This article was last updated on Nov. 08, 2023
Las Vegas is one of the most iconic cities in the world and is also home to a variety of amazing museums. Whether you’re taking a trip to Sin City or just passing through, visiting one of the city’s incredible museums is an absolute must. No matter where your interests lie, there’s likely a museum in Las Vegas that can offer something fascinating for everyone.
Keep in mind, this isn’t necessarily a Top 10 list, but a list of the best in the city in no particular order.
The Mob Museum
The Mob Museum, located in Las Vegas, is a one-of-a-kind experience. It is dedicated to uncovering the history and details of organized crime in America. Designed as an interactive journey that spans three floors, visitors can explore a variety of exhibits focusing on mobsters, historical artifacts, and photographs of gang members and crime scenes. One particularly memorable exhibit is the St. Valentine’s Day Massacre display, which features authentic artifacts from the 1929 event, including the infamous wall that’s said to have absorbed multiple bullets.
The Museum also hosts rotating special exhibitions, such as the Bugsy Siegel showcase, and seminars with experts on topics relating to organized crime in America. Guests can choose to take a guided tour or rent an audio tour device for extra insights throughout their visit. With something for everyone – crime aficionados and novices alike – The Mob Museum is sure to leave guests with fascinating insights into this dark chapter in American history.
Address: 300 Stewart Ave, Las Vegas, NV 89101
Hours of Operation: Daily from 9 a.m. until 9 p.m. The Underground and The Speakeasy are open Monday through Wednesday from 11 a.m. until 10 p.m., Thursday through Friday from 11 a.m. until midnight, and Saturday through Sunday from Noon until midnight. Holiday hours vary throughout the year.
Price of Admission: The Mob Museum offers three different ticket options at varying prices depending on the experiences offered, the day, and the time of visit. There are discounts available for veterans, senior citizens, students, and Nevada residents. Check their website for the most up-to-date pricing.
The Pinball Hall of Fame
The Pinball Hall of Fame in Las Vegas, Nevada, is one of the most fun places you can visit on your next vacation. It’s home to over 400 classic and modern pinball machines, as well as a variety of video games. All the games cost between one and two quarters, and you can easily spend an entire afternoon in this little hideaway filled with retro gaming nostalgia. If you’re looking for something out of the ordinary to do while in Las Vegas, the Pinball Hall of Fame should be at the top of your list.
When you arrive, you will find more playable pinball machines and other arcade games than your heart can handle, all maintained by a knowledgeable staff that is passionate about keeping these retro machines running. They also have tons of free game-related memorabilia like artwork, flyers, toys, and much more – it’s definitely worth checking out if you’re a fan of classic pinball!
Address: 4925 Las Vegas Blvd S, Las Vegas, NV 89119
Hours of Operation: The Pinball Hall of Fame is open every day, Sunday to Thursday, from 10 a.m. until 9 p.m. Friday and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Price of Admission: Free admission, but every pinball machine inside costs at least a quarter so bring a pocket full of change and get ready for fun.
The Neon Museum
The Neon Museum is home to more than 200 vintage neon signs that sparkle with color and speak volumes of the city’s past. The museum features an outdoor exhibition of restored classic neon signs from businesses around the city housed in the Neon Boneyard Pavilion. As you wander among the vintage signs, it’s like taking an amazing journey through time – each one has its own story to tell.
Inside the Neon Boneyard, visitors can explore exhibits detailing the history of neon lights while learning more about their preservation efforts. Visitors also have access to modern interactive displays that bring some of these classic designs to life. The museum also offers tours and workshops where visitors can delve deeper into Vegas’ fascinating past and present.
Address: 770 N Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89101
Hours of Operation: The Neon Museum’s hours of operation change seasonally. 3:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m. March 13 – April 30. 4:00 p.m. – 12:00 a.m. May 1 – August 31. 3:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m. September 1 – October 31. 2:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. November 1 – February 28.
Price of Admission: The Neon Museum has multiple ticket offerings that vary in price. Please check their website to get up-to-date prices on the various experiences they offer visitors.
Zak Bagans’ The Haunted Museum
Visiting Zak Bagans’ The Haunted Museum in Las Vegas is a must for those enthralled with the supernatural. Step into a gothic revival mansion and discover room after room of paranormal artifacts, photographs, and artwork designed to leave an unsettling impression. Explore the massive collection featuring objects such as cursed dolls, possessed items, haunted furniture, and much more.
There are exhibits such as a vampire killing kit from the 1800s, a haunted doll from Hollywood’s Ginger Lake House, and a century-old sea monster skeleton. Visitors can also explore interactive dark rooms and learn about Zak Bagans’ personal possessions from ghosts caught on tape. Every visitor is given the opportunity to have their aura photographed upon leaving as a special souvenir of their time at The Haunted Museum. With an abundance of eerie items, multiple interactive activities, and a unique photo opportunity, this Las Vegas attraction offers something truly captivating for all kinds of visitors.
For those thrill seekers looking for a little something spookier, try the Flashlight Ghost Tour, which happens on weekends after the museum closes to the public. Just remember, you asked for this. In fact, the museum now has its own television series on the Travel Channel and (HBO) Max app.
Address: 600 E Charleston Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89104
Hours of Operation: Wednesday through Monday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Closed Tuesday. The Flashlight Ghost Tour is a special experience that begins after the museum is closed to the public, usually at 10 p.m. on the weekends.
Price of Admission: General admission is $54. The RIP All Access (upgraded experience) is $86. Discounts on tickets are given to Nevada locals, seniors, and military members. Individual tickets to the Flashlight Ghost Tour are $204.
The National Atomic Testing Museum
Visiting the National Atomic Testing Museum in Las Vegas is a must for anyone interested in science and history. The museum serves as an educational opportunity, giving visitors a unique glimpse into the evolution of atomic testing during Nevada’s rich history. From interactive audio-visuals to artifacts from nuclear tests and artifacts depicting the Cold War era, the museum offers something for everyone.
Not only is this venue especially informative, but the breathtaking views and thought-provoking exhibits are also sure to make your visit unforgettable. After exploring the museum, take time to enjoy its gift shop and refuel in its café with authentic food from local restaurants. Make sure to check their website for special events like speaker series, lectures, and more. A visit to The National Atomic Testing Museum will be an experience you won’t soon forget.
Address: 755 E Flamingo Rd, Las Vegas, NV 89119
Hours of Operation: Open daily from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m.
Price of Admission: General admission tickets are $29 for adults with discounts being given to students, seniors, military members and Nevada locals.
