Over the years, I've had the pleasure of visiting museums across this country and have loved them all. Each offering its own unique perspective on history, the arts and other events that have shaped and inspired society. However, without question, the Atomic Museum has set the bar. By far it has been the most interesting, fascinating and informative of all museums. What I found most intriguing was the information pertaining to the Nevada Test Site (NTS). This site was responsible for nuclear testing for over (40+ years). Some workers were privy to sensitive data and witnessed highly classified field exercises that one could only imagine. Several displays depicting actual equipment were on display including the "Fat man" a four section ballistic casing shell made of thick homogeneous steel armor and weighing approximately 3,500 pounds. A steel bean from the September 11th, terrorist attack in New York City is also on display. Visitors are welcomed to sit in a simulator room which, affords them the opportunity to experience the vibration of a simulated explosion. I would definitely recommend doing this but would use caution taking small children due to unexpected loud explosions/vibration noises. This is definitely a place were school children and even adults living in Nevada will gain a new appreciation for history and the important part that the state of Nevada had in this process. Bricks are available for purchase (silver, gold and platinum packages), and are hand crafted with your personal words, which, are then placed in the ground and memorialized in front of the museum. Merchandise such as T-shirts, hats, socks and other souvenir items are available for purchase in the store. If you're looking for an educational activity that the entire family can enjoy this is certainly one. Highly recommended! read more

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Was a fun place to take my 12 old grandson! Although a bit above his head he was interested in it all.

..I really enjoyed learning about the testing sites and what it really meant for the United States. I was so excited, I shared this info with my Boss and see if we can hold a dinner there for our organization that assists former nuclear & energy workers. But we have attempted to reach out with total silence and I even went up there but still nothing. The museum is a gem and would love to show off to our organization but I guess it will not happen. read more

After seeing Oppenheimer I was really curious to learn more about atomic energy and this is the place to do it. There is so much information here on the science, the ethical implications, the history, and so much more. There were plenty of information videos, artifacts. If you go to the theater room be prepared to be blown away (almost literally). We spent a couple hours here, but I feel like we could definitely go back to read some of the things we skipped and spend more hours here. The best part is this museum is included with reciprocal membership that I have through NARM. I can't believe how little I knew about the current state of atomic testing. read more

Atomic Museum - Museums Near Me - Las Vegas, Nevada

As a retired nuclear facility worker, this museum was a great place to explore parts of the industry I'd heard so much about. There's lots to read and see, so give yourself a couple hours here. Price: Nevada Resident w/ID $25 read more

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A unique experience! To be honest I wasn't really interested in going to this museum because the topic is so heavy. Ended up going due to peer pressure and over enthusiastic husband, and was pleasantly surprised by what I learned. Museum is laid out nicely and with interesting tidbits about JC Penny mannequins and bikinis :) read more

this one is hard to review because it is so small and the admission price is so expensive for what you get. What you do get is a hodgepodge of leftover junk from atomic testing that was done in Nevada not too far in the distant past. They do an excellent job laying out the pros and cons of nuclear testing. There's a couple of highlights (if you could call them that). first is a exact replica of what "fat man" would have looked like. There's also another replica of another more modern nuclear weapon. The other big highlight is a simulation of what it would have been like to actually witness a nuclear explosion complete with earthquake shaking of your seat. I have to admit it definitely what quite the experience. The downside is that entire exhibit lasted barely 45 minutes (including touring the gift shop). Also the whole building fit neatly inside of a strip mall. So if you are really in to this kind of thing than this is definitely your place. If you are in town you should check it out because it is definitely an important part of the history of the area. read more

Super unique and interesting. If you have an interest or time to kill it's worth it! I'll be back.

