In May of 1974, Jay Sarno leased the property and sold the structures to William Bennett, a Del Webb executive, and William N. Pennington, a gaming equipment manufacturer. It was a complex deal that did not result in a complete transfer of real estate until 1983. The new owners were unique to the Vegas corporate picture. They were the sole stockholders in Circus Circus Hotels, Inc., the company that succeeded CIRCO, Inc., which was the original operating company. Bennett and Pennington did not have to deal with a complex hierarchy of stockholders and board members, which made their operation one of the most efficient and clear-cut in the state.
"About that time there was a gasoline crunch, and you could shoot a cannon down the Strip and not hit anybody. We didn't weather that. We lost $5 million or $6 million, so we leased it to Bill Bennett and Bill Pennington. They struggled the first year, then conditions turned around, and to tell the truth, they were probably better operators than we were. They exercised their option to buy after a few years, and Circus just went terrific."- Stanley Mallin, 1999
At the time Bennett and Pennington took over, things were dim for the resort.
"It might be $800,000 that they would lose one month and they might break even the following month, but over about the previous five years before we got there, the history of the place was losses of almost exactly $400,000 a month. It was money the operators seemed to be just throwing away." - William Bennett
The new operators proved that Sarno's ideas would work, with just a few modifications. They brought the midway under the hotel's direct control, replacing the more ribald sideshows and the sleazier games. They recognized that Circus Circus had been trying to do too many things at once, working to attract high rollers with high limits and credit, yet driving them away with distractions. The real potential of a casino that bathed the senses with excitement, they saw, was to attract the casual gambler who would risk a few bucks while taking in the sights. Concentrating on the middle-class market, they put the operation into the black in two months.
While quickly spotting the potential for cutting costs, Bennett also figured he could easily make $150,000 a month off the midway games if he brought in someone who knew what he was doing. So he did. The game plan of the new owners began to bear fruit almost immediately - modest as those first results were.
"We made three hundred and some dollars profit that first month. It was April of 1974. The following month we made some $400,000. June got better still and then July really jumped way up there." - William Bennett
In 1974, Circus Circus premiered the first world's largest slot machine. Mary Brusca of Detroit, made the first public pull on the slot machine. The two-ton slot, featuring a $100,000 jackpot cost more than $250,000 to develop and produce. Builder Bali Distributring of Reno, NV, said no plans were underway for any additional models, making it a one-of-a-kind. Circus waitresses Julie and Donna watch while Mrs. Brusca tried for the big one.
During this time period Rockford Files starring James Garner was filmed at the resort. Pictured with Garner is Circus VP Mel Larson.
In 1975, a 15 story, 395 room twin tower was completed which brought the number of rooms to 795. Sarno oversaw the building of the rooms, and saw it become the success he wanted it to be. Sarno lived in a rococo suite at the resort while overseeing the room construction.
In May of 1976, pilot Claudia Jones received a powder puff corsage from Circus Marketing Vice President Mel Larson in honoe of her entry in the 29th Powder Puff Derby, transcontinental all woman air race. Sponsored by Circus, Claudia and her co-pilot/step daughter Cathy was to take off on July 9, along with 200 competitors, for the Bicentennial and final edition of the event. Operator of Oasis Aviation, based in Vegas, Jones had over 4,500 hours as single engine, multi-engine, and helicopter pilot, with commercial and instructor's ratings.
In 1976, Hollywood once again asked Circus to make an appearance. This time in Las Vegas Lady.
During this year the Gilded Cage Lounge showcased Jack Ross. Ross not only played at Circus but also chaired and played in the 11th Jack Ross Dialysis Golf Classic at the Las Vegas Country Club to benefit kidney disease that was held December 6-8, 1976. Victim of acute kidney disease singer Tommy Leonetti was the celebrity guest. The tournament headquarters was located at Circus Circus. Stars invited to play in the 36-hole scramble match were Effram Zimbalist, Phil Harris, Evel Knievel, Buddy Rogers, Don Cherry, Arthur "Dagwood" Lake, and Sonny King.
