The Neon Museum is located in downtown Las Vegas and though it is open all day, it is best viewed at night. See the Caesars Palace sign in its fully-colored splendor, witness the iconic "The Flame", catch a glimpse of the horse and rider from the old Hacienda Hotel, and marvel at other wonderful neon signs from old shops and casinos that form the legacy of Las Vegas. The museum often adds new items to this marvelous collection. Entrance is available as part of a guided tour only. Purchase tickets early for the later tours as they fill up quickly.
History and science unfold at the National Atomic Testing Museum. Get to know why the Nevada Test Site was founded, its above and underground tests and non-nuclear programs. The museum chronicles the past and present of atomic weapons and its effect worldwide. Right from its inception, conception to its advancement in current times, are displayed through various exhibits. These include bombs, testing devices, artefacts and radioactive displays.
Located near the Death Valley, Rhyolite was founded in 1904 during the mining boom. However, its existence lasted just a little over a decade. It is now a deserted ghost town that is often visited by tourists. Explore its abandoned buildings and deteriorating ruins that are punctuated by contemporary sculptures and art installations. Known to be one of the most photographed ghost towns in the West, Rhyolite has been used as a location in a number of film productions too.
Hidden in an unassuming warehouse is what might just be the world's largest collection of pinball machines from the 1950s up through the 1990s. This Pinball Hall of Fame is listed as a museum, but is also an arcade. All the machines are operational and patrons can play to their heart's content. There is no fee to enter the Pinball Hall of Fame, but players will need to pump quarters into the machines to play. Located not far from The Strip, Pinball Hall of Fame is a great spot for anyone looking for something a bit unique and off the beaten path. Anyone can go to Vegas and say they played slots. How many can say they visited what is possibly the world's largest collection of pinball machines?
While it is not possible for us human beings to storm Area 51 and search for actual aliens inside, there is always the intriguing souvenir shop on Extraterrestrial Highway. Known as the Alien Research Center, the shop is not difficult to find given the tall silver colored statue of an alien at the entrance. Comprising of flamboyant, eccentric and kitschy gift items, the shop has all things in alien and UFO theme. From toys, t-shirts, caps and alien masks, to name a few, you can buy a number of merchandises for yourself and your loved ones. A must visit, sci-fi fans and curious toddlers are bound to be awe-induced by this shop.
Just off Highway 95 is the tiny desert town of Tonopah. What was formerly a booming goldmining area is now considered to be the “middle of nowhere,” where travelers often stop by to refuel. Tonopah is also known for one other thing – the Clown Motel. Every room is clown themed and the moment you step into the lobby you will see hundreds of clowns, with portraits of famous clowns adorning the walls. What makes the motel creepy is that it is located right next to a cemetery lot. If you’re feeling brave enough to check out a room, be sure to make a reservation in advance – the spots fill up quickly!
View this strikingly colorful art piece just outside of Las Vegas. Created by artist Ugo Rondinone, the Seven Magic Mountains is seven towering rock foundations created by stacking painted rocks on top each other. Each formation is at least 30-feet (9-meters) tall and its bright colors create a beautiful contrast against the natural desert background.
An island escape exists just a few blocks west of the Las Vegas strip. Frankie's Tiki Room offers a menu of original rum drinks and is decked out in beautiful tiki carvings. Moreover, the island beach decor makes Frankie's more than just a place to order up a drink - it is an experience. Open 24 hours a day, Frankie's offers unique drinks that, for an additional price, can be ordered in souvenir mugs. Check out the store for mugs, t-shirts, and more.
This unusual attraction features artwork created out of cars! Graffitied cars are half-buried underground, stacked on top of each other, or otherwise positioned in a strange pose. Not only are the automobiles strangely arranged, but they also often have unique paintings on them. Created by artists Mark Rippie and Chad Sorg, this outdoor exhibit is both bizarre and beautiful. It is a great spot to snap a few memorable photos!
A witness of a massive gold rush during the mid 18th Century, the barren landscapes of the town of Nelson today attracts a surge of visitors. Post the Civil War, Nelson saw an influx of inhabitants who came here to turn their fortunes. The gold, silver as well as copper mines across this region changed many lives but only after devastating few others, leaving the town to a slow decay. Today, Nelson is one of the state's more popular ghost towns that attracts many photographers and film production crews owning to the hauntingly beautiful backdrops it offers. The town made an appearance in the movie '3000 Miles to Graceland'.
Little A'Le'Inn situated on Old Mill Road is known for its dirt-cheap drinks and friendly atmosphere. This cozy, Area-51 inspired bar is open on all days of the week and welcomes patrons from all across the city. The entire premise is smoke-free and features accommodation facilities too. Apart from this, you can also purchase a wide range of t-shirts, hats, glasses, and other alien-themed merchandise during your visit to Little A'Le'Inn. A wide range of products like the alien mug, alien spoon, and the alien mask sold here are skillfully crafted and unique.
Lost City Museum situated in Overton first opened its door to the public in 1935 to store safely the artifacts from Anasazi Indian sites that were discovered during the construction of Hoover Dam. On display at this museum are model houses, pieces of jewelry, weapons, potteries and other exhibits that give you a brief idea about Ancestral Puebloans, the original residents of the region. Lost City Museum features a video room where you can watch informative short films and learn more about Ancestral Puebloans. Do not forget to purchase a souvenir from the gift shop to take home with you.