LAS VEGAS ENTERTAINMENT 48

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THATS HISTORY!
EXPLORE COOL MUSEUMS IN DOWNTOWN LAS VEGAS
By Yvonne Newman
Looking for a one-of-a-kind cultural experience to add to your to-do list? The
attractions in downtown Las Vegas are eclectic and unconventionaland
the museums are no different. If you hunger for an institution that offers
more than traditional exhibits of art and history, check out these three spots.
THE MOB MUSEUM
Found in the heart of downtown at 300 Stewart
Ave., this killer attraction is more formally
known as the National Museum of Organized
Crime and Law Enforcement. It has the worlds
most extensive collection of mob memorabilia.
Te Mob Museum is housed in a three-story
building that was erected in 1933 and is now
listed on the National Register of Historic
Places. Formerly a federal courthouse, it was
one of 14 in the nation that held the Kefauver
Committee hearings on organized crime. Te
wall from Chicagos St. Valentines Day Massacre
in 1929 and a replica of the electric chair from
the infamous Sing Sing prison are among Te
Mob Museums more than 600 artifacts. Call
702.229.2734 or go to themobmuseum.org.
THE NEON MUSEUM
Tis organization was founded in 1996 and
is dedicated to acquiring, preserving and
exhibiting iconic Las Vegas signs. Situated at
770 N. Las Vegas Blvd., Te Neon Museums
two-acre Neon Boneyard boasts a collection
of more than 150 treasured signs and pieces,
dating from the 1930s to present day. Both
daytime and nighttime tours are available. Te
visitors center is located in the refurbished, Paul
Williams-designed La Concha Motel lobby. Call
702.387.6366 or visit neonmuseum.org.
OLD LAS VEGAS MORMON FORT
Tis state historic park is at the intersection of
Las Vegas Boulevard and Washington Avenue.
Originally built in 1855 by Mormon missionaries
from Utah, the Old Las Vegas Mormon Fort was
the frst permanent structure erected in the Las
Vegas Valley. A 150-square-foot adobe structure,
it served as a way station for travelers. Only
a remnant of the original fort remains today,
but several walls and a bastion in its northeast
corner have been faithfully restored to historical
appearance. Other highlights of the park include
a replica of a pioneer garden and interpretive
displays. Call 702.486.3511 or visit parks.nv.gov/
parks/old-las-vegas-mormon-fort.
Squonk Opera performs
The Mob Museum is housed in a historic former federal courthouse and U.S. Post Ofce
Exhibits at the Old Las Vegas Mormon Fort
The Neon Boneyard Park is
located adjacent to The Neon Museum