Vintage postcard of the Pioneer Club from the late 1940s showing a bustling nightlife scene

Pioneer Club Las Vegas

Pioneer Club Las Vegas: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Significance

Date: 15/06/2025

Introduction

Nestled at 25 East Fremont Street in downtown Las Vegas, the Pioneer Club stands as a vivid emblem of the city’s transformation from humble railroad roots to a world-renowned entertainment capital. Established in 1942 during the city’s gaming boom, the Pioneer Club quickly became a centerpiece of Fremont Street’s vibrant casino scene. Most famously, it is home to the iconic 40-foot neon cowboy sign, “Vegas Vic,” which has greeted visitors with a cheery “Howdy, partner!” since 1951. Although the original casino ceased operations in 1995, the building remains a key landmark, now serving as a souvenir shop and a vivid reminder of Las Vegas’s storied past (Historic Las Vegas Project). This guide details the Pioneer Club’s history, significance, practical visitor information—including visiting hours and accessibility—nearby attractions, and travel tips.

1950s postcard of Pioneer Club with tall Vegas Vic neon sign on Fremont Street, Downtown Las Vegas

Pioneer Club postcard from the early 1950s featuring a vintage club scene

Vintage postcard of the Pioneer Club casino in Downtown Las Vegas from the late 1940s

Historical Overview

Early Foundations (Pre-1942)

The Pioneer Club’s location has played a central role in Las Vegas history since the early 20th century. The site originally hosted the Thomas Department Store in 1912, which was succeeded by Beckley’s Mens Wear in 1913. The building became known as the “Beckley Building,” and a third story was added in 1929, reflecting the city’s steady growth (Historic Las Vegas Project). Beckley’s closed in 1941, just as Las Vegas was poised for a gaming revolution following the 1931 legalization of gambling.

Pioneer Club’s Inception and Growth (1942–1960s)

The Pioneer Club opened on April 15, 1942, founded by Tutor Scherer, Farmer Page, Bill Kurland, and Chuck Addison—many with backgrounds in gaming and bootlegging (KNPR Nevada Yesterdays). Attorney Cliff Jones, later Nevada’s lieutenant governor, obtained the first gaming license for the club in exchange for a share of profits.

In 1951, the club commissioned YESCO to create “Vegas Vic,” a 40-foot neon cowboy sign that quickly became synonymous with Las Vegas’s Western spirit and neon culture. The club continued to expand, acquiring the neighboring Elwell Hotel in 1955 and opening the New Pioneer Club Hotel in 1965 (Historic Las Vegas Project).

Ownership and Evolution (1960s–1990s)

Through the decades, the Pioneer Club changed hands multiple times, including under the stewardship of Margaret Elardi and Gold Strike Resorts. The club underwent name changes and expansions, incorporating the former Club Bingo building in 1983 (Historic Las Vegas Project). Its Western theme and the towering Vegas Vic sign helped distinguish Fremont Street from the glitzier Strip, giving downtown Las Vegas a unique character (Casino Fandom).

Decline, Closure, and Preservation

The rise of megaresorts on the Strip and changing tourism patterns led to the Pioneer Club’s closure as a casino on June 29, 1995. However, the building was preserved, reflecting its historical and cultural value (Historic Las Vegas Project). Since 1998, the building has served as a souvenir shop, with Vegas Vic remaining as a silent, but ever-present, neon sentinel (KNPR Nevada Yesterdays).

Cultural and Historical Impact

The Pioneer Club is a living testament to Las Vegas’s evolution, representing its early gaming history, neon artistry, and the vibrant spirit of downtown (Britannica). The iconic Vegas Vic sign has appeared in films such as “Diamonds Are Forever” and countless tourism campaigns, cementing its status as a symbol of classic Las Vegas.

Visiting the Pioneer Club

Visiting Hours

Souvenir Shop: Open daily from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM (hours may vary seasonally or on holidays; check in advance).
Vegas Vic Sign: Visible and accessible for photos 24/7 as part of the Fremont Street Experience.

Tickets and Admission

Admission: Free—no tickets required to enter the souvenir shop or view the Vegas Vic sign.
Guided Tours: While the Pioneer Club itself does not offer tours, several downtown Las Vegas walking tours include the club as a highlight (The Tour Guy).

Accessibility

The building and surrounding Fremont Street Experience are wheelchair accessible, with ramps and level walkways.
Accessible restrooms are available in nearby casinos and public facilities (VisitLasVegas.com).
Parking is available in nearby garages, with accessible spots.

Nearby Attractions and Travel Tips

Key Nearby Attractions

Fremont Street Experience: A lively pedestrian district with nightly light shows, live entertainment, and casinos (Fremont Street Experience Official Website).
The Neon Museum: Showcases historic Las Vegas neon signs (The Tour Guy).
The Mob Museum: Interactive exhibits on organized crime and law enforcement (VegasNook).
SlotZilla Zipline: A thrilling zipline ride over Fremont Street (VegasNook).

Dining and Nightlife

Fremont Street offers a variety of dining options, from classic diners to trendy bars, with many offering happy hours and live music (VegasNook).

Safety and Visitor Tips

Fremont Street is well-patrolled and generally safe, especially in the evenings. Remain aware of your belongings, especially during busy periods.
For the best photos of Vegas Vic, visit after sunset when the neon is fully illuminated.
Wear comfortable shoes and dress for the weather—Las Vegas can be extremely hot in summer.
Early evenings offer vibrant photo opportunities with fewer crowds.

Accessibility

The entire Fremont Street area is wheelchair accessible, with wide sidewalks and ramps.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the Pioneer Club’s visiting hours?
A: The souvenir shop is typically open from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM daily, though hours may vary. The Vegas Vic sign is visible 24/7.

Q: Is there an admission fee?
A: No. Entry to the souvenir shop and viewing the Vegas Vic sign are free.

Q: Are there guided tours of the Pioneer Club?
A: The Pioneer Club does not offer its own tours, but it is included in many downtown walking tours (The Tour Guy).

Q: Is the Pioneer Club area wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, both the shop and the surrounding Fremont Street Experience are accessible.

Q: Can I gamble at the Pioneer Club?
A: No, the casino closed in 1995. The site now operates as a souvenir shop.

Visual Gallery

Alt text: “Vegas Vic Neon Sign at Pioneer Club” and “Pioneer Club Building on Fremont Street”

Practical Visitor Tips

Address: 25 E Fremont St, Las Vegas, NV 89101
Hours: Daily, 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM (shop); exterior accessible 24/7
Admission: Free
Best Time to Visit: Evening for neon lights, morning for fewer crowds
Parking: Nearby garages ($5–$20/day) (VegasNook)
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible

Summary and Recommendations

The Pioneer Club stands as a captivating symbol of Las Vegas’s storied past, offering visitors a glimpse into the city’s early days and neon-lit legacy. Its preserved façade and the legendary Vegas Vic sign make it a must-see for history buffs, photographers, and curious travelers. With free admission, vibrant nighttime displays, and a prime location on Fremont Street, the Pioneer Club is an essential stop for anyone exploring downtown Las Vegas.

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