Las Vegas is more than the stereotypical gambling and partying scene portrayed in movies. In fact, although its nickname is “Sin City,” this city is full of history, arts, and science, all housed in one of the many museums that dot the area.
Having your own transportation opens you up to many of the top places to see in and around Vegas, and car rental at the Las Vegas Airport is easy to navigate. With a set of wheels and your handy GPS app, you can add these 5 museums to your itinerary during your stay!
1. Madame Tussauds
Classified as one of the best museums in Vegas, Madame Tussauds is the go-to place for those who love hob-nobbing with celebrities — or their wax versions, at least. In this museum, you’ll see famous wax statues of notorious Vegas names like Siegfried and Roy, Elvis Presley, and Frank Sinatra.
While Madame Tussauds is a chain that you can find elsewhere in the US, Vegas’s version stands out as one of the highest quality, fun experiences, including a 4D Marvel movie immersion and a gondola ride! Admission starts at $36.99 and the museum is open on the weekends from 11 a.m. – 8 p.m. and weekdays from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
2. Pinball Hall of Fame
Looking to be the next Pinball Wizard, or interested in seeing where this popular game got its start? Look no further than the Pinball Hall of Fame, a classic museum favorite for thousands of visitors every year. Here, you’ll find the largest collection of working pinball machines, including some of the most rare games ever made! Bring your quarters and pay-per-play (no admission) any day of the week from 11 a.m. – 9 p.m.
3. Las Vegas Natural History Museum
History lovers will enjoy spending the day at the Las Vegas Natural History Museum, where everyone is welcome. This family-friendly museum gives you a chance to get away from the busy Strip and soak in some interesting knowledge while you’re on vacation! From the dinosaur bones and ancient Egyptian artifacts to the live shark exhibit, there’s something to grab your attention. Adults can spend the day from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. for $12 each, while children are $6 and seniors, military, and students are $10.
4. Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition
Although the ship sank over a century ago, its mystery remains a favorite for millions worldwide today. A visit to the Titanic Artifact Exhibition in Vegas will give you answers to questions you didn’t even know you had! Here, authentic artificats removed from the liner are on display. Check out the fine china used by the upper-class guests, the chandeliers decorating the ceilings, and many more pieces from the Titanic, and learn about how these artifacts were recovered and restored as you travel through an example of the ship’s rooms. Admission starts at $32, and the museum is open from 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. daily. Get there before the last admission at 5!
5. The Mob Museum
It might be lesser-known than the previous names on our list, but the Mob Museum is ranked number one out of the many Vegas museums! Visitors transport into the past, when mobsters were “cool” and ruled the world. Explore the artifacts that teach us about how the Valentine’s Day massacre happened, who Al Capone really was, and how organized crime rose and fell.
Although today we understand more about the dangers of this type of living, the fact is that this type of crime substantially contributed to the creation of Las Vegas. Admission is $29.95 per person or $48.95 if you want to enjoy the two interactive exhibits. Hours are daily from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
