In the grandeur of Las Vegas, where the vibrant lights illuminate the night sky and beckon visitors from around the world, lies a hidden gem known as the Neon Graveyard. This remarkable place serves as the final resting place for the iconic neon signs that once adorned the bustling streets of the city. Within its gates, a captivating collection of brilliantly colored and intricately designed signs stand as silent witnesses to the ever-evolving history of Sin City. Join us as we explore this fascinating graveyard and unveil the intriguing stories behind these retired Vegas signs.
The Concept Behind the Neon Graveyard
Origin and Purpose
The Neon Graveyard, also known as the Neon Boneyard, is a unique and fascinating destination in Las Vegas that serves as the final resting place for retired and decommissioned neon signs from the city’s iconic hotels, casinos, and businesses. Established in 1996, the idea behind the Neon Graveyard emerged as a response to the growing interest in preserving and showcasing the rich history and cultural significance of neon signage in Las Vegas.
The purpose of the Neon Graveyard is to not only honor the vibrant past of Las Vegas but also to serve as a living museum that chronicles the evolution of the city’s neon signs and their role in shaping the identity of the famous Las Vegas Strip. By preserving these signs, the Neon Graveyard aims to educate and inspire visitors about the artistry, craftsmanship, and historical importance of neon signage.
Link to Las Vegas’ History
The history of Las Vegas is intricately intertwined with the development and proliferation of neon signs. In the mid-20th century, Las Vegas experienced a rapid growth in its entertainment industry, and neon signs became the preferred medium for advertising and attracting visitors to the city’s bustling hotels, casinos, and attractions. The neon-lit Strip became a symbol of the city’s glamour, glitz, and excitement.
The Neon Graveyard serves as a nostalgic testament to this golden era of Las Vegas. By preserving and displaying these iconic neon signs, the Neon Graveyard allows visitors to step back in time and witness the historic and cultural landmarks that once adorned the Las Vegas skyline. It serves as a tangible connection to the city’s colorful past and the significant role neon signage played in establishing Las Vegas as a global entertainment capital.
Location and Accessibility of the Neon Graveyard
Physical Location
The Neon Graveyard is conveniently situated in close proximity to downtown Las Vegas, further adding to its accessibility and appeal to visitors. It is located at 770 Las Vegas Blvd North, Las Vegas, Nevada. The vast outdoor space of the Neon Graveyard spans over two acres and features over 200 retired neon signs, carefully arranged to create a visually stunning and immersive experience.
Visiting Hours
The Neon Graveyard offers both daytime and nighttime tours to accommodate visitors’ preferences and provide unique perspectives of the exhibits. The daytime tours are available Monday through Saturday from 9:30 am to 4:00 pm, while the nighttime tours, which offer a captivating illuminated experience, run from 6:30 pm to 9:00 pm on select evenings.
Admission Pricing
To support the upkeep and preservation efforts of the Neon Graveyard, a modest admission fee is charged. General admission for adults is $30, with discounted rates available for seniors, students, and military personnel. Children under the age of 7 are admitted free of charge. It is important to note that advance reservations are highly recommended to secure a spot on the guided tours, which provide invaluable insights into the history and significance of the neon signs.
The Evolution of the Neon Graveyard
Significant Milestones
Since its establishment in 1996, the Neon Graveyard has undergone several transformations and expansions to accommodate the growing collection of retired neon signs. What started as a modest storage yard for discarded signs gradually evolved into a vibrant cultural institution that attracts thousands of visitors each year.
One significant milestone in the evolution of the Neon Graveyard was the completion of the Neon Boneyard Park in 2012. This expansion provided a serene and picturesque outdoor setting for the retired signs, offering visitors a tranquil environment to explore the iconic remnants of Las Vegas’ past.
Incorporation of New Exhibits
With the passage of time, the Neon Graveyard continues to receive new additions to its collection, ensuring that the museum remains dynamic and reflective of the ever-evolving landscape of Las Vegas. The institution actively seeks out and acquires signs from establishments that are undergoing renovations or closures, ensuring that these historically and artistically significant pieces are preserved for future generations to appreciate.
The process of curating and selecting new exhibits for the Neon Graveyard involves careful consideration of the historical significance, visual appeal, and cultural relevance of each sign. By incorporating new exhibits, the Neon Graveyard maintains its role as a living museum, offering fresh insights into the artistry and cultural impact of neon signage.
Types of Signs in the Neon Graveyard
Earliest Signs
The Neon Graveyard is home to a diverse collection of neon signs that span several decades and represent different eras in Las Vegas’ history. Among the earliest signs are remnants from the iconic Moulin Rouge, the first racially integrated casino in Las Vegas. These signs serve as powerful reminders of the city’s growth and transformation over time.
