The Neon Museum Las Vegas
Explore Las Vegas's glittering past through iconic, retired neon signs in a captivating outdoor museum.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Signs glow, photos pop
The Neon Museum Las Vegas
Best Time
Signs glow, photos pop
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore Las Vegas's glittering past through iconic, retired neon signs in a captivating outdoor museum.
"A must-see for anyone who loves culture, history, and a little retro magic."
🚗 Uber is Your Friend
Skip the walk from Fremont; Uber/Lyft is quick, safe, and affordable for reaching the museum .
✨ Nighttime Magic
The museum truly comes alive after dark with glowing neon signs. Book evening tickets for the best experience .
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Neon Boneyard
Main outdoor exhibition area
A captivating graveyard of iconic, retired neon signs telling Las Vegas's vibrant history.
Brilliant! Immersive Light Show
North Gallery
Experience a dazzling projection mapping show that brings non-functional signs to life with light and sound.
La Concha Motel Lobby
Museum entrance
Step into a preserved mid-century modern gem, offering a stylish prelude to the neon wonders.
Planning Your Visit
Night vs. Day: Choose Your Glow
Getting There Safely
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Uber is Your Friend
Skip the walk from Fremont; Uber/Lyft is quick, safe, and affordable for reaching the museum.
✨ Nighttime Magic
The museum truly comes alive after dark with glowing neon signs. Book evening tickets for the best experience.
🗣️ Guided Tour is Worth It
Hear fascinating stories behind the signs and Vegas history you won't get otherwise.
📸 Photo Ops Galore
This place is incredibly photogenic, especially at night. Bring your camera!
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Uber is Your Friend
Skip the walk from Fremont; Uber/Lyft is quick, safe, and affordable for reaching the museum.
✨ Nighttime Magic
The museum truly comes alive after dark with glowing neon signs. Book evening tickets for the best experience.
🗣️ Guided Tour is Worth It
Hear fascinating stories behind the signs and Vegas history you won't get otherwise.
📸 Photo Ops Galore
This place is incredibly photogenic, especially at night. Bring your camera!
⏳ Book in Advance
Tickets, especially for evening tours, can sell out. Plan ahead to secure your spot.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise The Neon Museum for its unique historical significance and stunning visual appeal, especially at night. The collection of retired neon signs offers a captivating glimpse into Las Vegas's past, with many finding the guided tours highly informative. Some visitors note that the surrounding neighborhood can feel a bit rough, leading to recommendations for using ride-sharing services.
"Absolutely amazing! The history tour was incredible. I think it was Dave that did the tour and honestly I was disappointed it was over. He has some great stories and information! Will definitely bring friends the next time we are back in Vegas.
The staff was also equally amazing. They had to cancel the movie tour due to heat and you could see how they truly were sorry about it.
The staff were friendly and also ready to answer any question - the display was more than we expected but we were wishing we could see more and hope they can expand."
AJ's Mystic Mirror and Custom Creations
"Really cool place to visit and see the history of Old Vegas Neon signs.
Only open at night and outside, so plan accordingly.
Small gift store, but does have a selection of books, snacks and t-shirts to purchase.
Parking is across the street for free.
Security guards are right there to watch cars.
Over the signs outside and the history is amazing. Only downside is no cameras allowed, other than cell phone camera.
We spent about and hour and a half walking around on a Tuesday night. Was not crowded at all. Few bus trips stopped to fill it up, but they were in and out rather quickly.
Well worth the visit. Also drive around the main street back towards Vegas and you will see more older Neon on the sigh post."
Tom Z
"This was the one place in Las Vegas I wanted to visit the most! I was disappointed that I could not arrange my visit during a time that they offered special sessions so I could bring my camera, no matter, just set your phone to ProRaw and you’ll get similar photos. The staff was great, the signs were amazing and pay the extra to get the “Brilliance” experience, it was so worth it! Go late on a weekday to avoid the crowds. The neighborhood leading to the museum looks dicey at night, but it was safe and no one bothered us."
Mountaineer Photo Excursions
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Neon Museum is located north of downtown Las Vegas. While it's technically walkable from Fremont Street, most visitors strongly advise against it due to safety concerns, especially at night. Taking an Uber or Lyft is the recommended and safest option, typically costing around $10-$15 from the Strip and taking about 5-10 minutes.+1
Reddit users generally advise against walking to The Neon Museum from Fremont Street, particularly at night. While some have done it during the day with caution, the area can have a significant homeless population and may not feel safe. An Uber or Lyft is a much safer and quicker alternative.+1
For visitors not driving, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are the most convenient and recommended ways to reach The Neon Museum. Public transportation options exist but are less direct and can be time-consuming.
Yes, The Neon Museum offers free parking for visitors. This is a convenient option if you are driving your own vehicle or a rental car.
By car or rideshare, the journey from the Las Vegas Strip to The Neon Museum typically takes about 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices vary depending on the type of visit (daytime, nighttime, guided tour, or Brilliant show). General admission tickets typically start around $20 for daytime visits and can go up to $30-$40 for nighttime experiences and guided tours. It's best to check their official website for the most current pricing and package options.
Yes, it is highly recommended to book your tickets for The Neon Museum in advance, especially for nighttime visits and guided tours, as they often sell out. Booking online ensures you secure your preferred time slot.
The Neon Museum's hours vary seasonally and by day of the week. They are typically open during the day and into the evening. It's essential to check their official website for the most up-to-date operating hours for your planned visit date.
Yes, The Neon Museum offers several ticket options, including general admission for daytime visits, guided tours that provide historical context, and tickets for the 'Brilliant!' immersive light show. Some packages combine these experiences.