In 1978, Circus built a five-story parking garage with 1,000 spaces to accommodate its growing visitors.
In a 1979 trial involving skimming at caisno, gaming executive Carl Thomas testified that he had skimmed Circus Circus profits while it was owned by Sarno. Sarno partner Stanley Mallin denied the Teamsters played any role except as lender.
Also during this year it came to light that Tony Spilotro, a Mafia street-rackets boss, infamously owned a gift shop concess at the resort during Sarno's ownership.
"I think he was introduced by a Teamsters guy but he introduced himself by the name Stewart. When we did learn who he was and told him he had to leave, that it was making problems for us, he didn't raise any objections." - Stanley Mallin, 1999
In 1979, Circus opened a 421 space recreational vehicle park on the rear of its property. The vehicle park was equipped with 50-amp hookups, swimming pools, Jacuzzi, saunas, 24-hour convenience store, fenced tots' playground, pet runs, on-site disposal station, game arcade, and a laundromat. Circus also purchased the Slots-A-Fun Casino next door.
In 1980, Circus saw a need to expand to keep up with the other resorts. They added five three-story buildings containing 810 rooms calling it Circus Circus Manor. Also built were parking areas for each building, in-room kitchenettes, its own swimming pool and a lobby as well as a mini-casino.
During this year Main Arena showcased the World's Greatest Circus Acts 11:00am to midnight. Admission was free.
The Bon Vivant was advertised as offering gourmet dinners in an elegant setting.
Circus saw a need for people to move around the resort. In 1981, Circus implemented the Circus Sky Shuttle which linked major areas of the resort. Dual pink and white air-conditioned cabins ride along an elevated guide-way spanning Circus Circus Drive 18 feet above street level. The Sky Shuttle carries up to 1,200 passengers per hour, and is fully automated, pollution free, energy saving and quiet. At the same time they purchased the Silver City Casino approximately 1/4 mile south of Circus.
In 1982, completion of the $7 million expansion and renovation included enlarging the casino, dining and valet parking facilities, interior decoration and a new front entrance marquee. That sign, dubbed Lucky, is a 123 foot tall clown. At one point, the sign was deemed the largest in the world by the Guinness Book of World Records. The new porte cochere was designed by Lee Linton and Young Electric Sign Company. The sign was mostly rear-list plastic but the porte cochere was the star. In the Circus Circus marquee Linton created an instantly identifiable image of a turn-of-the-century entertainment emporium, scaled it to be visible across the parking lot, and still made its astonishing bulk appear to float overhead.
In 1983, Circus went public with shares being traded on the New York Stock Exchange. Bennett served as Chairman of the Board of Circus Circus Enterprises, Inc., and William Pennington was on the Board of Directors.
During this year Main Arena showcased World's Greatest Circus featuring the Jordanas, from 11:00am to mightnight. Admission was free. Internationally acclaimed as the world's greatest living female trapeze flyer, Terry Cavaretta Lemus headlined with the Flying Cavarettas.
In 1984, Circus showcased the Charlie Charles, Paulos, and Blinko & Maran. Between acts, Blinko roams the mezzaine midway, weaving his comic magic and doling out balloon animals. Charlie Charles was cited for eight consecutive years in the Guinness Book of Records. Charles and his half-pound micro-bike had been featured in national magazines and the TV show That's Incredible.
In 1985, a second 1,000-car high-rise parking garage was built. Also added was the West Casino adding 17,000 square-feet of gaming space along with a new bar and snack bar.
Also in 1985, Circus Circus displayed the first helicopter ever offered as a slot machine jackpot prize. Winners had the option of receiving $75,000 cash in place of the Robinson helicopter.
Circus held the Plate of Plenty Buffet. Breakfast was $1.49, brunch was $2.49, and dinner was $3.49.
