A Western show with Buffalo Bill. That is connected with Arizona Charlies Decatur. This hotel and casino has a story that starts long before the flashing lights and clattering coins.
Arizona Charlies Decatur began as a simple bowling alley in 1963. The Becker family built the Charleston Heights shopping center. It featured Charleston Heights Bowl a 36-lane alley. Bruce Becker later envisioned more.
In the 1980s, Bruce proposed adding a hotel-casino. Construction began in July 1987. The Western-themed Arizona Charlies Decatur opened in April 1988. The $18 million project included a three-story hotel with 100 rooms. It was named after Arizona Charlie Meadows. He was a distant relative who performed with Buffalo Bill.
Locals initially protested Arizona Charlies Decatur. They feared increased crime and traffic. A hotel expansion was approved in 1991 despite continued opposition. The expansion faced hurdles. Residents fought the closure of Evergreen Avenue. A compromise led to a smaller seven-story tower. The $38 million project removed the bowling alley. Casino operations moved to a temporary tent. It housed 375 slot machines. The expansion was completed in 1994.
Arizona Charlie’s Inc. filed for bankruptcy in 1997. Carl Icahn purchased a 51-percent interest in its mortgage debt. Station Casinos also showed interest. After a period of legal battles Icahn took over Arizona Charlies Decatur.
Ron Lurie former mayor of Las Vegas became the general manager in 1999. He was affectionately known as the “Mayor” of Arizona Charlies Decatur. Lurie rebranded the signature restaurant as Ron’s Steakhouse.
Ownership shifted over the years. Icahn sold to American Casino Entertainment Properties. Golden Entertainment acquired ACEP in 2017.
Arizona Charlies Decatur has 258 rooms. Its casino spans 55,227 square feet. It includes a bingo room. The property is known for its friendly atmosphere. It is popular among locals for food gaming and live entertainment.
The original roadside sign was donated to the Neon Museum in 2021. It featured an image of Arizona Charlie.
Arizona Charlies Decatur continues to offer cheap eats and bingo. It stands as a testament to Las Vegas’ evolving history. From a bowling alley to a casino Arizona Charlies Decatur has become a local favorite.