Like most museums you really have to be a fan of the material first before you go. Have no interest in history or science? Probably a hard pass. What about if you like all things atomic and want inspiration for your next sci-fi-alternate-timeline screenplay? This could certainly play a role as your muse. Do you like nostalgic Americana and how close we got to destroying the world? Okay, this might be up your alley. The Atomic Museum is one of those places where if you have some fascination with the above mentioned it'll be a good hour of careful reading and hand's on interactions. You can see actual items from the Cold War and World War II era, feel what it was like to witness a testing of a nuke from a bunker, and a thorough explanation of how bombs work. Can't say it'll be a highlight for most people visiting Las Vegas but it is an interesting look into a part of US history that's mentioned but not thoroughly explained in school. The exterior of the location is a non-assuming tall building that states what it is but you'll more likely confuse it for an off campus school building. In fact, the building is a shared space for faculty. But when entering go to your right and you'll see the glass ticket counter that'll have a helpful person to assist you. Also, it's nice to know that your admission helps support not just the museum but the sciences as well. Trust me, both need it sorely. Although a fun dive into this interesting part of US history don't miss the end of the museum. It shares exhibit pieces of how the Cold War and World War II affected people, including Japanese Americans and their march to internment camps. It's a reminder of how fear often leads to exceptions to human rights. I recommend visiting the Atomic Museum at least once in your various visits to Las Vegas. It is a unique perspective and almost always has deals to visit for cheap prices. read more

Atomic Museum - Beep beep boop - Museums Near Me - Las Vegas, Nevada

Second visit. I liked the U.S. history in this one-of-a-kind museum that I brought my husband this time. Pictures and films show the making of the atomic bombs, and tells the history of dropping the bombs over Japan in 1945 WWll. The Nevada desert was/is a testing ground for bombs. There is so much science and engineering in these secret government projects, one being The Manhattan Project, that "mum" was the word for "no telling." read more

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This is a great museum for history buffs and I highly recommend it for anyone that lives in the Western U.S. that lives around the area (Utah, Nevada, New Mexico.) The information you learn is a great history of the atomic age and the area and, quite frankly, will scare the hell out of you. I would NOT recommend this for little kids or those under Junior High level. There is a lot of reading and exhibits and no "hands on" type stuff to entertain the littles. The museum is broken down in to several areas and they all give a nice walk through tour giving the history of the atomic bomb and how it has changed the shape and politics of the world. There are some amazing time lines showing what was happening in the world alongside the timeline of atomic development. You'll spend about 90 minutes to 2 hours if you really get in to all of the exhibits and reading. It is well worth the time. read more

What a place! Its packed with memorabilia and actual gear and replicas of that time. I wasn't expecting to even come here but my son convinced me and i am glad we came here. Got some nice souvenirs too! Check it out. read more

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Outstanding exhibit, superb customer service. This is a nice balance between the past and the present. This is a lesson in history, while also showing us why peace is so important. Free parking is offered in a very spacious one level parking lot. Restrooms were extremely clean and well stocked. This is an absolute must do if you are into intellectual stimulation while in the Las Vegas area. read more

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There are several museums in the area, and decided to give this one a try as it was the best rated overall. There was plenty of free parking and we went on an off time so it wasn't too busy thankfully. There is lots of information and some interactive displays. Most of the information was things I've already picked up over the years on the History Channel. As per the lady at the front their videos are available online for free. We didn't qualify for any discounts, meaning tickets were $24 each. Honestly I feel the tickets should have been about half for the perceived benefit provided (and hence my 3 star rating). We really took our time looking at everything (with the exception of watching long videos) and were hard pressed to need longer than 45 minutes (with checking out the gift shop). I do agree with some reviews that the risks and damage from the atomic testing has been oversimplified/downplayed in the displays. This was actually what I was most interested in learning about. If you can get a deal on the tickets or qualify for the discounts, I'd be more likely to recommend going than paying full price like we did. read more

With family visiting, we went to visit the Atomic Museum on Flamingo. Our visitors were very impressed with the displays, artifacts & history associated with the the history of the nuclear weapon program & Las Vegas. There are plenty of informative films, placards & photos. Of course, the Mrs loved the smashed penny machine we found in their gift shop. Do you have some spare time & visiting family or friends? Take them to this museum, you'll enjoy the stay & maybe learn something too. read more

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Amazing staff and curators. Everyone there was incredibly knowledgeable and happy to help.

