The Riverside Resort Hotel & Casino stands as the cornerstone of Laughlin, Nevada, representing not just a place of entertainment and lodging, but the very genesis of this unique resort community on the Colorado River. It is the original establishment founded by Don Laughlin, the visionary entrepreneur who lent his name to the town, and its enduring presence marks it as a true landmark, embodying the spirit of innovation and growth that shaped the entire area. Without the Riverside, the Laughlin of today would not exist, making it a place of profound historical and cultural significance for the region.
The history of the Riverside Resort is intrinsically linked to the history of Laughlin itself. In the late 1960s, Don Laughlin, an experienced casino operator, purchased a small, rundown eight-room motel known as the South Pointe. Seeing the potential in the quiet, scenic stretch of the Colorado River, he began transforming it into a modest casino and hotel. From those humble beginnings, he steadily expanded the property, adding more rooms, gaming space, and amenities, driven by a pioneering spirit and a commitment to creating a new destination. He not only built his resort but also actively participated in developing the essential infrastructure that allowed the nascent town to flourish, including critical transportation links that connected Nevada to Arizona. This continuous evolution from a small roadside stop to a comprehensive resort laid the groundwork for the entire community that subsequently grew around it, attracting other developers and visitors to what would become Laughlin.
Today, the Riverside Resort Hotel & Casino offers a vast array of facilities designed to cater to a wide range of interests. The expansive casino floor features a full complement of gaming options, from slot machines and video poker to table games. Towering over the river, the resort provides numerous hotel rooms, many with scenic views of the Colorado River or the surrounding desert landscape. Guests can choose from a variety of dining establishments, ranging from casual eateries and buffets to more formal restaurants. Beyond gambling and dining, the resort boasts a multi-screen cinema, offering current movie releases, and a full-service bowling alley, both popular draws for families and locals. Perhaps one of its most distinctive features is the Classic Car Museum, showcasing a remarkable collection of vintage automobiles, freely accessible to visitors. Additionally, the property includes an arcade, multiple gift shops, a showroom for live entertainment, and an RV park, providing diverse accommodation options. Its prime location also includes a marina, facilitating river taxi services and various water activities.
The Riverside Resort is used today as a comprehensive destination for both recreation and relaxation, appealing to a broad demographic. It serves as a primary draw for tourists seeking a full-service casino resort experience, whether they come for the gaming, the entertainment, or the scenic river setting. For locals and families, the bowling alley and cinema provide popular community amenities that extend beyond typical casino offerings. The Classic Car Museum attracts enthusiasts and curious visitors alike, offering a unique, family-friendly attraction. The marina caters to those looking to explore the Colorado River, whether via the convenient water taxi to other resorts or for leisure boating. Its RV park also makes it a popular stop for travelers exploring the Southwest, providing a blend of outdoor recreation and resort amenities.
Before visiting, prospective guests should understand that the Riverside Resort Hotel & Casino offers a complete and diverse experience. Its location at the northern end of the main casino strip provides convenient access, often being the first resort encountered when entering Laughlin from the north. The resort’s extensive non-gaming amenities, particularly the Classic Car Museum, the bowling alley, and the cinema, distinguish it from some of its neighbors and make it a particularly appealing choice for families or those seeking activities beyond the casino floor. The availability of the water taxi service from its marina is a practical and enjoyable way to traverse the riverwalk and explore other resorts along the boulevard. While encompassing all the elements of a modern resort, the Riverside also retains a distinct character, reflecting its long history as the pioneering establishment in Laughlin.