Two years after the former Sahara closed its doors at the north end of the Las Vegas Strip, work has begun on the resort’s $415 million makeover that will transform it into SLS Las Vegas. Owner SBE Entertainment is creating a 1,620-room "boutique hotel-casino" that will feature high-end restaurants, two nightclubs and a shopping component. The resort’s three high-rise towers and its parking garage will remain intact, while an older section of rooms will be razed. SLS Las Vegas is set to open in the fall of 2014.

» Rio attraction closing: After 16 years the Rio’s Show in the Sky attraction is closing. You have until March 30 to catch it once more. There’s been no word regarding what might take its place, if anything.

» Palms bars: The Palms has debuted two new bars. The revamped center bar is now called Society, while Heraea is a sports bar and restaurant.

» Smart games: You can now use your smartphone to get rules and detailed information about slots and table games at Caesars Palace, Harrah’s, Paris and Planet Hollywood. By touching your phone to special tags, information about the games can be accessed, including instructions on how to play. The system can also be used to buy show tickets, view daily specials and get other information about the resorts.

Question: Is Las Vegas getting a new roller coaster?

Answer: The Adventuredome indoor park at Circus Circus is adding a new coaster called El Loco. Famed for its hair-raising twists and drops, there are five other El Locos in the world; the Las Vegas ride, when completed, will last 75 seconds.