The Luxor Hotel, an Egyptian-themed resort on the Las Vegas Strip, opened in 1993. Built by William Bennett, owner of Circus Circus Enterprises, the hotel is known for its large glass pyramid and sphinx entryway.
It took 18 months and $375 million to build the Luxor, originally with 2,526 rooms and 120,000 square feet of casino space. The resort also offers a 5-acre pool and spa area.
The Luxor's signature feature is its 30-story glass and steel pyramid, modeled after the Great Pyramid in Giza. The hotel was designed by architect Veldon Simpson, who also designed the Excalibur Hotel and the MGM Grand.
Otis Elevators designed inclinators, or special elevators that rise from each corner of the pyramid at a 39-degree angle. Guests staying in the pyramid ride inclinators up the slanted sides to reach their rooms.
Part of the Luxor began sinking shortly after opening, and repairs were made to halt its decline. The original Nile River Ride was abandoned and turned into public space, and the casino area was redesigned. Two towers of guest rooms were added later, bringing the total to 4,408.