The Steak House featured Midwestern beef prepared over an exhibition grill after it had been aged 21 days in a glassed wall aging room. The large charcoal grill was in the middle of the room.
The resort held 16 gaming tables with Don Archer as Manager.
During this year the Main Arena showcased Wold's Greatest Circus, 11:00am to midnight. Admission was free.
On February 28, 1986, Circus opened the 1,188 room, 29-story Skyrise Tower featuring bars, dining areas, swimming pool, a third high-rise garage, a 10,000 square-foot race and sports book, and another 17,000 square-foot casino making Circus the largest casino in the world with over 100,000 square feet of gaming space. Also added was the Circus Skywalk, linking the Skyrise Tower and the Big Top.
In 1988, Circus showcased The Flying Farfans, Los Armandos, Annas Wolfhounds and Poodles, Flying Cavarettas, Rudolph Heinen Poodles, Heinen Space Fantasy, Heinen Duo Perch, Charlie Charles & Co., Albulet Brothers, Ronritas, Los Alejandros, Esqueda Family, and Blinko the Clown.
Los Armandos consisted of Terry Emelio, Jamie Frye, and Gino Farfan. Emelio was a college student majoring in architecture before he joined the act. Farfan was a fifth-generation circus artist performing her first three and a half somersault from a flying trapeze at the age of 13.
The Circus Circus buffet advertised 45 delicious items at each meal with 12 inch plates for more packing of food. Prices were $2.29 for breakfast, $2.69 for brunch, and $3.89 for dinner.
In 1992, Vice-President and General Manager Richard Brand was honored by the Angel Planes of Las Vegas by having a star named after him because of his extensive donation of flying skills and time to the organization.
In June of 1993, Circus described their new amusement park The Adventuredome, scheduled to open in August. The park was to be elevated 14 feet above ground level, with an 18-inch thick concrete deck serving as the roof of the original west parking area. Circus stated that the world's largest indoor roller coaster would be contained in this area plus a three-and-a-half-minute water flume ride. Designed and constructed by Arrow Dynamics, Inc., of Clearfield, Utah, the rides will be uniquely integrated, twisting through the dome's canyon, grottos and tunnels.
On August 23, 1993, Circus opened The Adventuredome. The first theme park in Las Vegas, the 150 foot high, five acre, $90 million dome, enclosed by 8,615 panes of glass (each pane weighing over 300 pounds) features the world's only indoor double-loop, double-corkscrew roller coaster, The Canyon Blaster, which travels at 55 miles per hour.
The Adventuredome also includes the Rim Runner boat ride which features a 60 foot water plunge at its climax, circulating 600,000 gallons of water; laser tag Hot Shots; and the Xtreme Zone, where seekers can climb walls and bounce into the air on a "bungee trampoline." The park remains open year-long and kept at a constant 72 degrees for the comfort of all.
Not forgetting the original concept of a resort for younger children, The Adventuredome has the traditional Carousel, standard childrens' rides, bumper cars, midway games, clown shows, and arcade games.
Please Click Here to see various stages of the building of the Adventuredome. These scans were donated by Circus Circus.
In 1993, Terry Cavaretta St. Jules and Jimmy Cavaretta were appearing at Tropicana's Folies Bergere after appearing at Circus from 1968 to 1992.
"What was nice about working for Circus Circus is that they released us from our contract to do different things like television shows, or special engagements in Europe. They even let us go for four months to do a tour of Australia, and held our jobs for us until we came back. So we really had the best of both worlds". - Terry Cavaretta Sr. Jules, 1996 interview
In 1995, Circus advertised the A.J. Hacket Bungy for bungy jumps as well as Greogry Popovich and his Catskill (who appeared on Jay Leno's The Tonight Show when it was filmed at the MGM).
On November 26, 1996, Circus was the center of a sad story when a man jumped to his death from the 30th floor balcony. By the time officers arrived shortly after 7:00pm, the man had already jumped.
