Razzle dazzle me – from Elvis Presley to the Rat Pack, Sin City was as glamorous as it gets when it exploded in the 1960s. Take a trip down memory lane with these odes to “vintage Vegas,” including tribute shows, museums, and even a few hot spots still kicking since the good ol’ days.
Neon Museum
Take a trip down memory lane at Las Vegas’s most beloved museum. The Neon Boneyard is just what it sounds like – where Sin City’s most famous signs go to die. The docents make the tour (you must reserve an appointment ahead of time), bringing to life the history behind the once-bright lights of hotels, motels, and casinos.
770 Las Vegas Boulevard North, (702) 387-6366 neonmuseum.org
Rat Pack is Back
For many Vegas diehards, no one represents vintage Vegas like the Rat Pack. The tribute show at the Rio hits all the classics, including “Fly Me to the Moon” and “New York, New York.” These guys are so good that they travel the world doing shows, so book now if in Vegas, as they don’t stay still for long.
(855) 234-7469 riolasvegas.com
Dino’s
Now a dive bar with a killer karaoke on Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights, Dino’s has been an institution since the 1960s, when Dino bought Ringside Liquors from mobster Eddie Trascher. These days, the bar is run by his granddaughters, who keep his legacy alive.
1516 S Las Vegas Blvd, (702) 382-3894 dinoslv.com
El Cortez
The El Cortez is downtown’s most recognized façade – it should be, as the town’s longest continuously running hotel. Family run by the beloved Epsteins, the hotel recently revamped its boutique hotel-style Cabana Suites in modern décor.
600 Fremont St, (702) 385-5200 elcortezhotelcasino.com
Top of Binion’s Steakhouse
Perched on the 24th floor of Binion’s Gambling Hall, the Top of Binion’s Steakhouse offers a classic Vegas dining experience with breathtaking views of downtown Las Vegas. This vintage steakhouse, originally known as “Top of The Mint,” features a romantic atmosphere and first-class service, transporting guests back to old-school Vegas charm. The menu boasts Creekstone Farms Black Angus Beef, aged for 40 days, and includes specialties like chicken fried lobster and prime rib of beef. Perfect for a nostalgic night out, it’s a must-visit for anyone seeking authentic Vegas vibes.
128 E. Fremont St. 702-382-1600 binions.com
Mob Museum
Photo Credit: The Mob Museum
Las Vegans have a love/hate relationship with its mob history, and the Mob Museum downtown brings this to life. A really fun few hours, the museum boasts a reenactment of the famous Kefauver hearings, artifacts from the reigns of Al Capone and Lucky Luciano, plus loads of photographs and other paraphernalia from Vegas’s Bugsy Siegel and Moe Dalitz.
300 E Stewart Ave, (702) 229-2734 themobmuseum.org
Vintage Slots at The D Hotel
The D Hotel Las Vegas offers a unique glimpse into the city’s gambling past with its entire second floor dedicated to vintage slot machines. This area is designed to evoke the nostalgic charm of old Vegas, featuring rows of classic slot machines that transport guests back to the early days of the city. One of the standout attractions is the Sigma Derby, a beloved mechanical horse racing game that allows players to place bets on miniature horses.
301 Fremont St, (800) 274-5825 thed.com
Golden Steer
The oldest steakhouse in Vegas, Golden Steer serves up old-fashioned favorites with a side of history. Chat up the tuxedo-clad waitstaff, as some have been around since the good ol’ days. When making your reservation, request to sit in the booth once reserved for regulars such as Elvis, Frank Sinatra or Marilyn Monroe. Then dig into Caesar salad made table side and fried ravioli to start, and steaks and baked potatoes for dinner.
308 W Sahara Ave, (702) 384-4470 goldensteersteakhouselasvegas.com
Peppermill
There isn’t a Vegas local who hasn’t ended a late night out with a stop at the Peppermill. Not much has changed at this institution of large servings since it opened in 1972, from the mirrored ceilings to the campy décor and fake vegetation. Bring your appetite: You’ll need it to tackle one of the 10-egg omelettes or an enormous banana split.
2985 S Las Vegas Blvd, (702) 735-7635 peppermilllasvegas.com
Little Church of the West
Las Vegas is often referred to as the “wedding capital of the world,” and Little Church of the West, on the Strip south of Mandalay Bay, has been offering all of the classic fixins to get hitched in style since it opened its doors in 1942. Say “I do” in front of the famous “Welcome” sign, or with Elvis as the officiate. The living happily ever after is up to you.
4617 S Las Vegas Blvd, (702) 739-7971 littlechurchlv.com
