Las Vegas is often seen as a playground of bright lights and casinos, but peel back the neon and you’ll find a city filled with stories of mobsters, railroads, and urban renewal. Its unique history—rooted in prohibition-era crime, early 20th-century engineering feats, and cultural transformations—makes it an excellent destination for those interested in history. Whether you want to walk through the streets that shaped the city, explore its underground tunnels, or venture beyond the Strip into the Mojave Desert, Las Vegas offers a surprising array of historical tours that go beyond the usual poker and blackjack.
These tours cover everything from downtown neon stories to desert off-road adventures, museum visits, and even Vegas’s salacious past. We’ve ranked the top options based on reviews, uniqueness, and value, so you can pick the best experience for your interests and schedule. Expect insightful guides, authentic locations, and plenty of stories that reveal how Sin City transformed from a dusty outpost into the entertainment capital of the world.
Quick Overview
Our list includes a variety of historical tours—from walking tours of Fremont Street that uncover Las Vegas’s early days, to adventures in the Mojave Desert with off-road RZRs, and museum visits that showcase the city’s natural history and artistic expressions of sexuality. For a deep dive into the mobster influence, check out the Mob Museum and Talking GoCar. If you’re interested in exploring urban renewal, the Downtown Las Vegas Fremont Street Walking Tour offers a vivid look at how the city has changed over the decades. For adventurous spirits, the Vegas Desert RZR Adventure combines off-road fun with a historic tavern lunch.
Now, let’s explore each tour in detail to help you decide which one fits your interests and schedule.
1. Downtown Las Vegas – Fremont Street History Walking Tour
At number one, the Fremont Street History Walking Tour offers a deep dive into Las Vegas’s origins, highlighting how the city evolved from a humble railroad stop to the neon-lit spectacle it is today. This 2-hour walk covers Fremont Street’s most iconic spots, including the Union Station site—the city’s original gateway—and the revitalized Fremont East Entertainment District. You’ll hear stories about the early days of gambling, the Golden Age of the mob, and the recent urban renewal efforts.
What makes this tour stand out is the chance to upgrade and visit the famous Pawn Stars store or explore Container Park, a modern shopping and entertainment hub built with shipping containers. Reviewers praise the entertaining guides and the insight into Las Vegas’s layered past. It’s perfect for history enthusiasts who want an authentic, low-key experience that’s accessible and well-reviewed.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded, engaging tour that combines history with modern Vegas sights, perfect for those who want a leisurely walk with plenty of stories.
2. Vegas Desert RZR Adventure with Lunch at the Pioneer Saloon
For those looking to experience Nevada’s rugged side, the Vegas Desert RZR Adventure is a 5-hour off-road trip that takes you beyond the bright lights of Vegas into the Mojave Desert. After a convenient pickup, you’ll hop into a powerful Polaris RZR, navigating rocky trails and absorbing stunning desert scenery. The tour includes all necessary safety gear and radios for communication, making it accessible even for novices.
The highlight is the lunch at the historic Pioneer Saloon, a 112-year-old roadside tavern that’s seen everything from gunfights to Hollywood stars. The tour’s reviews mention the helpful guides and the thrill of off-road exploration. It’s ideal for adventure seekers who want a full day of excitement combined with a piece of Nevada’s frontier history.
Bottom Line: This tour offers a perfect mix of adventure, history, and great food, with excellent reviews, making it a good fit for active travelers wanting more than just sightseeing.
3. Mountain Bike Historical Tunnel Trail to Hoover Dam from Las Vegas
At number three, the Mountain Bike Trail to Hoover Dam provides an active way to see Lake Mead and one of America’s most impressive engineering feats. This full-day eco-tour includes bike rentals, guided riding, and a picnic lunch, as you pedal through the Lake Mead Recreation Area. Highlights include riding along the River Mountain Loop Trail and stopping at the Lake Mead Visitor Center.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on outdoor activity and natural beauty, combined with historical sights like the Hoover Dam (optional inside tour at extra expense). With expert guides sharing geological and historical insights, the ride is suitable for those fit enough for a full day on two wheels.
Reviewers praise Neil and Gabe for their knowledge and friendly manner, emphasizing the stunning views and smooth ride even on hot days.
Bottom Line: Perfect for active travelers who want a healthy dose of history and spectacular scenery in one day, especially if cycling is your thing.
4. Vegas Historic Red Light District Tour & Downtown Favorites
If you’re curious about Vegas’s salacious side, the Red Light District Tour offers a 2-3 hour journey into the seedy, fascinating past of downtown. Curated by a Vegas Madam, the tour explores hidden mirrors, air curtains, and brothel history—all told with a mix of facts, stories, and interactive elements.
The tour starts in Fremont Street, visiting historic casinos like the Plaza Hotel, where you can see the original 1905 auction site, and the Main Street Station, with its antique collection. Reviewers appreciate the entertaining storytelling and the focus on Vegas’s underground world.
Bottom Line: Great for travelers interested in Vegas’s darker history or those who want a fun, provocative storytelling experience with a local touch.
5. Las Vegas Natural History Museum Admission Ticket
For an educational and family-friendly option, the Las Vegas Natural History Museum showcases exhibits from dinosaurs to Egyptian artifacts and the African savannah. At just over $14, the ticket grants access to displays that include a Tyrannosaurus rex, live sharks, and prehistoric fossils.