In October of 1996, it was reported that Circus' new tower would open in December.
On December 23, 1996, The West Tower, with an additional 999 rooms, was completed. This tower features a centralized hotel lobby at the base, and a 40,000 square-foot shopping district called The Promenade. The Promenade has easy access to the Skyrise Tower and serves as the gateway to The Adventuredome.
In 1997, Circus opened its 8,000 square-feet of banquet and meeting facilities in the Skyrise Tower and completed renovation of the Casino Tower. In this same year, The Adventuredome opened its Fun House Express. The multi-million dollar ride is an IMAX Ridefilm, which utilizes state-of-the-art motion simulator technology. On July 15, 1997, The Adventuredome welcomed its 10 millionth visitor. This being an extremely good year for Circus, Amusement Business magazine ranked The Adventuredome 21st in visitor volume among North American theme parks, and 39th in visitor volume among all theme parks in the world.
In 1997, Circus showcased Duo Design. Darek Wronski and Jarek Marciniak came from Poland and in 1992 started building a two man human statue. It was noted that to maintain their perfect style and physique, the duo practiced four hours a day. Their bodies were covered with gold, as if statues were actually moving instead of real people.
In August of 1997, Circus was approached by the production company of Fear & Loathing in Las Vegas regarding using the name Circus Circus as well as using the resort for shooting. Circus turned down the offer. Exterior shots of the Stardust was used to replace Circus Circus using a phony prop front and name.
When Howard Hughes first saw Circus Circus, his comments were less than complimentary. If Howard could only see the evolution of the Strip's Big Top now.
As of 1999, "The Circus" as Hughes called it, is situated on 68.30 acres with buildings covering 2,870.08 square-feet. The megaresort has 3,744 guest rooms (3,612 standard rooms and 130 suites), 5,719 parking spaces, 399-space recreational vehicle park, a wedding chapel, three swimming pools, four restaurants as well as the famous Circus Buffet. Circus employs 3,800 employees and the resort holds 52 public elevators, 12 service elevators, nine escalators, two moving walkways and one sky shuttle.
The standard rooms are 460 square-feet with air-conditioning, color television with pay channels, and direct dial phones. There are 2,149 non-smoking rooms, 45 hearing impaired rooms, and 122 wheel chair accessible rooms. All rooms have 24-hour room service. Suites are available in two-story, 14 parlor, 11 Jacuzzi, two Jacuzzi parlor and mini-suites.
As the above chronology can be confusing to readers as it was for me compiling it, I decided to create a more detailed description (this is done mostly for me to keep the resort straight). This property fascinates me as it has grown significantly since its days of just being a family casino. Instead of imploding it and starting again, Circus utilized the talent and creativity of architects and construction companies to build upon the existing property to compete with the other resorts. Hats off to these individuals in completing such an impossible task - make the past fit the present and look towards the future without creating a disaster. The breakdown is as follows:
Presently, Circus has over 101,286 square feet of gaming space in the three casinos. There are 2,220 slot machines (including video poker, keno and 21), 53 Blackjack tables, 4 Craps tables, 7 Roulette tables, 1 Big Six game, 4 Pai Gow Poker tables, 1 Caribbean Stud Poker table, 2 Let It Ride games, 1 Casino War game, and 10 Poker tables. In the Casino Tower one can find a 160-seat Keno lounge as well as a full race and sports book with a seating area featuring individual television sets to monitor sporting events.
Restaurants include The Steak House, Stivali Italian Ristorante, Promenade Cafe, The Pink Pony, Circus Buffet and Pizzeria. Snack bars include Westside Deli, Skyrise Deli, McDonalds and The Adventuredome Snack Bar. Bars/lounges include the Keno Bar, West Casino Bar, Steak House Bar, Stivali Bar, Skyrise Lounge and Horse-A-Round Bar.
