When most people think of Las Vegas history, their minds jump straight to the glittering lights of the Strip. But for those in the know, the real historical treasures of our city lie in its fascinating neighborhoods, where stories of mobsters, entertainers, and larger-than-life local characters intermingle with stunning mid-century architecture and desert modern design.
This May 1-4, the Nevada Preservation Foundation (NPF) invites history buffs and architecture enthusiasts to discover these hidden gems during the 10th annual Home + History Las Vegas festival. What began in 2015 as a simple vintage house tour has evolved into something much grander. “We try to curate a wide variety of experiences to appeal to all audiences and interests – from architects to design enthusiasts, historians, modernism experts and locals who appreciate their city’s heritage,” explains Dr. Paige Figanbaum, Executive Director of NPF.
Today, the festival features over 40 immersive experiences that showcase the city’s architectural soul.
“Las Vegas is a city of constant reinvention, but its history is just as important,” says Figanbaum. And what a history it is! Take the Scotch 80s neighborhood, born from an unlikely deal between Las Vegas’s first mayor and a bucks-up Scottish investor. Today, its tree-lined streets showcase everything from sprawling modern ranches to Colonial-Revival mansions, while its resident roster reads like a Who’s Who of Vegas legends – world-class comedians, gaming moguls, and colorful local politicians have all called this architectural wonderland home.
For this milestone anniversary, the festival is pulling out all the stops. Architecture enthusiasts will be particularly thrilled by the return of renowned expert Alan Hess, who helped launch the very first festival. Hess will deliver a special keynote at the historic Fremont Hotel & Casino, exploring Las Vegas’s architectural transformation and the legacy of visionary architect Wayne McAllister.
But perhaps the festival’s most intriguing offering is the Underground Celebrity Icons Bus Tour. Patrons will be perched atop a double-decker bus, cruising through Paradise Palms – Las Vegas’s premier mid-century modern community – spotting former celebrity homes and famous movie locations. Then, in true Glitter Gulch fashion, things take an unexpected turn as attendees descend 25 feet below the desert floor to explore one of America’s largest subterranean bunkers, a one-of-a-kind hidden mansion that’s starred in countless movies, TV shows, and music videos.
For those who prefer a more grounded experience, the John S. Park Neighborhood Tour offers a stroll through time itself. Here, a guide will show off some of Las Vegas’s oldest existing houses, showcasing over 90 years of architectural evolution within a few blocks. From 1930s Revival styles to Contemporary Ranches that are making a comeback today, each home tells a story of the city’s pioneers and influencers.
The festival culminates in the signature Vintage Vegas Home Tour, where visitors can explore beautifully restored and modernized homes that capture the essence of vintage Vegas living. Along the way, NPF’s partnerships with local cultural institutions like the Neon Museum, Mob Museum, and Atomic Museum add extra layers of historical context to the experience.
This year’s celebration is particularly significant as it marks a decade of preservation victories, including NPF’s recent success in expanding the historic designation of Paradise Palms, Clark County’s first master-planned community. The foundation also safeguards over 5,000 architectural drawings in the Hugh Taylor archive, preserving the blueprints of iconic sites like the Moulin Rouge renovation and the Showboat Bowling Alley. Dr. Figanbaum notes, “Safeguarding and preserving Nevada’s architectural landscape not only fosters a distinct sense of place but also plays a crucial role in creating an engaged community for both residents and visitors.”
Whether you’re a longtime local or a tourist looking to venture beyond the Strip, Home + History Las Vegas offers a unique opportunity to experience the city’s lesser-known landmarks. From walking tours and bus adventures to cocktail parties and educational sessions, there’s something for everyone who wants to discover fascinating history hiding in plain sight.
For more information about Home + History Las Vegas 2025 and to purchase tickets, visit the Nevada Preservation Foundation’s website. Come celebrate a decade of preserving Vegas’s architectural heritage – neon optional, curiosity required!
When:
May 1-4, 2025
Cost:
$35 per tour
Availability:
Hurry – some of the tours are already sold out
Proceeds from these events help the Nevada Preservation Foundation preserve and revitalize historic buildings and places in Nevada and cultivate a presence around cultural heritage and tourism.
