casino-is-replacing-its-buffet-with-a-food-hall-2935197/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Cruz |first=Martha |title=Revitalized Rio Casino reveals mouth-watering lineup for new Canteen Food Hall |url=https://news3lv.com/news/local/rio-hotel-casino-gears-up-for-new-food-hall-opening-early-next-year-canteen-food-hall-january-2024-culinary-marketplace-tender-crush-attaboy-burger |access-date=November 14, 2023 |work=KSNV |date=November 6, 2023 }}</ref> which opened in January 2024.<ref>{{cite news |last=Cruz |first=Martha |title=New Canteen Food Hall now open inside the Rio Hotel & Casino |url=https://news3lv.com/news/local/new-canteen-food-hall-now-open-inside-the-rio-hotel-casino-las-vegas-southern-nevada-tony-lukes-attaboy-burger-shogun-ramen |access-date=January 21, 2024 |work=KSNV |date=January 19, 2024 |archive-date=January 20, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240120044958/https://news3lv.com/news/local/new-canteen-food-hall-now-open-inside-the-rio-hotel-casino-las-vegas-southern-nevada-tony-lukes-attaboy-burger-shogun-ramen |url-status=live }}</ref> Dreamscape stated that the buffet did not make economic sense, especially in light of the pandemic. The food hall concept was inspired by one already present at the nearby Cosmopolitan resort.<ref name=SharesVision>{{cite news |last=Velotta |first=Richard N. |title=Rio's new owner shares vision of upcoming renovation |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/casinos-gaming/rios-new-owner-shares-vision-of-upcoming-renovation-2878762/ |access-date=October 3, 2023 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=July 28, 2023 |archive-date=October 11, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231011022512/https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/casinos-gaming/rios-new-owner-shares-vision-of-upcoming-renovation-2878762/ |url-status=live }}</ref>
===Sapphire Pool=== thumb|The Rio's pool area, August 2009 On May 30, 2008, the Rio opened the Sapphire Pool in conjunction with Sapphire Gentlemen's Club. The daylight-hour, adults-only club surrounded one of the property's outdoor pools and featured dancers. It opened with a $30-per-male-customer admission price.<ref name=LVRJ062008>John L. Smith, [http://www.lvrj.com/news/20595849.html Rio-Sapphire joint venture an inevitable merging of casinos and strip clubs] [https://web.archive.org/web/20081114152036/http://www.lvrj.com/news/20595849.html Archived], ''Las Vegas Review-Journal'', June 20, 2008, Accessed August 3, 2009.</ref><ref name=LAT062008>Richard Abowitz, [http://vegasblog.latimes.com/vegas/2008/06/rio-bringing-se.html Rio: Bringing sexy back] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090815094922/http://vegasblog.latimes.com/vegas/2008/06/rio-bringing-se.html |date=August 15, 2009 }}, LATimes.com, June 20, 2008, Accessed August 3, 2009.</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Smith |first=John L. |title=Gaming regulators' blessing a mixed bag for strip club-casino joint venture |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/news/gaming-regulators-blessing-a-mixed-bag-for-strip-club-casino-joint-venture/ |access-date=October 30, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=July 1, 2008 |archive-date=October 31, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211031210310/https://www.reviewjournal.com/news/gaming-regulators-blessing-a-mixed-bag-for-strip-club-casino-joint-venture/ |url-status=live }}</ref> The venture was a high-profile joint venture between a casino company and a topless business, and was notable because the possibility of bringing in criminal activity at the club had caused the Nevada Gaming Control Board to balk at previous collaborations; some in the media questioned whether the risk was worth the potential payoff for the hotel.<ref name="LVRJ062008"/><ref name="LAT062008"/>
In late July 2009, the Rio hotel asked the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department (LVMPD) to do a routine undercover investigation of the Sapphire Pool, as casino-resorts in Nevada are held responsible for the activities held on their premises. The request was a part of the resort's effort to show good faith to the Gaming Control Board.<ref name=KLAS073009>[http://www.lasvegasnow.com/Global/story.asp?S=10822965 Recent Raids Have Casinos on Edge] [https://web.archive.org/web/20091001184625/http://www.lasvegasnow.com/Global/story.asp?S=10822965 Archived], KLAS, July 30, 2009, Accessed August 3, 2009.</ref> The July 25 visit resulted in 11 arrests. Upon finding out the results of the investigation, the Rio immediately shut down the pool.<ref name=LVS072909>[http://www.lasvegassun.com/news/2009/jul/29/metro-prostitution-activity-found-topless-rio-pool/ Metro: Prostitution, drug activity found at topless Rio pool] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090804071316/http://www.lasvegassun.com/news/2009/jul/29/metro-prostitution-activity-found-topless-rio-pool/ |date=August 4, 2009 }}, ''Las Vegas Sun'', July 29, 2009, Accessed August 3, 2009.</ref><ref name=LAT072909>Richard Abowitz, [http://vegasblog.latimes.com/vegas/2009/07/rio-kicks-the-strippers-out-of-the-pool.html Rio kicks the strippers out of the pool] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090801124558/http://vegasblog.latimes.com/vegas/2009/07/rio-kicks-the-strippers-out-of-the-pool.html |date=August 1, 2009 }}, LATimes.com, July 29, 2009, Accessed August 3, 2009.</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Rio closes topless pool after Metro Police check |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2009/jul/28/rio-closes-topless-pool-after-metro-police-check/ |access-date=October 30, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=July 28, 2009 |archive-date=October 31, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211031210310/https://lasvegassun.com/news/2009/jul/28/rio-closes-topless-pool-after-metro-police-check/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Rio indefinitely closes adult-themed Sapphire Pool |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/news/rio-indefinitely-closes-adult-themed-sapphire-pool/ |access-date=October 30, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=July 28, 2009 |archive-date=October 30, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211030153035/https://www.reviewjournal.com/news/rio-indefinitely-closes-adult-themed-sapphire-pool/ |url-status=live }}</ref>
===Other attractions=== From 1998 to 1999, the Rio hosted ''Treasures of Russia'', an extensive collection of historic Russian memorabilia totaling 1,150 items, most of them loaned from the Peterhof Palace.<ref>{{ubl |{{cite news |last=Wilen |first=John |title=Russian treasures coming to Rio in November |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/1998/apr/17/russian-treasures-coming-to-rio-in-november/ |access-date=July 18, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=April 17, 1998 |archive-date=October 11, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231011020937/https://lasvegassun.com/news/1998/apr/17/russian-treasures-coming-to-rio-in-november/ |url-status=live }} |{{cite news |last=Caruso |first=Monica |title=Rio plans display of artifacts |url=http://lvrj.com/lvrj_home/1998/Apr-17-Fri-1998/business/7333384.html |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=April 17, 1998 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/19991023101146/http://lvrj.com/lvrj_home/1998/Apr-17-Fri-1998/business/7333384.html |archive-date=October 23, 1999 }} |{{cite news |last=Bach |first=Lisa Kim |title=The Russians Are Coming |url=http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/1998/Sep-17-Thu-1998/news/8236547.html |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=September 17, 1998 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20000914165956/http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/1998/Sep-17-Thu-1998/news/8236547.html |archive-date=September 14, 2000 }} |{{cite news |last=Smith |first=Hubble |title=Rio Banking on Czar Power |url=http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/1998/Nov-02-Mon-1998/business/8505606.html |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=November 2, 1998 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/19991002123554/http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/1998/Nov-02-Mon-1998/business/8505606.html |archive-date=October 2, 1999 }} |{{cite news |last=White |first=Ken |title=For Your Eyes Only: Russian art exhibit features several unique items |url=http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/1998/Nov-06-Fri-1998/weekly/8484347.html |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=November 6, 1998 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/19990429083408/http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/1998/Nov-06-Fri-1998/weekly/8484347.html |archive-date=April 29, 1999 }} |{{cite news |title=Russian art exhibition winding down |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/1999/feb/26/russian-art-exhibition-winding-down/ |access-date=October 6, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=February 26, 1999 |archive-date=October 6, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211006160430/https://lasvegassun.com/news/1999/feb/26/russian-art-exhibition-winding-down/ |url-status=live }} }}</ref> The resort subsequently hosted ''Titanic: The Exhibition'', in partnership with RMS Titanic Inc.