Patrick and I recently returned from a week long road trip where we drove to Idaho to visit my mom for a few days. Our first stop was in Las Vegas, which coincided with a recreation of Elvis Presley’s first Las Vegas show at what was then known as The International Hotel, which is the Westgate today.

The International Hotel and Casino opened July 2, 1969, and was originally themed to the world. Think of it as Disneyland’s “it’s a small world” but a hotel. Restaurants featured cuisine from various countries, and staff wore uniforms inspired from far off lands. At the end of the month, on July 31, history would be made, Elvis Presley would step out onto the International’s stage, billed as “Las Vegas’ first legitimate theatre,” for the first of what would be over 600 shows over the course of seven years.

This year marks what would have been Elvis’ 90th birthday, and to celebrate, the Westgate decided to recreate Elvis’ first show on the International stage, featuring Elvis tribute artist Travis Powell. While the show was absolutely amazing, I was let down by the lack of merch. I fully expected recreations of the “Hound Dog” plush and reprints of the program. Those would have really added to feeling like you had stepped back in time. In addition to the two performances on July 31, both of which sold out the 1600 seat theatre, various Elvis items were on display.

While most of the items on display were garments worn by Elvis, including many he wore at the International, there were some posters, including this one from February 1955. On the fateful night of February 6, Elvis met Colonel Tom Parker, who helped launch Elvis’ career to heights never before seen by a celebrity.

The show was a lot of fun, and honestly Powell is an incredible tribute artist, fully committing to not just Elvis’ sound, but his energetic movements. While Powell crooned, moments in between songs were filled with actual recordings of Elvis from the July 31, 1969 performance. Women flocked to the base of the stage to receive a kiss from the faux King of Rock ‘n Roll, and near the end Powell expressed his gratitude and shared he was inspired by Elvis at the young age of five, and that the night was a dream come true.

Las Vegas has no shortage of outlandish hotels, and while we debated staying elsewhere, I thought it would be easier to just stay at the Westgate. But aside from the displays and Elvis statue, the Westgate is really rather boring. Our room was fairly basic with standard hotel furniture. The only throwback vibes were an Elvis poster (ironically the same one I had in my room as a teenager) and a photo of Marilyn Monroe. In fact, I didn’t even bother to photograph our room since it was so beige!

While Elvis left the building for the last time nearly 50 years ago, his spirit certainly remains. Feel like you missed out? They are doing a 70s show in October! Get your tickets here! In the meantime and you can visit the statue honoring the King at 3000 Paradise Road in Las Vegas. For more information, including booking your room, visit their website.

Outfit
Dress: Buffalo Exchange
Belt Buckle: Lanksy Bros., Memphis, Tennessee
Rings and Necklaces: Graceland, Memphis, Tennessee
Shoes: Remix

More to Explore Near and In Las Vegas

Clark County Museum

Diamonds are Forever Filming Locations

Golden Gate Hotel & Casino

The Mob Museum

The National Atomic Testing Museum

The Neon Museum

Twilight Zone Mini Golf