Looking for the best museums in Las Vegas? Here’s a complete guide filled with local tips.
When you hear Las Vegas, you aren’t thinking of museums, but Sin City has changed since the Hangover days. Our uber driver even complained to us about the changes and how he’s seeing tons of family travel now. It’s true. As the city continues to grow, so does the diversity of attractions. Museums are among them.
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Last Updated: April 8, 2024
17 Best Museums & Exhibits in Las Vegas
We’ll be the first to admit that we’re not museum people. Sure, we visited the Met in NYC because, well… it’s the Met. But generally, history and art don’t move us like natural landscapes. Every so often, though, there are exhibits that intrigue even us uncultured folk.
If you only have time for one museum in Las Vegas, we highly recommend the Mob Museum, but our top 3 include the Mob Museum, Meow Wolf, and National Atomic Testing Museum.
1. Mob Museum →
300 Stewart Ave, Las Vegas, NV 89101, map
The Mob Museum is our favorite museum in Las Vegas. It is located in what used to be a federal courthouse and post office and includes fun interactive exhibits. The museum takes you through the fascinating history of organized crime from its beginnings to the present day. It has a nice flow and tells stories from both sides: law enforcement vs. the Mob.
To top it off, there is a speakeasy in the basement where you can enjoy creative drinks and taste liquor distilled right there.
Local Tip: The speakeasy’s secret door is on the backside of the building near the parking lot. Find the password on their Instagram stories. Or you can enter through the museum.
See Related – What You Need to Know Before Going to the Mob Museum in Las Vegas
2. National Atomic Testing Museum →
755 E Flamingo Rd, Las Vegas, NV 89119, map
We never knew Nevada played a huge role in atomic bombs. You can learn all about it at the National Atomic Testing Museum. This museum is an affiliate partner of the Smithsonian Institution, one of only 27 national museums nationwide.
The museum is 8,000 square feet and has some of the rarest artifacts related to the US atomic testing program. Some highlights include an original bombshell built for the Trinity gadget, the most extensive collection of survey meters, and a piece of the Berlin Wall.
Local Tip: Don’t miss the Ground Zero Theater. It simulates an above-ground test. Pretty eerie.
See Related – What’ It’s Like Visiting the National Atomic Testing Museum in Las Vegas
3. The Neon Museum →
770 Las Vegas Blvd N, Las Vegas, NV 89101, map
You’ve probably seen photos of the Neon Museum on Instagram. It is home to old vintage neon signs, also known as the Neon Boneyard, where neon signs go to die OR have a second life. The museum focuses on collecting, preserving, studying, and exhibiting iconic Las Vegas signs, and it’s cool to see all of them in one spot. After all, neon is a dying art.
There are different types of tours depending on what you want to do. Just be sure you read all the rules!
Local Tip: Photography rules are strict here. You can shoot with your phone, but you need a special ticket to shoot with anything beyond that.
See Related – Las Vegas Neon Museum – First Timer’s Guide
4. Springs Preserve →
333 S Valley View Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89107, map
Springs Preserve covers 180 acres filled with nature walks, exhibits, and attractions for the whole family. We love exploring the botanical gardens and wildlife exhibits. You can also check out the art gallery, educational exhibits about Vegas’ rich history, theater, bike rentals, and more.
Local Tip: Since the majority is outdoors, avoid visiting in the summer when it’s blistering hot out.
See Related – Your Guide to Springs Preserve
5. Meow Wolf: Omega Mart →
3215 S Rancho Dr #100, Las Vegas, NV 89102, map
Meow Wolf’s Omega Mart is hard to explain, but imagine a trippy supermarket that leads you to an even trippier immersive world behind the big corporation. Through art, this fully immersive experience is nothing like we’ve ever seen before. I don’t want to spoil too much, but if you want to get more tips on how to make the most of your visit, check out our blog post and IG reel.
Local Tip: When you arrive, find an employee to get a Boop card to follow the storyline.
