Downtown Las Vegas may not be the first thing you think of when you think of Vegas, but in recent years it has done a fabulous job of rebranding itself. Instead of competing with the circus of the strip, downtown Las Vegas has worked hard to create an image that embraces art, music, and culture in a world-class destination. If you’re wondering why you should consider a stay in downtown Las Vegas, here are five must-visit spots that showcase the best of the downtown revival.
Mob Museum
Located in the heart of downtown, the Mob Museum shares the thrilling story of organized crime in Las Vegas. The mob scene played a huge role in the shaping of modern Las Vegas – helping it evolve and to become the “Entertainment Capital of the World.” At the Mob Museum, you’ll explore high-tech theater presentations, unique artifacts, and awesome interactive exhibits that tell both sides of the story; that of the mobs and that of the law’s. This intriguing presentation of Las Vegass’ colorful history will surprise and enthrall you. A must see.
Smith Center for the Performing Arts
From Broadway shows, to jazz, ballet, and the Las Vegas Philharmonic, there is always something happening at the Smith Center. This thriving cultural complex has enabled southern Nevada to take its place on the international stage, and the sprawling campus has become a mecca for world-class culture, art, and musical events. In fact, the Smith Center is an exhibit in-and-of itself, with unique architecture, outdoor sculptures, and beautifully landscaped grounds. A picnic in Symphony Park is almost as exciting as the first-rate performances.
Downtown Container Park
Downtown Container Park is a truly unique experience, unlike anything in Las Vegas. A Fremont Street destination built entirely of shipping containers, this urban gathering area features nightly music, boutique shopping, world-class cuisine, and a kids’ play area, complete with a 30-foot slide and water-play attraction. There’s always something going on at this hip, downtown destination.
The Neon Museum
Founded in 1996, the spectacular Neon Museum is dedicated to collecting, preserving, and displaying the iconic Las Vegas signs that used to tower over Sin City. Indoor and outdoor display areas, with more than 150 rescued signs, chronicle the changes and trends in sign design and technology from the 1930s to the present day. This uniquely Las Vegas museum is located downtown on Las Vegas Boulevard.
Discovery Children’s Museum
Located in Symphony Park, adjacent to the Smith Center, the Discovery Children’s Museum has helped redefine downtown Las Vegas as a cultural and artistic destination. This huge, interactive and educational play space provides a vibrant and engaging experience for kids of all ages. The 58,000-square foot building has nine exhibition halls spread across three stories. Science, art, technology, music, and theater: It’s all here, just waiting for your family to discover.
Over the years, Las Vegas has become so much more than an opulent gambling destination. Thanks to a modern revival, Downtown Las Vegas is now an attraction in its own right, helping to define Vegas as a culturally diverse and internationally renowned urban center.
