Choosing places to visit in Las Vegas can be a little overwhelming. With thousands of options available to tourists and locals alike, it is easy to see how a museum might get lost in the shuffle.
That was often the case with the Clark County Museum in Henderson, which had to compete with all the casinos, national parks, and various other attractions for its share of visitors. The people who did come found it to be one of the best attractions in town; a place you can spend an entire day at viewing all the things that make this part of the country so unique. And you can do it all for the unbelievable price of just $2 or less!
Then something strange happened. Rather than being a quiet little destination few people knew about, the Clark County Museum became a must-see destination for not only locals, but for tourists from all over the world! Thanks to Mark Hall-Patton, and his work on the immensely popular shows “Pawn Stars” and “American Restoration,” people from all over are making the trip down Boulder Highway to check the place out and learn about the history of Clark County.
While he says the fame is something he could easily live without, Hall-Patton considers it a fair trade off to get people interested in the museum and history itself. The people who go out to seek a photo with him also end up taking a tour of the grounds, and more often than not, are amazed at all the things on display.
The museum consists of two parts. There is a large and very beautiful outdoor area that has historic homes from Southern Nevada, a ghost town, and some old trains. Then there is also an indoor exhibit that showcases a physical timeline of Nevada from ancient times to the present.
Outside, you will find Heritage Street, which is like walking through a time warp. You quickly forget all about being in Las Vegas, and instead feel like you have traveled back in time 100 years. The well manicured, tree-lined streets offer plenty of shade for when the temperatures climb, and we saw a handful of rabbits taking the tour along with us!
Featured in this area are eight buildings that represent a different era. Each home was carefully transported to the museum and preserved to show the visitors just what life was like back in that time period. Not only do you get to see the different houses, but also the items inside that people used on a daily basis back then. We found it fascinating to see how people lived without things we consider necessities today like televisions, washing machines, or computers.
Recently, the museum also added the old Candlelight Wedding Chapel, which was located on the strip. Hall-Patton said it was a fitting addition because over 5% of all weddings that take place in the United States take place right here in Clark County.
Also, as part of the outdoor portion of the museum, you will find the Mojave Desert Trail. There, you will find the ghost town which features a blacksmith shop and a jailhouse. And if you are a fan of “American Restoration,” just outside the entrance you will find the air siren that was prominently featured on one episode.
The inside portion of the museum is fascinating as well. It’s almost like a history book with pop-up pictures. The multiple exhibits walk you through time, and many are even able to be touched.
You will discover some of the ancient animals that once lived here, such as the dire wolf and something called a camelops, which looks a lot like, but is different than a camel.
Additionally, you will learn all about the contributions of the Native American tribes such as the Anasazi, Mohave and Paiute.
As you move further along, it starts to focus more on the mining and pioneer days.
Finally, as you near the end of the tour, you see a lot of old Las Vegas. There are old gaming machines, signs, and outfits that were part of Las Vegas when it was just beginning to become the tourist Mecca that it is today.
All-in-all this is probably the best value you will ever get for your $2! You could literally spend an entire day at this place and not see close to all there is to see and do. In fact, we are already planning to make a return visit so we can take in all we missed.
History can be a bit of a dry subject for a lot of people. Many find it boring. Fortunately, shows like “Pawn Stars” have taught millions of viewers that it can be fascinating as well, if just given a chance. And for those who do give it a chance, and make the trip out to Henderson to visit the Clark County Museum, they are greatly rewarded.
This attraction is great for people of all ages, and a great way to spend an afternoon with the family. Located at 1830 S. Boulder Highway in Henderson, NV., it’s a bit off the strip, but well worth the drive.
It is open from 9:00-4:30 each day and only closes for Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s day. Prices are just $2 for adults and $1 for seniors and children. That’s easily the best rate for any destination in Las Vegas!
If you are a fan of “Pawn Stars,” it is a must-do for any visit to Las Vegas. Mark Hall-Patton is more than happy to take photos with fans when he is on the grounds, and with his big beard and hat is easy to spot. Also, you will see such items as Sen. McCarran’s chair which was the focus of one episode. Just don’t ask him how much it is worth!
But even if you don’t watch the show, or if he is not there, you will have a great time. It gives a fascinating look into the history of Las Vegas, a town which many says has none. This museum certainly proves that wrong!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MEvgkecdTew
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