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.







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 stay was enjoyable overall—great location, comfortable room, and convenient access to dining and entertainment options. The bed was very cozy, and the hotel offered excellent value for money. My only minor complaint was the shower water pressure, which wasn’t as strong as I’d prefer. However, this didn’t take away from the positive experience. The staff were friendly, the ambiance was lively, and it’s definitely a place I’d consider staying at again if I’m back in Las Vegas.

I've never experienced such disrespect and treatment like a criminal due to a policy I was never informed about. I regularly transport pets and always stop here when visiting Las Vegas for a quick shower at the motel's truck stop restroom—something I’ve done many times before with my fiancé. We’ve always paid for one hour of access, allowing both of us to shower together without extra charges. But this time, I was kicked off the property. When my fiancé was already in the shower, I was told I’d have to pay another $15 just to get in. Then they placed a trespass on us and threatened legal action. This is unacceptable. I was never warned about this rule, and the entire experience was humiliating. I will not recommend this place to anyone—completely disappointed and deeply frustrated.

Staying at this hotel was a perfect choice for my trip to Las Vegas. The location is unbeatable—right next to the airport, with amazing views of planes taking off and landing from the entrance. I didn’t need to go anywhere else just to enjoy the scenery; it’s literally right outside the door. I even snapped some great photos and short videos from the front area. The American-style breakfast was solid—fresh eggs, a burger patty, cereal, milk, and a good selection of juices. Plus, coffee and tea are available 24/7, which is a lifesaver after late-night flights. The rooms were clean, well-maintained, and the free parking was a huge plus, especially when arriving with lots of luggage. It’s a bit of a drive around the airport to reach downtown, but that’s actually a benefit—it means less noise and more peace. And let’s not forget the iconic “Welcome to Las Vegas” sign right by the entrance—such a fun photo op and instant vibe booster. For convenience, comfort, and value, this is an ideal spot, especially if you’re flying in or out.

The location is unbeatable—right next to the airport and just a short walk from the Strip. I was so impressed with how convenient everything was, especially for early morning flights. The room was clean, comfortable, and well-maintained, with a cozy bed that made for a great night’s sleep. Breakfast was simple but satisfying—fresh bread and cereal were perfect for starting the day. No frills, but exactly what I needed. Overall, an excellent value for the price, and I’d definitely stay here again if I’m ever back in Las Vegas.

This hotel offers incredible value for money and is perfectly located for travelers. Right next to a major outlet mall, shopping becomes super convenient—whether you're picking up souvenirs or grabbing last-minute essentials, it's just steps away. The proximity to the airport is a huge plus, making check-in and check-out seamless, especially if you're on a tight schedule. Plus, the car rental center is within walking distance, which saved us so much time. The rooms are clean, comfortable, and well-maintained, with friendly staff who go the extra mile. Whether you're here for a quick getaway, a family trip, or just exploring Las Vegas, this place is a smart, practical choice that doesn't compromise on quality. Highly recommend!

I had a fantastic time staying here! The location is perfect—just a short walk from Fremont Street and all the action on the Strip. The room was clean, comfortable, and well-maintained, with a cozy bed that made for a great night's sleep. The staff were friendly and helpful, making the check-in and check-out process smooth. What really stood out was the value—great price for what you get. I already know I’ll be back next time I visit Las Vegas. Highly recommend this place to anyone looking for a solid, no-frills stay in a prime area.

The hotel's location was perfect for our concert visit—just a short walk away and close to the main strip, making it easy to explore nearby attractions. The room was clean and spacious, with an incredibly comfortable bed that made for a restful night’s sleep. Everything was well-maintained, and the overall experience exceeded expectations. I’d definitely consider staying here again on future trips to Las Vegas and would recommend it to friends looking for a convenient, cozy place to stay.

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.
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