<ref>{{cite news |last=Foyt |first=Elizabeth |title=Titanic exhibit pays tribute to ill-fated ship, passengers |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/1999/nov/17/columnist-elizabeth-foyt-titanic-exhibit-pays-trib/ |access-date=October 6, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=November 17, 1999 |archive-date=July 12, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210712030555/https://lasvegassun.com/news/1999/nov/17/columnist-elizabeth-foyt-titanic-exhibit-pays-trib/ |url-status=live }}</ref>
VooDoo Skyline was a 70-second zip line ride which opened in 2014<ref>{{cite news |last=Komenda |first=Ed |title=Zip line to launch riders high from Rio's VooDoo Lounge |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2013/sep/25/zip-line-launch-riders-high-rios-voodoo-lounge/ |access-date=October 30, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=September 25, 2013 |archive-date=November 18, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161118135232/http://lasvegassun.com/news/2013/sep/25/zip-line-launch-riders-high-rios-voodoo-lounge/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Jones |first=Jay |title=Las Vegas: New zip line takes flight at Rio just west of the Strip |url=https://www.latimes.com/travel/deals/la-trb-las-vegas-new-zipline-rio-20140525-story.html |access-date=October 30, 2021 |work=Los Angeles Times |date=May 26, 2014 |archive-date=October 29, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211029170829/https://www.latimes.com/travel/deals/la-trb-las-vegas-new-zipline-rio-20140525-story.html |url-status=live }}</ref> and closed in mid-2022.<ref>{{cite web |last=Roeben |first=Scott |title=VooDoo Zipline Closes Permanently at Rio |date=July 22, 2022 |url=https://www.casino.org/vitalvegas/voodoo-zipline-closes-permanently-at-rio |access-date=March 25, 2025 |work=Casino.org |archive-date=March 22, 2025 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250322160022/https://www.casino.org/vitalvegas/voodoo-zipline-closes-permanently-at-rio/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Riders started at the VooDoo Lounge atop the Masquerade Tower, and traveled a distance of 845 feet, stopping on the roof of the Ipanema Tower. Riders were then pulled back to the Masquerade Tower with the use of a pulley system.<ref>{{cite news |last=Stutz |first=Howard |title=Thrill ride between two Rio towers planned |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/casinos-gaming/thrill-ride-between-two-rio-towers-planned/ |access-date=October 30, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=May 23, 2013 |archive-date=October 31, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211031210311/https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/casinos-gaming/thrill-ride-between-two-rio-towers-planned/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Jones |first=Jay |title=Las Vegas: New thrill ride to zip guests between Rio towers |url=https://www.latimes.com/travel/la-xpm-2013-may-24-la-trb-las-vegas-thrill-ride-rio-towers-20130523-story.html |access-date=October 30, 2021 |work=Los Angeles Times |date=May 24, 2013 |archive-date=October 29, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211029170834/https://www.latimes.com/travel/la-xpm-2013-may-24-la-trb-las-vegas-thrill-ride-rio-towers-20130523-story.html |url-status=live }}</ref>
Kiss by Monster Mini Golf is a franchise of the Monster Mini Golf chain. It is based on the rock band Kiss and includes an 18-hole miniature golf course, a rock and roll themed wedding chapel, the world's largest Kiss gift shop, and a museum featuring memorabilia from the band's career. It also hosts regular appearances by band members, both past and present.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://kissminigolf.com/ |title=KISS by Monster Mini Golf |access-date=October 31, 2021 |archive-date=October 27, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211027155005/https://kissminigolf.com/ |url-status=live }}</ref> It opened in May 2016, in a {{cvt|13000|sqft}} space formerly occupied by the Seafood Village Buffet.<ref>{{cite news |last=Formoso |first=Julie Ann |title=Beer garden debuts on Strip; fitness center opens in southwest valley |url=https://vegasinc.lasvegassun.com/business/2016/feb/05/beer-garden-debuts-on-strip-fitness-center-opens-i/ |access-date=October 29, 2021 |work=VegasInc |date=February 5, 2016 |archive-date=October 11, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231011020933/https://vegasinc.lasvegassun.com/business/2016/feb/05/beer-garden-debuts-on-strip-fitness-center-opens-i/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Millward |first=Wade Tyler |title=Mini-golf, bowling coming to Bally's on Las Vegas Strip |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/tourism/mini-golf-bowling-coming-to-ballys-on-las-vegas-strip/ |access-date=October 29, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=June 28, 2017 |archive-date=October 31, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201031024340/https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/tourism/mini-golf-bowling-coming-to-ballys-on-las-vegas-strip/ |url-status=live }}</ref>
In 2018, the Rio opened the first phase of an esports venue known as Wall Gaming Lounge.<ref>{{cite news |title=The Rio offers esports experience with new Wall Gaming Lounge |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2018/jun/30/the-rio-offers-esports-experience-with-new-wall-ga/ |access-date=October 29, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=June 30, 2018 |archive-date=October 31, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211031210311/https://lasvegassun.com/news/2018/jun/30/the-rio-offers-esports-experience-with-new-wall-ga/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Feldberg |first=Sarah |title=Rio joins the esports movement with The Wall Gaming Lounge |url=https://www.travelweekly.com/North-America-Travel/Rio-joins-the-esports-movement-with-The-Wall-Gaming-Lounge |access-date=October 29, 2021 |work=Travel Weekly |date=July 9, 2018 |archive-date=October 29, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211029170827/https://www.travelweekly.com/North-America-Travel/Rio-joins-the-esports-movement-with-The-Wall-Gaming-Lounge |url-status=live }}</ref> It closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic and never re-opened.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.yelp.com/biz/the-wall-restaurant-and-esports-lounge-las-vegas-6?sort_by=date_desc |title=THE WALL RESTAURANT AND ESPORTS LOUNGE - CLOSED - Updated March 2025 - 54 Photos & 33 Reviews - 3700 W Flamingo Rd, Las Vegas, Nevada - LAN Centers - Restaurant Reviews - Phone Number - Yelp |work=Yelp.com |access-date=March 25, 2025 |archive-date=April 13, 2025 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250413174807/https://www.yelp.com/biz/the-wall-restaurant-and-esports-lounge-las-vegas-6?sort_by=date_desc |url-status=live }}</ref>