Other early signs include those from classic hotels like the Stardust, the Sahara, and the Riviera. These signs not only showcase the incredible craftsmanship of their time but also evoke a sense of nostalgia for the golden age of Las Vegas.
Recent Additions
In recent years, the Neon Graveyard has acquired signs from modern Las Vegas establishments, capturing the ever-evolving landscape of the city. These additions include signs from resorts such as the Aladdin (now known as Planet Hollywood), the Tropicana, and the MGM Grand. By including these contemporary signs, the Neon Graveyard highlights the ongoing importance of neon signage as a form of expression and advertising in Las Vegas.
Themes and Variety
One of the remarkable aspects of the Neon Graveyard is the diversity of themes and styles represented within its collection. Visitors can explore signs featuring iconic Las Vegas symbols like showgirls, playing cards, and dice, as well as signs that highlight the cultural and architectural influences of different eras.
The variety of neon signs in the Graveyard reflects the changing tastes and design trends throughout Las Vegas’ history, providing a comprehensive overview of the city’s cultural and artistic evolution. From the sleek and modern designs of the 1980s to the ornate and extravagant styles of the 1950s, the Neon Graveyard captures the essence of each era’s unique visual language.
The Art of Neon Signage
Manufacturing Process of Neon Signs
The creation of neon signs is a complex and intricate art form that requires the collaboration of skilled craftsmen and artisans. The process begins with the meticulous bending of glass tubes into the desired shapes and letters using intense heat and specialized tools. Next, the tubes are filled with a noble gas, typically neon or argon, which emits vibrant colors when electrified.
To achieve the desired colors and effects, various colored phosphors and gases can be added to the glass tubes. Each tube is meticulously connected to an electrical transformer, which supplies the necessary voltage to create an electrical discharge that illuminates the sign.
Historical and Commercial Use
Neon signs have a rich history that spans over a century, with origins dating back to the late 19th century. Neon signage gained popularity in the early 20th century and quickly became a symbol of modernity and commercialism. The invention and widespread adoption of neon signs revolutionized advertising and transformed the nighttime cityscape.
Neon signs found a natural home in Las Vegas, where the city’s 24-hour nature and vibrant entertainment industry provided the perfect backdrop for these brilliant displays of light. The integration of neon signs into the city’s architecture and streetscape cemented Las Vegas as a beacon of excitement and excess.
Maintenance and Restoration Techniques
Challenges in Preservation
Preserving neon signs presents a unique set of challenges due to their delicate nature and the natural degradation of the materials over time. Exposure to sunlight, extreme temperatures, and environmental pollutants can cause the colors to fade and the glass tubes to deteriorate.
Another significant challenge lies in the availability of skilled craftsmen experienced in the art of neon sign restoration. As newer signage technologies emerged, the knowledge and expertise required to restore and maintain traditional neon signs became less common. Efforts to preserve these signs often require a combination of traditional techniques and innovative approaches to ensure their long-term survival.
Efforts and Techniques in Restoration
The Neon Graveyard employs a team of highly skilled artisans who specialize in the restoration of neon signs. These experts meticulously clean, repair, and refurbish the signs, ensuring that their original splendor and vibrancy are retained. This work often involves sourcing and recreating vintage components, such as glass tubes and transformers, to ensure the authenticity of the restored signs.
In addition to restoration, the Neon Graveyard also emphasizes the importance of ongoing maintenance to prevent further deterioration. Regular cleaning and protective coatings are applied to the signs to shield them from environmental factors and safeguard their longevity.
Tours and Educational Programs
Guided Tours
To enhance the visitor experience and provide a comprehensive understanding of the Neon Graveyard and its collection, guided tours are available. Knowledgeable guides lead visitors through the exhibits, offering valuable insights into the history, design, and cultural significance of the neon signs.
Guided tours provide an opportunity to learn about the artistry and craftsmanship behind neon signage while engaging with the stories and anecdotes associated with each sign. These tours add depth and context to the Neon Graveyard experience, transforming it into an educational and enriching journey through time.
Educational Outreach and Workshops
In addition to guided tours, the Neon Graveyard actively engages in educational outreach programs and workshops. These initiatives are designed to foster an appreciation for neon signage among younger generations and to promote the preservation of this unique art form.
Educational workshops offer hands-on experiences where participants can learn about the manufacturing process of neon signs and create their own miniature versions under the guidance of skilled craftsmen. These interactive sessions provide a unique opportunity to explore the artistry and technical aspects of neon sign production, allowing participants to gain a deeper understanding of this captivating medium.
