By Cris Alarcon, InEDC Writer. (April 30, 2025)
STATELINE, Nev. — Harveys Lake Tahoe, the iconic casino resort that has stood as a landmark on the South Shore since 1944, is undergoing a significant transformation. Caesars Entertainment has announced a $160 million renovation to rebrand the property as Caesars Republic Lake Tahoe Hotel & Casino, marking a new chapter in its storied history
The rebranding effort aims to modernize the 1.6 million-square-foot resort while honoring its rich legacy. Renovations, which began last year, are set to pause during the busy summer season and are expected to be completed by mid-2026 .
“This transformation honors the storied history of Harveys while introducing modern amenities and elevated experiences that will redefine luxury in Lake Tahoe,” said Karie Hall, senior vice president and general manager of Harrah’s and Caesars Republic Lake Tahoe. “We look forward to welcoming guests to a resort that blends the best of our past with an exciting vision … ”
A Legacy Rooted in Vision
Harveys Lake Tahoe was founded by Harvey Gross, a Sacramento meat wholesaler, and his wife Llewellyn. In 1944, they opened Harvey’s Wagon Wheel Saloon & Gambling Hall on seven acres near Stateline, Nevada. The establishment began modestly, featuring just three slot machines and two card tables, but it quickly became a cornerstone of the burgeoning Lake Tahoe casino scene .
Gross was known for his innovative approach to attracting visitors, including installing the area’s only 24-hour gas pump and creating a winter skating rink in the parking lot to draw in guests during the colder months
Trials and Triumphs
Harveys has witnessed significant events over the decades. In 1963, it expanded into an 11-story high-rise hotel, marking a new era of growth. However, in 1980, the resort faced a major crisis when a bomb exploded on the premises, causing extensive damage but no injuries. The incident led to an $18 million reconstruction effort, and the casino reopened within 48 hours, fully repaired by May 1981
Harvey Gross passed away in 1983 at the age of 78, but his legacy continued under family management. In 1986, the resort unveiled the 19-story Tahoe Tower, further cementing its status as a premier destination.
Harveys Lake Tahoe: A Timeline
1944 – Founding of Harvey’s Wagon Wheel Saloon & Gambling Hall
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Harvey Gross, a Sacramento meat wholesaler, and his wife Llewellyn opened the first casino on Lake Tahoe’s South Shore.
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The establishment began modestly, featuring just three slot machines and two card tables.
1963 – Expansion into a High-Rise Hotel
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Harveys expanded into an 11-story, 197-room hotel, becoming the first high-rise in Nevada just across the state line from Lake Tahoe, California.
August 27, 1980 – Harveys Resort Hotel Bombing
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A 1,200-pound bomb planted by extortionist John Birges exploded at Harveys, causing extensive damage but no injuries.
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The explosion created a crater three stories deep and resulted in an estimated $18 million in damages.
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Parts of the casino reopened within 48 hours, and the fully repaired hotel reopened in May 1981.
1983 – Passing of Harvey Gross
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Harvey Gross died at the age of 78.
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The company continued to operate under family management.
1986 – Opening of the Lake Tower
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Harveys unveiled the 19-story, $74 million glass “Lake Tower,” further cementing its status as a premier destination.
2001 – Acquisition by Harrah’s Entertainment
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Harveys was acquired by Harrah’s Entertainment, bringing it under the umbrella of one of the largest gaming companies.
2017 – Ownership Transferred to Vici Properties
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Ownership of Harveys was transferred to Vici Properties as part of a corporate spin-off, then leased back to Caesars Entertainment, which operates the property.
2019 – Introduction of Gordon Ramsay’s Hell’s Kitchen
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Celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay opened a Hell’s Kitchen restaurant at Harveys, enhancing its dining offerings.
2020 – Renovation of the Tahoe Tower
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The Tahoe Tower underwent a significant remodel to update its accommodations.
2024 – Commencement of $160 Million Renovation
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Caesars Entertainment began a comprehensive $160 million renovation to transform Harveys into Caesars Republic Lake Tahoe Hotel & Casino.
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The renovation includes aesthetic upgrades to the casino, new slot machines, a high-limit room, and a World Series of Poker room.
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The Mountain Tower will be renamed the Remus Tower, and the Tahoe Tower will become the Romulus Tower.
2026 (Projected) – Completion of Transformation
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The transformation into Caesars Republic Lake Tahoe is expected to be completed by mid-2026, introducing modern amenities and elevated experiences while honoring the storied history of Harveys.
Looking Ahead
The current renovation will introduce a range of luxury features, including updated casino aesthetics, new slot machines, a high … , and a World Series of Poker … . The Mountain Tower will be renamed … offering butler service in select suites, while the Tahoe Tower will become the Rom … both names paying homage to Roman mythology. Dining venues such as Lisa Vanderpump’s Wolf and Gordon Ramsay’s Hell’s … will remain, with the addition of Cleo’s Coffee and Cocktails in the lobby
As the transformation progresses, Harveys’ legacy as Lake Tahoe’s first casino continues to evolve, blending its historic roots with a modern vision for luxury and entertainment.