==Shows and entertainers== From 1991 to 1992, the Rio hosted ''Tropical Heat'', about a plane-crashed pilot who encounters Amazonian women. It briefly starred Dana Plato prior to ending.<ref name=Disappointments>{{cite news |last=Weatherford |first=Mike |title=Las Vegas shows that turned out to be disappointments |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/entertainment/las-vegas-shows-that-turned-out-to-be-disappointments/ |access-date=October 30, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=April 7, 2010 }}</ref> In 1992, entertainment producers Eunice and Blair Farrington opened the ''Brazilia'' revue in a small lounge. It received a positive reception.<ref name=Caruso/> Farrington Productions subsequently produced a Latin-themed dinner show, ''Conga!'',<ref name=Caruso/> which opened in the Club Rio in 1994.<ref name=Turner/><ref name=Uncertain/><ref>{{cite news |last=Weatherford |first=Mike |title=Dance Fever |url=https://reviewjournal.newsbank.com/ |access-date=October 29, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=January 9, 1998 |quote=Spring of 1994: A Las Vegas show producer is giving a tour of the Rio's new supper club, which will host a dinner show called 'Conga!' Hotel executives, he allowed, were toying with ideas to expand the use of their unusual and expensive room, which updated a retro atmosphere with high-tech additions such as video walls. |url-access=subscription |archive-date=October 25, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211025180907/http://reviewjournal.newsbank.com/ |url-status=live }}</ref> ''Conga!'' was renamed ''Copacabana'' in 1995,<ref name=Caruso/> and the Club Rio space was subsequently used solely as a showroom, undergoing a number of name changes through the years.<ref name=RockAges>{{cite news |last=Katsilometes |first=John |title='Rock of Ages' loading into newly named theater at the Rio on Jan. 25 |url=https://lasvegassun.com/blogs/kats-report/2015/dec/03/rock-of-ages-loading-into-newly-named-theater-rio-/ |access-date=October 29, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=December 3, 2015 |archive-date=October 31, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211031204234/https://lasvegassun.com/blogs/kats-report/2015/dec/03/rock-of-ages-loading-into-newly-named-theater-rio-/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name=Fuego/><ref name=Ruffle>{{cite news |last=Katsilometes |first=John |title=Ready to ruffle feathers, 'Duck Commander Musical' sets down at the Rio |url=https://lasvegassun.com/blogs/kats-report/2015/apr/15/ready-ruffle-feathers-duck-commander-musical-sets-/ |access-date=October 29, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=April 15, 2015 |archive-date=July 11, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210711154845/https://lasvegassun.com/blogs/kats-report/2015/apr/15/ready-ruffle-feathers-duck-commander-musical-sets-/ |url-status=live }}</ref>
Impressionist Danny Gans began entertaining at the Rio in January 1997, in the 730-seat Copacabana Showroom.<ref name=Rio>{{cite news |last=Renzi |first=David |title=Impressionist Danny Gans jumps to the Rio |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/1997/jan/17/impressionist-danny-gans-jumps-to-the-rio/ |access-date=October 21, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=January 17, 1997 |archive-date=July 9, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210709183629/https://lasvegassun.com/news/1997/jan/17/impressionist-danny-gans-jumps-to-the-rio/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Rio's earnings no masquerade |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/1997/jul/18/rios-earnings-no-masquerade/ |access-date=October 21, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=July 18, 1997 |archive-date=November 30, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241130125351/https://lasvegassun.com/news/1997/jul/18/rios-earnings-no-masquerade/ |url-status=live }}</ref> During his three-year run, the Rio raised ticket prices several times against his wishes, prompting him to sue the resort. He ultimately lost the legal battle.<ref>{{cite news |last=Benjamin |first=Caren |title=Gans: Rio damaging popularity |url=http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/1997/Nov-04-Tue-1997/news/6355262.html |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=November 4, 1997 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20000917135016/http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/1997/Nov-04-Tue-1997/news/6355262.html |archive-date=September 17, 2000 }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Paskevich |first=Michael |title=Gans uncertain about his future after Rio run ends |url=http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/1999/Mar-21-Sun-1999/lifestyles/10671778.html |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=March 21, 1999 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20001028174643/http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/1999/Mar-21-Sun-1999/lifestyles/10671778.html |archive-date=October 28, 2000 }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Paskevich |first=Michael |title=Price to see Gans at the Rio takes another jump |url=http://lvrj.com/lvrj_home/1999/May-16-Sun-1999/lifestyles/11168212.html |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=May 16, 1999 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20000616234452/http://lvrj.com/lvrj_home/1999/May-16-Sun-1999/lifestyles/11168212.html |archive-date=June 16, 2000 }}</ref> Other notable performers during the Rio's early years included The Beach Boys, Donna Summer, Tony Bennett,<ref name=Imprint/> and Earl Turner.<ref name=Turner>{{cite news |last=Weatherford |first=Mike |title=Earl Turner makes his move to Rio showroom |url=http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/Nov-16-Fri-2001/weekly/17434483.html |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=November 16, 2001 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20030130072503/http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/Nov-16-Fri-2001/weekly/17434483.html |archive-date=January 30, 2003 }}</ref>
The 1,470-seat Pavilion Theater was built at a cost of $35 million, and was opened in April 2000. The three-floor theater was designed to accommodate a rotation of Broadway-style musicals, each on a short-term basis.<ref name=Troupe>{{cite news |last=Weatherford |first=Mike |title=Dance troupe opens in new Rio theater |url=http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Apr-14-Fri-2000/weekly/13347709.html |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=April 14, 2000 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20020312130716/http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Apr-14-Fri-2000/weekly/13347709.html |archive-date=March 12, 2002 }}</ref> The venue was renamed the Samba Theatre shortly after opening.<ref>{{cite news |last=Weatherford |first=Mike |title=Broadway closing won't affect Rio's 'Footloose' |url=http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Jun-26-Mon-2000/lifestyles/13839284.html |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=June 26, 2000 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20010507093716/http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Jun-26-Mon-2000/lifestyles/13839284.html |archive-date=May 7, 2001 }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Cling |first=Carol |title=Joining Forces: Rio will host some ballet shows |url=http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/May-08-Tue-2001/living/16043051.html |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=May 8, 2001 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20020622211940/http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/May-08-Tue-2001/living/16043051.html |archive-date=June 22, 2002 }}</ref> It opened with a tap-dancing show titled ''Tap Dogs'', by Dein Perry.<ref name=Troupe/><ref>{{cite news |last=Delaney |first=Joe |title='Tap Dogs' hoofs its way into Rio's new Pavilion Theatre |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2000/apr/21/tap-dogs-hoofs-its-way-into-rios-new-pavilion-thea/ |access-date=October 28, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=April 21, 2000 |archive-date=November 23, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211123032448/https://lasvegassun.com/news/2000/apr/21/tap-dogs-hoofs-its-way-into-rios-new-pavilion-thea/ |url-status=live }}</ref> A musical, based on the 1984 film ''Footloose'', also ran for 13 weeks in the new venue,<ref>{{cite news |last=Weatherford |first=Mike |title=Tough Transition |url=http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/May-19-Fri-2000/weekly/13583960.html |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=May 19, 2000 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20011225200526/http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/May-19-Fri-2000/weekly/13583960.html |archive-date=December 25, 2001 }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title='Footloose' makes a successful move from screen to stage |url=http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/May-26-Fri-2000/weekly/13641242.html |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=May 26, 2001 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20010821031458/http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/May-26-Fri-2000/weekly/13641242.html |archive-date=August 21, 2001 }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title='Footloose' a real kick at Rio's Pavilion Theatre |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2000/jun/02/footloose-a-real-kick-at-rios-pavilion-theatre/ |access-date=October 28, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=June 2, 2000 |archive-date=October 26, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211026152314/https://lasvegassun.com/news/2000/jun/02/footloose-a-real-kick-at-rios-pavilion-theatre/ |url-status=live }}</ref> closing in August 2000.<ref>{{cite news |last=Weatherford |first=Mike |title=Showrooms are in no hurry to fill their vacancies |url=http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Aug-20-Sun-2000/lifestyles/14180205.html |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20010911055339/http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Aug-20-Sun-2000/lifestyles/14180205.html |archive-date=September 11, 2001 }}</ref> Another showroom was built near the hotel's pool area and opened later in 2000, hosting the show ''De La Guarda'', which included aerial performers and flashing lights.<ref>{{cite news |last=Maddox |first=Kate |title=Rio braces for 'De La Guarda' |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2000/jun/20/columnist-kate-maddox-rio-braces-for-de-la-guarda/ |access-date=October 28, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=June 20, 2000 |archive-date=October 11, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231011022443/https://lasvegassun.com/news/2000/jun/20/columnist-kate-maddox-rio-braces-for-de-la-guarda/ |url-status=live }}</ref> ''At the Copa'', starring David Cassidy and Sheena Easton as nightclub singers, ran in the Copacabana Showroom from 2000 to 2001.<ref>Retrieved October 30, 2021:{{ubl |{{cite news |title=Cassidy, Easton open 'At the Copa' |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2000/jan/18/cassidy-easton-open-at-the-copa/ |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=January 18, 2000 |archive-date=October 29, 2021 |access-date=October 31, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211029213400/https://lasvegassun.com/news/2000/jan/18/cassidy-easton-open-at-the-copa/ |url-status=live }} |{{cite news |last=Delaney |first=Joe |title='At the Copa' shows marked improvement at the Rio |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2000/feb/04/at-the-copa-shows-marked-improvement-at-the-rio/ |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=February 4, 2000 |archive-date=November 2, 2021 |access-date=October 31, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211102152159/https://lasvegassun.com/news/2000/feb/04/at-the-copa-shows-marked-improvement-at-the-rio/ |url-status=live }} |{{cite news |last=Weatherford |first=Mike |title='At the Copa' at Rio to close in January |url=http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Dec-01-Fri-2000/news/14940032.html |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=December 1, 2000 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20010527002115/http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Dec-01-Fri-2000/news/14940032.html |archive-date=May 27, 2001 }} |{{cite news |title=Gallery: 'At the Copa' show starring David Cassidy at the Rio |url=https://news3lv.com/news/local/gallery-at-the-copa-show-starring-david-cassidy-at-the-rio |work=KSNV |date=November 21, 2017 }} |{{cite news |last=Katsilometes |first=John |title=20 at 20: The Rio, born a locals' casino, celebrates landmark anniversary |url=http://www.lasvegassun.com/blogs/kats-report/2010/jan/16/20-20-rio-once-locals-casino-celebrates-landmark-a/ |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=January 16, 2010 |archive-date=November 4, 2021 |access-date=October 31, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211104173227/https://lasvegassun.com/blogs/kats-report/2010/jan/16/20-20-rio-once-locals-casino-celebrates-landmark-a/ |url-status=live }} }}</ref>
thumb|Penn & Teller advertisement on the Masquerade Tower Magicians Penn & Teller began performing at the Rio in January 2001,<ref>{{cite news |last=Maddox |first=Kate |title=Vanishing act at MGM Grand |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2000/dec/19/columnist-kate-maddox-vanishing-act-at-mgm-grand/ |access-date=October 29, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=December 19, 2000 |archive-date=October 29, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211029170828/https://lasvegassun.com/news/2000/dec/19/columnist-kate-maddox-vanishing-act-at-mgm-grand/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Katsilometes |first=John |title=Winging it from L.A. with 'Puppet Up!'; Penn & Teller have sweet 15 at the Rio |url=https://lasvegassun.com/blogs/kats-report/2016/jan/08/winging-it-from-la-with-puppet-up-penn-teller-have/ |access-date=October 29, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=January 8, 2016 |archive-date=July 9, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210709184946/https://lasvegassun.com/blogs/kats-report/2016/jan/08/winging-it-from-la-with-puppet-up-penn-teller-have/ |url-status=live }}</ref> and have continued to entertain there ever since.<ref>{{cite news |last=Radke |first=Brock |title=Penn & Teller are still vital Vegas performers |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2018/may/28/penn-and-teller-rio-show-review-magic-comedy/ |access-date=October 29, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=May 28, 2018 |archive-date=December 1, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241201022003/https://lasvegassun.com/news/2018/may/28/penn-and-teller-rio-show-review-magic-comedy/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Kelemen |first=Matt |title=Penn & Teller: Partners in time |url=https://lasvegasmagazine.com/news/2018/jun/01/penn-teller-rio-magic-las-vegas-comedy/ |access-date=October 29, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Magazine |date=June 1, 2018 |archive-date=February 13, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230213093745/https://lasvegasmagazine.com/news/2018/jun/01/penn-teller-rio-magic-las-vegas-comedy/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Jones |first=Jay |title=Penn & Teller return to their namesake Las Vegas theater at the Rio |url=https://www.latimes.com/travel/lasvegas/la-tr-las-vegas-penn-teller-return-to-rio-20180820-story.html |access-date=October 29, 2021 |work=Los Angeles Times |date=August 20, 2018 |archive-date=October 29, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211029170827/https://www.latimes.com/travel/lasvegas/la-tr-las-vegas-penn-teller-return-to-rio-20180820-story.html |url-status=live }}</ref> In the mid-2010s, they broke the record for longest-running Las Vegas headliner at a single venue.<ref>{{cite news |last=Katsilometes |first=John |title=Penn & Teller: Two decades of real Las Vegas magic |url=https://lasvegassun.com/blogs/kats-report/2013/jan/28/penn-teller-two-decades-real-vegas-magic/ |access-date=October 29, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=January 28, 2013 |archive-date=March 8, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210308124354/https://lasvegassun.com/blogs/kats-report/2013/jan/28/penn-teller-two-decades-real-vegas-magic/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Their television series, ''Penn & Teller: Fool Us'', is filmed in the same theater.<ref>{{cite news |last=Cruz |first=Martha |title=Penn & Teller show extended through 2026 at the Rio Hotel & Casino |url=https://news3lv.com/news/local/penn-teller-show-extended-through-2026-at-the-rio-hotel-casino-dreamscape-las-vegas-strip-magicians-of-the-year |access-date=December 30, 2024 |work=KSNV |date=July 5, 2023 |archive-date=December 30, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241230182540/https://news3lv.com/news/local/penn-teller-show-extended-through-2026-at-the-rio-hotel-casino-dreamscape-las-vegas-strip-magicians-of-the-year |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Katsilometes |first=John |title=Penn & Teller magic: Making folks appear at the Rio |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/entertainment/entertainment-columns/kats/penn-teller-magic-making-folks-appear-at-the-rio-2890673/ |access-date=December 30, 2024 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=August 20, 2023 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last=Kelemen |first=Matt |title=Penn & Teller continue to reign with their Las Vegas show |url=https://lasvegasmagazine.com/entertainment/2024/sep/23/penn-teller-continue-magic-show-at-rio-las-vegas/ |website=Las Vegas Magazine |date=September 23, 2024 |access-date=December 30, 2024 }}</ref>
