A Guide to the Neon Museum's Boneyard As the sun sets over the Las Vegas landscape, a different kind of neon lights up the night sky – not the casinos and resorts along The Strip, but the iconic signs from bygone eras at the Neon Museum's Boneyard.
A Guide to the Neon Museum's Boneyard
As the sun sets over the Las Vegas landscape, a different kind of neon lights up the night sky – not the casinos and resorts along The Strip, but the iconic signs from bygone eras at the Neon Museum's Boneyard. This outdoor exhibit is a must-visit for anyone fascinated by the city's rich history, design, and architecture.
What to Expect
The Boneyard is an 2-acre outdoor exhibit featuring over 250 retired neon signs from Las Vegas' past. Visitors can explore the "boneyard" on their own or take part in guided tours that provide insight into the significance of each sign. Many of these vintage signs have been restored to their former glory, while others remain unrestored, giving a glimpse into the city's evolution.
History and Significance
The Neon Museum was founded in 1996 with the goal of preserving Las Vegas' rich neon history. The Boneyard has since become one of the museum's main attractions, showcasing signs from iconic casinos, hotels, and attractions that have disappeared over the years. Visitors can see signs from legendary properties like the El Cortez, the Golden Nugget, and the Sahara.
Best Times to Visit
The Neon Museum is open daily from 10am to 7pm (last tour at 6:30pm). The best time to visit depends on personal preference – morning tours offer a cooler temperature and fewer crowds, while evening tours allow for optimal viewing of the neon signs as they light up. Visitors can also take part in special events like the Neon Boneyard Nighttime Tour or the Brunch Club tour.
Practical Tips
- Parking: Limited parking is available on site, but visitors can also park at the nearby Fremont Street Experience and walk to the museum.
- Walking Distance: The Boneyard is relatively flat and easy to navigate, but visitors with mobility issues may want to plan ahead for transportation or assistance.
- Camera: Don't forget your camera – the Neon Museum's Boneyard offers endless photo opportunities!
Guided Tours
Guided tours of the Boneyard are available daily at various times. Visitors can choose from a range of tour options, including:
- The Classic Tour: A 1-hour tour that provides an overview of the museum and its exhibits.
- The Neon Cemetery Tour: A 2-hour tour that delves deeper into the history and significance of each sign.
- The Brunch Club Tour: A 4-hour tour that includes brunch at a local eatery and a behind-the-scenes look at the museum.
Additional Tips
- Visitors can also take part in special events like the Neon Boneyard Nighttime Tour or the Brunch Club tour.
- The Neon Museum offers a gift shop on site where visitors can purchase souvenirs, books, and other items related to Las Vegas' neon history.