See Related – Meow Wolf Las Vegas – What You Need to Know Before You Go
6. The Punk Rock Museum
1422 Western Ave, Las Vegas, NV 89102, map
Anyone who was ever a fan of Punk Rock (or still is) needs to visit this museum. It’s the world’s most comprehensive attraction dedicated to the history and culture of punk, with everything from instruments, handwritten lyrics, posters, iconic clothes, and more.
The museum was founded by Fat Mike from NOFX, and one of the most memorable ways to experience the museum is through its guided tours by different artists (we went on a guided tour with Fred Armisen). Check the calendar to see who the upcoming tour guides are. There’s also a bar and wedding chapel inside.
Local Tip: Don’t miss the jam room where you can play actual guitars and basses used by famous punk rockers.
7. Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art
3600 Las Vegas Fwy, Las Vegas, NV 89109, map
Mon-Sun | 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM, Last Admission at 5:30 PM
The Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art rotates exhibits each year, and they are currently showing “ICONS of Contemporary Art” from the Ralph DeLuca Collection.
See Related – 101 Things to Do in Las Vegas Bucket List
BONUS. Bellagio Conservatory →
3600 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89109, map
While you’re visiting the Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art, don’t forget to pop into the Bellagio Conservatory. Of all the places on the Strip, we go to the Bellagio Conservatory the most since they change their entire exhibit each season. The Bellagio has 120 gardeners who work in this space, not to mention the additional designers, engineers, electricians, and more. Plus, the exhibits sometimes look different during the day and at night, so it’s worth visiting twice. Plan your visit around the Bellagio Fountains show schedule to make the most of your visit.
Local Tip: Between seasons, there are 5-6 dark days when the conservatory is shut down for the changeover.
See Related – Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Gardens – What You Need to Know
8. Illuminarium
3246 W Desert Inn Rd, Las Vegas, NV 89102, map
The Illuminarium is one of the newest attractions in AREA15, giving you an immersive experience that brings tech, music, and visuals together. Various shows are running, including Space: An Experience Beyond Earth, Wild: A Safari Experience, and O’Keeffe’s One Hundred Flowers.
For a unique experience, check out the after-dark exhibits where you can sip on cocktails during your time there.
Local Tip: They have a cafe on site, which surprisingly serves good food. Not many attractions put their energy and focus on food, but this one does.
See Related – 7 Things You Can’t Miss at AREA15 Las Vegas
9. Pinball Hall of Fame →
36.0306029,-113.8290033, map
If regular museums are too dull for you, visit the Pinball Hall of Fame, a giant arcade filled with pinball machines from the 50s to the 90s. They recently moved to a new location closer to the Strip with a massive sign you can’t miss. Plus, all the proceeds go to charity!
Local Tip: Bring cash or use their ATM, but you’ll have an extra charge.
See Related – Pinball Hall of Fame – Las Vegas Pinball Museum
10. Las Vegas Natural History Museum
900 Las Vegas Blvd N, Las Vegas, NV 89101, map
The Las Vegas Natural History Museum has nine galleries covering everything from prehistoric life to wildlife from all over the world. They have rotating exhibits on loan from other museums and even do shark feedings (check their site for the latest shark feeding schedule).
Local Tip: The Old Las Vegas Mormon Fort State Historic Park is next door.
11. Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition
3900 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89119, map
Near. Far. Wherever You Are. Recreate some of your favorite Titanic moments and learn more about the most famous ship/shipwreck of all time at Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition. There are 350-400 authentic artifacts recovered from the wreck site, recreations of some of the ship, and so many stories to read about the guests aboard. They also have one of the largest artifacts with an entire ship panel.
Local Tip: If you want to bring home a piece of the Titanic, there are souvenirs in the shop with a small piece of coal recovered from the shipwreck.
12. Princess Diana & The Royals: A Tribute Exhibition
3720 S Las Vegas Blvd 3rd Floor, Las Vegas, NV 89158, map
If you ever followed the royals or Princess Di, you will love this exhibit at The Shops at Crystals. The exhibit walks you through the life of Princess Diana with over 700 artifacts. They also have the largest collection of authentic Evening Gowns Princess Di wore.
The exhibit also covers the history of the royals and even the modern-day royals. Although we’ve never followed much of what’s going on with the royals, we’re currently listening to Prince Harry’s audiobook, so it was fascinating to see some of the moments he shared in his book.
Local Tip: Save up to $5 per ticket online.
13. Madame Tussauds →
3377 S Las Vegas Blvd Ste. 2001, Las Vegas, NV 89109, map
Meet some of your favorite celebrities, or at least their wax counterparts, at Madame Tussauds. I’m curious if Face ID would work on their phones. Some figures were more realistic than others.
Local Tip: Check local discount books for discounts before going.
See Related – Madame Tussauds Wax Museum Las Vegas
14. Paradox Museum
3767 Las Vegas Blvd S Ste 200, Las Vegas, NV 89109, map
Find 90 mind-twisting and eye-tricking exhibits at the Paradox Museum. They have 7 locations worldwide, but their newest one opened on the Strip with a Las Vegas twist. There are some fun photo and video ops, and they even have instructions on how to best capture their optical illusions. It reminded us of a children’s science museum that meets an Instagram museum. This is especially great if you have kids, and they even have deals for families.
Local Tip: Don’t miss the balloon photo op in the gift shop!
15. Real Bodies at Bally’s
3645 Las Vegas Blvd S Suite A1-A3 Ste A1-A3, Las Vegas, NV 89109, map
Learn more about the human body through these unique and dramatic displays of the human anatomy. There are over 20 real, perfectly preserved human bodies and 200+ anatomical specimens. It’s part science, part art, and will get you appreciating how everything in our bodies works together.
Local Tip: There are also art installations from local Las Vegas artists inside.
16. Arte Museum
3716 S Las Vegas Blvd Suite208, Las Vegas, NV 89158, map
The Arte Museum features immersive exhibits that are visually stunning. You’re also enveloped in soundscapes and tailor made aromas. There are 14 exhibits, including the Live Sketchbook where you can see your drawings come to life, and the Garden Room which has a 30-minute show on loop. It’s really well done and a great way to spend the afternoon.
Also, don’t miss the Arte Tea Bar where you can get tea-based mocktails that interact with the art.
Check out our Reel here.
Local Tip: If you like any of the scents, they sell them in the gift shop too!
17. Museum of Illusions →
716 S Las Vegas Blvd #1.02, Las Vegas, NV 89158, map
Museum of Illusions has over 40 locations in 25 countries. We visited the one in NYC before we left so we were excited to see what makes the Las Vegas one special. The museum has over 80 exhibits and focuses on edutainment. There are plenty of photo ops with fun illusions, and there are Vegas-themed rooms, like the Reverse Room, Building Illusion, and Cloning Table.
Museum of Illusions Coupon Code: Use code ADVENTURER15 for 15% off your tickets.
BONUS: Zak Bagans’ The Haunted Museum
600 E Charleston Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89104, map
We haven’t visited Zak Bagans’ Haunted Museum yet since I’m a baby when it comes to the paranormal. I’ll have nightmares for months. The museum is located on a property that is rumored to be haunted. When inside, you explore winding hallways and secret passages that take you to the 30+ rooms that house paranormal pieces, including the Dybbuk Box, the world’s most haunted object. I may have to send Jacob and another friend to this one.
