In a groundbreaking move, the Dunes became the first local hotel to be demolished by explosives, setting a new standard for the Strip implosions that would follow, including the upcoming demolition of the Tropicana. This unique method of celebrating history by destroying it solidified Las Vegas as the only city in the world to do so.

Leading up to the historic implosion on October 27, 1993, there was uncertainty among locals about what to expect. The Review-Journal issued public notices warning residents of the loud noise, bright flashes, smoke, and heavy dust that would accompany the event. Public officials even predicted a 2-inch coating of dust spanning a half-mile radius as a result of the implosion.

Mirage Resorts Inc. spokesman Alan Feldman jokingly mentioned, “We’ll try not to hit Caesars,” referring to the Dunes’ neighboring hotel. However, J. Mark Loizeaux, the president of Controlled Demolition Inc., was fully prepared for what was to come. With experience in bringing down thousands of buildings, Loizeaux was confident in the outcome, stating, “This is going to be absolutely awesome.”

The Dunes, once known as “The Miracle in the Desert,” had a turbulent history filled with mismanagement over its 38 years of operation. Steve Wynn, who purchased the Dunes in 1992, criticized the resort’s previous management, accusing them of running the place into the ground. He stated, “They were a bunch of thieves. It was run by a steady procession of dingdongs.”

After the Dunes was demolished, the way was cleared for the construction of Bellagio. Initial plans for the property described a hotel inspired by the Fontainebleau in Miami, featuring a large lake for various water activities such as sailing, windsurfing, and water skiing.