We toured this museum as part of a conference in Las Vegas. Cool but somewhat small museum. They have several atomic bombs to look over and a plethora or information to look at. We had a docent guide us through and he was informative and had plenty of stories. It's certainly worth a visit. read more

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Went to the Atomic museum before going to see Oppenheimer the movie, it just felt like the perfect time to go, right before watching such a historical movie. The Atomic Museum is a fascinating and educational place to visit if you are interested in the history and science of nuclear testing. The museum showcases the development and impact of the nuclear weapons program at the Nevada Test Site, which was the site of over 900 nuclear tests from 1951 to 1992. It also explores the cultural and political aspects of the atomic age, as well as the current and future challenges of nuclear security and non-proliferation. The museum also features interactive displays, videos, and oral histories that provide more information and perspectives on the nuclear testing program. They are affiliated with the Smithsonian Institution, which means they have access to high-quality resources and expertise. The museum is open from Monday to Sunday, from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. The admission fee is $29 for Adults, $27 Seniors, military & first responders, $25 Nevada Residents, $15 youth ages 7-17, children under 6 free. You can buy tickets online or at the museum. The Museum is located at 755 E Flamingo Rd, Las Vegas, NV, 89119, and has free parking for visitors. It is also close to other attractions in Vegas, like the Strip, the Bellagio Fountains, and the Eiffel Tower. If you are looking for a fun and informative activity in Vegas, I highly recommend visiting the Atomic Museum. It is a great way to spend a few hours in Vegas. read more

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It's fun for what it is and fair priced for entry. It has a lot of historical information and some kind of "story" information and some "filler" type information and paintings. It is interesting to see and hear the facts and pictures and objects. Good for the family. read more

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Great place to visit to learn about some of Las Vegas and US history. Super close to the Main Strip (about 15mins). Great for history buffs and older teens. Parking is plenty, Groupons available and takes about 1hr. read more

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I've always been fascinated with the atomic age. Living in Las Vegas, I jumped at the opportunity to visit the Atomic Museum to get a glimpse into the time when bombs were tested not far from where I rest my head at night. I found the experience surprising and enlightening, and am glad I came. The Atomic Museum is close to the Strip and easily accessible for folks visiting my city. It has a ton of exhibits that cover the history of nuclear testing. While the times featured in the movie "Oppenheimer" are certainly covered with detail, the museum focuses in particular on the Nevada Test Site. You'll find detailed displays on the science behind nuclear weapons as well as the context for why and when they were designed and tested. Most interesting to me, I learned about their impact on local communities like Las Vegas. The museum does an excellent job of showing making science accessible. Not that I would necessarily tell people who are bringing their kids to LV to make this their first stop due to the subject matter, but for kids who are interested in history or science it's a perfect place to visit. I visited close to closing time so I didn't spend nearly as long as I would have liked. If I had planned better, I would have planned to spend at least an hour to fully explore the museum. I'm happy we have this museum in my city, and if you have any interest in history or the atomic age, I encourage you to visit. read more

Well worth the visit. So much history on display. Really enjoyed the atomic art and posters from the 50s and 60s.

Stopped by because it had a lot of reviews on Google. There is a lot of free parking although I wish there was more shade! There were solar panels for cars with permits only, so only for employes. A museum on the smaller side. The main museum is actually in the corner and is a walkway through exhibits. The gift shop has funny little nick knacks about aliens. However I must have not traveled the whole museum because I didn't bump into an Area 51 area of the museum. The most interesting part for me was reading the personal stories of Japanese citizens affected by the bombing. The pictures taken by American journalists of the bombed cities was surreal. Makes it more personal and real, and a little sad. Overall a very educational and reflective experience. read more

This museum is not for everyone. I am an engineer so I found parts more interesting than some will. It is an important part of history and will give you some background on many aspects of the atomic age. I would not take most kids less than 16 years old. If you do take kids, explain this was on the level of sending someone to the moon and was the a huge part of history. They are showing how hard, how much work, and how many people had to work together to accomplish this. It was felt necessary to end a war and continued to prevent another. The museum is out of the way from the LV strip. We took the bus and had two very sketchy people on the bus with mental health problems. Then there was some commotion and a transit person was trying find someone else that was causing a problem. The reek of weeds at the stop was horrible from several people. There was also a delay on the bus as they were backed up. I am a big guy and fit, traveled all over the world and I was more uncomfortable on the bus than I have been in NY, Chicago, Beijing, all over Europe. We rode the bus all over other parts of LV with no issue. One of the exhibits the noise ( some sort of noise to be creepy but was more grating ) was uncomfortable for my wife and she left the room after 10 minutes. It was annoying to me as well. There was another exhibit with a bunker . There was a blast of air to simulate a blast that to honest, I found to be a bit painful. I am sure the museum was trying to make some excitement but I could have done without it. High points were the test equipment, a backpack Nuke, what some of the bombs looked like. The "atomic" impact on culture, the bravery and dedication of the people on the programs as this was considered a life or death for the US. It was also important to relate the pain and suffering for the people of Japan. It was genuinely felt this would save more lives in the long run. There was a Robby the robot that was very cool. Would have like a bit more history on this model. The Enigma machine was an unexpected treat. There are a LOT of timelines. Some seemed redundant. Many of the plaques seemed low to read. Maybe this was for people in wheelchairs chairs as I don't think kids would read them. read more

I've driven by the atomic museum located on Flamingo around the corner from UNLV for about 20 years. I finally had the opportunity to go in with my daughter. It is truly impressive as far as the information, the displays, they even have a cool mini bomb simulator theater. This is for people who have any interest in the history of testing in Nevada, Radiation, and the Cold War. It's also eerie and sad as far as the history of why the government selected this area to do the testing as they thought it was Barron and desolate while they were native people and people affected who lived in the area and those who lived downwind from the testing from the Radiation. read more

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An interesting museum filled with some tidbits and many artifacts. If you're interested in how atomic weapons operate you should check this out. The National Atomic Testing Museum is a part of the Smithsonian. Lots of information to look at and there's also movies. May be boring to some people but it's a fun place to learn stuff about nuclear weapons. It also is a part of the Desert Research Institute. Lots of reading is involved so be ready to read through some interesting but mostly boring stuff. This is more of a museum you think of being like a museum. Keep the kids in the care of someone else or come without any. This will likely bore children the most with the information. It's about $14 for adult admission with a Groupon. The tour doesn't have a time limit, but you could spend a couple of hours looking and reading. It has a quick film about atomic bombs that plays every 15 minutes. There's lots of memorabilia including actual bombs and many photographs. Has lots of information that's both boring and interesting. It has many things for adults to enjoy but kids might get bored pretty fast here with all the reading. This is a good place for Cold War buffs and those interested in nuclear weapons. read more

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Interesting museum about he development of the nuclear bomb. We were able to get a Groupon so it was only $21 for both me and my husband. The movie was great so definitely don't miss it. Not for young kids as there is a lot of reading read more

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My husband and I visited the museum recently during our honeymoon in Vegas. We had a Groupon, so it was 2 for 1 admission. I'm a history nerd & he's very into mechanics and electronics, so this kind of meshed both our interests. There's tons of artifacts, replicas, and dioramas on every part of the development and testing of nuclear bombs in both NV & NM. Extremely interesting stuff. Interesting movie in a fallout shelter setting. The one downfall was it was extremely heavy reading. They have tons and tons of signs and tags, and not a ton of interaction. However, it's worth it to do something off the strip & learn a little in the process. read more

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I'm a big fan of anything that has to do with explosions and history, so having free admission to the National Atomic Testing Museum thanks to the go city pass was an absolute not brainer, especially when I live down the street from it anyway! I visited here this morning right when they opened and had a wonderful time poking around this museum and learning about the history of atomic bombs both inside of Nevada and all across the world from Canada to Japan. Each room features different models and exhibits as well as has a bunch of different videos playing that you could watch as well. Going through this museum start to finish took me about an hour and I'll be honest, I didn't read everything because my attention span is practically non-existent but I still managed to have a great time and definitely purchased both a magnet, some fun pop, and a new enamel pin for my collection. Overall, I had a wonderful experience visiting the National Atomic Testing Museum and can't wait to take some people here when they visit me as well. I also want to shoutout the employees in the gift shop for being extremely knowledgeable and helpful, you guys make this place even better. read more

Atomic Museum - Very neat tunnel. - Museums Near Me - Las Vegas, Nevada

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I would recommend if you're a history buff. This specifically is good if you're interested in war memorabilia and missles and what not. They have a cool stimulation show. Fun family place to go especially when considering being in Vegas read more

Tip: to save $$$$ buy tickets ahead of time on Groupon! You'll save about 50%! Great place to go with the family to spend a few hours away from the strip to beat the Las Vegas heat. The museum is easy to find, a couple miles away from the strip, on Flamingo Rd. Ample, free parking. Came here on a Monday afternoon (currently the museum is open from 10am-3pm). Face coverings/masks are required and social distancing markers are scattered throughout. Tours are self guided, and you are given a map of the museum. Don't miss the "ground zero theater" in which you experience a simulation of an above ground test. Very interesting and educational experience. read more

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This review is actually about the Nevada Test Site Tour conducted by the NNSS or Nevada National Security Site . You have to sign up in advance like almost a year before you can go and of course pass a background check . They pick up here at the Atomic Museum early in the morning and return in the afternoon around 5pm . I highly recommend you doing the tour if you are at all interested in the Cold War , Nuclear Weapons Testing and Development , History , etc . It was something that meant a lot to me since I was hired to work at the Nevada Test Site back in 1991 , but the week before I started they had a hiring freeze and myself and others lost our jobs before we even started ! I went through a thorough background check and paperwork that took me a year to get the job and moved from Texas to start here and didn't get to work one day . I still stayed in Las Vegas all these years though . The bus ride is a comfortable bus like a Greyhound with a restroom in the back of the bus . Our Tour Guide is a former instructor at the facility and ex-military like myself and very informative . You can't take any cellphones or cameras , but he will take some group photos at certain stops and after they are gone through by NNSS they will email you the pictures as long as they are approved . We stopped at Sedan Crater , which was my favorite stop , Ice Cap Ground Zero , Apple 2 House , Frenchman Flat , Drill Yard , T-1 Training Facility , and Gun Turret which came off a World War 2 battleship the USS Louisville . During the tour you stop for a snack and later lunch . You need to bring a Credit Card or Debit Card since they don't take cash at the snack and dining facility . They also provide free water on the bus . Unfortunately , I have no pictures to share for this review . read more

I went with my son and we were amazed when we found that it is part of the Smithsonian. The museum was very well presented and they had the most amazing and informative docent Marcus who made the experience special and complete. If you have the opportunity to be in Las Vegas and want something special outside of a casino check out The Atomic Museum and if you're lucky Marcus will be there. read more

To be perfectly honest, I thought I was going to be bored to tears here.... I wasn't. This is an informative place with great models, exhibits & tons of cool stories & photos. Andrew & Antonio were both friendly & helpful in the gift shop. We enjoyed talking to them about the museum also. This museum was a surprise for my husband. I asked for his opinion on the museum bc he knew a lot more about what he was looking at than I did. His exact words when I told him I was writing a review were "The museum was the most informative on the development of atomic weapons, how they were used, the managing, cleaning of waste and effects of atomic weapons. It also showed the progression from atomic to nuclear to hydrogen weapons. The exhibits were good and provided a good range of information." If you have ever had an interest in Atomic Bombs, you should check out this museum. My husband read every exhibit & we were still only here for 2 hours. We did not watch any of the films or documentaries though. There's a link you can get so that you can watch them at home. Get it! Last but not least, I saved 25% on 2 tickets by buying my tickets through Groupon. read more