While it might be possible to purchase tickets at the door if available, it is strongly advised to book in advance online. Popular time slots, especially for evening tours, sell out quickly, and you risk not being able to enter if you don't have pre-purchased tickets.
🎫 ✨ Onsite Experience
Many visitors find twilight to be the ideal time to visit The Neon Museum. This allows you to see the signs in daylight and then witness them illuminate as dusk settles, creating a magical atmosphere. Evening guided tours are also highly recommended for the historical context.
A typical visit to The Neon Museum lasts about 1 to 1.5 hours. This allows ample time to explore the Boneyard, take photos, and, if you've booked it, enjoy a guided tour or the 'Brilliant!' show.
Absolutely! The Neon Museum is renowned for its incredible photo opportunities, especially at night when the signs are illuminated. It's a popular spot for photographers and influencers.+1
'Brilliant!' is an immersive light and sound show that uses projection mapping to bring many of the museum's non-functional neon signs to life. It's a unique way to experience the collection and is often included in premium ticket packages.
Yes, photography is allowed and encouraged at The Neon Museum. However, tripods and professional photography equipment may require special permits or advance arrangements, so it's best to check their policy if you plan on extensive shoots.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Neon Museum itself does not have a full-service restaurant. However, there are often vending machines for snacks and drinks available on-site. You'll find a wider array of dining options in the nearby Fremont East district or back on the Las Vegas Strip.
Generally, outside food and drinks are not permitted inside The Neon Museum to help preserve the exhibits. Small, personal water bottles might be allowed, but it's best to confirm their specific policy upon arrival or on their website.
The Neon Museum is located in the Arts District, which has a growing number of unique restaurants, bars, and cafes. Fremont Street Experience also offers numerous dining choices, from casual to more upscale, a short Uber ride away.
📸 📸 Photography
The absolute best time for photography is during twilight, when the sky is still light enough to capture details but the neon signs are beginning to glow. Nighttime offers dramatic shots with the signs fully illuminated, creating a classic Vegas vibe.
Tripods and professional photography equipment may require special permission or a separate permit. It's advisable to contact The Neon Museum directly in advance to inquire about their policies regarding tripods and professional shoots.
You can expect to capture stunning images of vintage and iconic Las Vegas neon signs, from old casinos and hotels to unique roadside attractions. The Boneyard offers a diverse collection, and the 'Brilliant!' show adds a dynamic, light-based element to your photos.
While there are general guided tours that offer historical context, dedicated photography tours are not always explicitly offered. However, the guided tours often provide excellent insights that can enhance your photographic approach. Check their website for any special photography events or workshops.
For nighttime photography, you'll want to use a tripod for stability and experiment with longer exposure times to capture the glow of the neon. A wider aperture can help isolate signs, and shooting in RAW format will give you more flexibility in post-processing.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider booking a guided tour if your children have a good attention span, as the stories behind the signs can be captivating. The 'Brilliant!' show at night can also be a hit, offering a dazzling light and sound spectacle. Just be mindful of the walking involved and ensure everyone stays hydrated, especially during warmer months.
📸 Photographers & Influencers
To maximize your photographic opportunities, aim for twilight or nighttime visits. Invest in a good tripod for low-light conditions and experiment with long exposures. While general admission allows for great shots, inquire about any special photography permits or tours if you plan on extensive professional shoots. The La Concha Motel lobby also offers a stylish, mid-century modern setting for portraits.
💍 Couples & Elopements
Consider booking a nighttime tour or a private event for a truly special experience. The illuminated signs create a magical ambiance, perfect for capturing stunning wedding photos. Even for a date night, a visit to the museum after dark offers a charming and unforgettable way to experience a different side of Las Vegas.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of Vegas Through Neon
Established in 1996, the museum's mission is to preserve and display these significant pieces of Las Vegas history. The Neon Boneyard, the museum's primary outdoor exhibition space, houses over 200 retired signs, some dating back to the 1930s. Walking through this collection is like taking a stroll down memory lane, with each sign a reminder of the dreams, fortunes, and entertainment that once defined the Las Vegas Strip and downtown area.
Notable signs include those from legendary establishments like the Stardust, Sahara, and Moulin Rouge. The museum also features the iconic Stardust sign, a beloved landmark that was saved from demolition. The La Concha Motel lobby, a stunning example of mid-century modern architecture, serves as the museum's visitor center, adding another layer of historical charm to the experience.
Experiencing the Glow: Day vs. Night
However, it's the nighttime experience that truly transforms The Neon Museum into a magical wonderland. As dusk settles, the signs begin to flicker and glow, casting an ethereal light on the Boneyard. This is when the museum truly comes alive, offering a surreal and nostalgic glimpse into old Las Vegas. The 'Brilliant!' immersive light show further enhances this experience, using projection mapping to animate non-functional signs and create a dynamic spectacle.
Many visitors recommend visiting during twilight, a period that bridges the gap between day and night. This allows you to capture photos in the fading light and then witness the full glory of the illuminated signs. Regardless of your choice, booking a guided tour, especially for nighttime, is highly recommended to gain deeper insights into the history and stories behind these iconic pieces.
Photography Tips for the Neon Museum
For nighttime photography, a tripod is essential to achieve sharp images with longer exposure times, allowing the neon to truly shine. Experiment with different aperture settings to control depth of field and isolate specific signs. Shooting in RAW format will give you the most flexibility for editing, especially when dealing with the vibrant and varied colors of the neon.
Don't be afraid to get creative! Look for interesting angles, reflections, and compositions. The museum's unique setting, with its collection of retired signs, provides a backdrop unlike any other. Remember to check the museum's policy on tripods and professional equipment if you plan on using specialized gear.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit