Let me set up the scene for you.
In the desert (not the song, the real desert), the temperature had reached 110 degrees (43 Celsius). The heat caused bloody noses, tomato-like faces and about seven “I am about to pass out” moments.
In a case like that, what would you do?
- a) Stay on your hotel room with the air conditioning on high
- b) Shop and eat in a place where the temperature is set up to polar conditions
- c) Book an outdoors tour
Options a and b sound fantastic! But me being me, you know how things took a shocking turn.
My sister and brother in law decided to vacation in Las Vegas during the worst possible season: summer. I agreed to meet them for at least two days. Ahh, I thought it was not going to be that bad.
Well, the weather was not fun, and really people, do not go to Vegas in summer, but I wanted to be able to say I experience something new (something on the cultural side, do not start getting weird thoughts). We had a free morning and were headed to Downtown when I popped into the Neon Museum website and, BAM!, I snatched the last two tickets for the day (less than two hours before the tour).
Going to the museum ended up being an excellent idea. This is a place for all those who want to see a different side of Las Vegas, a side full of creativity and vision. It is a refreshing option especially when The Strip is getting rowdier and rowdier by the minute
The Neon Museum
The Neon Museum features about 150 signs from defunct casinos and businesses. All the displays are located outdoors over 6 acres.
The museum exists, in part, thanks to the Young Electric Sign Company, the business selected to create the signs for the casinos that started to operate in the early 30s, after Nevada legalized gambling.
Since the company leased the signs, it was able to place them on its boneyard after mayor failures or when they were done for good. The company donated part of its collection to the museum. Growth has been sustained through private donations and grants.
This “new” boneyard can be visited on a guided tour. Visitors are not allowed to roam on their own since shattered glass and rusty corners are everywhere. Do not worry if you have an aversion to tours. The guides in here are very knowledgeable and understand a lot of people want to go on a photo safari.
Related: Street Art in Dallas
The first cool feature about this museum is the visitor’s center. It is located in what used to be the lobby of La Concha Motel, one of the largest properties on The Strip (when it opened) and host of celebrities such as Ronald Reagan and Muhammad Ali (it was in front of the Circus Circus).
The motel was demolished to build a bigger property but the lobby stood. It was donated to the Neon Museum and the money to divide and reassemble was donated by the Nevada Convention and Visitors Authority and raised from the community.
The tour explores several phases of the history of Las Vegas. Everything starts with the time when the first casinos started to make business on what is nowadays Downtown. You can see signs from The Moulin Rouge, Binions and Golden Nugget (the last two are still up and running but have more modern signs).
The guide gave us a lot of juicy details about family feuds and mafia controlled hotels and resorts.
Those early businessmen were marketing geniuses. They came with tons of ideas to turn an inhospitable, dusty place into an exciting destination. That is one of the reasons they started to use flashy neon signs. They made sure tons of red and yellow were used since studies show those colors loosen up people and make them take more risks. That technique is still used. Think about the logos of McDonalds, Pizza Hut, KFC and Wendy’s.
Also, they came up with the idea of placing dollar signs everywhere and adding a “ding, ding, ding” sound to slot machines.
Non-gambling establishments started to cater to gambling patrons by offering freebies such aspirin (see below).
Other started to offer the latest and greatest technological features (Color TV!).
Suddenly, you had all sorts of businesses using neon, wild colors and enticing offers.
In addition, Nevada reduced the residency requirements for divorce (getting a divorce here was easier than in other parts) and established super simple requirements for marriage (no blood test, for example).
Business used those laws to their advantage and started to capitalize on those demographics. We saw the baby pink and mermaid shaped signs used on wedding chapels. The wedding frenzy has stayed in town. You can take advantage of drive-thru marriages or have a ceremony hosted by Elvis.
Related: Where to Find the Best Street Art in Manhattan
It was interesting to see signs and sculptures from the time resorts started to cater to families. The giant skull that was once part of Treasure Island is on display. By the way, it was decided the kiddie market was not lucrative enough. Most hotels scratched that from their offerings.
You do not have to be that old to realized how much Vegas has changed in the past ten years. The place has nothing to do with how it was when I moved to California 14 years ago.
That is why the tour took a bit of a personal turn when I saw the signs of buildings that were standing when I started to visit the city. The huge sign of the Stardust is in seven pieces throughout the property. I remember the place very well.
The other nostalgic part came when I saw the sign of the Sahara. I stayed there with my husband months before it closed. The SLS Resort was built in its location. Rumor has it that the SLS may rebrand as a modern version of the Sahara since it is not doing well.
The tour ended after we saw the signs for La Concha Motel, the Caesar’s Palace and The Ugly Duckling Used Car Sales (the cutest of them all). Oh, and we saw Aladdin’s Lamp and the sign used for the Liberace show.
I couldn’t leave without taking photos of isolated letter.
Oh wow, that was quite a tour! We enjoyed every bit of it and even forgot about the heat (not really but it was worth getting beaten by the sun). I must reiterate this is an outstanding option for those who want to escape (or are not interested) the craziness of The Strip. I really hope you can check out this place one day.
Details
- You should reserve your spot on a tour with anticipation. The Neon Museum tends to sell out every single day
- If you are lucky (like me), you may be able to snatch a ticket at the last moment. Check out the website for more details
- The tour lasts one hour
- Night tours are available too (the working signs are turned on)
- When it is hot, the museum provides umbrellas for use. Water fountains and water for sell are available on site
- Renovated neon signs have been places on North Las Vegas Boulevard (close to the museum). More signs can be found on the Freemont area
Have you visited or would like to visit the Neon Museum?
Ready to pin? Let’s do this!
Anna says
I love neon lights! As I was reading the post I was wondering if any of them are functioning, so I guess I’d love a night tour the most!!
Ruth says
Yes, some of these work and it would be super cool to visit at night. Also, the museum has restored several pieces and they are on display on Las Vegas Boulevard North (close to the museum).
S.C. says
Wow thats a real interesting museum with all that americana.
Ruth says
I agree with you. Some people may think it is a pretty boring place (and some people do not like museums at all) but this is something different.
image-in-ing: weekly photo linky says
It would be cool to see some of these lit up!
Thanks for joining us at http://image-in-ing.blogspot.com/2017/06/tidying-up-nest.html
Ruth says
Right, a night tour will be a total different experience.
Lolo says
Omg how freaking fun! I’d totally go there!! Although , you’re right! Summer is a terrible time to go to Vegas! Pinned! #CityTripping
Ruth says
Some people say June is not technically summer in Vegas but, really, I do not want to be there on June, July or August.
Driller's Place says
WOW!!! What a great place for photography. The options are endless. Thanks for sharing some really wonderful images.
Ruth says
Glad you liked it. I want to go back already ;0) Like you mentioned, the opportunities for photography are huge. They have photographic tours and I wonder how are those.
Photo Cache says
I have done Vegas in the summer time and I am not doing that again!
Anyway, this is a wonderful side trip when in Vegas. I usually go to Valley of Fire State Park for a hike, but this is really interesting. Thanks.
We may be there sometime this summer (yah I know what I said in the first paragraph of this comment), for stop over on the way to Utah.
Ruth says
I have not been to Valley of Fire yet. For some reason, I cannot seem to plan a trip to the Vegas area when the temperature is right. I mean, if I go, I am with friends and it is difficult to do my own thing when I am in a group. There are several things I want to see in the area.
Katherine says
Honestly, you write the best posts! At first I was a little skeptical of a museum of signs, but I’ll bet the stories were juicy and even though it must have been boiling hot (I have a friend in Vegas who has told me all about the heat at the moment).
I love that sign with the free asprin and sympathy! And I’m going to have to go to hear the mob and mafia stories! #CityTripping
Ruth says
Thanks Katherine! I appreciate your comment. There is a Mob Museum in Downtown Las Vegas. You can get a combined ticket to visit the Mob and Neon Museums. I want to go there next.
Molly says
Oh my this is SO cool
Mollyx
Ruth says
Thanks Molly. Yes, it is super cool!
Patrick Weseman says
That is so cool. I go to Vegas once or twice a year to visit family and have seen a ton of stuff on and off the strip but I can never seem to get online tickets to head there. Lovely pics and that place is on my Vegas bucket list.
Ruth says
This is a great addition to a Vegas bucket list. But, yes, you need to get your ticket as soon as early as possible. The museum is super popular (believe it or not).
Hilary says
I’m going to Vegas in a few weeks and this is on my list! I’m so glad you posted this because I didn’t know I needed to book in advance! #citytripping
Ruth says
Good! Yes, try to get a spot on one of the tours as soon as possible. It gets sold out even when it is burning hot.
ladyfi says
Wow – great signs! Must really be bright and colourful at night (if they light them up).
Ruth says
Yes, they light up some signs. Not sure how many but I think it is enough to create a nice atmosphere.
Birgitta says
Wow! I just say wow!
Ruth says
Ha, ha! I say the same thing!
Lyf&Spice says
I can only imagine how lovely they would look lit up at night… Thanks for the virtual tour <3 #citytripping
Ruth says
No problem! It would be nice to see a lot of these it up. I think the night tours sell out faster than the day tours.
Cristina says
Awesome images and so colorful ! 🙂
Ruth says
The color really captivated me. That is one of the reason I wanted to visit. I cannot miss an opportunity to stop by a place with so much color on it.
Minoru says
Hi! Very fantastic photos in Las Vegas. The sky is blue in your any photo! Thanks for sharing.
Ruth says
Oh yes, we get plenty of sunny days in Los Angeles, Las Vegas and places in between. I guess that is a positive in terms of photography.
Vanessa Brune says
The white building looks exactly like our local library in Tromso! I’d love to visit the museum, though in the hope for colder temperatures, I’d go for the night tour. And how amazing must it be to see all the signs lit?! What a special place!
Ruth says
Really, does the building looks like one in Tromso? I have to check that (will need to Google it). What a coincidence! I would say things should be cooler after 5:00 p.m. (but still in the high 80s which is good compared to 110).
Ruth says
Looked in Google and the library does look like the lobby of La Concha Motel. I am so impressed!
Ashley @ The Wandering Weekenders says
We did this during our trip to Vegas in March, and it is hands down one of my favorite things to do in Vegas! I loved learning more about the history of the city and seeing all of the signs for the different hotels too. I can’t believe that y’all walked around when it was that hot! It was pretty darn hot when we were there in March, so I’m sure those umbrellas were much needed!
Ruth says
Was it hot in March? I visited two years ago on the month of March and the weather was perfect. What else you did in Vegas? I try to do different things when I go there.
Al says
How fun – I’ll have to add this to my list if I’m in Vegas again. I’m pretty sure I’ve seen a couple of those signs when they were in use.
Ruth says
It would be cool to determine how many you saw when they were still up. I was able to identify at least three.
Pauliina / PauMau says
Such an interesting place! Never been in States, maybe some day. But my bike is an original American, brought by boat =D
Ruth says
Cool! What type of bike do you have?
Sharon Wagner says
I’ve really wanted to go on a photo safari here, ever since reading about it in the travel section. Now your blog post really wet my camera appetite. It’s at the top of my L.V. bucket list. Fun!
Ruth says
The museum opened several year ago but this was my opportunity to visit. I wanted to see more of Downtown but it was too hot. At least, it is good to know there is more to see for my next visit.
Sharon says
Fascinating! I didn’t realize this museum is outdoors, and I had no clue how large and extensive it is. I’d love to visit but not right now when it’s about 117 there! In cooler weather this would be great fun!
Ruth says
The museum has a pretty decent size and it is being expanded. It will be nice to visit the new area once it is open (not sure how different it is going to be).
jo says
I absolutely love this! It’s like the junkyard of Vegas, where old neon goes to die, but it has a charm and a story all of its own. This is right up my street but I’m not sure I could do it in those temperatures! #WanderfulWednesday
Ruth says
It is right up on my alley too. Seems like the city wants to move into the arts and culture direction. I feel like it is a needed and welcomed change.
Pat says
Wow , Ruth, what a cool place to visit! I’m so glad these iconic signs were preserved. They really tell a story about Las Vegas
Ruth says
I feel like it is important to preserve these. It tells the story of how several hopefuls converted a place into a massive success.
jill says
This is a dream destination for me – the Neon museum – but not in that heat! It was totally booked the last time I was in Vegas. Thanks for sharing – I’ll visit through you until I can make it there in person!
Ruth says
I get it! it is not that fun when the heat is almost killing you. See, booking in advance is essential.
Setarra says
OMG, I would totally visit the Neon Museum if I ever make a trip to Vegas (I’ve still never been). I love all the signs and the stories behind them. I can only imagine how cool it would be to do a night tour with everything lit up!
