Nevada might be famous for Las Vegas and desert landscapes, but did you know it’s also home to some awesome transportation museums?
Whether you’re into classic cars, vintage planes, or old trains, Nevada has a bit of everything. Let’s dive into 9 must-visit transportation museums across the Silver State that’ll give you a taste of history and cool vehicles. Think of the money you will save heading to a museum instead of the Las Vegas strip!
National Automobile Museum (Reno)
The National Automobile Museum is a dream come true for car enthusiasts. With over 200 classic cars on display, including Elvis Presley’s 1973 Cadillac Eldorado and an 1892 Philion Steam Quadricycle, this museum takes you on a journey through the history of automobiles.
Beyond the cars themselves, the museum features exhibits that show how these vehicles impacted American culture. You’ll also find themed street scenes that make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time.
Nevada State Railroad Museum (Carson City)
For train lovers, the Nevada State Railroad Museum is a must-visit. The museum preserves Nevada’s rich railroading past with historic locomotives and restored railcars. One of the most exciting features is the chance to ride a steam train on weekends!
The museum also offers special exhibits showcasing the role of railroads in Nevada’s mining boom. Whether you’re a train fanatic or just curious, this museum gives a full history of how railroads helped shape the West.
Nevada Southern Railway Museum (Boulder City)
Located just outside of Las Vegas, the Nevada Southern Railway Museum offers train rides through the desert landscape. Hop aboard vintage railcars and enjoy a scenic journey that feels like a step back in time.
The museum also features exhibits on the history of railroads in Southern Nevada and their connection to the construction of the Hoover Dam. It’s perfect for a family day out, especially if you’re into trains.
Air Land and Space Museum (Henderson)
The Air Land and Space Museum is a unique spot that celebrates all things related to transportation on land, in the air, and in space. The museum features a range of exhibits showcasing vintage military vehicles, historic aircraft, and even space exploration memorabilia.
It’s a fantastic place for those interested in military history and aviation, offering insights into how technology has evolved over the years.
Hollywood Cars Museum (Las Vegas)
If you’re a movie buff or car enthusiast, the Hollywood Cars Museum is a must-see. It boasts an impressive collection of iconic cars from your favorite films and TV shows, like the Batmobile from Batman and the DeLorean from Back to the Future.
The museum gives visitors a fun, up-close look at these famous vehicles, allowing you to relive some of the most memorable moments in pop culture history.
Don Laughlin’s Classic Car Museum (Laughlin)
Located in the Riverside Resort, Don Laughlin’s Classic Car Museum features a stunning collection of over 80 classic cars. From vintage muscle cars to beautifully restored models from the early 20th century, the museum offers something for everyone.
Don Laughlin himself, the town’s founder, was a car enthusiast, and his personal collection is now shared with the public for all to enjoy.
Shelby Heritage Center (Las Vegas)
The Shelby Heritage Center is a paradise for car lovers, especially those with a passion for high-performance vehicles. The museum celebrates the legacy of Carroll Shelby and showcases some of the most iconic Shelby Mustangs ever built.
From rare classics to modern speed demons, the Heritage Center offers an in-depth look at Shelby’s impact on the automotive industry, along with a behind-the-scenes tour of the factory where these powerful cars are made.
Nostalgia Street Rods (Las Vegas)
Nostalgia Street Rods is a hidden gem that features an incredible collection of classic cars, memorabilia, and vintage Americana. The museum showcases street rods, classic cars, and hot rods from the 1940s through the 1970s, offering a nostalgic trip down memory lane.
It’s more than just cars though—visitors can also browse through collections of vintage toys, music memorabilia, and sports artifacts.
United States Air Force Thunderbirds Museum (Nellis Air Force Base)
The United States Air Force Thunderbirds Museum honors the elite demonstration squadron known for their thrilling air shows. This air museum showcases the history of the Thunderbirds, featuring exhibits on the planes they’ve flown and their awe-inspiring performances.
It’s located at Nellis Air Force Base and is a must-visit for anyone who’s ever been amazed by the speed, precision, and power of these incredible pilots.
Crazy 80’s Car Museum
For those that love the 1970’s and 1980’s, this museum is just for you. The building is an old furniture store and houses everyday cars that regular people drove during the 70’s and 80’s. No muscle cars or perfect speed demons, these cars are filled with history, dents and dings! If you are ever in Illinois, the Crazy 80’s Car Museum is a must see.
View the Grand Canyon on a Train Run on Vegetable Oil
Stepping aboard the Grand Canyon Railway’s historic locomotive No. 4960 is like taking a journey back in time to the Old West. This vintage train, originally built in 1923, has undergone a remarkable transformation – from a coal-guzzling workhorse to a diesel-powered dynamo fueled by recycled french fry oil.
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