Lorenzi Park, Las Vegas facts for kids

Lorenzi Park is a historic park in Las Vegas, Nevada. It was one of the very first parks built in the city. A French immigrant named David G. Lorenzi first imagined this park. He came to the Las Vegas Valley in 1911. He heard that special underground wells, called artesian wells, could bring water to the desert. This water could turn dry land into farms. In 1912, he bought 80 acres of land outside of town. This land was about two miles west of the downtown Fremont Street area.

The Park's Early Days

When David Lorenzi drilled for water, he found a lot of it! This water helped him dream of creating a vineyard, like those in France, to make European-style wines. But in 1912, people in Las Vegas preferred beer and whiskey. So, the vineyard idea didn't last long. Instead, the large amount of water allowed Lorenzi to create the famous lakes we see in the park today.

Lorenzi's Lake Park Opens

The property first opened in 1926 as Lorenzi’s Lake Park. It had a swimming pool and a dance hall. There were two lakes, each with its own island. The park also had fruit orchards. Lorenzi charged very little to enter the park. He made money from the fun things he offered inside.

The park quickly became a popular spot for locals. Visitors could enjoy rowboats on the lakes. They could also buy ice cream and watch firework shows. The park hosted exciting prize fights and horse races. People loved the dance contests and beauty pageants. There was even a band shell where bands played music every week. This shell also worked as an outdoor movie screen!

Changes Over Time

In 1936, Lorenzi wanted to sell the property to the city to become a public park. He offered it for $70,000. But the city said it was too expensive for their budget.

Becoming Twin Lakes Lodge

In 1940, the property was sold and became Twin Lakes Lodge. This was a resort with a 48-room hotel. In the 1950s, the Nevada Test Site was built nearby. Scientists and their families who worked there often stayed at Twin Lakes. The resort also became known as a "dude ranch." People would stay there for a certain amount of time to establish residency. The motel offered a real "Western" experience. Guests could go horseback riding, watch rodeo events, and go fishing. They also enjoyed authentic Western food. This brought visitors from all over the world!

Lorenzi Park Today

Finally, in 1965, the city bought the resort for $750,000. It was then turned into a city park. The old motel buildings and the two lakes help us remember Las Vegas's past.

In 2013, the City of Las Vegas reopened Lorenzi Park after a big upgrade that cost $30 million. The lake was completely redone to look like its original "Twin Lake" design. The band shell on the island was also brought back. New fun things were added, but the park still keeps the feel of the old resort.