Diane Taylor

Sneaking a Peek…Inside Wayne’s World

I’ve been fascinated by the idea of touring Wayne Newton’s Casa de Shenandoah estate. Several months ago, we were told tours would be available later this year, and I’ve been waiting for news. Now, we neighbors are seeing a flurry of work taking place. Trees have been planted. Landscapers are primping and polishing. Construction equipment is coming and going. Today, my husband and I saw a new rooftop rising above the level of the perimeter walls. I (and a camera) had to take a look.

In addition to poking said camera through a loose bit of canvas on the property gate at Tomiyasu, I found my way to a Security stop at the south edge of the property off Pecos. I admitted my stealth camera activity and did not notice a raised eyebrow. In fact, two security officers there were quite nice. They told me they were not authorized to give out information about the project, though one did offer the casual opinion that, “This project is a slam dunk; the property is beautiful with horses and lush landscaping and 75 species of birds.” When a 10-year Newton employee was asked what it was like to work for Mr. Las Vegas, he answered quickly, “Wayne Newton is the nicest guy in the world; I’ve never worked for anyone better.” I was glad to hear that.

Yes, I was given the name of Mr. Newton’s publicist and I have a call into her, but I called on Friday afternoon, and busy folks generally aren’t sitting by phones at that time. But the news is: Wayne Newton’s project looks to be on its way! I’m running what photos I have in case other readers have been as curious as I have been.

Look closely and you'll see a landscape worker putting
finishing touches on Newton's corner sculpture garden at Pecos and Sunset.
Photo by Diane Taylor
This construction was going on inside the Newton property on Friday.
Photo by Diane Taylor
A graceful lake is part of the Newton property as seen from the Tomiyasu gate.
Photo by Diane Taylor
Tall trees have been installed to make the Newton perimeter walls even taller.
Photo by Diane Taylor
Newton's fancy Casa de Shenandoah gate on Pecos is often photographed by Las Vegas visitors. The photo below was taken through one of the small windows seen on the gate.
Photo by Diane Taylor
This is the long entrance one would see if the golden gate were opened.
Photo by Diane Taylor

Comments

9 responses on “Sneaking a Peek…Inside Wayne’s World”

  1. I know several people who can’t visit Las Vegas without driving past this property. I think this will be a hit, at least for a while.

    Mark

  2. Great story & photos, Diane! Maybe Wayne Newton isn’t crazy after all to think his estate could be a tourist mecca. And maybe he needs you for a publicist!

  3. I keep imagining Diane looking like a camera-toting Pink Panther sneaking around the walls of the Newton estate….

  5. Another different and interesting story. I too look forward to the opening of Wayne’s estate for touring. I believe it will be a big tourist and locals draw. Thank you.

  6. I originally though this was terrible idea, but maybe not. You certainly piqued my interest! Nice photos.

  7. It is my intention to be one of the first visitors to Casa de Shenandoah although I’ve always thought it should be “Casa de la Shenandoah.” Grammar, please. Guess I’m not the only one interested in the “sprucing up.” Great pictures and story.

  8. Hey after seeing the pictures of the estate I think it will be a big hit.I have always wanted to see the inside,so I will definitely be going to see it mikem,ps mark and Megan you already knew that didn’t you, mikem

  9. Libby: The grammar has bothered me since the first time I saw it. I shudder every time…

    Kit: Nice to see you on here — sorry I didn’t see your comment when you first posted it.

    Mike: Yeah, I knew that you’d want to see this place….

Comments are closed.