Silver Slipper

The Silver Slipper Las Vegas: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Attractions Guide

Date: 15/06/2025

Introduction

The Silver Slipper stands as an emblem of Las Vegas’s mid-century glamour and innovation. Opened in 1950 as the Golden Slipper Saloon and Gambling Hall, it quickly became a cornerstone of the Las Vegas Strip, renowned for its iconic rotating neon slipper sign and vibrant entertainment. Although the original casino was demolished in 1988, its legacy endures through its preserved neon sign at the Neon Museum. This comprehensive guide explores the Silver Slipper’s rich history, cultural significance, and practical visitor information—ensuring you get the most from your Las Vegas experience (Wikipedia, Neon Museum, Spinettis Gaming).

History and Origins
Iconic Features and Cultural Significance
Howard Hughes Era and Ownership Changes
Closure and Demolition
Visiting the Silver Slipper Sign at the Neon Museum
Nearby Attractions
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Final Tips and Summary
References

History and Origins

The Silver Slipper debuted on September 1, 1950, as the Golden Slipper Saloon and Gambling Hall, part of the Last Frontier Village near the historic Hotel Last Frontier (Wikipedia, Travel Till You Drop). After a legal dispute with the Golden Nugget, the name was changed to Silver Slipper by the end of 1950 (Wikipedia). Designed by Martin Stern Jr., the casino featured an Old West theme, a spacious gaming floor, Nevada’s largest convention hall at the time, and a robust entertainment schedule (Spinettis Gaming).

Iconic Features and Cultural Significance

The Neon Slipper Sign

The Silver Slipper’s rotating neon sign, installed in the mid-1950s, quickly became one of the Strip’s best-known landmarks. Designed by Jack Larsen Sr. and manufactured by YESCO, the 12-foot-high slipper was covered with more than 900 bulbs and a signature illuminated bow (Wikipedia, Atlas Obscura). In 1965, the sign was repositioned to street level, further cementing its status as a Vegas icon.

Entertainment and Atmosphere

The Silver Slipper hosted a range of entertainment, including melodramas, burlesque shows, boxing, and pioneering female impersonator acts (KNPR Nevada Yesterdays, News3LV). Notable performers like burlesque star Hank Henry and celebrities such as Frank Sinatra frequented the venue. The casino also displayed artwork by Julian Ritter, adding to its cultural cachet (Wikipedia).

Gaming Innovations and Scandals

The Silver Slipper was among the first Vegas casinos to introduce 24-hour gaming and free drinks for gamblers (Like Where You’re Going). Its affordable all-you-can-eat buffet (just $1.57 in the 1960s and 1970s) was legendary (Spinettis Gaming). In 1964, the casino was briefly shut down for using “shaved” dice on its craps tables, reopening under new ownership several months later (KNPR Nevada Yesterdays).

Howard Hughes Era and Ownership Changes

In 1968, billionaire Howard Hughes purchased the Silver Slipper for $5.4 million. While urban legend claims he bought it to stop the neon sign from shining into his penthouse, records show this was likely exaggerated (Casino.org). Under Hughes’s ownership, the casino was leased out and continued as a mid-tier venue until its eventual sale.

Closure and Demolition

The Silver Slipper declined in popularity during the 1980s. Margaret Elardi acquired the property in 1988, closed the casino on November 28 of that year, and demolished it to create parking for the Frontier. Plans for a new resort never materialized, and both the Silver Slipper and the Frontier were razed by 2007 (Wikipedia).

Visiting the Silver Slipper Sign at the Neon Museum

Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility

Location: 770 Las Vegas Blvd N, Las Vegas, NV 89101 (Neon Museum)
Hours: Open daily, typically from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM, with seasonal variations (Neon Museum)
Tickets: General admission ranges from $20–$28; guided nighttime tours are recommended for viewing illuminated signs (Nomadic Matt). Discounts available for Nevada residents, seniors, students, and military.
Accessibility: The Neon Museum is wheelchair accessible. Service animals are welcome.

Travel Tips and Photography

Getting There: A 10-minute drive from the Strip. Ride-shares, taxis, and RTC buses (day passes $8) are convenient (CN Traveler).
Weather: June temperatures can exceed 100°F (38°C) during the day. Bring water, sunscreen, and a hat (Travellers Worldwide).
Photography: Personal photos are encouraged; tripods and professional equipment require permission (Neon Museum FAQ). Flash may be restricted during some tours.

Guided Tours and Visitor Etiquette

Guided tours last about 45 minutes and delve into the Silver Slipper’s history and broader neon heritage (Nomadic Matt).
Arrive 15 minutes early for check-in.
Respect all signage and do not touch the exhibits.

Nearby Attractions

Fremont Street Experience: Historic pedestrian mall with neon lights, live music, and vintage casinos.
Mob Museum: Interactive museum chronicling organized crime and law enforcement (Mob Museum).
Downtown Container Park: Unique open-air retail and dining area.
Arts District: Local galleries, murals, and eateries.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Is the Silver Slipper casino still operating?
A: No, the casino closed in 1988 and was demolished. Only the neon sign remains, now on display at the Neon Museum.

Q: What are the visiting hours for the Silver Slipper sign at the Neon Museum?
A: The museum is generally open from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM, but check the official site for current hours.

Q: Are tickets required to see the Silver Slipper sign?
A: Yes, purchase tickets online for guaranteed entry, especially for night tours.

Q: Is the Neon Museum accessible?
A: Yes, it is wheelchair accessible with paved walkways.

Q: Can I take photos?
A: Personal photography is allowed; tripods and commercial equipment require advance permission.

Q: Are group tours or special events available?
A: Yes, contact the group sales department for private tours or events.

Final Tips and Summary

The Silver Slipper remains a cherished symbol of Las Vegas’s golden era, its iconic neon sign providing a tangible connection to the city’s storied past. Visiting the sign at the Neon Museum offers insights into the city’s transformation and the vibrant culture that shaped modern Vegas. For the best experience:

Book tickets in advance, especially for night tours.
Plan your visit during cooler hours if visiting in summer.
Explore nearby attractions for a full vintage Vegas experience.
Support the museum’s preservation work by respecting all exhibitory rules and considering a purchase in the gift shop.

For up-to-date visiting hours, ticket prices, and special events, consult the Neon Museum’s official website.