Exploring Las Vegas’ history is surprisingly rewarding when you know where to look. The essential historic stops include the vintage neon signs at the Neon Boneyard and the original gambling district along Fremont Street. We especially love the small-group walking tours – they’re intimate and packed with fascinating stories about the city’s gambling and mob connections. The GPS-guided mob history tour stands out for its flexibility and authentic locations. For outdoor enthusiasts, the Hoover Dam bike tour combines great exercise with spectacular desert views. Boulder City’s Historic District, just outside Vegas, offers a peaceful self-guided alternative with well-preserved 1930s architecture and local museums.
Let’s explore the top historical tours that reveal Vegas’ colorful past.
Key Points
- The Downtown and Fremont Street Walking Tour offers a 2-hour deep dive into the history of old Las Vegas, led by knowledgeable local guides.
- The Las Vegas: Price of History and Car Crazies Tour provides a 3.5-hour exploration of iconic filming locations and museums, including the Pawn Stars pawn shop.
- The Mountain Bike Historical Tunnel Trail to Hoover Dam tour combines an eco-friendly bike ride through historic tunnels with breathtaking views of Lake Mead.
- The GoCar Mob History Audio Tour & Mob Museum Ticket offers a self-guided, GPS-powered exploration of mob-related landmarks in electric GoCars.
- The Boulder City Historic District Self-Guided Tour allows visitors to explore antique shops, eateries, and historical sites at their own pace.
Small-Group Downtown and Fremont Street History Walking Tour
The Downtown and Fremont Street History Walking Tour offers visitors a captivating exploration of old Las Vegas.
This 2-hour small-group tour takes guests through the city’s vibrant past, with stops at iconic landmarks like Fremont Street, Fremont East, and the former Union Station site.
Led by knowledgeable local guides, the experience provides insights into the development of downtown Las Vegas and its rich cultural heritage.
With maximum group sizes of 20, the tour offers an intimate and personalized experience.
Optional add-ons include a visit to the famous Gold and Silver Pawn Shop.
Highly recommended for first-time visitors, the tour boasts 99% positive reviews and a Badge of Excellence.
Read our full review: Small-Group Downtown and Fremont Street History Walking Tour Review
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Las Vegas: The Price Of History And Car Crazies
Visitors seeking a deep dive into the storied past and automotive obsession of Las Vegas can embark on the captivating “Las Vegas: The Price Of History And Car Crazies” tour.
Priced at $155 per person, this 3.5-hour excursion takes guests to iconic television filming locations, including the famous pawn shop from “Pawn Stars.”
Travelers will also visit the Automobile Museum featured in “Locos por Los Autos” and the Incredible Toy Shack Store on Fremont Avenue.
With round-trip transportation, complimentary WiFi, and a Spanish-speaking guide, this immersive experience provides an exclusive glimpse into Vegas’ rich television and automotive history.
Passengers weighing over 280 lbs must pay an additional $99 fee on the day of the tour.
Read our full review: Las Vegas: The Price Of History And Car Crazies Review
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Mountain Bike Historical Tunnel Trail to Hoover Dam From Las Vegas
Adventurers seeking to explore the rich history and stunning natural beauty of the Las Vegas region can embark on the captivating Mountain Bike Historical Tunnel Trail to Hoover Dam tour.
This full-day eco-tour takes guests on a guided bike ride through historic tunnels used during the dam’s construction, offering breathtaking views of Lake Mead.
With a 98% recommendation rate from 42 positive reviews, the tour promises an unforgettable experience, including a boxed lunch, safety equipment, and an optional Hoover Dam Discovery Tour.
Suitable for moderately fit travelers aged 14 and above, this tour provides a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the area’s natural wonders and fascinating history.
Read our full review: Mountain Bike Historical Tunnel Trail to Hoover Dam From Las Vegas Review
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Las Vegas: GoCar Mob History Audio Tour & Mob Museum Ticket
For those seeking to uncover Las Vegas’s captivating history with organized crime, the GoCar Mob History Audio Tour & Mob Museum Ticket offers an immersive experience.
Priced at $126 per person, this 2-hour GPS-guided audio tour takes visitors through the city’s mob-related landmarks in electric GoCars. Highlights include the Mob Museum, Fremont Street Experience, and the Las Vegas Strip.
While the self-guided format can make it challenging to hear the commentary, the comfortable GoCars and the opportunity to explore the Mob Museum make this tour an engaging way to explore Las Vegas’s underworld.
However, the limited time at the museum may leave some visitors wanting a more in-depth experience.
Read our full review: Las Vegas: GoCar Mob History Audio Tour & Mob Museum Ticket Review
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Pioneer Desert Adventure With Lunch at the Historic Pioneer Saloon!
This desert RZR adventure with a lunch stop at the historic Pioneer Saloon offers an exhilarating journey through the rugged landscapes surrounding Las Vegas.
With a 100% recommendation rate and a Badge of Excellence, this tour is a must-do for thrill-seekers. Participants will traverse 70-75 miles of desert trails, explore the Pioneer Saloon, and enjoy a delicious lunch.
Safety is a top priority, with full-face helmets, vehicle orientation, and professional guides ensuring a smooth and secure experience. Customers rave about the staff’s expertise and the opportunity to spot local wildlife.
