In 2008, Las Vegas has some of the largest—and hottest—pools in the world. With sun, skin and plenty of sizzle, the pools on the Strip are entertainment destinations of their own. From the 11-acre complex at Mandalay Bay to the more traditional pond at the Riviera, Vegas pools are known for their excitement.

This has always been true, even though the definition of excitement has changed considerably. Back in the 1950s, the Desert Inn pool was one of the Strip’s finest.

By current standards, it’s lackluster. It’s tiny when compared to most of today’s pools, and there isn’t a cabana or bungalow in sight. There’s no dance floor, and it’s hard to imagine this place hosting “beach club” parties on Sunday afternoons.

A further commentary on changing times: the bathing suits cover more skin than the most indoor Vegas party outfits today. It goes without saying that even the heartiest partiers of the 1950s would have been shocked by a “European sunbathing area.” Topless entertainment wasn’t common in the showrooms yet, and it certainly wasn’t expected by the pool.

The beach ball is a nice touch, but the Desert Inn pool would be completely out of place today.

But there’s something to be said for a time before wave pools and VIP areas. Yes, the old pool is less exciting, but it’s also less pricey. There are no rental fees, no mini-fridges or chair reservations. You might bump into a celebrity or two catching some rays, but you don’t have to worry about casino security hustling paparazzi off the premises. It’s less luxurious, more laid back.
 
For some people, that’s a fair trade-off.

SOURCE: Manis Collection, UNLV Special Collections

By David Schwartz

David G. Schwartz an Atlantic City native and the director of the Center for Gaming Research at the University of Nevada Las Vegas. He is the author of Roll the Bones: The History of Gambling. His web site can be viewed at www.dieiscast.com.

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