The National Atomic Testing Museum, one of 37 museums in the U.S. officially affiliated with the Smithsonian, chronicles the history of the atomic bomb in Nevada, where early tests were conducted in the desert outside Las Vegas. Its more than 12,000 artifacts illustrate the development and deployment of the nuclear bomb, combining educational resources and historical and scientific information with some playful, tongue-in-cheek touches appropriate for Las Vegas.
Best and worst time to go to the Atomic Testing Museum
The best time to visit Las Vegas is during the spring (March to mid-May) and fall (mid-September to late November). Weather during the summer (mid-May to early September) can be excessively hot, although that's less of a concern for indoor attractions. Hours at the museum are limited on Sundays, so it may be best to pick a different day to get the full experience.
Must see/do at the Atomic Testing Museum
In the GZ Theater, you can experience a simulated atomic blast, much like the ones people witnessed at the Nevada Test Site. "Area 51: Myth or Reality?" is a fun exhibit devoted to the various legends surrounding the supposed alien presence at the mysterious military installation. The museum's lecture series features presentations that combine pop-culture hooks with lessons on history and science.
Admission to the Atomic Testing Museum
Standard admission is around $20, with discounts for students, seniors, military, Nevada residents and children under 17. Museum members and children under 6 are admitted for free. Group tours are also available.
Parking and public transportation at the Atomic Testing Museum
Free parking is available on-site, and local RTC bus service stops within walking distance. For visitors staying on the Strip, a cab ride should only take a few minutes.
Food at the Atomic Testing Museum
No food or drink is allowed inside the museum, and there are no restaurants in the museum itself. But several strip malls are nearby with quick options for eating, and the Strip, with its wide range of restaurants, is a short drive or cab ride away.
Insider tip for visitors to the Atomic Testing Museum
Although the museum may not look that large from the outside, it can take more than two hours to experience all the exhibits, so make sure to allow enough time (especially on Sundays, when hours are shorter).
Josh Bell is a Las Vegas-based writer (and 20-year resident) and the film and TV critic for Las Vegas Weekly. Find him on Twitter and Facebook.
Where can you go for some great gaming in Las Vegas? Many would be quick to think of the Strip, but there's a hidden gem along Tropicana Blvd about 2 miles south of the Strip known as the Pinball Hall of Fame that caters to gamers old and young with a collection of antiquated as well as much newer pinball machines. The Pinball Hall of Fame offers a collection of 200 plus pinball machines that provides hours of vintage entertainment.
Best and worst time to go to the Pinball Hall of Fame
As there are no weather concerns to be had when visiting the Pinball Hall of Fame, the big thing to consider is crowds. It is best to plan your Hall of Fame visit in the middle of the day on a school day to cut down on crowds. Early evening on a Friday or mid-afternoon on Saturdays are the times to avoid.
Must see at the Pinball Hall of Fame
As a bit of nostalgia, there is an entire row of 1950 and 1960 era cabinets that beg to be played.
Admission to the Pinball Hall of Fame
The Pinball Hall of Fame has no admission, though each game does require quarters to play. Machines range anywhere from $.25 to $1 to play and the establishment offers change machines right by the main entrance.
Parking and public transportation to the Pinball Hall of Fame
Parking for the Hall of Fame is located directly outside the building. Access to the lot can be found off of Tropicana Blvd. A bus terminal at Tropicana and Spencer is only a few minutes walk from the establishment.
Food at the Pinball Hall of Fame
If you think you will get hungry during your outing to the Hall of Fame, it's best to bring a sandwich as, beyond a popcorn machine, there isn't any on-site dining.
Insider tip for visitors to the Pinball Hall of Fame
If you're looking to make your dollar last, newer machines based off of film franchises will generally cost a lot more than the more classic cabinets. Some of the older games also implement unique facets, such as utilizing magnets to create the effects of gravitational orbit.
Author's bio: Mark is a Vegas local and freelance writer with expertise in Las Vegas nightlife, entertainment, and video gaming. Contact Mark and see more of his work at Prototype Freelancing.