The Scintas also started performing at the Rio in 2001,<ref name=Scintas>{{cite news |last=Weatherford |first=Mike |title=Scintas run their course at Rio, but sign at Sahara |url=http://www.reviewjournal.com/lvrj_home/2006/Mar-02-Thu-2006/living/6046286.html |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=March 2, 2006 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060420074913/http://www.reviewjournal.com/lvrj_home/2006/Mar-02-Thu-2006/living/6046286.html |archive-date=April 20, 2006 }}</ref> as did ventriloquist Ronn Lucas.<ref>{{cite news |last=Fink |first=Jerry |title=Word of Mouth |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2003/feb/14/word-of-mouth/ |access-date=October 23, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=February 14, 2003 |archive-date=October 31, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211031204235/https://lasvegassun.com/news/2003/feb/14/word-of-mouth/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name=Lucas>{{cite news |last=Weatherford |first=Mike |title=Rio welcomes back Lucas and debuts a new revue |url=http://www.reviewjournal.com/lvrj_home/2005/Feb-10-Thu-2005/living/25820403.html |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=February 10, 2005 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20051206123017/http://www.reviewjournal.com/lvrj_home/2005/Feb-10-Thu-2005/living/25820403.html |archive-date=December 6, 2005 }}</ref> The following year, the theater launched ''Showgirls'', which chronicled the history of such performers.<ref>{{cite news |last=Weatherford |first=Mike |title=Rio's 'Showgirls' takes different approach to adult revues |url=http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2002/Feb-05-Tue-2002/living/18007935.html |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=February 5, 2002 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20020907174912/http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2002/Feb-05-Tue-2002/living/18007935.html |archive-date=September 7, 2002 }}</ref> The Rio also debuted ''Tony n' Tina's Wedding'', replacing the unsuccessful ''De La Guarda''.<ref>{{cite news |last=Delaney |first=Joe |title=From Aladdin to Rio, plenty of Strip hotels to ponder |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2002/feb/07/columnist-joe-delaney-from-aladdin-to-rio-plenty-o/ |access-date=October 23, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=February 7, 2002 |archive-date=October 31, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211031204230/https://lasvegassun.com/news/2002/feb/07/columnist-joe-delaney-from-aladdin-to-rio-plenty-o/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Weatherford |first=Mike |title=All in the Family: 'Mama Scinta' has found a job working across the Rio from her children |url=http://www.reviewjournal.com/lvrj_home/2004/May-07-Fri-2004/weekly/23785976.html |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=May 7, 2004 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20041012071526/http://www.reviewjournal.com/lvrj_home/2004/May-07-Fri-2004/weekly/23785976.html |archive-date=October 12, 2004 }}</ref> ''Tony n' Tina's Wedding'' continued its run there for seven years.<ref>{{cite news |last=Weatherford |first=Mike |title=Comings and goings at Rio |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/entertainment/entertainment-columns/mike-weatherford/comings-and-goings-at-rio/ |access-date=October 27, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=January 22, 2009 |archive-date=October 31, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211031204229/https://www.reviewjournal.com/entertainment/entertainment-columns/mike-weatherford/comings-and-goings-at-rio/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name=Wedding>{{cite news |last=Weatherford |first=Mike |title='Wedding' moving to bigger venue |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/entertainment/entertainment-columns/mike-weatherford/wedding-moving-to-bigger-venue/ |access-date=October 27, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=January 29, 2009 |archive-date=October 31, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211031204229/https://www.reviewjournal.com/entertainment/entertainment-columns/mike-weatherford/wedding-moving-to-bigger-venue/ |url-status=live }}</ref>
In 2003, the Rio introduced their "bevertainers," who worked as cocktail servers and as entertainers.<ref>{{cite news |last=Benston |first=Liz |title=The Rio altering servers' positions |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2003/feb/20/the-rio-altering-servers-positions/ |access-date=October 23, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=February 20, 2003 |archive-date=October 31, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211031204233/https://lasvegassun.com/news/2003/feb/20/the-rio-altering-servers-positions/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Smith |first=Rod |title=Rio to replace cocktail servers |url=http://www.reviewjournal.com/lvrj_home/2003/Feb-20-Thu-2003/news/20725392.html |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=February 20, 2003 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20050117205351/http://www.reviewjournal.com/lvrj_home/2003/Feb-20-Thu-2003/news/20725392.html |archive-date=January 17, 2005 }}</ref> When not serving customers, bevertainers would dance in 90-second performances on one of five stages located across the casino floor. The Rio had more than 80 bevertainers. Although the idea initially received skepticism, it would turn out to be successful.<ref>{{cite news |last=Padgett |first=Sonya |title=Bevertainer serves cocktails and dances |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/entertainment/shows/bevertainer-serves-cocktails-and-dances/ |access-date=October 28, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=May 8, 2011 |archive-date=October 27, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211027153059/https://www.reviewjournal.com/entertainment/shows/bevertainer-serves-cocktails-and-dances/ |url-status=live }}</ref>
Chippendales, a male revue, opened in 2002.<ref>{{cite news |last=Weatherford |first=Mike |title=Another male strip show lands in Las Vegas |url=http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2002/Feb-26-Tue-2002/living/18164359.html |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=February 26, 2002 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20020907174911/http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2002/Feb-26-Tue-2002/living/18164359.html |archive-date=September 7, 2002 }}</ref> The group shared the Scintas Showroom with the Scintas and Lucas, before getting their own venue at the Rio in 2004. The Chippendales theater had seating for 400 people and included an ultralounge, as well as a women's boutique retailer.<ref>{{cite news |title=New facility gives Chippendales the bare essentials |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2004/dec/22/new-facility-gives-chippendales-the-bare-essential/ |access-date=October 23, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=December 22, 2004 |archive-date=December 3, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241203185624/https://lasvegassun.com/news/2004/dec/22/new-facility-gives-chippendales-the-bare-essential/ |url-status=live }}</ref> The group performed at the Rio until 2024.<ref>{{cite news |title=Chippendales moving from Rio to The Linq on Las Vegas Strip |url=https://news3lv.com/news/instagram/chippendales-moving-from-rio-to-the-linq-on-las-vegas-strip |access-date=December 30, 2024 |work=KSNV |date=November 25, 2024 |archive-date=December 30, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241230182540/https://news3lv.com/news/instagram/chippendales-moving-from-rio-to-the-linq-on-las-vegas-strip |url-status=live }}</ref>
In February 2005, ''Erocktica'' opened in the Scintas Showroom. It was initially a topless dance show accompanied by a live band which performed cover versions of rock songs. The show was closed six months later for revisions, which changed the choreography and removed the band in favor of recorded tracks. It reopened later in 2005.<ref name=Lucas/><ref>{{cite news |last=Weatherford |first=Mike |title=Producer takes rock band out of 'Erocktica' in revised show |url=http://www.reviewjournal.com/lvrj_home/2005/Oct-27-Thu-2005/living/3985969.html |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=October 27, 2005 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060102123143/http://www.reviewjournal.com/lvrj_home/2005/Oct-27-Thu-2005/living/3985969.html |archive-date=January 2, 2006 }}</ref>
