Hilton Worldwide, which hasn’t been on the Las Vegas Strip for 14 years, is coming back – in a way. DoubleTree by Hilton and the Tropicana Las Vegas on Oct. 26 announced a franchise agreement whereby Tropicana Las Vegas will continue to own and operate all 1,600 guest rooms in the 35-acre resort, which recently completed a $200 million comprehensive transformation.

When the hotel becomes the Tropicana Las Vegas-a DoubleTree by Hilton in January 2013, guests will be able to earn and redeem Hilton HHonors points and airline miles at the resort, which features four restaurants, a spa, a nightclub and beach club, an entertainment complex, and a state-of-the-art conference center and exhibition hall.

 “We are thrilled to be affiliated with such a first-class organization that shares our customer-centric values, and we are honored that DoubleTree by Hilton selected us to represent their marquee brand on the Las Vegas Strip,” said Tropicana Las Vegas CEO Alex Yemenidjian.

 “After careful consideration, we selected the Tropicana Las Vegas to represent the DoubleTree by Hilton brand on the Las Vegas Strip, not only because of the beautiful transformation of the resort, but also because of its unparalleled commitment to guest service,” said Rob Palleschi, global head of DoubleTree by Hilton. “We are proud that, with the addition of Tropicana Las Vegas to our portfolio, Hilton Worldwide will continue to build upon its rich history in Las Vegas, and Hilton HHonors members will have a new home on the Strip.”

The Tropicana Las Vegas features redesigned rooms and suites, a 50,000-square-foot casino, more than 60,000 square feet of meeting and exhibition space, several new restaurants and bars, a new race and sports book, Glow, A Mandara Spa and fitness center, and Bagatelle Beach & Nightclub (set to open October 31). Entertainment includes Dancing with the Stars: Live in Las Vegas (seasonal), Laugh Factory and the Mob Attraction Las Vegas.