The Linq saw the arrival of the world-famous Auto Collection museum in late 1981. It kicked off a focused effort to identify and diversify the location’s potentials, eventually proving it to be capable of drawing the casino crowd and cultivating an environment designed to retain their interest. 250 constantly rotating classic and special model cars prowl the showroom floor, many of which are available for purchase. Engelstad managed a show of community and compassion in the meantime; the annual Senior Citizen Christmas Party served up free Christmas dinner and a show for indigent and disabled seniors.
The Linq soon expanded to 1,500 rooms and celebrity tribute show “Legends in Concert” began its memorable 20-year run. Its success served to attract credible entertainment and further branded the resort as all-purpose pleasure center. Expansion continued in 1986, with hotel rooms reproducing at a frantic rate, Tower IV making an appearance and 15,000 square feet of gambling space introducing itself to the casino.
Not content with the already epic scale, Engelstad cooled off The Linq’s guests with a swimming pool, heated spa, multi-story waterfall and strategically-placed libations.
Another tower sprung up owned by The Linq, with 547 rooms, and the front of the hotel soon bulged out to the very sidewalks of the Strip. The Linq now had its own nightclub, a fitness center, an administrative wing and sports betting. Gamblers at the racetrack were blessed with glorious color TV in every seat of the grand six-tiered facility. Soon guests were playing Pac-Man, getting married, attending gambling school and exchanging international currencies.
