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Las Vegas is known for its dazzling lights, extravagant entertainment, and iconic signs that define the city’s personality. But what happens to those old neon signs when casinos close or businesses rebrand? That’s where the Neon Sign Museum in Las Vegas comes in. A glowing tribute to the city’s electric past, this museum isn’t just a collection of signs—it’s a cultural landmark that tells the story of Vegas like no other place can.
Founded in 1996, the Neon Sign Museum—officially known as The Neon Museum—is an outdoor museum located just north of the Fremont Street Experience in downtown Las Vegas. It's home to hundreds of historic neon signs that once lit up the Strip and other corners of Sin City. Spread across several acres, this museum is an open-air gallery that transforms old signage into mesmerizing pieces of public art.
Whether you're a fan of vintage Americana, art and design, or just want to explore a different side of Vegas, the museum is an unforgettable destination that blends nostalgia with storytelling.
Las Vegas has long been a symbol of glitz and glamour, and neon signs were a huge part of that image. In the mid-20th century, neon was synonymous with Vegas nightlife. From famous casinos like the Stardust and Sahara to motels, diners, and dry cleaners, these signs were more than just marketing tools—they were landmarks.
At the Neon Sign Museum, these once-forgotten relics are restored or preserved in their weathered state, each with its own personality and history. Walking through the museum feels like stepping into a time capsule—one filled with buzzing tubes, glowing glass, and a whole lot of Vegas character.
The heart of the museum is the Neon Boneyard, a curated outdoor space that houses over 200 signs. Some are fully restored and functioning, while others remain in their original, time-worn state, offering an authentic glimpse of decades gone by.
Famous signs you’ll find here include:
The Moulin Rouge: A sign from the first racially integrated hotel-casino in Vegas.
Stardust: One of the most iconic casino signs ever to grace the Strip.
Binion’s Horseshoe: A symbol of downtown Vegas’ gritty charm.
The Silver Slipper, Treasure Island's Skull, and dozens of signs from motels, bars, and lounges.
This evening-only attraction is a must-see. Using 3D mapping and light projection, "Brilliant!" brings dormant signs to life without physically restoring them. You’ll stand in the middle of a 360-degree visual symphony as vintage signs glow to music ranging from Rat Pack classics to modern Vegas anthems.
Often used for private events or art installations, the North Gallery is a quieter space adjacent to the Boneyard. It provides even more signs and is particularly magical during private photo sessions or sunset strolls.
While the Neon Museum offers self-guided entry during the day, the guided tours are highly recommended. The tour guides are well-informed and passionate, sharing fascinating anecdotes, architectural insights, and bits of Vegas history that make each sign more meaningful.
They’ll tell you about the designers, the eras, the controversies, and the cultural milestones each piece represents—turning a simple walk among signs into a storytelling session that paints the past in neon colors.
The Neon Sign Museum is not your typical tourist attraction. It’s a preservation project, an art gallery, and a storytelling venue all at once. Here’s why it stands out:
Cultural Preservation: It safeguards the city’s visual and cultural identity.
Art Appreciation: Neon sign design is a specialized art form combining typography, color theory, and craftsmanship.
Photography Paradise: Every corner is Instagram-worthy, especially during golden hour or after dark.
Family-Friendly Fun: Kids love the bright lights, and adults get a history lesson along with the visuals.
Romantic & Unique: It’s an offbeat date night idea or a peaceful stroll away from the casinos and crowds.
Book in Advance: Tours and evening light shows often sell out.
Go in the Evening: The signs look their best when they’re glowing.
Bring a Camera: But be mindful—tripods and professional shoots usually require a permit.
Wear Comfortable Shoes: You’ll be walking on gravel paths.
Layer Up: Nights in Vegas can get surprisingly chilly, even after hot days.
In the heart of Las Vegas, where everything new shines brighter than the last, it’s refreshing to find a place where the city’s past is honored with such passion. The Neon Museum Vegas is more than just a collection of old signs—it’s a love letter to the city’s ever-evolving spirit. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned local, walking through this museum is a glowing reminder of where Vegas came from and why it continues to dazzle the world.