The Scintas departed the Rio in 2006.<ref name=Scintas/> Prince subsequently turned the former Club Rio spot into the 3121 showroom,<ref name=Block>{{cite news |title=John Katsilometes asks George Maloof about the new kid on the block - Flamingo Road - who checks into the Rio this week |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2006/nov/07/john-katsilometes-asks-george-maloof-about-the-new/ |access-date=October 27, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=November 7, 2006 }}</ref><ref name=Brown>{{cite magazine |last=Brown |first=Molly |title=Las Vegas (Club 3121 at the Rio) |url=https://www.billboard.com/articles/news/1055587/las-vegas-club-3121-at-the-rio |access-date=October 27, 2021 |magazine=Billboard |date=January 29, 2007 |archive-date=October 27, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211027192111/https://www.billboard.com/articles/news/1055587/las-vegas-club-3121-at-the-rio |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Clarke |first=Norm |title=Prince's Vegas run was brief, but intense and memorable |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/entertainment/celebrity/princes-vegas-run-was-brief-but-intense-and-memorable/ |access-date=October 27, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=April 21, 2016 }}</ref> performing there from November 2006 to April 2007.<ref>{{cite news |last=Katsilometes |first=John |title=Prince and his breathtaking run at the Rio Las Vegas |url=http://lasvegassun.com/blogs/kats-report/2016/apr/21/remembering-prince-his-breathtaking-run-rio-vegas-/ |access-date=October 27, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=April 21, 2016 |archive-date=July 12, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210712033001/https://lasvegassun.com/blogs/kats-report/2016/apr/21/remembering-prince-his-breathtaking-run-rio-vegas-/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last=Stapleton |first=Susan |title=Prince Served Pancakes and Omelets to His Guests at 3 A.M. in Las Vegas |url=http://vegas.eater.com/2016/4/25/11498042/prince-served-pancakes-and-omelets-to-his-guests-at-3-a-m-in-las-vegas |website=Eater |access-date=October 27, 2021 |date=April 25, 2016 |archive-date=October 27, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211027153055/https://vegas.eater.com/2016/4/25/11498042/prince-served-pancakes-and-omelets-to-his-guests-at-3-a-m-in-las-vegas |url-status=live }}</ref> The venue had capacity for 900 people,<ref>{{cite news |title=John Katsilometes rocks to Prince, who gave a brief preview of his show at the Rio |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2006/nov/10/john-katsilometes-rocks-to-prince-who-gave-a-brief/ |access-date=October 27, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=November 10, 2006 |archive-date=October 31, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211031204237/https://lasvegassun.com/news/2006/nov/10/john-katsilometes-rocks-to-prince-who-gave-a-brief/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name=Brown/> and was located next to his 3121 restaurant.<ref name=Leeds>{{cite news |last=Leeds |first=Jeff |title=Prince Chooses His Arena: Las Vegas |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2006/11/13/arts/music/13prin.html |access-date=October 27, 2021 |work=The New York Times |date=November 13, 2006 }}</ref>
After Prince vacated the venue, it sat unused for several years,<ref name=Uncertain>{{cite news |last=Weatherford |first=Mike |title=Club Rio's future uncertain |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/entertainment/entertainment-columns/mike-weatherford/club-rios-future-uncertain/ |access-date=October 27, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=September 30, 2007 |archive-date=October 31, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211031204231/https://www.reviewjournal.com/entertainment/entertainment-columns/mike-weatherford/club-rios-future-uncertain/ |url-status=live }}</ref> eventually becoming ND's Fuego nightclub in 2009, through a lease agreement.<ref name=Wedding/> It was also known as ND's The Club during its brief lifespan. It closed four months later, after its owner filed for bankruptcy.<ref name=Fuego>{{cite news |last=Woodman |first=Xania |title=ND's Fuego closes, Viashow Inc. declares bankruptcy |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2009/jun/15/nds-closed-viashow-inc-declares-bankruptcy/ |access-date=October 30, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=June 15, 2009 |archive-date=April 21, 2025 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250421193910/https://lasvegassun.com/news/2009/jun/15/nds-closed-viashow-inc-declares-bankruptcy/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name=Disappointments/> Darin Feinstein, an owner of The Viper Room nightclub in California, leased the space and reopened it as Crown Theater in 2010. It also operated as a nightclub.<ref>Retrieved October 30, 2021:{{ubl |{{cite news |last=Woodman |first=Xania |title=Nite Bite: Welcoming Crown Nightclub |url=https://lasvegasweekly.com/ae/music/2010/feb/28/welcoming-crown-club-rio-acquired/ |work=Las Vegas Weekly |date=February 28, 2010 |archive-date=October 23, 2015 |access-date=October 31, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151023021511/http://lasvegasweekly.com/ae/music/2010/feb/28/welcoming-crown-club-rio-acquired/ |url-status=live }} |{{cite news |last=Weatherford |first=Mike |title=Las Vegas shows that turned out to be disappointments |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/entertainment/las-vegas-shows-that-turned-out-to-be-disappointments/ |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=April 7, 2010 |archive-date=October 29, 2021 |access-date=October 31, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211029184112/https://www.reviewjournal.com/entertainment/las-vegas-shows-that-turned-out-to-be-disappointments/ |url-status=live }} |{{cite news |last=Stapleton |first=Susan |title=Crown Royal: The Crown Theater and Nightclub Debuts Tonight at the Rio |url=https://hauteliving.com/2010/06/crown-royal-the-crown-theater-and-nightclub-debuts-tonight-at-the-rio/58168/ |work=Haute Living |date=June 19, 2010 |archive-date=October 30, 2021 |access-date=October 31, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211030211109/https://hauteliving.com/2010/06/crown-royal-the-crown-theater-and-nightclub-debuts-tonight-at-the-rio/58168/ |url-status=live }} |{{cite news |title=Crown Theater and Nightclub mixes concerts and clubbing |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/entertainment/crown-theater-and-nightclub-mixes-concerts-and-clubbing/ |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=July 8, 2010 |archive-date=October 30, 2021 |access-date=October 31, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211030182029/https://www.reviewjournal.com/entertainment/crown-theater-and-nightclub-mixes-concerts-and-clubbing/ |url-status=live }} }}</ref> Until 2014, the Rio hosted tribute shows for the Rat Pack and Michael Jackson.<ref>{{cite news |last=Weatherford |first=Mike |title=Rio heeding 'Duck' call? |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/entertainment/entertainment-columns/mike-weatherford/rio-heeding-duck-call/ |access-date=October 29, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=November 13, 2014 |archive-date=October 27, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211027213702/https://www.reviewjournal.com/entertainment/entertainment-columns/mike-weatherford/rio-heeding-duck-call/ |url-status=live }}</ref>
In 2015, the Crown Theater opened ''Duck Commander Musical'', based on the Robertson family and their television series ''Duck Dynasty''.<ref>{{cite news |last=Katsilometes |first=John |title=Duck! The Robertsons are heading for the Rio in 'Dynasty' musical |url=https://lasvegassun.com/blogs/kats-report/2014/nov/12/duck-robertsons-are-heading-rio-dynasty-musical/ |access-date=October 29, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=November 12, 2014 |archive-date=October 31, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211031204239/https://lasvegassun.com/blogs/kats-report/2014/nov/12/duck-robertsons-are-heading-rio-dynasty-musical/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Katsilometes |first=John |title=Willie Robertson heeds the call of Las Vegas in 'Duck Commander Musical' |url=https://lasvegassun.com/blogs/kats-report/2015/feb/11/willie-robertson-heeds-call-las-vegas-duck-command/ |access-date=October 29, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=February 11, 2015 |archive-date=July 9, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210709185237/https://lasvegassun.com/blogs/kats-report/2015/feb/11/willie-robertson-heeds-call-las-vegas-duck-command/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Katsilometes |first=John |title='Duck' is an odd dish at the Rio, but it is well prepared |url=https://lasvegassun.com/blogs/kats-report/2015/apr/16/duck-odd-dish-rio-it-well-prepared/ |access-date=October 29, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=April 16, 2015 |archive-date=October 11, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231011020929/https://lasvegassun.com/blogs/kats-report/2015/apr/16/duck-odd-dish-rio-it-well-prepared/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Millions of dollars were spent to renovate the theater for the show, which included 11 actors and a live band.<ref name=Ruffle/> The show performed poorly in box-office revenue, and ran for seven weeks, closing in May 2015.<ref name=RockAges/><ref>{{cite news |last=Katsilometes |first=John |title='Duck Commander Musical' facing May 17 closing at the Rio |url=https://lasvegassun.com/blogs/kats-report/2015/apr/30/duck-commander-musical-facing-may-17-closing-rio/ |access-date=October 29, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=April 30, 2015 |archive-date=October 31, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211031204232/https://lasvegassun.com/blogs/kats-report/2015/apr/30/duck-commander-musical-facing-may-17-closing-rio/ |url-status=live }}</ref>