See Related – 25 Fun Indoor Activities in Las Vegas
Map of the Best Museums in Las Vegas
Free Museums in Las Vegas
- Akhob By James Turrell, Crystals Shops
- Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Gardens, Bellagio
- Counts Kustoms
- Marjorie Barrick Museum of Art, UNLV
- Pinball Hall of Fame, Strip – free to enter but pay to play
- Shelby Heritage Center, Southwest
Current Exhibits in Las Vegas
- Akhob By James Turrell, Crystals Shops
- CSI: The Experience at MGM Grand
- Hunger Games The Exhibit
- Immersive Van Gogh, Crystals Shops
- Marvel Avengers Station, Treasure Island
- National Geographic Rarely Seen Exhibition, Paris/Bally’s Station
- Paradox Museum
- Princess Diana & The Royals, The Shops at Crystals
Immersive Museums in Las Vegas
- Illuminarium, AREA15
- Immersive Van Gogh, Crystals Shops
- Museum Fiasco, AREA15
- Omega Mart, AREA15
- Perception, Resorts World
- Paradox Museum
- Wink World: Portals to the Infinite, AREA15
Complete List of Exhibits & Museums in Las Vegas
- Akhob By James Turrell, Crystals Shops
- The Aquarium, Mirage
- Aria Fine Art Collection, Aria
- Art of Richard Macdonald, Bellagio
- Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art
- Bodies: The Exhibition, Luxor
- Burlesque Hall of Fame, Downtown
- Clark County Museum, Henderson
- Counts Kustoms
- CSI: The Experience at MGM Grand
- Discovery Children, Downtown
- Erotic Heritage Museum
- Ethel M Chocolate Factory & Cactus Garden, Henderson
- Hacienda Palomino aka Thriller Villa, Westside
- Hollywood Cars
- Honor Society Museum, Westside
- Hoover Dam Museum, Boulder City
- Howard W. Cannon Aviation Museum, Southeast
- Hunger Games The Exhibit
- Immersive Van Gogh, Crystals Shops
- International Scout Museum, Westside
- Las Vegas Art Museum // Metropolitan Gallery and Art Museum Las Vegas, Downtown
- Liberace Museum, Southeast – only Liberace Garage is open.
- Lost City Museum, Overton
- Marjorie Barrick Museum of Art, UNLV
- Marvel Avengers Station, Treasure Island
- Museum Fiasco, AREA15
- Museum of Selfies Las Vegas, LINQ Promenade
- National Geographic Rarely Seen Exhibition, Paris/Bally’s Station
- Nevada State Museum
- Nevada State Railroad Museum
- Nostalgia Street Rods
- Old Las Vegas Mormon Fort State Historic Park, Downtown
- Paradox Museum
- Princess Diana & The Royals, The Shops at Crystals
- The Planetarium, North Las Vegas – currently closed
- The Punk Rock Museum, Downtown
- SeaQuest Las Vegas, Boulevard Mall
- Shark Reef Aquarium, Mandalay Bay
- Shelby American Inc / Shelby Heritage Center, Southeast
- Skye Art Gallery, Forum Shops at Caesars
- Southern Nevada Museum of Fine Art
- Springs Preserve Origen Museum
- Tom Devlin’s Monster Museum, Boulder City
Did we miss any? Let us know in the comments below.
Permanently Closed
Museum of Dream Space (Closed) →
8500 Beverly Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90048, map
The Museum of Dream Space, or MODS for short, is the first in the US. It primarily features digital art, which makes it partly an immersive art experience and partly a place to get fun photo opps.
There are five rooms, including one done by Pretty Done, whose art is all over Las Vegas.
Local Tip: Cameras are allowed, but no professional equipment like a tripod and lighting.
See Related – Sneak Peek of the Museum of Dream Space Las Vegas
Arcadia Earth (Closed)
3785 S Las Vegas Blvd Suite #102, Las Vegas, NV 89109, map
Arcadia Earth is an immersive experience that engages all your senses to inform, inspire, and activate you to positively make a change for our planet. When arriving, you download their app, which uses augmented reality elements you can interact with. The photo below was in a cave made out of salvaged plastic bags. By the time you go through the room, that’s how many plastic bags become trash. What a powerful visual.
The artists beautifully create different environments, and they have a lot of practical calls to action.
