LAS VEGAS ( FOX5 ) — Back in the day, the strip attracted tourists in droves, but it wasn’t until this day back in 1954 that hotel casino operators offered something for the locals.

The Showboat was the first property on Boulder Highway. It opened with a 19 story tower, 445 rooms, and an adjacent RV park. But it’s 75 thousand square foot casino was the first to appeal to hometown gamblers.

The Showboat was the first property on the Boulder Highway. (FOX5)

It’s affordable promotions like 49 cent breakfast brought them in droves. The property’s signature attraction became its bowling alleys. In fact, it hosted a number of pro bowlers’ association championships. Overtime in time, business began to decline.

The showboat changed hands and became Castaways before it closed in 2004. Just

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