The International Hotel: The Hotel Elvis Built and the Mystery of His Eternal Presence

Is rock and roll dead? Not a chance. The King of Rock ‘n’ Roll may have left the building, but whispers of his presence still echo through the halls of The International Hotel, now known as the Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino. A hotel steeped in history and music, it’s a place where the spirit of Elvis Presley remains alive—or so many claim.

The Birth of The International Hotel
In 1969, Elvis Presley was at the height of his fame, and Las Vegas was the entertainment capital of the world. The International Hotel, a grandiose property envisioned to redefine luxury and entertainment in the city, became a fitting stage for the King’s next act.

Elvis not only headlined the hotel’s grand opening night, but he also made it his home. For two years, he lived in a penthouse suite on the top floor, embodying the glitz and glamour of the Las Vegas lifestyle. Night after night, he dazzled audiences with his legendary performances, solidifying his reign as the King of Vegas and transforming The International into an iconic landmark.

Over the years, the hotel underwent several transformations, becoming the Las Vegas Hilton and later the Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino. Yet, despite its changes, Elvis’s legacy remains an indelible part of its identity.

The Ghost of Elvis: Legend or Reality?
The King may have left this world, but stories of his presence at the Westgate persist. Eyewitness accounts, eerie encounters, and unexplained phenomena have fueled speculation that Elvis’s spirit still roams the upper floors of his beloved hotel.

In 2022, Las Vegas 8 News reported on these mysterious happenings. Guests and staff alike have shared experiences of hearing Elvis’s music playing softly in the halls—without any visible source. Lights reportedly flicker on and off, and some claim to have seen a shadowy figure that bears a striking resemblance to the King himself.

The Stepbrother’s Encounter
Elvis’s stepbrother, David Stanley, has shared his own chilling yet heartwarming account. While staying in one of the upper-floor suites, David felt an undeniable presence in the room. He noticed a light across the room turn on—despite there being no way to activate it remotely.

Curious and convinced of his brother’s lingering presence, David reportedly spoke aloud: “Elvis, if that’s you, brother, turn on the light.” To his astonishment, the light flickered on.

For David and many others, these encounters aren’t menacing or frightening. They describe Elvis’s spirit as warm and entertaining, much like the man himself.

The King’s Eternal Presence
Is it mass hysteria? A publicity stunt? Or could it be the spirit of the King himself, forever tied to the place where he created so many memories? Whatever the truth may be, the stories have captivated visitors and fans alike.

Elvis Presley’s legacy at The International Hotel is undeniable. From his unforgettable performances to the countless nights spent in his penthouse suite, he shaped the hotel’s history and its identity. Even decades after his passing, Elvis continues to enchant and intrigue those who visit.

A Lasting Legacy in Las Vegas
While skeptics may dismiss the ghostly tales, the allure of Elvis’s connection to the Westgate remains strong. Whether through the echoes of his music or the mysterious flicker of a light, the King’s spirit feels very much alive in the halls of the hotel he once called home.

So, what do you think? Does Elvis still walk the corridors of The International? Is he haunting Graceland, wandering Memphis, or serenading guests at the Westgate? Wherever he may be, one thing is certain—Elvis Presley’s legacy will never truly leave the building.