No circus would be a true circus without a Big Top show. Circus presents dazzling aerialists, high-wire walkers, trapeze artists and clown shows twice an hour daily from 11:00am to midnight free of charge. Mike Hartzell is the Entertainment Director for Circus who searches out performers for the shows. One of the performers is Gregory Popovich, who was once with the legendary Moscow Circus and has been with Circus since 1992. Popovich juggles while standing on a ladder, a comedic low-wire act and a show he calls "House Cats," where Popovich displays cats he found at the Las Vegas Animal Shelter and trained them to do incredible tricks.
Other acts are The Akishin Show, consisting of a dozen acrobats from Russia; The Diamond Duo, a husband and wife duo who perform the Rolla Bolla; three daring trapeze troupes - The Flying Vasquez, The Flying Caballeros and The Flying Aztecs; and Veronica, daughter of Flying Vasquez member Juan Vasquez. Veronica enters the stage in a large vase of ornamental flowers and is hoisted above the stage by her hair where she then performs numerous juggling routines.
As of June, 1999, Circus Circus Enterprises, Inc., was changed to Mandalay Resort Group.
Here are some pictures of my room in Manor C taken on February 4, 2000.
In March, 2000, Circus Circus announced that their 30 year old Chapel of the Fountain was recently renovated. The original and longest-running hotel-casino wedding chapel in Las Vegas sported a new look. It is now in a romantic renaissance setting, with an English Garden theme, decorated in eggplant purple, gold, and taupe. The chapel maintains an in-house photographer and videographer utilizing the finest equipment and photo finishing available. The resorts also maintains an in-house florist who has over 25 years of experience. Prices ranges from $135 for basic wedding, up to $775 for deluxe packages, which include flowers, professional photography, accommodations for two nights and champagne dinner in The Steak House, Circus Circus' Zagat Award-winning restaurant.
"Chapel of the Fountain truly portrays the image of the new elegant look of a Las Vegas Chapel. We are able to offer all that a couple needs to plan their special day, including the ceremony, reception, flowers, photography, and accommodations at an affordable price. I insist on the best photographers and film processing because photos are such an important part of the ceremony - capturing memories that last a lifetime. By having experienced wedding coordinators and a wide variety of wedding accessories, we are able to up hold the high standards for which the Chapel of the Fountain is know. Chapel of the Fountain has everything a couple needs to start their new life at reasonable prices, and it's all located in Las Vegas - the best honeymoon city in the world." - Suellen Wiley, Chapel Director
April of 2000 - the magic of special effects filmmaking, combined with modern motion simulator technology is taking a popular theme park attraction to a whole new level of excitement. Reboot: The Ride, is playing at the new IMAX RideFilm Cineplex in The Adventuredome of Circus Circus, is guaranteed to take passengers on a simulation experience they'll never forget.
Reboot: The Ride is produced by Mainframe Entertainment Inc., specifically for IMAX Corporation RideFilm technology. The high-tech duo set out to create a ride that contained all the elements -- characters, plot and a fun storyline -- that bring audiences to a new level of cinema participation. Inspired by the popular syndicated TV series called Reboot, ReBoot: The Ride takes passengers on a pulsating four-minute adventure through a cyber city.
This is the first movie ride produced for the IMAX RideFilm system to be made using 100% computer generated images (CGI). The CGI images are projected onto a 180-degree video screen, which fully encompasses the peripheral vision of all 18 passengers. This simulation film features animated characters and delightful miniatures that will captivate all ages. Passengers must be 42" or taller and the cost is $5.00 and is included in the unlimited ride pass.
ReBoot: The Director was Scott Speirs, the Producer was Ian Pearson, IMAX Executive Producer was Hart Getzen, Mainframe Executive Producer was Christopher Brough, Technical Directors were Ken Ball & Steve Sauers, the Supervisor Animator was Andrew Grant, the Senior Animators were Ken Henderson & Ken Steel, the Senior Animator/Modeler was Keith Arima, the Animator was George Samilski, the Animator/Modelers were Jim Perkins & Deryk Tappin, and the Music Composer was Bob Buckley.