Special Events and Exhibitions
To further engage with the community and create a vibrant cultural hub, the Neon Graveyard hosts special events and temporary exhibitions. These events showcase the versatility and artistic potential of neon signage while promoting collaboration with local artists and creative professionals.
From immersive light installations to collaborative art projects, these special events breathe new life into the Neon Graveyard, attracting diverse audiences and fostering innovation in the field of neon and signage artistry.
Key Highlights and Must-See Signs
Most Iconic Signs
Among the multitude of neon signs housed within the Neon Graveyard, several stand out as especially iconic and significant. These include the towering Stardust sign, with its dramatic starburst design, and the iconic horse and rider from the Hacienda Hotel. The towering Riviera sign, adorned with its curvaceous script, also commands attention and evokes a sense of nostalgia for the old Las Vegas.
Other notable signs include the whimsical Moulin Rouge logo, the elegant Stardust letterforms, and the vibrant pink and purple lights of the Aladdin. Each of these signs represents a unique era, architectural style, and design sensibility, providing a fascinating glimpse into the visual evolution of Las Vegas.
Underrated Yet Interesting Exhibits
While the most iconic signs often steal the spotlight, the Neon Graveyard is also home to lesser-known exhibits that offer intriguing stories and insights. For example, the giant, glittering silver slipper from the Silver Slipper Casino presents a whimsical and playful display of vintage Las Vegas charm.
Additionally, the neon slot machine from the La Concha Motel highlights the influence of mid-century modern design on Las Vegas architecture. Its sleek lines and vibrant colors encapsulate the era’s fascination with futuristic visuals and atomic-inspired motifs. Exploring these underrated yet interesting exhibits provides visitors with a more comprehensive view of the diverse range of signs and architectural styles present in the Neon Graveyard.
Testimonials and Reviews
Visitor Experiences
Visitors to the Neon Graveyard consistently express awe and appreciation for the immersive and captivating experience it offers. Many remark on the nostalgia the signs evoke and the opportunity to witness firsthand the cultural heritage of Las Vegas. Others are particularly moved by the dedication and artistry displayed in the restoration efforts, noting the meticulous attention to detail and the immaculate preservation of these historic artifacts.
Many visitors also speak to the educational value of the guided tours, emphasizing the knowledgeable and enthusiastic guides who bring the stories behind the signs to life. Others appreciate the interactive workshops and the opportunity to engage with the craft of neon sign making, gaining a deeper appreciation for the art form.
Online and Media Reviews
Online and media reviews of the Neon Graveyard overwhelmingly praise its unique concept, comprehensive collection, and the immersive experience it offers. Many note the importance of preserving the city’s cultural heritage and applaud the institution’s efforts in creating a space where Las Vegas’ past can be celebrated and remembered.
Reviewers highlight the meticulous restoration work and attention to detail, emphasizing how the signs appear as vibrant and captivating as they once did on the Las Vegas Strip. Others note the significance of the Neon Graveyard in documenting the city’s evolution and its role as a cultural institution that contributes to the preservation of neon signage as an art form.
The Influence of the Neon Graveyard Beyond Las Vegas
In Popular Culture
The Neon Graveyard has permeated popular culture and become an emblem of Las Vegas’ rich history and cultural legacy. The stunning visuals of the neon signs, combined with the nostalgia they evoke, have made the Neon Graveyard a popular destination for filmmakers, photographers, and artists.
Images of the Neon Graveyard have been featured in movies, magazines, and music videos, further amplifying its reach and impact. The Neon Graveyard has become synonymous with Las Vegas and its distinctive aesthetic, making it a recognizable and celebrated symbol around the world.
Influence on Neon and Signage Artistry
The Neon Graveyard’s commitment to preserving and showcasing the artistry of neon signage has had a profound influence on contemporary neon and signage artistry. Artists and designers from around the world draw inspiration from the unique designs, colors, and craftsmanship exhibited within the Neon Graveyard.
Furthermore, the Neon Graveyard’s educational initiatives and collaborative projects with local artists contribute to the continuation and evolution of neon and signage artistry. By nurturing emerging talent and encouraging experimentation, the Neon Graveyard ensures that this vibrant art form remains relevant and continues to captivate audiences for years to come.
In conclusion, the Neon Graveyard stands as a testament to the cultural, artistic, and historical significance of neon signage in Las Vegas. It invites visitors to embark on a captivating journey through time, exploring the vibrant and ever-changing landscape of the Las Vegas Strip. With its extensive collection, educational programs, and dedication to preservation, the Neon Graveyard preserves the memory and artistry of Las Vegas’ neon signs, ensuring that they continue to inspire and captivate audiences for generations to come.