The Flamingo is famous among other reasons, for being the resort that Benjamin 'Bugsy' Siegel opened in 1946. There are a lot of 'firsts' associated with this property. This was one of the first resorts on what has become known as the Las Vegas Strip. The El Rancho Vegas and the New Frontier, preceded it. It was the first 'luxury' hotel-casino. Although some may dispute the particulars, it was also the first 'mob' owned property in Las Vegas.

It was acquired by the Hilton Hotel chain in 1970.