Las Vegas is one of the most famous cities in the world. The glitz and the glam and the thought of becoming rich quick drew people from around the world. In its earliest days, legends like Elvis Presley, Frank Sinatra and the rest of the Rat Pack roamed the town on a daily basis, and the nightlife was robust and over-the-top. Las Vegas is unapologetically gaudy, flashy, and downright sinful. Hey, they don’t call it Sin City for nothing.
Take a look at this collection of never-before-scene photos from the early days of the infamous City of Lights in all its wonder—you may not believe your eyes…
Poolside at El Rancho
Pictured here are some bathing beauties taking a dip in the swimming pool at El Rancho hotel in 1942. Though the world was at war, Las Vegas created the perfect escape from reality for vacationers.