Whether it’s a solo trip or a group adventure, this desert exploration is an unforgettable way to experience the best of Las Vegas’ historic attractions.
Read our full review: Pioneer Desert Adventure With Lunch at the Historic Pioneer Saloon! Review
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Admission to the Erotic Heritage Museum Las Vegas
While the exhilarating desert RZR adventure and historic saloon lunch may appeal to thrill-seekers, the Erotic Heritage Museum in Las Vegas offers a unique cultural experience.
Visitors can explore the museum’s collection of erotic art, magazine covers, posters, mannequins, and sculptures. The museum aims to educate guests on the relationship between art and sexuality, including discussions on topics such as pornography and homosexuality.
With prepaid tickets for self-guided tours, guests can enjoy the museum’s exhibits at their own pace. Reviews highlight the museum’s informative and inclusive nature, though some recommend allotting more time to fully explore the unique collection.
Read our full review: Admission to the Erotic Heritage Museum Las Vegas Review
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Boulder City Historic District Self-Guided Tour From Las Vegas
Travelers seeking an immersive historical experience can embark on the self-guided Boulder City Historic District Tour from Las Vegas. The 4-hour excursion includes round-trip transportation, eliminating the need for a rental car.
Guests will explore the charming town at their own pace, encountering antique shops, eateries, and historic sites like the Boulder Dam Hotel and Hoover Dam Museum. An audio tour is available to enhance the self-guided exploration.
The tour accommodates wheelchair users and allows infants under 1 to attend for free. While most guests praise the quaint atmosphere and dining options, some have expressed concerns about transportation timing and communication.
Read our full review: Boulder City Historic District Self-Guided Tour From Las Vegas Review
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Las Vegas Natural History Museum Admission Ticket
Visitors to the Las Vegas Natural History Museum can purchase admission tickets to explore the captivating exhibits and educational displays. Priced from SEK 160.30 per person, the tickets provide access to the museum’s wide range of exhibits, from informative dinosaur displays to engaging Egyptian showcases.
With a Badge of Excellence and 41 positive reviews, the museum offers a great educational experience suitable for all ages. Guests can enjoy the wheelchair and stroller-accessible facilities, as well as the museum’s friendly and helpful staff.
However, some visitors have reported issues with certain interactive areas being offline and mixed experiences with staff engagement levels.
Read our full review: Las Vegas Natural History Museum Admission Ticket Review
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Hoover Dam/Power Plant/Historic Era Railroad Museum Tour, SM Grp
For those seeking a deeper exploration of Las Vegas’ historical wonders, the Hoover Dam/Power Plant/Historic Era Railroad Museum Tour, offered by SM Grp, provides a captivating experience.
The tour, lasting 6-7 hours, includes transportation, entrance fees, and a delightful lunch. Travelers can expect an air-conditioned vehicle, bottled water, and snacks throughout the journey.
With a maximum group size of 13, the tour offers an intimate setting for discovering the Hoover Dam, its power plant, and the Historic Era Railroad Museum.
The experience is accessible to wheelchair users and service animals, though individuals with certain medical conditions should exercise caution.
Overwhelmingly positive reviews highlight the quality of the guide and the overall tour.
Read our full review: Hoover Dam/Power Plant/Historic Era Railroad Museum Tour, SM Grp Review
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Las Vegas Private Historical Walking Tour
A private historical walking tour in Las Vegas offers an immersive exploration of the city’s captivating past. Priced from $149 per person, this tour provides a rundown of the city’s rich history.
Guests will meet under the iconic Vegas Vic neon sign on Fremont Street and embark on a journey through Las Vegas’ historic landmarks. The tour includes snacks, bottled water, and gratuities, ensuring a comfortable and informative experience.
Accessible to wheelchair users, stroller-pushers, and those with service animals, the tour is suitable for most travelers. With the option to reserve now and pay later, this private walking tour is a flexible and engaging way to discover Las Vegas’ captivating history.
Read our full review: Las Vegas Private Historical Walking Tour Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Take Photos During the Tour?
Generally, visitors are allowed to take photos during historical tours, but it’s best to check with the tour operator beforehand. Some sites may have restrictions or require permission for photography to preserve the experience and protect the venue.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tours?
Most historical tours don’t have strict age restrictions, but some may limit participation for young children. It’s best to check with the tour operator ahead of time to ensure the tour is appropriate for all members of your group.
Do the Tours Provide Transportation to and From the Sites?
Many historical tours provide transportation to and from the sites. Some tours may include hotel pick-up and drop-off, while others require participants to meet at a central location. It’s best to check the tour details for transportation options.
Is There a Discount for Seniors or Students?
Many historical tour companies offer discounts for seniors and students. Prices may vary, so it’s best to check with the specific tour provider to inquire about any available discounts. Transportation to and from the sites is typically included in the tour price.
Can I Bring Food and Drinks on the Tours?
Most tour companies allow visitors to bring their own food and drinks on the tours. However, it’s best to check with the specific tour operator beforehand to ensure their policies. Some may have restrictions or prohibit outside items.
The Sum Up
Las Vegas offers a variety of historical tours that allow visitors to explore the city’s past. From walking tours of downtown to bike rides to Hoover Dam, there’s something for every interest. Whether you’re a history buff or just looking for a unique way to experience the city, these tours provide an in-depth look at Las Vegas’ rich heritage.