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YESCO announces it has fabricated and installed new signage for the iconic El Cortez Hotel & Casino in Downtown Las Vegas. The historic property, which first opened its doors in 1941, was purchased in 2008 by Kenny Epstein and underwent significant enhancements with new signage and entry canopies designed to preserve its vintage charm while introducing modern elements.

Contracted by property owner IKE Gaming, Inc., YESCO created a striking new entry canopy on the north side of the property. The project, based on a concept design by JIVE Architecture, features animated lamped raceways and exposed neon channel letters, measuring a total length of 60 feet with a height of 12 feet. The canopy is designed to evoke the nostalgic aesthetic of the property while adding a dynamic, eye-catching element to the entrance.

YESCO also fabricated and installed several new elements on the exterior of the El Cortez along Fremont Street. These included entry canopies, a corner wrap sign, a garage static cabinet and decorative garage mesh. This exterior renovation was based on a concept design by JIVE and contracted directly with Ike Gaming, Inc. Lastly, YESCO also provided interior directional signage to further enhance the guest experience within the hotel-casino. 

YESCO Las Vegas vice president Mitch Olorenshaw played a pivotal role in maintaining and updating the signage at El Cortez, fostering a longstanding and positive partnership with the property. YESCO is also proud to highlight its collaboration with McCarthy Construction and the direct involvement of YESCO’s creative director Mark Oatis and designer Stephen Shortell, who worked closely with YESCO Account Executive, Scott Hill and JIVE architects to bring these latest enhancements to life.

“Working on the El Cortez project was an incredible opportunity to honor Las Vegas’s rich history while showcasing YESCO’s craftsmanship and innovation,” said Scott Hill, account executive, YESCO. “Our team took great pride in blending vintage-inspired design with modern fabrication techniques to help preserve the property’s legacy and enhance its visual presence on Fremont Street.” 

FUN FACTS:

• El Cortez opened in November 1941 and is one of the oldest hotel-casino properties in Las Vegas. 
• On Feb. 22, 2013, the building became the only existing casino to be placed on the National Register of Historic Places.
• Jackie Gaughan, El Cortez’s most notable owner, bought the property in 1964 and owned it until it was sold in 2008.
• YESCO has created approximately 80% of all signage on property.