Ruth says
You have to come to Vegas! I know the place is not for everyone but there is a bit for all preferences. I am sure you are going to have a good time there.
Elizabeth (Wander Mum) says
It may have been hot weather but it was certainly worth going to the Neon Museum. Amazing photos and fascinating to hear more about the history behind Las Vegas and see the vintage signs. Free Asprin! How times have changed! Thanks for linking #citytripping
Ruth says
You are right, how times have changed! I think this is a great place to realize that. In some way, the things used to attract people many years ago sound and look very simple. Nowadays, millions of dollars are used on more complicated gimmicks.
Anisa says
I have heard of the Neon Museum but haven’t made it there yet. The neon signs are just so iconic and I am mesmerized by them sometimes in Vegas. I need to make time for this on my next visit. Thanks for sharing on #TheWeeklyPostcard.
Ruth says
I am sure you will like this place. Agree that the neon signs are mesmerizing. Their colors are real attention grabbers.
Anda says
This museum must be something new, because I’ve been to Las Vegas about 18 months ago and didn’t see it. I would have loved to see it. If any place can brag about neon lights, it must be Las Vegas. #TheWeeklyPostcard
Ruth says
It has been open for several years. The thing is that it is a bit apart from the most popular attractions. It is close to the Freemont area in Downtown.
Jessica @ Independent Travel Cats says
Haha, I have not so fond memories of the temperature in Las Vegas in July…definitely agree that it is not a recommended time to visit as the heat and sun are terrible! Would love to do the Neon Museum if we ever get back there – looks fantastic!
Ruth says
I am still not sure why my sister planned a trip for summer. It escapes my mind (maybe she thought it was not going to be that bad).
Clare (Suitcases and Sandcastles) says
This is so fascinating, Ruth! It’s much more like the Vegas I’d imagined than the slot machines I found when I got there. Love your photos too. Those colours are wonderful! I’d definitely add this to my list if I ever go to Vegas again. Thanks for sharing on #FarawayFiles
Ruth says
Claire, I am glad to share this side of Vegas. The slots and casinos can get a bit tiring (at least for me). I prefer to explore beyond The Strip (has a list of more places to check in the future).
Katy says
Love it Ruth. The Neon Museum is probably the only thing that would tempt me back to Vegas. I’d pay extra to see it at night too. Thanks for joining #FarawayFiles PS – love your pin!
Ruth says
Katy, that is pretty funny (really!). Hope to feature on the site many more spots in and around Las Vegas.
Sol Solntze says
This is such a cool place! The signs themselves are great, of course, but I love the idea of a tour that tells you something about the history of the town. It is such an… odd sort of place, Las Vegas (she says, on the strength of one short visit).
Ruth says
I agree Las Vegas is an odd place and we can assume that there is no history behind it. But, the tour proves the city is full of interesting facts and characters. Can’t wait to learn more.
Jeanna says
Excellent idea, great photo op and good lighting, what else could you want except weather about 40˚ cooler. That’s just insane, I got sick when it was in the 90s.
Ruth says
I know, everything looks excellent except for that weather (the only thing you cannot feel or experience form the photos). Believe, I felt pretty bad and wanted to leave as soon as possible.
Keri | Ladies What Travel says
This is top of my list if I ever visit ‘Vegas, I love quirky places like this! #TheWeeklyPostcard badge
Ruth says
Cool! Hope you make it one day.
Sarah says
I’m always looking for fun new things in Vegas (that don’t involve losing/spending large sums of money). We take a lot of work trips, and this looks like a great stop. Love all of the pictures. #TheWeeklyPostcard
Ruth says
There you go! I think this is the perfect place for you. Plus, they stay open till late (since they do the night tours).
eileen g says
I like neon and vintage signs (who doesn’t?); it’s one of the things I liked about Flagstaff when we visited. i would totally visit this museum, and would want to do it with a guide, so nice that they include one. But yes, visiting Vegas in summer, is a challenge!
Ruth says
I spent only one night in Flagstaff. I would love to go back and see the sights (and those neon signs you are talking about). The guide in Vegas was great. You can tell they love their town and offer visitors their best.
Rachel@safari254 says
The moment you mentioned 43 Celsius – I’m like hell no! I live in the tropics but still struggle with extreme heat. I guess with such amazing pics and the great signs the trip to the neon museum was certainly worth it.
