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

Exploring Las Vegas by night on an open-top double-decker bus combined with a visit to the Neon Museum offers a lively and visually stunning way to soak in the city’s vibrant personality. For just $89, you get to see the glittering Strip, capture iconic photos, and explore the historic neon signs that lit up the city’s past and present.

One thing we really love about this tour is how it balances sightseeing with storytelling. The audio commentary enriches the experience, giving you fascinating tidbits about Vegas’s evolution. However, a potential consideration is that the tour doesn’t include hotel pickup or drop-off, so you’ll need to plan your transportation to and from the starting point.

This experience is perfect for travelers who want a flexible, engaging way to see Las Vegas after dark—whether you’re a first-timer eager to tick off must-see sights or a seasoned visitor looking for a different perspective of the Strip and its history.

Key Points

• Iconic Pairing: Combines a lively open-top bus tour with a visit to the historic Neon Museum.
• Informative: Guided commentary and insightful stories add depth to the visual experience.
• Photo Opportunities: Includes a dedicated 15-minute stop at the famous Welcome to Las Vegas sign.
• Flexibility: Self-guided time at the Neon Museum allows you to spend as much time as you like exploring the signs’ stories.
• Affordable: At $89, offers great value considering the duration, sights, and included extras.
• Accessible: Staff mention wheelchair accessibility, making it available for a wider range of travelers.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Starting Point and First Impressions

The tour begins at Treasure Island Hotel & Casino, a central spot on the Strip, which makes it convenient if you’re already staying nearby. Arriving 15 minutes early ensures smooth check-in, and the loading zone on Mystere Dream Ave is easy to find once you know where to look. From there, the adventure kicks off with the energetic vibe of a double-decker bus ready to roll.

The Open-Top Bus Ride

The core of the tour is a guided 2.5-hour journey around the Las Vegas Strip, segmented into multiple stops for commentary and photo ops. The open-top bus offers a chance to see the neon-lit skyline from a fun, elevated perspective, perfect for snapping photos or simply soaking in the sights.

The commentary, delivered by knowledgeable guides in English, provides fascinating insights into Vegas’s history, architecture, and some behind-the-scenes stories. One reviewer, Morella, praised their driver Juan for his deep city knowledge and friendly demeanor, adding that his professionalism made the experience truly enjoyable. You’ll learn about the evolution of Vegas’s iconic landmarks and get a sense of the city’s lively personality.

The Photo Stop at the Welcome Sign

A highlight of the tour is the 15-minute stop at the “Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas” sign. This is a classic photo opportunity for most visitors, and the timing often works well for capturing that postcard-perfect shot. It’s a brief stop but enough to get some memorable images and soak in the excitement of being at Vegas’s most recognizable symbol.

Exploring the Neon Museum

The Neon Museum, or “Neon Boneyard,” is the real star for those interested in Vegas’s neon past. With a self-guided 45-minute visit, you have ample time to wander among over 250 vintage signs, each with its own story. The signs, once illuminating the Strip, are now preserved here, offering a nostalgic glimpse into Vegas’s heyday.

Reviews highlight how special this part of the tour is. Ivor-John recommends paying extra for the light show at the end, which suggests there’s more to the Neon Museum experience than just wandering among signs. You’ll also enjoy the Las Vegas Luminaries murals, a vibrant tribute to the city’s showgirls, headline acts, and civil rights heroes—adding a cultural layer to this historic display.

The Return and Optional Extra Time

After exploring the Neon Museum, you can choose to stay until midnight to enjoy the exhibits at your own pace, or hop back on the bus to continue the guided ride. The latter option allows you to see more of the Strip’s sights, including the Bellagio fountains, the Stratosphere, and glittering skyscrapers.

The tour wraps up back at Treasure Island, making it convenient for those who want to explore more on their own afterward.

Additional Elements

There’s also a 30-minute bay time at the Atomic Golf driving range, which is accessible with your Big Bus ticket. It’s a fun addition for golf lovers or anyone wanting a quick break from sightseeing.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Knowledgeable Guides
Guests consistently praise the guides for their depth of knowledge and friendly attitude. Juan, in particular, received high marks for making the tour both informative and enjoyable. Their insights turn a simple sightseeing trip into a storytelling experience that entertains and educates.

Stunning Views and Photo Opportunities
The open-top bus’s elevated vantage point offers excellent views of the Strip’s neon glow, especially at night. The photo stop at the iconic sign is a must, and many find that the combination of sights and stories helps capture the true essence of Vegas.

Authentic Neon Sign Experience
The Neon Museum is a treasure trove of Vegas memorabilia. Visitors often comment on how fascinating it is to see signs from famous casinos and shows, many of which have their own stories of rise and fall, illuminated once again in a beautifully curated setting.

Flexible and Value-Packed
At $89 per person, this tour packs in a lot—guided sightseeing, the neon museum visit, and a photo stop—making it a good deal in a city where experiences can quickly add up. Plus, the ability to stay longer at the Neon Museum adds a personalized touch.

Practical Tips for Your Tour

• Arrive early at Treasure Island to ensure a smooth check-in.
• Wear comfortable clothing and bring a hat or sunscreen if you’re sensitive to the sun, especially for the photo stop.
• Bring a camera or smartphone with plenty of storage for photos—these views are picture-perfect.
• If you wish to extend your Neon Museum visit, plan accordingly, as the self-guided tour allows flexibility.
• Book in advance to secure your spot, especially during peak seasons, and remember that cancellations are free if you cancel 24 hours ahead.

The Sum Up

This tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into Vegas’s vibrant nightlife and neon history. The combination of an open-top bus ride with engaging commentary and the iconic Neon Museum visit makes it a compelling choice for anyone wanting a relaxed yet immersive night out.

It’s especially suited for those who appreciate storytelling and authentic sights—whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned Vegas visitor wanting a new perspective. The tour strikes a great balance between guided insight and free time, giving you enough flexibility to tailor the experience to your preferences.

While it doesn’t include hotel pickup, the central departure point and straightforward itinerary make it accessible and easy to fit into a Las Vegas evening. The knowledgeable guides and stunning views truly enrich the experience, making it a memorable part of your Vegas adventure.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included in the tour?
No, the tour begins at Treasure Island Hotel & Casino, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to this location.

How long is the Neon Museum visit?
The visit is self-guided and lasts about 45 minutes, giving you plenty of time to explore the historic signs and murals.

Can I stay longer at the Neon Museum?
Yes, you can choose to stay until midnight to explore at your own pace, rather than returning with the group.

Is the bus tour accessible for wheelchairs?
Yes, the tour provider mentions that it is wheelchair accessible.

How much time is spent on the Strip during the tour?
The guided tour includes three segments of approximately 30 minutes each on the Strip, plus photo stops.

What should I bring?
Bring your camera, comfortable shoes, and a sense of curiosity—you’re likely to find many photo-worthy moments and interesting stories along the way.

This experience offers a smart way to see the best of Vegas after dark, combining dazzling sights with fascinating history. Whether you’re snapping photos at the sign or listening to tales of Vegas’s neon heyday, it’s a night well spent in “The Entertainment Capital of the World.”