About the Museum
The Las Vegas Natural History Museum (LVNHM) is a cultural and educational resource for residents and visitors, with exhibits covering the natural world from prehistoric life to marine ecosystems and wildlife. Its offerings complement Las Vegas’s entertainment-focused attractions and provide opportunities to explore natural history, science, and conservation.
The museum contributes to the city’s cultural enrichment and tourism, attracting visitors from around the world. Its exhibits and educational programs also support science education and aim to inspire future generations of scientists and conservationists.
For more information, visit the Las Vegas Natural History Museum website.
History and Development
A group of dedicated individuals founded the LVNHM in 1989, recognizing the need for a natural history museum in Las Vegas. The museum officially opened to the public on July 16, 1991. Its founders aimed to educate the public about the natural world, past and present, and its opening provided the city with a cultural and educational resource that had previously been lacking.
The museum’s collection was modest at first and has since grown through donations, grants, and support from the local community. Notable additions include the Engelstad Family Prehistoric Life Gallery, with life-sized dinosaur replicas and fossils, and the Marine Life Gallery, which showcases marine ecosystems and creatures.
Future Plans
Planned developments include new exhibits exploring topics such as space exploration and environmental conservation, with interactive displays and cutting-edge technology. Facility upgrades include renovations to existing galleries, improvements to accessibility and visitor amenities, and new spaces for educational programs and events.
The museum is also seeking partnerships with universities, research institutions, conservation organizations, and other institutions to create opportunities for research and education and enhance its exhibits and programs.
What to See and Do
Dinosaur Exhibit
The exhibit features life-sized dinosaur replicas, including a 35-foot-long Tyrannosaurus rex, as well as fossils and interactive displays about the lives of prehistoric creatures.
Marine Life Gallery
Explore marine ecosystems such as coral reefs and deep-sea environments. Visitors can see live marine animals, including sharks and stingrays, and learn about marine conservation.
African Savanna Exhibit
Dioramas feature African wildlife, including lions, elephants, and giraffes. The exhibit explores the biodiversity of the African savanna and the challenges faced by these ecosystems.
Prehistoric Mammals
Replicas and fossils of prehistoric mammals, including mammoths and saber-toothed cats, offer insights into their evolution and extinction.
International Wildlife Gallery
This gallery presents animals from various continents through taxidermy specimens and life-sized models, including polar bears, tigers, and kangaroos. Displays provide information about the species, their habitats, and the challenges they face in the wild.
Geology Gallery
Rocks, minerals, and fossils from around the world showcase the diversity of geological formations and the Earth’s geological history. Interactive displays explain processes that shape the Earth’s surface, including volcanic activity, erosion, and plate tectonics.
Wild Nevada Gallery
Displays focus on Nevada’s wildlife and ecosystems, including the flora and fauna of the Mojave Desert, the Great Basin, and other local habitats. Visitors can learn about the adaptations that help plants and animals survive in these harsh environments.
Young Scientist Center
This hands-on, interactive space engages children in scientific exploration through activities and experiments on different scientific concepts. Educators provide guidance and support, making the center a place for families to explore together.
Treasures of Egypt Exhibit
The exhibit explores ancient Egyptian history, culture, and achievements. It includes replicas of artifacts such as the Rosetta Stone and the bust of Nefertiti, a life-sized model of a mummy, and interactive displays. A section on mummification includes a replica of a tomb.
Educational Programs and Community Events
The LVNHM offers educational programs for visitors of all ages, including school field trips, summer camps, and workshops.
School programs are tailored to school groups and aligned with state and national science standards. They include guided tours, hands-on activities, and interactive exhibits.
Summer camps give children an immersive educational experience with activities such as fossil digs, animal encounters, and science experiments.
Community events include lectures, family days, and special exhibitions, intended to foster community and promote lifelong learning.
Practical Visiting Information
Visiting Hours
The museum is open daily from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM, except on major holidays.
Tickets
General admission is $12 for adults, $10 for seniors (55+), $6 for children (3–11), and free for children under 3. Discounted rates are available for groups and school tours.
Location
The museum is located at 900 Las Vegas Blvd N, Las Vegas, NV 89101.
Tips
Photography is allowed in most areas of the museum, but flash photography is prohibited to protect the exhibits.
Nearby Places
Nearby attractions include the Neon Museum, Fremont Street Experience, and the Mob Museum, providing a full day of exploration and learning.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are the visiting hours of the Las Vegas Natural History Museum?
See the visiting hours listed above.
How much are tickets to the Las Vegas Natural History Museum?
The ticket details above list admission as $12 for adults, $10 for seniors (55+), $6 for children (3–11), and free for children under 3. The FAQ listing also gives the $10 senior price without specifying an age.
Are there any guided tours available?
Yes. Guided tours are offered as part of the museum’s educational programs and for group visits.
What are some nearby attractions?
See the nearby places listed above.
Can I take photographs inside the museum?
Yes. Photography is allowed in most areas, but flash photography is prohibited.
For more information, visit the Las Vegas Natural History Museum website.