The Sands Hotel was a historic Las Vegas Strip hotel/casino that operated from December 15, 1952 to June 30, 1996. Designed by architect Wayne McAllister, the Sands was the seventh resort that opened on the Strip. It's biggest claim to fame was the original Ocean's 11 starring Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Sammy Davis Jr and crew. It became one of the many properties owned by recluse Howard Hughes in the 60's. On November 26, 1996, less than 5 months after closing, it was imploded.