El Cortez Hotel & Casino’s downtown 'old Vegas' status

El Cortez opened in 1941 and is one of the longest-operating casinos in downtown Las Vegas, documented in city histories and casino records. The property retains historic signage and architecture that contribute to its reputation as part of "old Vegas." Residents frequently make lighthearted jokes about downtown’s "old Vegas" character, pointing to El Cortez and similar establishments as anchors of the city's earlier era.