This museum offers a short, flexible visit that’s ideal for children or those wanting a break from the hustle of the Strip. Visitors often mention the impressive Egyptian treasures and the shark tank as highlights.
Bottom Line: A budget-friendly, engaging stop that adds an educational twist to your Vegas itinerary, especially if traveling with kids or history buffs.
6. Hoover Dam Power Plant Historic Era Railroad Museum Tour
This Hoover Dam Power Plant tour combines engineering marvels with railroad history. It’s a 5-7 hour experience limited to small groups of 13, ensuring personal attention. The tour includes a lift down to the dam, a visit to the power plant, and a stop at the Railroad Museum, which tells the story of how railroads facilitated dam construction.
What makes this tour stand out is its specialized focus on the industrial and transportation history behind Hoover Dam. Customers praise the guide’s knowledge and the comprehensive nature of the visit.
Bottom Line: Suitable for history enthusiasts interested in industrial technology and transportation history, especially in a small-group setting.
7. 2 Hour Mob History Tour in Talking GoCar with Mob Museum Entry
For a compact, immersive experience that combines mobster stories with modern technology, the Mob History Tour uses GPS-guided GoCars. It covers infamous mob figures, Fremont Street, and includes a one-hour visit to the Mob Museum.
Reviewers highlight the interactive nature and the depth of the mob stories told in a lively, engaging way. This tour is perfect for those wanting a quick yet comprehensive glimpse into Vegas’s criminal past.
Bottom Line: Best suited for crime history fans who enjoy interactive tech and want to combine storytelling with museum exploration.
8. Admission to the Erotic Heritage Museum Las Vegas
This Erotic Heritage Museum offers a unique look at art and sexuality with exhibits spanning ancient to modern times. The self-guided tour includes memorabilia, artwork, and sculptures, within a 24,000-square-foot space.
While it may not appeal to everyone, visitors often find the artistic and cultural significance deep and thought-provoking. Reviewers note it’s a well-organized, informative experience that’s a departure from traditional history tours.
Bottom Line: Ideal for adults interested in artistic expression and sexuality, or those seeking a different perspective on cultural history.
9. Las Vegas Private Historical Walking Tour
This personalized walking tour offers a flexible way to explore Vegas’s past and present. Starting at the iconic Vegas Vic neon cowboy, the tour walks through Fremont Street, highlighting historic buildings and neon signs, with tailored stories from your guide.
Though reviews are currently unavailable, the private nature allows for a customized experience that suits your specific interests. It’s suited for travelers who prefer a more intimate, flexible historical exploration.
Bottom Line: Great for those who want a personalized, in-depth walk with the option to customize stops and stories.
10. Jewish History Private Walking Tour of the Las Vegas Strip
This Jewish Heritage tour uncovers stories of Jewish immigrants and notable figures like Bugsy Siegel. The two-hour walk includes visits to landmarks such as the Flamingo Hotel, with stories about Las Vegas’s Jewish community origins.
While reviews are not yet available, this tour offers a focused dive into a specific cultural aspect of Vegas’s development, appealing to those interested in ethnic history and personal stories.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers keen on understanding Vegas’s multicultural roots and Jewish influence.
11. Las Vegas: The Price Of History And Car Crazies
This tour combines filming locations from shows like Price of History and Car Crazies with storytelling about Vegas’s pop culture. The 3.5-hour journey includes visits to iconic spots and offers WiFi onboard for sharing your moments.
It’s ideal for pop culture fans who want a light, fun experience that ties history with television and film. Reviews highlight the memorable locations and the guide’s lively narration.
Bottom Line: A good pick for media enthusiasts wanting to connect Vegas’s past with its on-screen persona.
How to Choose the Right Tour
When selecting your Las Vegas historical tour, consider your interests and fitness level. For a deep dive into downtown’s neon past, the Fremont Street Walking Tour offers a relaxed pace with insider stories. If you’re seeking adventure and scenery, the Desert RZR Tour combines off-road fun with a historic tavern lunch. Those intrigued by Vegas’s criminal legacy will find the Mob Museum and GoCar Tour ideal, especially if you like interactive tech.
For families or those wanting a more educational experience, the Natural History Museum provides engaging exhibits. Budget travelers can opt for the museum visit or shorter walking tours, while adventure seekers might prefer the off-road or bike trips. Booking early is wise, especially for popular tours like the Desert RZR or mob tour.
Final Thoughts
Las Vegas’s history is as layered and fascinating as its neon lights. Whether you prefer walking through downtown, riding into the desert, or learning about the city’s underground culture, there’s a tour tailored for your curiosity and schedule. For those wanting a comprehensive, story-rich experience, the Downtown Las Vegas – Fremont Street History Walking Tour is a great start. For adventure lovers, the Vegas Desert RZR Adventure offers a memorable day in Nevada’s wilderness.
Remember, booking early can help secure spots on the most popular tours, and always match your choice to your interests and energy level. Whether you’re a history buff, adventure seeker, or just curious about Vegas’s hidden stories, these tours will deepen your appreciation for Sin City’s complex past.
Happy exploring!