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I really enjoy museums. The NATM is an affiliate of the Smithsonian. And, it shows. The history of atomic and thermonuclear research, development and testing is detailed through seemingly never-ending exhibition rooms of photos, artifacts, maps, video and schematics. Commencing with the mathematics and theoretical physics models of early 20th century, the exhibitions present the intellectual minds and agencies responsible for turning science fiction in to science fact. Chicago physicists, Manhattan Project, New Mexico, Trinity, Fat Man, Little Boy, near Pacific Test sites, Nevada Test Sites, moratoriums, SALT and START, NNSA and NEST. Information on testing locations, fallout, tests, experiments, fission, fusion, and nuclear waste management. History, history, history! Extraordinarily informative and professionally presented at an appropriate comprehension level without condescending. The displays are well-kept; Professionally assembled and of the highest museum quality. The museum is larger than visually perceived. Im tedious and completed my tour in just under 3 1/2 hours. I recommend scheduling admission earlier in the day to allow for a thorough but unrushed examination of the exhibition rooms. AND, the Ground Zero Theater is a must. A simulation of watching an above-ground test complete with physically interactive sensations and surround sound! VERY highly recommended!l read more

Atomic Museum - Simulated viewing of a Nevada Desert Atomic Test, complete with the flash, the rumble of the shock wave and the blast impact. - Museums Near Me - Las Vegas, Nevada

This was a very neat experience and very informative. They had many displays. They were interactive and a lot of videos to explain what we were doing during the Cold War, etc. i'm a believer that if we don't learn from history, we are bound to repeat it. read more

Atomic Museum - Sculpture of the atomic bomb - Museums Near Me - Las Vegas, Nevada

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We're the geeks who did the almost 2-mile walk from the Strip to wander through this museum for an hour and a half. This place presents the science and history of the Atomic Age in a way that's approachable to most adults and older kids. It is not a huge facility, but they have many exhibits and videos to ponder. Of course, there's a gift shop at the end. read more

Atomic Museum - Museums Near Me - Las Vegas, Nevada

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I expected this museum to be all about the initial atomic test, but it turned out to be the entire history leading up to and including the Cold War. I got to see a piece of the Berlin Wall. I didn't even know it was there, but I've wanted to see one since the Wall came down. Even very knowledgeable people are bound to learn some interesting things. I was especially moved by the part of the exhibit that focused on Hiroshima and Nagasaki, even though I've been to the Nagasaki Peace Museum and have seen that aspect of the history in detail. The atomic test blast "experience" is interesting, but loud in a few places. You'll think it's done being loud, then it's loud again. Fair warning. There are some dry parts, but it's worth a visit. read more

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M E G A N was our first contact & sold us our tickets. We literally had 45 mins but wanted to get a l'l tour in being on vaca. M E G A N slid us a map & quickly pointed to the must-sees. We took many pictures to view at home & thoroughly enjoyed our brief time but thrilled we got-it-in. Museum shoppe had plenty of fun tees, snacks, and clever souvenirs. Much Obliged M E G A N for making a limited time memorable. 2k miles from home! read more

We paid half price with a Groupon ($12) which definitely made it worth the value. I'm not even that interested in science for war or the history of Vegas, but this was still interesting and all those aspects and more. There is a countdown reenactment of an atomic bomb with a simulator of sounds and shake. Pretty creepy. Plus lots of atomic photos of Vegas and it's payday. It's not near the strip but there are buses that head right out there just like a 10 minute ride. I really recommend this is something off the beaten path read more

Atomic Museum - Museums Near Me - Las Vegas, Nevada