Even though Las Vegas changes, as the whole world does, its spirit remains the same – colorful, playful and glamorous. Not all the showgirls are gone, and Elvis Presley’s music is still being performed. If you’re yearning for a glimpse of the past, check out this list of the best old-school Vegas attractions.
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Table of Contents
The Mob Museum
Type of attraction: Museum
National Museum of Organized Crime and Law Enforcement, that’s the official name of this unique attraction. It’s located in the former Las Vegas Post Office and Courthouse dating back to 1933 and included on the National Register of Historic Places. As the name suggests, the museum concentrates on the history of organized crime and law enforcement’s actions taken against it. St. Valentine’s Day Massacre Wall, an electric chair, a chair on which Albert Anastasia was sitting when he got killed, and lots of other scary items can be seen here. Just keep in mind that after looking at the photographs of gangs’ victims and reading biographies of gangsters you might have some seriously disturbing nightmares.
Address: 300 Stewart Avenue
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Neon Museum
Type of attraction: Museum
Neon signs used to be something unique in Las Vegas. While other cities used to have their paintings, sculptures or posters, for Las Vegas the signs were a most distinct form of art. With the development of technology things changed and now the Strip is full of LED screens, but luckily there’s the Neon Museum with its mission of preserving the city’s history. The museum displays the Moulin Rouge, Stardust, Caesars Palace and Desert Inn signs, a giant skull from the Treasure Island and lots of other vintage gems. Neon Museum offers a chance to feel the vibe of old times, and it’s one of the best old-school Vegas attractions.
Address: 770 N Las Vegas Blvd
Image by: Gary Bembridge
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The Rat Pack is Back
Type of attraction: show
Back in the 1960’s, the Rat Pack was ruling Las Vegas. The group of artists including Sammy Davis Jr., Frank Sinatra, Joey Bishop and Dean Martin appeared together on stage and in movies. Now at the Rio venue, you can see talented impersonators paying tribute to the legendary team. The Rat Pack is Back is a great show with fantastic music, so no wonder it’s one of the longest-running show in the city.
Address: Rio Resort, Crown Theater, 3700 W. Flamingo Rd.
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Golden Steer Steakhouse
Type of attraction: restaurant
The restaurant was open in 1958, and it hasn’t changed much since then. It did expand, a bar was added, some new decorations too, but it didn’t make much of a difference. The best of the Golden Steer Steakhouse has stayed. The décor is nearly the same, and the atmosphere hasn’t been influenced by the passing time. Many famous people used to hang out there years ago, including Tony “The Ant” Spilatro, Nat King Cole, Elvis Presley and Natalie Wood. Some of the staff members have been working in the restaurant for 40 years. In Golden Steer Steakhouse not only you can travel in time, but also taste the best steaks in Vegas (or the whole world, as many customers claim).
Address: 308 W. Sahara Ave.
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Peppermill Fireside Lounge
Type of attraction: casino
What would Vegas be without its famous casinos? There must be at least one included on the list of the best old-school Vegas attractions. Why did we choose the Peppermill Fireside Lounge precisely? We’ve selected this lounge because it’s delightfully vintage. It’s been featured in many famous movies – not without reason. The atmosphere is excellent, drinks unique, food and desserts delicious.
Address: 2985 Las Vegas Blvd
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The Attic
Type of attraction: shopping
Before you head to the old-style shows or casinos, you should get at least a bit retro. That’s when The Attic comes in handy. Gorgeous hats, fabulous wigs, lovely dresses, quirky boots, vintage gadgets, and decorations, it’s a paradise of shopping. Get yourself a proper outfit before you go out to the city and feel as if you were not only surrounded by the old-school vibe but made a part of it as well.
Address: 1010Â N Main St
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Jubilee!
Type of attraction: show
Jubilee!, held at Bally’s Las Vegas, is a long-running, spectacular burlesque show. The performing showgirls are Las Vegas’ icon – not only beautiful but insanely talented. Together with handsome show boys they dance, sing and look fabulous for 95 of the show. With tons of feathers, rhinestones, shine, and glamor, amazing costumes, choreography and decorations, Jubilee! is a show you must-see.
Address: The hotel and casino Bally’s Las Vegas, 3645 Las Vegas Blvd South
Do you know some more examples of the best old-school Vegas attractions? Let us know and share your recommendations!
