“Everyone who works here takes an interest in the property. I see to that!” the energetic Bradford told me during an exclusive interview.
Front desk person Mike Williams conveyed his excitement for the historical landmark as he greeted me.
“Many movies have been made right here,” he told me, his eyes flashing as he told the stories one more time. “Easy Rider was made here, you know. So was No Country for Old Men. Would you like to see a room?”
Room 203 was very spacious. There was a large sitting area, the bath had been updated (my only disappointment!), and the room was huge. Best of all, it looks right over the plaza below. For $85 it was a heck of a deal!
The huge park which is also called the Plaza is the site of events throughout the year. The Fourth of July Fiesta is one of the biggest. However, the electric light parade is not to be missed, says Mike’s brother, Sean Williams, who also greets people at the front desk.
Then there is the annual motorcycle rally in the third week of July. The Gold Wing Road Riders Association had its own event at the Plaza this year. Plus, you never know who you will meet at the Plaza. Ty Murry, the bull rider, stayed there recently, along with rock star Jewel.
While the Plaza Hotel has served as an emergency respite for travelers, this is a place to come and stay. The hotel has been the site of many adventures and the staff is eager to help you live your adventure, as well. Soon, the basement will be finished and guests can visit the catacomb. They are going to call it “Dirty Girty’s" after Girty Lapscaler who tended bar at the Plaza for years. Perhaps Byron will be there too.
Article comments
1 - terence sutherland
The writer fails to mention that Bat Masterson and the Dodge City Gang, along with Pat Garrett used to roam "Old Town" Las Vegas. Also Jack Johnson, heavyweight champion of the world in the early 20th Century, trained here. The Rough Riders trained here before going on to fight in the Battle of San Juan Hill, Puerto Rico.
Queen Elizabeth visited nearby Montezuma, also in the early 20th Century. In the 30's, big cars with Illinois plates would be seen rumbling into Old Town, staying for a few months until the heat was off in Chicago. It was later learned many were with Al Capone. Yes, there's alot of history in Old Town, Las Vegas...