A Smithsonian-affiliated museum on the history of the Nevada Test Site, where the US conducted more than 900 nuclear tests between 1951 and 1992; includes a simulated test-viewing Ground Zero Theater and an Area 51 gallery.
The National Atomic Testing Museum is a Smithsonian-affiliated museum at 755 E Flamingo Rd, just east of the Strip in Las Vegas, Nevada. It documents the history of the Nevada Test Site, where the United States conducted more than 900 nuclear tests between 1951 and 1992, and the science, politics and culture that surrounded them. Galleries display instruments, detection equipment, protective clothing, test artifacts and photographs, along with exhibits on Cold War civil defense and the atomic tourism that grew around Las Vegas in the 1950s. A highlight is the Ground Zero Theater, a small chamber in which a simulated test viewing recreates the sound and shaking of a detonation, and a gallery on Area 51 and related secrecy. Visitors can also see a piece of the Berlin Wall and a section of steel from the World Trade Center. A visit usually takes one and a half to two and a half hours. Reading the text panels and watching the short films adds time, so history-minded visitors often stay longer. The museum is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM with last entry at 4:00 PM, and it closes on Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's Day. Admission is $29 for adults, with discounted prices for seniors, military, Nevada residents and youth aged 7 to 17, and free entry for those under six. Weekday mornings are the quietest, while weekend afternoons see more visitors. The location is a short ride from the Center Strip by RTC route 202 or by rideshare, making it a good indoor option in the heat of the day.
| Admission | $29; seniors 65+, military and first responders $27; Nevada residents $25; youth 7-17 $15; under 6 free |
|---|---|
| Hours | Daily 9:00 AM-5:00 PM (last entry 4:00 PM); closed Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's Day |
| Typical visit | 1.5-2.5 hours |
| Best time | Weekday mornings |
| Getting there | RTC route 202 bus along Flamingo Rd; rideshare from the Center Strip about 10 minutes |
| Address | 755 E Flamingo Rd, Las Vegas, NV 89119 |
Location
755 E Flamingo Rd, Las Vegas, NV 89119
36.1147, -115.1488 View on map
Highlights
- Ground Zero Theater with a simulated test viewing
- Exhibits on more than 900 Nevada Test Site detonations
- Area 51 gallery
- Smithsonian-affiliated collection of instruments and artifacts
Tips for visiting
- Weekday mornings are the quietest
- Allow up to two and a half hours for the full set of galleries
- Last entry is at 4:00 PM
- Discounts apply for seniors, military, first responders and Nevada residents
- Children under six enter free
- RTC route 202 serves Flamingo Road, or take a rideshare from the Strip
When to visit
Weekday mornings for the fewest visitors. Weekend afternoons are busier.
Accessibility
The museum is housed in a single building with level access and is generally suitable for wheelchair users. Visitors can ask at the front desk about specific needs.
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Frequently asked questions
How long does the National Atomic Testing Museum take?
Most visitors spend one and a half to two and a half hours, depending on how much they read and watch.
Is the museum worth it for kids?
Older children interested in science or history often enjoy it, and children under six are free, though the subject matter is more suited to school age.
Is photography allowed?
Photography policies can vary by gallery, so visitors should follow posted signs and ask at the front desk.
How much is admission?
Adult admission is $29, with lower rates for seniors, military, Nevada residents and youth.