Ruth says
I am from the Caribbean and that is still too much for me. On the other hand, my brother in law is from Jamaica and he said he loved the weather.
Sally's Tips 4 Trips says
At first, I thought “ugh you have to do a tour” but I think you need the tour. Being able to hear the stories about all the signs wouldn’t have the same effect if you just wandered about and saw some old signs without knowing where they from and why they are no longer standing.
Ruth says
That is true Sally. I think the tour is needed in order to appreciate the artifacts. Plus, this can be considered a “dangerous” place because of the state of the signs. Somebody needs to keep an eye on visitors.
Rhonda Albom says
I did not realize that this museum existed. I will definitely go if I ever return to Las Vegas. I too remember a number of those signs from earlier days.
Ruth says
Glad I am not the only one who remember some of those signs.
Anna says
I cannot believe you took an outdoors walking tour in that summer desert heat. I know how horrible going to Vegas in the summer is, and even the thought of that makes me grumpy and want to pass out. The night tour of this will be much better! And I remember the Sahara!
Ruth says
I know it sounds crazy but it was my opportunity to go. My sister went to the Grand Canyon under similar conditions. Now, I think that is worst since there is no place to hide there.
Christine Keane says
What a cool place! Random question… but is this the same place that is in the movie “Vegas Vacation”? lol
Ruth says
I have no idea. I do not even want to ask about the story on that movie (ha, ha!)
Staci, The Voyageer says
Vegas in summer… yeesh!! I visited the Neon Boneyard and it was my FAVORITE part of my trip (we were there in December). I liked it even more than the Wynn restaurant… guess I’m a sucker for colorful photo ops! #TheWeeklyPostcard
Ruth says
That is cool! I have never been to the Wynn. I wanted to check out the buffet but we ended at The Cosmopolitan.
Jim ~ Reflections Enroute says
Wow Ruth, walking around in the sun must have been killer! I’ll be inVegas next April and will definitely make plans for a visit here. Thanks for linking in to #wkendtravelinspiration
Ruth says
Now, April is an excellent time to visit! I am sure you guys are going to have tons of fun.
April | Minivan Adventures says
Holy wow! What a cool museum! I am so adding this to my list of stuff to see and do the next time we go to Vegas!
Ruth says
Glad you liked it! It is a great place to stop by.
NatureFootstep Travel says
looks cool but maybe too much for my taste. 🙂
Ruth says
Go it!
Rob+Ann @TravelLatte(.net) says
I absolutely love the “old Vegas” – it’s that familiar nostalgia that you found at the Neon Museum. If I could adopt half of those old signs, I would. (And Ann would kill me!) I remember driving down Fremont Street and gazing at all of the signs as a kid. Would love to have Aladdin’s lamp or the Stardust sign. Love that mid-century coolness! Thanks for sharing, Ruth! #TheWeeklyPostcard
Ruth says
Rob, this is hilarious! You can adopt all those signs but you will need to live in the countryside (or in an area away from the city). You can open your own museum and start a business. I am sure it will be a great roadside attraction.
Sam | Away She Went says
I’ve always wanted to check out the Neon Museum, but I’ve never actually made it out there. I blame it on the free drinks they give you while gambling lol. Vegas in the summer is rough – although I live in Phoenix, so it’s pretty much the same temp.
Ruth says
Free drinks and snacks! I can see why you have not made it there. I have never been to Phoenix. Need to check it out ASAP.
Lyn aka The Travelling Lindfields says
I love it! I so want to do this. What a pity it can only be seen on a tour. Wouldn’t it be fun to just wander around on your own.
Ruth says
I know but you know how liable the place would be if somebody gets a big cut or loose a finger. No kidding, you know how people are.
Michele {Malaysian Meanders} says
OMG! I totally want to visit this museum! My parents used to take me to Vegas a lot when I was a kid, and I swear that I remember some of these signs. Even that lobby building of the La Concha hotel looks familiar. I’m always a bit sad when an old Vegas casino/hotel is demolished, so I’m glad that part of the sparkle lives on.
Ruth says
You have to go then! It would be cool to see how many you recognize. I remember some, so, I assume you will remember even more.
Life Images by Jill says
This looks like a fascinating place to visit and tour – though I don’t think I would have been able to cope with the heat to do it. I don’t do “heat” and “hot sun” very well. 🙂 Happy travels and thank you for stopping by my blog last week.