Step into the National Atomic Testing Museum, where history isn’t just displayed—it’s felt. Walk through underground labs, witness real nuclear test footage, and stand at the edge of a world that once balanced on the brink. This isn’t just a museum; it’s a raw, emotional journey into humanity’s most powerful—and perilous—achievements. For those chasing depth beyond the neon lights, this is the soul of Las Vegas you won’t forget.

Perched on the upper floors of the Las Vegas Strip, this hotel offers 424 stylish rooms with breathtaking city views. Unwind at the Forbes-rated spa or private pool, savor authentic Italian cuisine and award-winning steaks. With kid-friendly amenities and pet-friendly policies, it’s perfect for families and couples alike. The 24-hour business center and fitness facility cater to work and wellness needs, plus Chinese guest services add a thoughtful touch!
Everything you need to know about Atomic Museum
Stay at the Bellagio Hotel on the Las Vegas Strip, just a 15-minute drive from the museum. It offers luxury accommodations, world-class gardens, and exceptional dining—perfect for relaxing after your visit. For a more immersive desert experience, consider Red Rock Canyon Lodge, located near Red Rock Canyon with serene surroundings and stunning views of the Mojave Desert. Both provide excellent access to history and nature in Nevada.
Renting a car or using a private shuttle is ideal, as the museum is about 30 miles north of downtown Las Vegas with limited public transit options. Take I-15 North to the Nellis Air Force Base exit, then follow signs to the museum—approximately 30 minutes from the city center. Some guided tours include round-trip transportation, making it a convenient choice for travelers wanting to avoid driving.
Don’t miss the underground nuclear test simulation chamber, which recreates Cold War-era testing conditions through interactive displays. The Cold War military equipment exhibit features real aircraft wreckage, including parts of a B-29 bomber. Also explore the nuclear explosion archive, where you can watch rare historical footage. Outside, the Test Site Memorial Monument stands as a powerful reminder of the atomic era’s legacy.
Join the guided underground lab tour, offering a rare look into former research tunnels used during nuclear tests. Hike along nearby desert trails to enjoy the untouched Mojave landscape and breathtaking night skies. For photographers, visit the Hollywood Hills overlook for striking shots combining the museum with the distant Las Vegas skyline—a favorite spot for capturing the region’s dramatic contrast between history and modernity.
Yes, despite its serious theme, the museum includes interactive learning stations for kids, featuring games and models that explain nuclear science in an engaging way. Audio guides and kid-friendly brochures help parents guide their children through complex topics. Visit on a weekday morning to avoid crowds, and check for special educational talks hosted by the museum—ideal for family learning in a safe, informative environment.
Open Tuesday to Saturday from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM; closed on Sundays. Admission is $12 for adults, $8 for students, $6 for seniors (65+), and $5 for children (6–12). Reserve online in advance to skip lines. Free parking and wheelchair-accessible facilities are available. A $10 add-on fee provides a professional guided tour for a deeper experience.
The Mirage Las Vegas is a top choice, just 15 minutes from the museum with luxury rooms and excellent amenities. It features an indoor pool, themed restaurants, and nightly entertainment shows. The hotel offers 24-hour shuttle service, making it easy to visit the museum without worrying about transportation. Nearby shopping centers and nightlife venues also provide great options for relaxation after your tour.
From downtown Las Vegas, take an Uber or Lyft—it takes about 15 minutes and costs $20–$30. If driving, head west on I-15 Highway toward the Nellis Air Force Base exit, then follow signs to the museum. The museum provides free parking, and weekend traffic can be heavy, so arriving early is recommended. Some tour agencies also offer private car tours with tickets included, providing hassle-free access.
The museum features a real nuclear test film screening room, showing historic footage from 1950s to 1990s underground tests. Visitors can experience an interactive simulation of a nuclear detonation, complete with sound and light effects. The historical exhibits display original equipment, military gear, and scientists' manuscripts. Interactive VR tours allow guests to explore Cold War-era testing sites, while daily guided tours offer in-depth insights into U.S. nuclear history.
Nearby, visit the Nevada Test Site Monument, offering distant views of past nuclear blast zones with a powerful historical atmosphere. A 10-minute walk leads to desert nature trails, perfect for spotting lizards and cacti. Just 10 miles away, the North Las Vegas Aviation Museum displays retired aircraft and flight vehicles—ideal for aviation enthusiasts. For city vibes, Las Vegas Strip is only 20 minutes away, featuring dazzling casino lights and sky-high shows.
The museum is open Tuesday through Sunday, from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with last entry at 4:00 PM. It’s closed on Mondays, and holiday hours may vary—check the official website before visiting. Admission is free, but guided tours require advance HopeGoo. During peak seasons (summer and holidays), expect larger crowds, so arriving by 10:00 AM is advised to avoid lines and ensure full access.
Bring valid ID for check-in, even though admission is free. Wear comfortable walking shoes, as the museum spans a large area. Bring a camera—flash photography is prohibited. The museum offers bilingual (Chinese and English) guidebooks and rental digital audio guides. Pack water and snacks, as dining options nearby are limited. In case of thunderstorms, outdoor areas may close temporarily—watch for on-site announcements.
See what other travelers say about Atomic Museum

The Four Seasons Hotel in Las Vegas offers an exceptional stay with a serene and luxurious atmosphere that truly stands out. While it's a bit removed from the main attractions—requiring a short drive or transit to reach the Strip—the quiet surroundings are one of its biggest strengths, perfect for guests seeking peace and relaxation away from the city's buzz. The rooms are elegant and spacious, with top-quality bedding that made for some of the best sleep I've had on vacation. The breakfast spread was impressive, with a variety of fresh and delicious options. Service was attentive without being intrusive, and every detail felt thoughtfully curated. Despite the location, the overall experience justifies the stay—especially if you value tranquility and refined comfort. I’d definitely return and recommend this hotel to anyone looking for a high-end retreat in Vegas.

The location is absolutely perfect—just a short walk from the Strip and minutes away from major attractions like The Venetian and Paris Las Vegas. Everything you need is right outside the door: great restaurants, shops, and entertainment. It's incredibly convenient without sacrificing comfort or style. I'd definitely stay here again and recommend it to anyone visiting Las Vegas.

Everything was perfect and exactly as expected. It’s a small studio, so the decor is a bit dated and the bed is foldable—but for four nights, it worked out great. The kitchenette was a real plus, letting us cook our own meals and save money. We even brought a small toaster—maybe the platform left one behind? Cleanliness and staff service were excellent, and access to the pool area was convenient with well-maintained facilities. The only minor downside was some construction noise in the mornings, which might be noticeable if you’re sensitive to sound. Also, walking back through the corridor late at night from the strip can feel a little eerie with just one staff member on duty, though the lighting was decent overall. Still, it’s a solid choice for travelers who value comfort, convenience, and good value.

The location is absolutely perfect—just a short walk from the Strip and incredibly convenient for getting to the airport. I took the train directly to the airport without any transfers, which saved me so much time and hassle. The hotel is clean, well-maintained, and staff are friendly and helpful. It’s hard to believe such a great value place exists in Las Vegas. I’ll definitely be returning here on my next trip.

Staying at Jet Luxury at the Vdara was an absolute delight from start to finish. The location is unbeatable—just a short walk from the heart of the Strip, with everything from casinos and dining to shopping within easy reach. We booked a corner suite, and it lived up to every expectation: spacious, well-lit, and with panoramic views of the city skyline that were especially stunning at night. What really stood out? The hotel welcomes pets without any restrictions—my dog was more than welcome, and he loved every minute of it. The place is clean, modern, and staff go the extra mile to make you feel at home. For a luxury experience in Las Vegas with such convenience and pet-friendly flexibility, this is a top-tier choice. I’d come back in a heartbeat.