''Rock of Ages'' ran in the renamed Rock of Ages Theater during 2016.<ref name=RockAges/><ref>{{cite news |last=Weatherford |first=Mike |title='Rock of Ages' is a party on the run to Rio |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/entertainment/entertainment-columns/mike-weatherford/rock-of-ages-is-a-party-on-the-run-to-rio/ |access-date=October 29, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=December 11, 2015 |archive-date=October 28, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211028103723/https://www.reviewjournal.com/entertainment/entertainment-columns/mike-weatherford/rock-of-ages-is-a-party-on-the-run-to-rio/ |url-status=live }}</ref> It was replaced a year later by a new water-themed variety show titled ''Wow - The Vegas Spectacular'', featuring numerous performers.<ref>{{cite news |last=Katsilometes |first=John |title='Wow Splash' at the Rio hopes to make waves |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/entertainment/entertainment-columns/kats/wow-splash-at-the-rio-hopes-to-make-waves/ |access-date=October 29, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=May 5, 2017 |archive-date=October 26, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211026152348/https://www.reviewjournal.com/entertainment/entertainment-columns/kats/wow-splash-at-the-rio-hopes-to-make-waves/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Jones |first=Jay |title=Splashy 'WOW' will be Las Vegas' newest water-themed fantasy show |url=https://www.latimes.com/travel/deals/la-tr-las-vegas-wow-water-show-20170901-story.html |access-date=October 30, 2021 |work=Los Angeles Times |date=September 5, 2017 |archive-date=October 29, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211029170831/https://www.latimes.com/travel/deals/la-tr-las-vegas-wow-water-show-20170901-story.html |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Radke |first=Brock |title='WOW' brings unique touches to the classic Vegas production show |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2017/oct/19/wow-world-of-wonder-rio-showroom/ |access-date=October 30, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=October 19, 2017 |archive-date=November 18, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211118015829/https://lasvegassun.com/news/2017/oct/19/wow-world-of-wonder-rio-showroom/ |url-status=live }}</ref> The show was well received, and had given more than 1,200 performances as of 2021.<ref>{{cite news |last=Cruz |first=Martha |title="WOW- The Vegas Spectacular" returns to Rio Showroom August 10 |url=https://news3lv.com/news/local/wow-the-vegas-spectacular-returns-to-rio-showroom-august-10 |access-date=October 30, 2021 |work=KSNV |date=August 5, 2021 |archive-date=October 29, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211029155111/https://news3lv.com/news/local/wow-the-vegas-spectacular-returns-to-rio-showroom-august-10 |url-status=live }}</ref>
The Comedy Cellar, a comedy club in New York, opened a Las Vegas location at the Rio in 2018.<ref>{{cite news |last=Radke |first=Brock |title=New York City's Comedy Cellar is coming to the Rio |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2018/mar/01/comedy-cellar-rio-las-vegas-opening/ |access-date=October 30, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=March 1, 2018 |archive-date=July 9, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210709184402/https://lasvegassun.com/news/2018/mar/01/comedy-cellar-rio-las-vegas-opening/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Katsilometes |first=John |title=Comedy Cellar at the Rio set to reopen |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/entertainment/entertainment-columns/kats/comedy-cellar-at-the-rio-set-to-reopen-2323922/ |access-date=October 30, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=April 7, 2021 |archive-date=October 30, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211030153035/https://www.reviewjournal.com/entertainment/entertainment-columns/kats/comedy-cellar-at-the-rio-set-to-reopen-2323922/ |url-status=live }}</ref> ''Raiding the Rock Vault'' opened at the resort in 2020.<ref>{{cite news |last=Katsilometes |first=John |title=Las Vegas favorite Raiding the Rock Vault will turn 7 at the Rio |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/entertainment/entertainment-columns/kats/las-vegas-favorite-raiding-the-rock-vault-will-turn-7-at-the-rio-1860251/ |access-date=October 29, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=October 1, 2019 |archive-date=October 27, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211027213744/https://www.reviewjournal.com/entertainment/entertainment-columns/kats/las-vegas-favorite-raiding-the-rock-vault-will-turn-7-at-the-rio-1860251/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Radke |first=Brock |title='Raiding the Rock Vault' settles in at the Rio |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2020/jan/20/raiding-the-rock-vault-172-rio/ |access-date=October 29, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=January 20, 2020 |archive-date=October 31, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211031204242/https://lasvegassun.com/news/2020/jan/20/raiding-the-rock-vault-172-rio/ |url-status=live }}</ref> A new 286-seat entertainment venue, The Duomo, opened in June 2022, with ''Raiding the Rock Vault'' as its first residency show.<ref>{{cite news |last=Katsilometes |first=John |title=Raiding The Rock Vault to be first show at new Rio venue |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/entertainment/entertainment-columns/kats/raiding-the-rock-vault-to-be-first-show-at-new-rio-venue-2564453/ |access-date=July 3, 2023 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=April 21, 2022 |archive-date=July 11, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230711182620/https://www.reviewjournal.com/entertainment/entertainment-columns/kats/raiding-the-rock-vault-to-be-first-show-at-new-rio-venue-2564453/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Radke |first=Brock |title=Pompey Entertainment's Damian Costa talks Duomo at the Rio, yacht rock and more |url=https://lasvegasweekly.com/news/2022/sep/15/pompey-entertainments-damian-costa-talks-duomo-at/ |access-date=July 3, 2023 |work=Las Vegas Weekly |date=September 15, 2022 }}</ref> The venue closed in October 2023.<ref>{{cite news |last=Katsilometes |first=John |title=Las Vegas entertainment venue abruptly closing |url=https://www.reviewjournal.com/entertainment/entertainment-columns/kats/las-vegas-entertainment-venue-abruptly-closing-2931223/ |access-date=November 14, 2023 |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=October 31, 2023 |archive-date=November 14, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231114173036/https://www.reviewjournal.com/entertainment/entertainment-columns/kats/las-vegas-entertainment-venue-abruptly-closing-2931223/ |url-status=live }}</ref>
''The Empire Strips Back'', a burlesque parody of the ''Star Wars'' franchise, opened in May 2025.<ref>{{cite news |last=Cater |first=Geoff |title=Burlesque parody 'The Empire Strips Back' bumps into the Rio |url=https://lasvegasweekly.com/ae/stage/2025/may/01/burlesque-parody-the-empire-strips-back/ |access-date=May 24, 2025 |work=Las Vegas Weekly |date=May 1, 2025 |archive-date=May 24, 2025 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250524161307/https://lasvegasweekly.com/ae/stage/2025/may/01/burlesque-parody-the-empire-strips-back/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Dibut Galera |first=Maria |title='The Empire Strips Back' A New Unique Burlesque Parody Comes to Las Vegas |url=https://www.8newsnow.com/news/las-vegas-now/the-empire-strips-back-a-new-unique-burlesque-parody-comes-to-las-vegas/ |work=KLAS |access-date=May 24, 2025 |date=May 5, 2025 |archive-date=May 24, 2025 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250524161308/https://www.8newsnow.com/news/las-vegas-now/the-empire-strips-back-a-new-unique-burlesque-parody-comes-to-las-vegas/ |url-status=live }}</ref>
