Las Vegas Mixtape v7: A Reconverted Historic Motel, Rat Pack-Era Eatery, and Hearty New Food Hall

Track #1: Fergusons Downtown/Gather House

15-year-old store owner Kumei Underwood of Tofu Tees at Fergusons Downtown. (Image: Vegas 411)

Competing with the Fremont Street Experience and Container Park as downtown destinations is hard. But keep heading further east on Fremont St for a real discovery: Fergusons Downtown. It’s an artistic wonderland created by revitalizing the historic Fergusons Motel, which dates to the ‘40s.

What instantly catches your eye here is the motel’s original neon sign and, in the center courtyard, the tall “Big Rig Jig” sculpture by artist Mike Ross. You’ll also spot the Latin-centric restaurant Peyote with its huge outdoor patio and Mothership Coffee Roasters. Then, wander through all the indie stores by local makers and artists, plus the micro-shops in the adjacent Gather House.

I was immediately taken with Tofu Tees, owned by Kumei Underwood. She’s a 15-year-old Black student, social activist, and daughter of progressive parents who designs T-shirts with messages like “Social Issues Are Not Trends.” They also carry children’s books about critical Black icons like Nina Simone and Aretha Franklin.

Also, don’t miss, among other stores, Mike’s Recovery (locally created wellness products like mineral soaks), Hasta Siempre (cultural books, music vinyl), Desert Shadow (uniquely designed T-shirts by its artist owner), All For Our Country (home goods, jewelry), and For The Globe (women’s vintage fashion).