Step Into the Shadows: Exploring Las Vegas’ Mob Museum
Tucked away in the heart of Downtown Las Vegas, just steps from the flashing lights of Fremont Street, the Mob Museum offers something wildly different than the typical Vegas experience. Officially known as the National Museum of Organized Crime and Law Enforcement, this one-of-a-kind destination invites you to step into the gritty, gripping world of the American mob—and the people who tried to stop it.
Housed in a historic 1930s U.S. Post Office and Courthouse—where real mob hearings took place—the building itself sets the tone. This is no ordinary museum. It’s immersive, intense, and at times, jaw-dropping
Your journey begins at the top, tracing the rise of organized crime through Prohibition. Real artifacts tell real stories, including the actual bullet-riddled brick wall from Chicago’s infamous St. Valentine’s Day Massacre. As you make your way down each floor, the exhibits dive deeper into how the mob operated, how Las Vegas became a haven for crime families, and how law enforcement fought back - with wiretaps, undercover agents, and televised trials that captivated the nation.
One of the museum’s standout features is its fully restored courtroom, where the 1950s Kefauver Hearings were held - bringing mob activity into the public spotlight for the first time. It’s surreal to sit in the very space where America watched the mob be put on trial.
Downstairs, visitors can try hands-on exhibits like a police training simulator, or step into a forensics lab to test their CSI skills. But the real hidden gem is in the basement: The Underground, a fully functioning speakeasy and distillery that serves up Prohibition-style cocktails and house-made moonshine. It's a delicious way to end your tour through history.
Beyond the drama and intrigue, what makes the Mob Museum truly special is how educational and engaging it is. It’s not just about the mobsters—it’s about the impact organized crime had on American culture, law, and justice.
Whether you're a true crime junkie, history buff, or just looking for something different to do in Vegas, the Mob Museum is a must-visit. It’s raw, real, and fascinating from start to finish.
Location: 300 Stewart Ave, Las Vegas, NV
Hours: Daily 9am–9pm
Admission: Starts around $35; discounts available for Nevada residents, students, military & law enforcement
Don’t Miss: The Underground speakeasy (open later hours)


