Luxor Hotel and Casino

Luxor opened on October 15, 1993 as a 30-storey black glass pyramid inspired by ancient Egypt, accompanied by a full-scale reproduction of the Great Sphinx guarding the entrance. At the time of opening, the USD 375 million construction was among the most expensive in Las Vegas history, and the building's distinctive triangular silhouette immediately became the most recognisable architectural form on the south Strip.

The pyramid's interior uses a unique 'inclinator' system rather than conventional elevators — the lifts travel at a 39-degree angle to track the sloping interior walls, providing an unusual transit experience. Hotel rooms line the four sloping exterior walls, meaning every room is on an angle with windows that face outward and downward rather than straight out. The interior atrium of the pyramid is one of the largest in the world.

The Luxor Sky Beam — the most powerful beam of light on Earth, projected from the pyramid's apex — is visible from space and from aircraft approaching Las Vegas from over 400 kilometres. The 42.3-billion candela beam requires 315,000 watts of lighting and serves as a navigation landmark for pilots approaching McCarran International Airport. The casino floor spans approximately 100,000 square feet. A significant events venue, the Luxor Theatre, has hosted Criss Angel's MindFreak residency.