New York New York Hotel and Casino

You have probably noticed it already, because now you are standing in front of a spectacular recreation of New York City, designed to resemble the skyline as it looked in the 40s. Built by MGM Resorts in 1997, the complex features scaled-down versions of several iconic skyscrapers, including the Empire State Building, the Chrysler Building, and a Statue of Liberty that rises to nearly 46 meters. Most of these buildings were constructed at about one-third of their real size, and the Empire State Building you see here was actually the tallest structure in Nevada until 2005. The unusual exterior architecture, made of stainless steel with sharp angles and crystalline shapes, was designed by architects Neal Gaskin and Ilia Bezansky, who remarkably managed to complete the project without ever visiting New York themselves. One of the most famous attractions of the complex is also right here in front of you: the Big Apple Coaster, a roller coaster whose trains are shaped like New York taxis and that runs both inside and outside the resort. Inside the hotel, you will find spaces inspired by several neighborhoods of the Big Apple, including Broadway, Central Park, and Greenwich Village. The resort’s design and concept have earned it several awards over the years, including Best Hotel on the Strip, Best Architecture, and even Coolest Building in Las Vegas. Enough to make you curious to step inside and take a look.