Local Tip: Locals can save money by parking at Park MGM and walking over. You receive 3 hrs free with a local ID.
Other Nearby Museums
- Boulder City/Hoover Dam Museum
- Lost City Museum, Overton – previously Boulder Dam Park Museum
- Tom Devlin’s Monster Museum, Boulder City
Essential Tips for First Timers
- If you plan on doing some museums and exhibits plus other Vegas attractions, check out the Las Vegas Go City Card to save yourself some money.
- Las Vegas locals get up to 3 hours of free parking at MGM and Caesars properties with a local ID.
- Most museums and exhibits are least busy when they open and/or early in the day. That’s usually when we go to have the space to ourselves.
- Some museums and attractions have add-on experiences, so check what’s included with your ticket.
Frequently Asked Questions
WHAT EXHIBITIONS ARE ON IN LAS VEGAS?
There are a handful of exhibitions currently in Las Vegas that you can check out here.
WHAT IS THE CRAZIEST THING TO DO IN VEGAS?
The craziest thing… would be getting married on a whim. But if we’re talking about museums, Omega Mart is unreal.
WHICH BODIES EXHIBIT IS BETTER IN VEGAS?
We’ve only been to Real Bodies at Bally’s, but from what we hear, it is the better one with more specimens, info, and art than Bodies the Exhibition. Plus, it cost less.
DO YOU HAVE TO PAY TO GO TO OMEGA MART?
Yes! Find all the details and how to make the most of your trip here.
HOW MANY MUSEUMS ARE IN NEVADA?
There are seven state museums in Nevada and over 90 museums covering a wide range of topics.
WHY DOESN’T LAS VEGAS HAVE A ZOO?
When many of the major and accredited zoos were opening all over the US, Las Vegas wasn’t considered a major city. Since then, the city has changed, attracting more families. The Las Vegas Zoological Society is in the early stages of developing a legitimate zoo, but we shall see.
WHEN SHOULD YOU NOT GO TO LAS VEGAS? WHAT IS THE BEST MONTH TO VISIT VEGAS?
Avoid the summer. It’s hot. Our favorite months are March-April and October-November. If you can only visit during summer break, June is your best bet, but be prepared for over 100-degree days.
CAN YOU CARRY A BACKPACK IN LAS VEGAS?
Yes, although some museums/exhibits do not allow bags (as well as some shows). Be sure to check the fine print.
WHAT IS THE #1 MUSEUM IN THE WORLD?
The Met, according to Tripadvisor.
MOST PRESTIGIOUS MUSEUM?
The Louvre, Paris.
WHICH CITY HAS THE BEST MUSEUMS IN THE US?
DC tops the list, with NYC second and Chicago third.
WHERE IS THE BIGGEST MUSEUM? WHERE IS THE BIGGEST ART MUSEUM?
Le Louvre.
WHAT’S THE BIGGEST MUSEUM IN THE USA?
The Met in NYC.
WHAT MUSEUM HAS THE MOST EXPENSIVE COLLECTION?
The Getty Center in Malibu.
Best Places to Stay in Las Vegas
Planning Checklist
- Get comprehensive insurance for your trip.
- Download these helpful language apps.
- Find a great deal on Las Vegas hotels.
- Arrange a rental car for your trip.
- Book a tour for your visit.
- Get airport lounge access.
- Buy a travel charger to keep your devices charged.
- Get a new backpack for your trip.
- Buy a Las Vegas travel guide.
- Pack the appropriate shoes for your trip.
- Don’t forget your in-flight essentials.
- Save money on attractions with Go City.
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“Discovery consists not of seeking new lands but in seeing with new eyes” – M. Proust
Esther + Jacob
Esther and Jacob are the founders of Local Adventurer, one of the top 5 travel blogs in the US. They believe that adventure can be found near and far and hope to inspire others to explore locally. They explore a new city in depth every year and currently base themselves in Las Vegas.
Follow on Instagram (E + J), YouTube, TikTok, and Pinterest.