Las Vegas is renowned for its dazzling lights, non-stop entertainment, and, of course, the chance to strike it rich at the casino. But what if Lady Luck isn’t smiling your way? Or if you’re simply looking for a break from the slots and tables? Vegas has more to offer than roulette and poker, and sometimes you need a change of scenery from all the themed casinos on the Strip. Take a step back from the slot machines and dive into Vegas’s robust arts and culture scene!
You’ll find a wealth of museums, galleries, and other hidden gems throughout the valley. This list is just a fraction of everything Sin City has to offer, so read on and plan to add these attractions to your itinerary, just don’t forget to book your Las Vegas bus rental:
1. The Neon Museum
Address: 770 Las Vegas Blvd N, Las Vegas, NV 89101
Any history buff or lover of all things “vintage” will enjoy a tour of the Neon Museum. Established in 1996, this museum is dedicated to the history of Las Vegas’ most iconic neon signs, from the Golden Nugget’s hand holding a bag of gold to Caesars Palace’s laurel-wreathed visage. The signs here have been retired from local businesses and casinos, and are set up across the museum’s two acres for visitors to take in their glitzy retro charm.
There are a few ways to explore the museum, including self-guided tours, audio tours narrated by the museum’s founder, and guided group tours led by the museum’s knowledgeable and engaging docents. The most popular tour option is “Brilliant!”—a 30-minute light show that illuminates the “Neon Boneyard” with a curated playlist of music and video installations.
2. The Mob Museum
Address: 300 Stewart Ave, Las Vegas, NV 89101
Located just off Fremont Street, the Mob Museum offers visitors an up-close-and-personal look at 20th-century organized crime, aka “The Mob,” in a way that’s both eye-opening and fascinating. Explore the history of notorious mobsters like Al Capone, John Gotti, and Bugsy Siegel and learn about law enforcement’s fight against organized crime.
The museum is housed in what was once a courthouse and post office, and it utilizes interactive exhibits, crime scene artifacts, historic photos, and archival footage to bring The Mob’s history to life. You’ll get a taste of everything from 1920s bootlegging and speakeasies to the notorious 1929 “St. Valentine’s Day Massacre” where seven men were gunned down in Chicago—the result of a gang war between Al Capone and Bugs Moran.
3. The Atomic Testing Museum
Address: 755 E Flamingo Rd, Las Vegas, NV 89119
The name of this museum really does say it all. Tucked away just east of the Strip, a few blocks from the High Roller observation wheel, the Atomic Testing Museum showcases the history of nuclear science and testing throughout the Cold War era, when the federal government blew up a seemingly endless amount of test bombs in the Nevada desert.
Your group can explore the history of the Manhattan Project, walk through a simulated nuclear fallout shelter, and learn about the effects of radiation. There are also exhibits on the science and technology of nuclear weapons and the cultural impact of the “Atomic Age” on American society.
4. The DISCOVERY Children’s Museum
Address: 360 Promenade Place, Las Vegas, NV 89106
Planning a trip to Vegas with little ones? Then the DISCOVERY Children’s Museum will be your ultimate destination! You can easily spend a whole day at this downtown museum, which is a favorite with local families for a reason. It boasts more than three dozen interactive exhibits on topics like science, art, and culture that are specifically designed to foster a love of learning in kids.
The museum is conveniently located near the Smith Center, the city’s performing arts center, so you can always arrange a day of taking in a symphony performance while your kids explore the wonders of this kid-friendly space.
5. The Arts District
Address: 18b Las Vegas Arts District, Las Vegas, NV
Vegas isn’t just for adults, it’s for creative people! The 18b Las Vegas Arts District is a must-visit for groups of artists, art lovers, and anyone who craves an alternative scene to the bustle of the Las Vegas Strip. Tucked away between the Strip and Fremont Street, this downtown neighborhood features a charming array of galleries, studios, shops, bars, and restaurants.