===''Masquerade Show''=== {{multiple image | image1 = Rio Masquerade (8227857452).jpg | image2 = Masquerade Show float at Rio casino (2010).jpg | footer = One of the floats used for ''Masquerade Show in the Sky'' }} ''Masquerade Show in the Sky'' opened in February 1997, and ran in the resort's Masquerade Village. The $25 million show featured costumed performers and took place on floats which traveled along a 950-foot track, located 13 feet above the casino floor.<ref>{{cite news |last=Bell |first=Pauline |title=Locals casinos expand |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/1996/dec/06/locals-casinos-expand/ |access-date=July 16, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=December 6, 1996 |archive-date=October 7, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211007160013/https://lasvegassun.com/news/1996/dec/06/locals-casinos-expand/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="Bravo"/><ref name=Caruso>{{cite news |last=Caruso |first=Monica |title=Flight of Fancy |url=http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/1997/Feb-08-Sat-1997/business/4826680.html |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=February 8, 1997 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/19970719134850/http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/1997/Feb-08-Sat-1997/business/4826680.html |archive-date=July 19, 1997 }}</ref> The floats represented showboats and gondolas. Each float weighed between 13,000 and 17,000 pounds. They traveled at a speed of three feet per second.<ref name=Dancing/> ''Masquerade Show in the Sky'' consisted of three distinct shows, and a fourth was added in 1998.<ref>{{cite news |last=Delaney |first=Joe |title='Party' down at Rio's updated show |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/1998/jul/31/party-down-at-rios-updated-show/ |access-date=July 18, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=July 31, 1998 |archive-date=July 11, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210711202921/https://lasvegassun.com/news/1998/jul/31/party-down-at-rios-updated-show/ |url-status=live }}</ref> The show was free to spectators,<ref name=Domanick>{{cite news |last=Domanick |first=Andrea |title=Rio's iconic 'Show in the Sky' to close March 30 after 16 years |url=http://www.lasvegassun.com/vegasdeluxe/2013/feb/14/rios-show-sky-close-march-after-16-years/ |date=February 14, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150318095212/http://www.lasvegassun.com/vegasdeluxe/2013/feb/14/rios-show-sky-close-march-after-16-years/ |archive-date=March 18, 2015 }}</ref> and visitors could also pay to ride in the floats.<ref name=Takes>{{cite news |title=It takes a Village ... to make an exceptional mea |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/1997/jan/31/it-takes-a-village-to-make-an-exceptional-mea/ |access-date=July 16, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=January 31, 1997 }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Jones |first=Jay |title=Las Vegas: It's Mardi Gras daily at Rio, but Feb. 12 is special |url=https://www.latimes.com/travel/la-xpm-2013-feb-07-la-trb-las-vegas-mardi-gras-rio-all-suites-hotel-20130206-story.html |access-date=October 30, 2021 |work=Los Angeles Times |date=February 7, 2013 }}</ref>
The show was originally produced by Farrington Productions.<ref name=Caruso/> The company's contract expired in 2001, and Dick Foster Productions was brought on to redo ''Masquerade Show in the Sky''. The company sought to make the show more adult-oriented, adding sexier costumes and dances.<ref>{{cite news |last=Baird |first=Kirk |title=The Sky's the Limit |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2002/feb/08/the-skys-the-limit/ |access-date=October 23, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=February 8, 2002 }}</ref> The show was scaled back in 2008, and remained largely the same during its final five years. It closed in March 2013.<ref name=Domanick/><ref name=Dancing>{{cite news |last=Sylvester |first=Ron |title=Dancing on the ceiling: A backstage look at the Rio's 'Show in the Sky' |url=https://vegasinc.lasvegassun.com/business/2012/feb/28/dancing-ceiling-backstage-rios-show-sky/ |access-date=October 30, 2021 |work=VegasInc |date=February 28, 2012 }}</ref>
==In media== Regis Philbin filmed several episodes of his talk show, ''Live with Regis'', at the Rio's Samba Theatre in 2001.<ref>{{cite news |last=Maddox |first=Kate |title=Las Vegas is in 'Jeopardy' |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2001/jan/19/columnist-kate-maddox-las-vegas-is-in-jeopardy/ |access-date=October 31, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=January 19, 2001 }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Cling |first=Carol |title='Undisputed' to battle with Snipes, Rhames |url=http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/Jan-22-Mon-2001/living/15266421.html |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=January 22, 2001 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20020108045041/http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/Jan-22-Mon-2001/living/15266421.html |archive-date=January 8, 2002 |quote="Live! With Regis" tapes four episodes of host Regis Philbin's syndicated talkfest today through Wednesday at the Rio's Samba Theatre. }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Weatherford |first=Mike |title='Live! With Regis': A Real Trouper |url=http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/Jan-23-Tue-2001/living/15281354.html |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=January 23, 2001 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20020220174638/http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/Jan-23-Tue-2001/living/15281354.html |archive-date=February 20, 2002 }}</ref> A year later, ''The Price Is Right'' filmed a special episode in the theater, marking the first time in the show's 30-year history that it was shot outside of Los Angeles.<ref>{{cite news |last=Whitely |first=Joan |title='Price Is Right' takes first road trip to Las Vegas |url=http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2002/Jan-17-Thu-2002/living/17853740.html |work=Las Vegas Review-Journal |date=January 17, 2002 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20021018204027/http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2002/Jan-17-Thu-2002/living/17853740.html |archive-date=October 18, 2002 }}</ref>
An episode for the second season of ''Raising Hope'' was filmed throughout the Rio in 2011.<ref>{{cite news |last=Goldberg |first=Delen |title='Raising Hope' episode taped at Rio airs tonight |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2011/oct/04/raising-hope-episode-taped-rio-airs-tonight/ |access-date=October 29, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=October 4, 2011 }}</ref> During the resort's closure in 2020, it was used as a secondary filming location for the second season of the American reality television series ''Love Island''.<ref>{{cite news |last=Radke |first=Brock |title=From 'Love Island' to 'Hell's Kitchen,' Caesars Entertainment keeps Las Vegas on TV |url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2020/sep/29/love-island-hells-kitchen-rupaul-vegas-tv-caesars/ |access-date=October 31, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Sun |date=September 29, 2020 }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Meet the Women of 'Love Island' 2020 |url=https://www.maxim.com/entertainment/current-love-island-cast/ |access-date=October 31, 2021 |work=Maxim |date=September 17, 2020 }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Question of the Day |url=https://www.lasvegasadvisor.com/question/tv-shows-filming-hotels/ |access-date=October 31, 2021 |work=Las Vegas Advisor |date=September 19, 2020 }}</ref>
==See also== *List of integrated resorts *Rio (disambiguation) *Ríos (disambiguation)
==References== {{Reflist|2}}
==External links== * {{Official website|https://www.riolasvegas.com}} * {{Commons category-inline|Rio (hotel and casino)}}
{{Las Vegas casinos}} {{Las Vegas hotels}} {{Las Vegas skyscrapers}}
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