"You will feel like you're part of the experience. It really pulls you into the environment and you will feel like you're really interacting with these characters." - Scott Speirs, Director
Also in April of 2000, Circus Circus gave me a treat and gave me some trivia on the Adventuredome:
In August/September of 2000, Circus Circus introduced its 32nd anniversary chip to the public. This was a limited edition chip with only 1,000 made. I will add that I helped a little with the making of this chip and I was honored to be involved.
Also in 2000, The Adventuredome was ranked 19th in visitor volume among North American theme parks by Amusement Business, a well-known theme park industry trade publication. AB also ranked The Adventuredome 34th in visitor volume among all theme parks in the world.
Circus was a winner in the 2001 What's On Visitor's Choice Award for the best steak house with Thh Steak House.
On March 30, 2001, Adventuredome opened its latest thrill ride - Chaos. Chaos has 18 simultaneously loading two-passengers seats and whirls riders in all three dimensions of motion. The speed and intensity of motion provides a totally unpredictable ride every time. The addition of Chaos brought the total number of rides and attractions to 19. Tickets for the ride was $5. An unlimited rise pass is $12.95 for riders 33-48 inches tall, $18.95 for those 48 inches and taller.
On September 17, 2001, Mandalay Bay Group Donated $1 million to aid the families of fallen police officers and firefighters who died during the September 11th attacks. The donation was made in conjunction with efforts led by Clark County Sheriff Jerry Keller and Vegas Metropolitan Police Departments. The funds will be distributed to appropriate organizations at the direction of Sheriff Keller.
"Our hearts go out to every victim of this unspeakable tragedy, but especially to those who answered the call of those in need. If we can in some small way assist those who walk bravely and willingly into harm's way, we do so without hesitation." - Bill Richardson, Vice Chairman of the Board of Mandalay Bay Group
On November 7, 2001, Mike and Kathy Frias became the 20 millionth visitors at The Adventuredome. They had just arrived at the resort from Anaheim, Calif., with their children Jose, 13, and Breeanna, 5.
"We are so surprised. We've never won anything before. Jose wants to go on the roller coaster and Breeanna likes the bumper cars." - Kathy Frias"This is our first time in Las Vegas. I hope I do as well at the slots as I have here in The Adventuredome!" - Mike Frias
After being presented with a ceremonial key to The Adventuredome, the Frias' were told their entire visit to Circus Circus would be free of charge. The prize package also included a tote bag of theme park memorabilia, free All-Day Rides passes, plush stuffed Midway animals and a complimentary meal.
"They're staying here at Circus Circus, so we are taking care of everything, and they own The Adventuredome for the rest of the day." - Tom Nolan, Adventuredome Manager of Theme Park Operation
The Adventuredome is open 365 days a year and is America's largest indoor theme park. In addition to welcoming their 20 millionth visitors today, the vast domed attraction celebrated its eighth anniversary this past summer.
In January, 2002, Amusement Business magazine has ranked The Adventuredome 15th in attendance among theme parks in North America and 25th when considering every theme park in the world. The industry trade publication listed The Adventuredome's attendance in 2001 at 3.4 million visitors in its year-end issue. (Amusement Business is a weekly trade magazine widely read by persons in the entertainment and amusement industry.)
Circus Circus Manager of Theme Park Operations Tom Nolan believes the combination of exciting attractions at affordable prices has helped make The Adventuredome a major player in the theme park industry.
"We have a fun, exciting and safe venue at a great value. The Adventuredome is also unique. We are open 365 days a year, and the outside weather doesn't influence us at all. It doesn't hurt that it's always 72 degrees. Your only concern is having fun." - Tom Nolan
The Adventuredome was the only Las Vegas attraction to place in either the Amusement Business Top 50 North American or Top 50 Worldwide Amusement/Theme Parks rankings.
