Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas Sign
- Admission
- Free
- Hours
- Open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
- Duration
- 15-30 minutes
- Parking
- A small, free parking lot is located directly in the median of Las Vegas Boulevard, accessible only when driving south.
- Access
- Fully wheelchair accessible with paved paths and ramps leading from the parking lot to the viewing plaza.
This world-famous 25-foot neon landmark has been welcoming visitors to the Las Vegas Strip since 1959. Designed by Betty Willis, it stands as a classic symbol of mid-century Googie architecture. Surprisingly, the sign is not actually located within the city limits of Las Vegas, but rather in neighboring Paradise, Nevada.
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Erected in 1959, the Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas Sign is one of the most iconic and photographed roadside landmarks in the world. Designed by local artist Betty Willis, she never copyrighted her creation, considering it a gift to the city. Its distinctive stretched diamond shape, neon lettering, and starburst accent epitomize the mid-century Googie architectural style.
Located on the median of Las Vegas Boulevard, the sign is now more accessible than ever thanks to a dedicated parking lot added in 2008. Visitors can walk up to a small paved plaza directly underneath the sign for the perfect photo opportunity. There is often a line of tourists waiting, but the wait is usually short and highly organized.
While the sign looks spectacular during the day, seeing it illuminated at night is a quintessential Vegas experience. Over the years, the sign has been decorated with blue ribbons, red hearts, and other modifications to commemorate special events and support various charitable causes.
Ratings
landmark◆ Visitor Tips
- ◆ Go early in the morning to beat the crowds and the intense desert heat.
- ◆ There are often self-appointed local photographers offering to take your picture for a tip, but you are not obligated to use them.
- ◆ Be prepared to wait in a queue for 20 to 30 minutes during peak afternoon hours.
- ◆ Take a photo of the back of the sign too, which reads 'Drive Carefully Come Back Soon'.
Heads Up
- ◆ Be careful crossing Las Vegas Boulevard; always use the designated crosswalks to access the median lot.
- ◆ The desert heat can be intense during the summer months with absolutely no shade at the sign.
- ◆ Watch out for scammers or aggressive buskers offering unsolicited help or photo services.
Common questions
Is there free parking at the Las Vegas sign?
Yes, there is a small, free parking lot located in the center median of Las Vegas Boulevard, which is only accessible when traveling south. The lot has about 12 spaces and fills up quickly during peak travel times.
Can you walk to the Las Vegas sign from the Strip?
Yes, you can walk to the sign via paved sidewalks along Las Vegas Boulevard. It is approximately a 0.5-mile walk from Mandalay Bay, which is the closest resort on the Strip.
Do you have to pay the photographers at the Las Vegas sign?
No, there is no fee to take a photo at the sign, and any photographers stationed there are independent locals working for tips. You are welcome to take your own photos for free or decline their assistance.
How long is the line to take a picture at the Las Vegas sign?
Wait times in the main queue typically range from 15 to 45 minutes, though it can be longer during holidays and weekends. Visitors who do not want to wait can stand off to the side to take a quick photo of the sign without waiting in line.