This community of creative folks has made a name for itself as the epicenter of street art culture in Las Vegas. Take a self-guided tour of the many murals, sculptures, and graffiti art on the sides of restaurants, art studios, and even dumpsters throughout the district. Make sure to add these popular spots to your itinerary:
The Arts Factory
Address: 107 E Charleston Blvd #100, Las Vegas, NV 89104
This arts center is a great place to start your tour of the Arts District. The Arts Factory offers an array of studio spaces for independent artists, musicians, and designers who sell their works—everything from paintings to jewelry, artisan crafts, and clothing. The Arts Factory also hosts monthly First Friday events—a fun night of live music, food trucks, and an abundance of local art you can’t find anywhere else.
Art Square
Address: 1025 S 1st St #140, Las Vegas, NV 89101
Located just a few blocks down from The Arts Factory, this vibrant art complex is home to studios, galleries, and a school for Las Vegas’s up-and-coming artists. They also host seasonal open house and exhibition events with live music performances, local food trucks, and family-friendly activities like painting classes and art markets.
6. The Smith Center
Address: 361 Symphony Park Ave, Las Vegas, NV 89106
There’s more to Las Vegas performances than casino showgirls, neon lights, and Elvis impersonators! You can take in classical music performances, plays, musicals, operas, ballets, and even Broadway shows at the Smith Center, Las Vegas’ premiere performance arts venue.
The Smith Center is comprised of three theaters and the popular Donald W. Reynolds Symphony Park. Here, you can catch a variety of free performance art events, such as orchestral concerts, educational film screenings, and outdoor markets.
7. Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art
Address: 3600 Las Vegas Blvd S, Las Vegas, NV 89109
The Bellagio is known for its extravagant gaming, Italian-style architecture, and iconic fountains. What many visitors don’t realize about this Vegas staple, however, is the Bellagio is also home to the acclaimed Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art (BGFA). This small museum boasts several changing, small-scale museum exhibitions.
Past exhibits have showcased art and objects from a variety of historic and contemporary artists, including masterpieces like Pablo Picasso’s Femme au Chapeau, Claude Monet’s Nympheas, and Georgia O’Keeffe’s Sky Above Clouds IV. The gallery is currently displaying Warhol: Portraits, an exhibition of Andy Warhol’s portraits.
8. Marjorie Barrick Museum of Art
Address: 4505 S Maryland Pkwy, Las Vegas, NV 89154
The Marjorie Barrick Museum of Art is another hidden gem off the beaten path of the Las Vegas Strip. Located on the University of Nevada—Las Vegas campus, the museum features contemporary art, modern installations, and work from diverse artists of varying artistic practices. They’re also known for hosting public educational events like lectures and artist talks, which are free to attend.
9. AREA15
Address: 3215 S Rancho Dr, Las Vegas, NV 89102
The immersive entertainment complex AREA15 will put your definition of “museum” to the test. Combining retail shopping, eateries, and events all centered on immersive and interactive art installations, this unique venue is quickly gaining popularity.
Enjoy experiences like the surreal grocery store simulation of Meow Wolf’s Omega Mart, a high-tech, Van Gogh-inspired light show with a bar, and Illuminarium: a 360-degree immersive projection experience. You can even enjoy attractions like the Haley’s Comet ride, axe throwing, and VR technology.
10. The Arts Factory
Address: 107 E Charleston Blvd #100, Las Vegas, NV 89104
IN the downtown Arts District, The Arts Factory is a must-see location for local arts and culture. Located in a former ice cream factory, The Arts Factory is a hub for a community of artists and musicians. Shop for one-of-a-kind gifts, admire paintings, have a drink at the bar, and check out the event roster for upcoming music events and festivals.
Book Your Tour with Partybus.com!
Ready to experience Sin City like never before? Partybus.com is here to take your group to all the arts and culture venues you can imagine. From elegant museums to exciting interactive art experiences, there’s a little something in Las Vegas for everyone. Avoid traffic, confusing city roads, and overpriced rideshares by booking a private charter bus rental through Partybus.com. We’ll find your group a modern bus to ensure everyone has a comfortable, safe, and organized trip around Las Vegas. Call 877-563-2133 to get a personalized quote!