The Neon Museum
Las Vegas, United States · Museum
About The Neon Museum
The Neon Museum is an iconic open-air cultural institution in Las Vegas dedicated to preserving and showcasing historic neon signs from the city's storied past. Founded in 1996, its centerpiece Neon Boneyard holds retired and restored marquees from legendary casinos, motels, and local businesses. It is world-famous as a glowing tribute to mid-century graphic design and classic American roadside Americana.
Don't miss
- Wander through the Main Boneyard to see legendary signs from the Stardust, Moulin Rouge, and Riviera up close.
- Experience 'Brilliant!', a high-tech night show using projection mapping to re-illuminate dormant signs to vintage Las Vegas music.
- Admire the museum's visitor center, housed inside the relocated and restored 1961 lobby of the historic La Concha Motel.
- Check out the North Gallery, which features additional unrestored artifacts and educational signage exhibits.
Plan your visit
Visit at twilight or after dark so you can see the restored signs glowing brightly while escaping daytime desert heat. Spring and autumn offer the most comfortable evening temperatures for the outdoor tour.
Admission is paid, with separate ticketing options for general visits, guided tours, and the Brilliant! experience. You should book tickets online well in advance, as popular evening time slots regularly sell out.
The museum is situated just north of Downtown Las Vegas on North Las Vegas Boulevard, a quick 5-minute rideshare from Fremont Street or 15 minutes from the central Strip. You can also take the RTC Deuce bus north to Downtown and connect by local transit or a brief walk.
Tips for visiting
- Book evening tickets weeks ahead of your trip, as prime night slots fill up fast.
- Wear flat, closed-toe walking shoes suitable for outdoor gravel pathways.
- Leave tripods and bulky camera equipment behind, as only handheld personal photography is permitted without a commercial permit.
- Bring water and dress in layers during winter or lightweight clothes during summer, as the boneyard is completely outdoors.
- Arrive on time for your designated ticket slot, as admission is strictly timed to prevent overcrowding.
The Neon Museum FAQ
Are all the signs in the museum lit up?
Not every sign is fully electrified, as many are preserved in their weathered, unrestored historical state. However, dozens of major signs have been beautifully restored to glow at night. The 'Brilliant!' projection show also digitally re-lights unrestored signs using synchronized video mapping.
Can I visit the museum during the daytime?
Yes, daytime entry is available and allows you to appreciate the intricate design, weathered metalwork, and construction details of the signs. Daytime visits are generally cheaper and less crowded than night sessions. Most travelers, however, prefer evening visits to experience the neon glow.
Is the Neon Museum suitable for children?
Yes, the museum welcomes visitors of all ages, and kids generally enjoy the colorful oversized signs. Strollers are allowed on the pathways, though some areas have gravel footing. Parents should supervise children closely to ensure they stay on designated paths and do not touch sharp or fragile sign pieces.
Can I take portrait or commercial photos during a regular tour?
Casual photography using smartphones or small handheld cameras is allowed for personal memories. Posed portrait shoots, commercial photography, tripods, lighting rigs, and wardrobe changes are strictly forbidden during standard admission. Dedicated photo walks and private photo shoots must be booked in advance.
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AI-written guide, last updated 2026-10-09. Check opening times and ticket prices on the official website before you go. Photos: masbebet, lorenzobuczek on Pixabay.