We arrived late at night, right around midnight, and the front desk staff were incredibly friendly and helpful. Even though parking usually comes with a fee, we were given free parking—still not sure if it was included in our booking or just a nice surprise because of the late arrival, but we appreciated it! The hotel itself was spotless and well-maintained. Breakfast service was another highlight—the server was an Asian lady with a warm smile and super attentive, making our morning much more enjoyable. The price was very reasonable too, and overall, this place offered great value for money. Definitely a solid choice for travelers landing in Las Vegas, especially when you're tired and need a stress-free start to your trip.

My stay at Arizona Charlie's Decatur was absolutely fantastic! The hotel was spotless and the rooms were incredibly comfortable, making it easy to unwind after a long day exploring Las Vegas. I really appreciated how close it was to parking—no need to walk far or worry about finding a spot. The location is convenient for getting around town, and everything felt well-maintained and welcoming. It’s a great value for the price, and I’d definitely book here again if I’m back in Las Vegas. Highly recommend for travelers who want comfort, cleanliness, and a stress-free experience.

Staying at the Hilton Garden Inn Las Vegas City Center was a solid choice for me. The hotel is just across a major street from the Strip, so walking over is possible—though it means passing through several other hotels, which makes it less direct than expected. We arrived by car initially, but parking proved difficult and expensive, so we switched to Uber for short trips—around $10–$15 per ride, which felt reasonable. Breakfast was decent with a good mix of hot and cold options, enough to fuel a full day. The only downside was the paid parking, but considering the central location and overall value, it’s still a great option for travelers who want convenience without breaking the bank.

The room was fantastic—especially the view of the iconic Sphere in Las Vegas, which made the stay even more memorable. The cleanliness was top-notch, and the room came with slippers. Toothbrushes, toothpaste, and mouthwash were available upon request at the front desk—friendly staff, no hassle. We booked two connecting rooms for our family, and they were quiet and spacious, perfect for a group. During Christmas, we were thrilled to find an indoor ice rink on the third floor—great fun for kids and adults alike. Right downstairs is a 24-hour café called Chez Bon Bon, known for their delicious croissants and festive holiday treats. We stopped by late at night and were impressed by the quality and warm atmosphere. From the location to the service, every detail felt thoughtfully designed. This place truly delivers on comfort, convenience, and charm—definitely a standout choice for families or anyone looking for a special getaway in Vegas.

My stay at Jet Luxury at the Signature Condo Hotel was absolutely excellent! The location is unbeatable—just a short walk to the Strip, with easy access to all the major attractions and dining spots. What really stood out was their exceptional guest service: I accidentally left my phone behind in the room, and instead of losing it, the staff kept it safe and reached out to let me know I could come back to pick it up. That kind of attention to detail made a huge difference. The apartment was clean, modern, and well-equipped, offering a comfortable and relaxing atmosphere. For the quality and service, this place offers incredible value. I’ll definitely be returning next time I’m in Vegas.

The property was in poor condition—extremely dusty and unclean. The sliding door didn’t close properly, which was frustrating, and the bed sheets were visibly stained and clearly reused multiple times. My family couldn’t stay the full weekend due to the unsanitary conditions. We ended up sleeping in the car for one night and booked a hotel the next day. While I appreciate the effort put into cleaning, it wasn’t enough to make the place habitable. This experience was disappointing, especially given the location near the Strip. I wouldn’t recommend this property to anyone looking for a decent stay.

Staying at Residence Inn Las Vegas Airport was an absolute delight. The suite was spacious and incredibly comfortable, with a fully equipped kitchen that made meal prep so convenient—perfect for families or travelers wanting to save on dining out. The breakfast buffet was outstanding, always well-stocked with fresh, delicious options. Every area of the hotel felt clean and modern, with thoughtful updates throughout. The staff went above and beyond—friendly, attentive, and genuinely helpful. From check-in to checkout, the experience was seamless and welcoming. This place truly delivers on comfort, convenience, and quality. I’d highly recommend it and will definitely be returning.
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