Wouldn’t it be something to shop where Roman emperors once strolled? The Forum Shops at Caesars is not just a mall. It is a destination. Here, the spirit of ancient Rome comes alive on the Las Vegas Strip.
The Forum Shops at Caesars began as a vision. It was a vision of Sheldon Gordon and Melvin Simon. They wanted to create a unique shopping experience. Announced in 1987, the project replaced the unsuccessful Caesars Palace Grand Prix racetrack. Construction started in 1990. Finally, the Forum Shops opened on May 1, 1992. It had 240,000 sq ft of leasable space.
Early skepticism surrounded the idea. Could a themed retail mall thrive in Las Vegas? The Forum Shops proved the doubters wrong. It transformed Las Vegas into a shopping destination.
Expansions followed in 1997 and 2004. These expansions added more stores and restaurants. The Forum Shops grew to 675,000 sq ft. It now houses approximately 160 tenants.
The Roman theme is evident throughout The Forum Shops at Caesars. Marble abounds. Sky-painted ceilings shift from day to night. Fountains add to the ambiance. The Forum Shops connects to the Caesars Palace casino floor. Moving sidewalks once greeted visitors from the Strip. Today, a three-story structure marks the entrance. An 85-foot LED sign beckons shoppers.
The Forum Shops has featured animatronic shows. The Festival Fountain showcased Apollo, Bacchus, Plutus, and Venus. The Atlantis Show tells the story of a sunken city. These shows have been key attractions.
Notable stores have graced The Forum Shops at Caesars. Gianni Versace and Louis Vuitton were among the first. FAO Schwarz once had a large presence. It featured a towering Trojan Horse. H&M later occupied the space. Today, you can find everything from luxury apparel to unique gifts.
Dining options abound at The Forum Shops at Caesars. Spago was a long-time favorite. Lombardi’s later became Trevi. The Palm continues to serve Italian cuisine. Planet Hollywood entertained diners for years.
The Forum Shops at Caesars has seen its share of challenges. A lawsuit involved allegations of discriminatory treatment. A nightclub faced accusations of racial discrimination. These events highlight the complexities of operating a large retail space.
The Forum Shops at Caesars receives 50,000 visitors daily. Tourists make up most of the clientele. The Forum Shops was once the highest grossing mall in the U.S. It held that title until 2016.
The Forum Shops at Caesars stands as a testament to vision and innovation. It changed the retail landscape of Las Vegas. It offers an unparalleled shopping experience. It blends luxury, entertainment, and Roman grandeur. The Forum Shops continues to evolve. It remains a must-see destination on the Strip.