Universal Horror Unleashed: Las Vegas' Year-Round Fright Fest

Tucked away in the heart of downtown Las Vegas, The Writer’s Block is more than just a bookstore, a creative refuge in a city better known for neon lights and roulette wheels. Since opening its doors in 2014, this independent shop has built a reputation as a literary hub for locals and visitors alike. Located at 519 S. 6th Street in the artsy Fremont East district, The Writer’s Block blends the charm of a classic indie bookstore with a splash of Vegas flair. Inside, you’ll find an eclectic mix of new books spanning every genre, an espresso bar for your reading fuel, and perhaps most charming of all—a whimsical artificial bird sanctuary that hovers overhead. But The Writer’s Block isn’t just about browsing books. It's also a community builder. The shop regularly hosts readings, writing workshops, and book clubs, offering something for readers and writers of all ages. Housed within The Lucy—a nonprofit arts and culture center funded by the Rogers Foundation—the bookstore doubles as a place where creative minds can gather, collaborate, and grow. Whether you're picking up your next great read, sipping a latte while drafting a screenplay, or just popping in to say hi to the resident rabbit (yes, there’s a rabbit too), The Writer’s Block is a welcome literary escape in the middle of the desert. In a city full of distractions, it’s a reminder that quiet, thoughtful spaces still exist—and they matter. 

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. L ocation: 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 hour s)