Las Vegas Museums: Anything But Typical

Photography and exhibits of post-Cold War era weaponry. “Area 51: Myth or Reality” reveals the myths of Groom Lake and allows you to make your own decision. The museum, affiliated with the Smithsonian Institution, also takes a look at pop culture and sociological trends of the era. $22. M-Sa, 10 am-5 pm; Su, noon-5 pm.

See the thrilling story of organized crime and law enforcement, with one-of-a-kind artifacts, exhibits on the legacy of the Mob, myths debunked and an in-depth look at mobsters in Sin City. Daily from 9 am-9 pm. Tickets range from $27-45.

A classic car dealership with more than 100 celebrity vehicles from TV and movies on display. Daily from 10 am-5 pm; children under 16 free with paid adult.

The wonder of discovery is realized at this fun and educational museum, where kids of all ages can ascend the 12 levels of “The Summit” to explore electricity, energy, space and much more. M-Sa, 10 am-5 pm; Su, noon-5 pm. $14.50. 

The Neon Museum preserves Las Vegas’ rich history through one of its most iconic art forms: the neon sign. This two-acre, outdoor museum is home to more than 200 neon signs dating from the 1930s to present day with 15 that have been fully restored.

Explore colorful botanical gardens, interactive galleries and trails at this 180-acre “birthplace of Las Vegas.” Open daily from 10 am-6 pm. $18.95 adults, $10.95 children 5-17.

Classic car nirvana: racing cars and touring roadsters from celebrities and former world leaders. The 125,000-square-foot showroom features more than 250 vehicles. M-Sa, 10 am-5 pm. Print a pass for free admission online.

Step into the Southern Nevada’s past at Heritage Street, a collection of historic homes restored to recreate the lifestyles of important periods in local history. Daily from 9 am-4:30 pm. $2.

The history of commercial and general aviation in Southern Nevada, from the first flight in the 1920 through the introduction of jets. Open 24 hours. Free.

The story of the Boulder Dam (now Hoover Dam) project gleaned through the accounts of the men and women who traveled to the Las Vegas valley for its construction. The collections, located at the Boulder Dam Hotel (which is on the National Register of Historic Places), features a wealth of personal items from these settlers.

Discover railroad car displays and ride the very rails the Boulder Branch Line took to the Boulder Dam (now Hoover Dam) project in the 1930s. Trains depart for 35 minute rides every Sa-Su at 10 am, 11:30 am, 1 pm and 2:30 pm. $10 adults, $5 children 4-11 years old; children 3 years and under are free.

Recounts the history of Mormon missionaries, who built an adobe fort along Las Vegas Creek in 1855. Open Tu-Sa, 8 am-4:30 pm. $1 per person over the age of 12.