In early 2002, the Las Vegas Review-Journal's 21st Annual "Best of Las Vegas" readers poll was released and for the second year in a row, Circus Circus came away with three awards.
The Steak House at Circus Circus once again was voted "Best Steak House." This marks the fifth year in a row and 13th time overall that The Steak House has received this honor.
"The Steak House is a long-time 'Best of Las Vegas' winner and we're happy to have won for the fifth year in a row. We're more excited to win again in light of all the dining competition that has come to Las Vegas in the past couple of years. '' - Food and Beverage Director Andy Enrico.
Joining the Steak House as "Best of Las Vegas" winner was the Adventuredome, which was selected as the "Best Family Attraction" for the second consecutive year. Circus Circus was also chosen for "Best Arcade."
"Both awards help substantiate the fact that family travel is a niche in the marketplace we own. What it says is that Circus Circus is the must-see place to visit for families. It's also the property of choice for local families, too." Director of Marketing Tom Malloy
Circus Circus was again selected "Best Hotel For Families" by voters in the 6th annual Online "Best of Las Vegas" poll.
In April 2002, Mandalay Resort Group announced they were bowing out of the American Gaming Association (AGA) when it membership expires in July of 2002 (they had been a member since 1995.) It is rumored that a company the size of Mandalay Bay usually pays in the neighborhood of $500,000 a year in dues. Industry watchers said the move reflected a growing feeling that giants MGM Mirage and Harrah's Entertainment Inc., have gained undue influence over the AGA's agenda.
"I view it as a setback for the industry because it's hard to have a unified voice if there's dissention among the leading companies, but industry conditions are very competitive, and relationships in some cases have gotten more strained over the years. Creating an organization like the AGA has been a political balance from day one." - Jason Ader, Bear Stearms Gaming Analyst
In May 2002 - Casino operators reached contract agreements with the union representing waitresses and housekeepers, virtually eliminating the prospect of a strike. The latest agreements between the Culinary Workers Union and the casinos were reached with Mandalay Resort Group, MGM Mirage, Park Place, Aztar Corp., and Harrah's. The new agreements cover about three-quarters of the 40,000 cooks, waitresses and housekeepers the union represents in Las Vegas. Under the new tentative contracts, workers will receive anaverage of $3.24 in increased hourly wages and benefits over the new contract's five-year life. Much of that will go to pay for higher health insurance costs, which workers will continue to receive free of charge.
In June of 2002, the Good Sam Club, the world's largest RV owner's organization with over 1 million members, announced its Welcome Mat Awards to recognize businesses that accommodate RVs with good service and Circusland RV Park won the category for hotel-casino.
In January and February, members of the Good Sam Club voted for the winning businesses that go out of their way to recognize the needs for recreational enthusiasts.
"We're the only one on the Strip to have an RV park, so we try hard to make it special. Circusland has been part of Circus Circus for many years, and we take a great deal of pride in it." - Gert Pina, Assistant Hotel Manager/Overseer of Circusland
RV'ers have found Circusland to be a wonderful oasis and the only one of its kind on the famed Las Vegas Strip. Widely considered to be the finest RV park in the state of Nevada - featuring 399 spaces, full hook-ups and the Circus Circus just steps away - Circusland has become a Base Camp for motor home and trailer owners.
On December 22, 2002, William Bennett passed away at Desert Springs Hospital following a lengthy illness
In 2002, The Midway showcased continuous circus acts.
On October 13, 2003, Jay C. Sarno attended the Global Gaming Business' First Annual Sarno Awards and received the Lifetime Achievement Award that was presented to his dad posthumously.
On October 20, 2003, a fire caused an estimated $1,000 in damage occurred. Apparently welders working near a trash chute sparked a fire. When firefighters appeared, they found flames inside the chute on the second floor. Three floors of the hotel were evacuated but there were no injuries. Sprinklers drowned the flames but smoke was seen up to three floors above the fire.
In 2003, The Midway will be showcasing continutous circus acts.
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