Of course for Vegas, there is the Neon Museum in Las Vegas, Nevada, the ideal location for anyone interested in the exciting history of the city. Las Vegas, Nevada: A museum that is committed to the preservation and display of classic neon signs from its famed Las Vegas Strip.
History of the Neon Museum
The Neon Museum: A gleaming gem in the rough landscape of Las Vegas Street Art, Creator by Prince Pat. Action and Style Wars documentary can become crucial to crackling Chronicle Heritage from Celluloid Critics.
Founded in 1996, the nonprofit Neon Museum; The museum was established with this goal in mind: preserving legendary neon signs from the history of Las Vegas. The signs are a nod to the birthplace of these three things, dating back to its original history as an entertainment/ gambling/tourism city. The neon signs of new-age casinos and hotels left these old neon signs in the dust. To preserve this vital component of Las Vegas history, a few concerned citizens banded together and created what is now known as the Neon Museum. The museum has been collecting signs since it first opened and now has a collection that dates back to as early as 1930.
Museum Construction and Arrangement
The most well-known part of the museum is the Neon Boneyard, a vast outdoor display precinct. You can enjoy the BoneyardBoneyard on foot, as it features over 250 signs displayed in this open-air gallery. Visitors can leisurely peruse an extensive collection of neon art and history. Among the BoneyardBoneyard, the museum has the North Gallery, mainly in the case of special events like weddings, but also with exhibits that complete the collection from the central part.
- The Neon Boneyard: Heart of the Collection
At the heart of The Neon Museum is the Neon Boneyard, a collection that in its entirety occupies more than two acres and comprises more than 150 unrestored signs that date from the late 1930s through to the early 90s. Among the things in The Boneyard are such famous lights as Caesars Palace, and some fiberglass props — among them a skull that was once installed at Treasure Island. A reintroduction to remnants of yesteryear, artfully arranged to reflect the visual essence of Las Vegas.
- North Gallery and Brilliant! Experience
Also in the North Gallery, visitors will delight at Brilliant! , an audiovisual experience that animates decommissioned signs. Lasting just 30 minutes and created by artist Craig Winslow, this spectacle uses projection mapping to return the light of neon signs through time from a dark hole in history via musical accompaniment. They will also get to witness the lights from legendary Las Vegas signs light up around them, effectively taking their senses on a trip through time. The North Gallery, meanwhile, is home to the Las Vegas Luminaries mural featuring some of the unsung heroes who helped shape the city’s cultural tapestry.
La Concha Visitor Center: A Historic Resource
Visitors get their first taste of what’s to come at the museum by passing through a visitor center in the former lobby of La Concha Motel. The legendary architect Paul Revere Williams designed the visitor center, transforming the La Concha Motel lobby. A mid-century design (built-in 1961), this architectural gem with its curved roof greets visitors and acts as an informative precursor before going into the exhibits. A tasteful restoration of this mid-century piece keeps the Old Vegas alive.
The Neon Museum
That museum collection goes beyond just neon lights that once adorned the Strip. The Neon Boneyard includes signage from iconic Las Vegas casinos, hotels, and other businesses that have shaped the history of the city. Among them are some of our favorite signs, including those from the Stardust, Sahara, and Moulin Rouge hotels. Another fave is The Aladdin’s Lamp, which is from the Aladdin Casino. Every sign has a story to tell, giving insight into the glamorous — and sometimes grimy — history of the city. Large information boards at each location highlight the design and craftsmanship behind these grand pieces of art.
Educational programs and community engagement
The museum provides a variety of programs aimed at even the youngest readers. Families may take part in neon science at STEAM Saturday and revel in a deeper dive into sign design and elements of the past with docent-guided tours. Through a partnership with the city, some restored signs are now going on display in public locations around Las Vegas Boulevard — turning the street into something of a scenic byway featuring neon art.
Events Opportunities To Photograph
The nostalgic vibe of The Neon Boneyard also lends itself well to various photography and film projects, which include weddings, personal photos, or props. Ideas for significant photo shoots However, the museum needs to make special arrangements for commercial photography to ensure that it keeps control of its space in order to preserve the artwork. The museum also offers wedding and private event space rentals, allowing guests to create special memories against the backdrop of nostalgia.
Visiting hours and tickets
Instead, a visit to the Neon Museum offers an illuminating historical tour (day and night tours available). General operating times will be from 4-10 p.m. To confirm hours, visit the official website or call ahead, significantly since they may change with the season or special events. The Museum is Closed on Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day. Tickets are available online in advance and at the museum. Tickets cost $20 (general admission) to $28 for night tours with guides. Nevada resident and senior discounts are available. Kids under six are free to enter.
Visitor Information
When visiting the Neon Boneyard, visitors should be ready to walk outside. Desert temperatures can be scorching during summer, so visitors should be prepared. You can freely capture the neon lights in photography; however, you need prior permission to use a tripod or conduct commercial shoots. In addition, the museum is wheelchair accessible, giving most people the opportunity to enjoy this experience.
News and Events
The Neon Museum attracts locals and tourists alike with special events like planned photo walks, art exhibits, and limited-run installations. Additionally, in 2024, the museum added new signs to its collection, including remnants from the now-closed Fiesta Rancho Hotel and Casino. Artists are guests at the museum, and unique light shows bring dynamic content to life on signs in the North Gallery. Friday, the museum unveiled its latest language upgraded initiative, “Spectacular! Walk where history lives! Historic signs were re-animated through projection mapping. This show is cutting-edge tech & history meets immersive experience for guests.
News
Recently the Neon Museum has teamed up with the City of Las Vegas to open new exhibit spaces. They also intend to create new education programs that teach the value of preserving neon art. The museum is also raising funds to renovate a few of the more famous signs. To ensure that future generations can experience the beauty and deep meaning of this exclusive art form, we are undertaking this work. Consequently, we are committed to preserving its legacy.
