The four-hour drive from Los Angeles to Las Vegas consists mostly of the pristine and sprawling landscape of the Mojave. Travelers who make the trip after work and into the night know they’ve crossed into Nevada when the subtle glow on the horizon becomes increasingly stronger. This glow shines from Vegas’ unique neon signs. The iconic Vegas neon signs are more than glowing advertisements, they are pieces of history, and a nonprofit institution called The Neon Museum celebrates them.
Many of these historic works of art have been donated to The Neon Museum. One of these donations is the eighty-two foot tall Gibson Les Paul known as the Hard Rock. Another shining relic that can be found at the museum is the Andy Anderson sign of the neon milkman. Anderson Dairy was a staple in Las Vegas ever since its establishment in 1907 and the deliverymen were the source of fresh milk, since citizens of Las Vegas didn’t yet have refrigeration. Some signs ironically look like modern art sculptures, like the pool player made of sheets of metal, welded together to advertise Doc & Eddys pool hall. These monumental pieces of history transport visitors to a vintage version of the Las Vegas strip.
The Nevada Arts Council, National Endowment for the Humanities, and Nevada Humanities are among the various organizations supporting the space; which also can hold weddings, photo/video shoots, and events in general. For all ages, The Neon Museum has proven to be an unmissable intersection of Vegas history, rugged Americana, and creativity. Stroll through the museum for a uniquely retro stroll that will be sure to brighten your evening!
