Las Vegas: Neon Museum Night Experience & Open-Top Bus Tour

Traveling through Las Vegas often means seeing the bright lights and legendary landmarks by day, but experiencing the city at night offers a whole new perspective. This tour combines the excitement of an open-top double-decker bus ride with a visit to the Neon Museum’s Boneyard, giving visitors a chance to enjoy stunning views, learn some Vegas stories, and get those perfect night-time photos.

What we particularly like about this experience is how it blends sightseeing with historic charm. The open-top bus offers spectacular views of the Strip lit up against the night sky, while the Neon Museum lets you get up close with signs that once dazzled millions. That said, a potential downside might be the timing and weather—it is a night tour, so it can get cold, especially in March, and the Neon Museum visit is self-guided, which might not suit everyone looking for a fully guided experience.

This tour is ideal for those who want to see the Vegas skyline from a different angle and appreciate the stories behind the signs. It’s perfect for first-timers wanting an overview of the city’s iconic sights, as well as repeat visitors eager to photograph Vegas at night. If you’re after a relaxed, visually stunning experience that combines transportation with cultural eye-openers, this tour fits the bill.

Key Points

• Open-top bus ride provides 360-degree views of the Strip’s neon glow at night.
• Neon Boneyard showcases over 250 legendary signs, each with its own story.
• Photo opportunities at the famous “Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas” sign are well worth the stop.
• Insightful audio commentary offers background stories and historical context.
• Flexible scheduling allows you to stay longer at the Neon Museum or enjoy the sights from the bus.
• Wheelchair accessible and in English, making the tour accessible for many travelers.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Starting Point and First Impressions

The tour kicks off at Treasure Island Hotel & Casino, a convenient and recognizable landmark on the Strip. Arriving 15 minutes early is recommended to ensure a smooth check-in at the loading zone. The buses are double-decker, and riding on the open top means you’ll get an unobstructed view of Las Vegas’ neon-lit skyline—a truly mesmerizing sight after dark.

The Open-Top Double-Decker Bus Ride

The journey is divided into three segments totaling about 90 minutes, with guided commentary through an audio guide in English. We loved the way the bus glides along the Strip, with the wind in your hair and the dazzling lights around you. The upper deck, in particular, is fantastic for taking photos and creating videos—we heard some travelers remark that they captured great shots of the Bellagio fountains and the towering hotels like the Stratosphere.

The commentary offers insights into the city’s evolution, pointing out noteworthy hotels, casinos, and architectural marvels. Several reviews highlighted the guides’ deep knowledge and friendly manner, making the experience both informative and entertaining.

Photo Stop at the “Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas” Sign

The tour includes a 15-minute stop at the iconic sign—arguably the most recognizable symbol of Vegas. It’s a perfect photo opportunity, especially at night when the sign’s lights are brightest. Expect a bit of a crowd, but the setting makes for a lively, energetic scene. Many reviewers have said this spot alone is worth the trip, capturing a classic Vegas moment.

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Exploring the Neon Boneyard

After the bus ride, you’ll head to the Neon Museum’s Boneyard for a 45-minute self-guided tour. Here, over 250 vintage signs await, many from legendary casinos, hotels, and clubs. The signs themselves are art pieces, many featuring neon lighting and unique design elements from the golden age of Vegas.

We loved the way the signs tell stories of Vegas’s heyday. The Las Vegas Luminaries murals are also a highlight—these vibrant artworks pay tribute to the city’s celebrities, showgirls, and civil rights heroes.

Some reviews mentioned that many signs were not lit during their visit, which can be disappointing given the emphasis on their illumination. However, even unlit, the signs’ shapes and designs are fascinating. You might find that the museum’s atmosphere—especially at night—adds to the sense of nostalgia and spectacle.

Flexibility and Optional Extras

The tour allows you to stay at the Neon Museum until midnight, which many guests appreciate for a more relaxed experience. Alternatively, you can hop back on the bus after the museum to continue enjoying views of the Strip, including sights like the Bellagio fountains and the towering Stratosphere.

Cost and Value

While the overall cost depends on the booking platform, many find the price reasonable considering the combination of transportation, commentary, and museum access. The value lies not only in seeing Las Vegas from above but also in the opportunity to learn about the city’s history through its iconic signs—something that photographs alone can’t replace.

What the Reviews Say

Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides and the stunning views from the upper deck. Dawn from the UK called it “an amazing way to capture the Las Vegas strip at night,” while another reviewer from the US highlighted that “the night drive is when Las Vegas is best.”

Some mention that the Neon Museum’s signs are not all lit, which can diminish some visual impact, but most agree that the atmosphere and stories more than compensate. One reviewer appreciated that the tour is suitable for those with mobility needs, as it is wheelchair accessible.

A few negative comments note logistical issues, like late arrivals or the location being hard to find, but these are in the minority. The feedback points to a memorable, well-organized tour that delivers more than just a ride—it’s an experience.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Dress warmly, especially in cooler months, as the open-top bus can get chilly at night.
• Arrive at least 15 minutes early to check in comfortably.
• Bring your camera or smartphone for photos—best shots are from the upper deck.
• If visiting the Neon Museum, consider doing an audio-guided tour or paying extra for the light show for maximum impact.
• Be aware that some signs may not be lit during your visit, which is normal.
• The tour is wheelchair accessible, but check with the provider if special assistance is needed.
• Plan your evening to make the most of the visit, as you can stay at the Neon Museum until midnight.

The Sum Up

This Las Vegas Night Tour by open-top bus offers a lively, scenic way to experience the city’s famous lights and stories. Combining sightseeing with a visit to the Neon Museum creates a balanced mix of spectacle and history. The guided commentary, stunning views from the top deck, and iconic photo stops make it a popular choice for first-time visitors and seasoned Vegas veterans alike.

While it’s not a fully guided tour of the Neon Museum, the flexibility to explore at your leisure and the chance to see Vegas from a unique vantage point make this experience a worthwhile addition to any evening plans. It’s especially suited for those who love photography, urban scenery, and learning about Vegas’s colorful past.

If you’re after a memorable, visually captivating way to experience Las Vegas after dark, this tour hits the mark. Just pack a jacket, bring your camera, and prepare to be dazzled.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for wheelchair users? Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible. It’s best to confirm with the provider if you require any special accommodations.

How long is the entire tour? The full experience lasts about 3 hours, including the bus ride, photo stop, and museum visit.

Can I stay longer at the Neon Museum? Yes, you can stay until midnight if you’d like to explore the museum at your own pace.

Is there an audio guide? Yes, the commentary on the bus is provided via an insightful audio guide in English, guiding you through Las Vegas’s landmarks and stories.

What should I wear? Dress warmly, especially if visiting during cooler months like March, since the bus is open-top and can be chilly at night.

Is the bus ride at night or during the day? The tour takes place at night, providing a spectacular view of the illuminated Strip.

Are there any extras or optional activities? You can opt to pay for an extra light show at the Neon Museum or upgrade your experience with an audio guide.

What is the meeting point? The tour departs from Treasure Island Hotel & Casino, on Mystere Dream Ave just west of the main driveway.

Is this a good tour for photography? Absolutely. The upper deck offers excellent vantage points for capturing Vegas’s dazzling lights and landmarks, especially during sunset or at night.

Would you recommend this tour? Yes. It offers a delightful blend of sights, stories, and photo opportunities that showcase Las Vegas in a lively, memorable way.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby