Rediscovering Vintage Glamour and Hidden Stories at Home and History Las Vegas

In a city that’s always racing toward the future there’s a place where the past takes center stage. From May 1 through May 4, Las Vegas will pause the neon buzz and spotlight the stories behind its iconic facades as the Nevada Preservation Foundation brings back Home and History Las Vegas. Now in its 10th year, this beloved heritage festival offers a fresh way to experience the city not through casinos and shows but through architecture, storytelling and style.

For four unforgettable days, locals and visitors alike are invited to explore the neighborhoods, buildings and backdrops that shaped Southern Nevada into what it is today. Think of it as a time machine only with better cocktails, engaging historians and maybe a celebrity mansion or two.

A Weekend Where the Past Comes Alive

From the moment you arrive at one of the many event sites scattered across the Las Vegas Valley, you’ll feel it an energy that’s both nostalgic and brand new. This is not your typical history lesson. Home and History Las Vegas reimagines heritage as something immersive, stylish and very much alive.

Whether you’re walking through a mid-century neighborhood where movie stars once lived or sitting in a restored hotel ballroom listening to a keynote from legendary architect Alan Hess, the festival has a way of pulling you in. Suddenly, the Vegas you thought you knew is full of surprises.

Why This Festival Has Everyone Talking

With more than 30 events packed into one long weekend, Home and History is more than a festival it’s an experience. It’s a journey through time, architecture, design and culture.

For those who love a twist of entertainment with their education, the Fakeitecture program is a perfect fit. This lively seminar dives into how Las Vegas made a name for itself by building bold, cheeky versions of global landmarks—from mini Eiffel Towers to faux Roman temples. It’s both humorous and insightful, a true celebration of the city’s unapologetic flair.

Then there’s the ever-popular Underground Celebrity Icons Bus Tour, which offers more than just a ride through Paradise Palms. Guests are treated to a rare peek inside a Cold War-era underground mansion, complete with vintage quirks and Hollywood stories.

And let’s not forget the panel discussions. Preservation 101 brings together Nevada’s leading voices in historic preservation, offering insider knowledge, passion and even a reveal of the 2025 Eleven Most Endangered List a thought-provoking look at the local landmarks most in need of saving.

A Neighborhood Tour with Heart and History

For those drawn to charming streets and tucked-away tales, the Doorstep Diaries Walking Tour through McNeil Estates is a standout. This picturesque neighborhood, lined with classic Vegas homes and lush yards, becomes a living museum as local guides unlock its secrets one doorstep at a time.

There’s something almost cinematic about walking these blocks, imagining who lived behind the walls, what parties were thrown and how this neighborhood helped shape Las Vegas’s identity during its golden era.

When Mid-Century Modern Meets Modern Curiosity

One of the festival’s signature events brings a touch of Mad Men sophistication to downtown. Held at the historic Fremont Hotel and Casino, Mid-Century Modern Las Vegas features architect and historian Alan Hess, whose knowledge of design and cultural movements spans decades. His keynote is more than a lecture—it’s a love letter to a style that defined the desert dream.

For design lovers, architecture buffs or anyone with an appreciation for clean lines and cocktail culture, this is a must-see moment.

Sip and Stroll Through the Arts District

As the sun sets, the city’s 18b Arts District comes to life with Sips, Stories and Street Art—a pub crawl that blends local brews with urban art and historical nuggets. Guided by charismatic locals, this walking tour is as much about the present as it is the past, weaving together creativity, culture and connection.

It’s a fun, unpretentious way to dive into downtown’s thriving scene, all while honoring the roots that made it what it is today.

Step Inside the Homes That Built a City

Rounding out the weekend is the fan-favorite Vintage Vegas Home Tour. Self-guided and beautifully curated, this event invites guests into some of the most iconic private homes in the city. From atomic ranches to glam Hollywood hideaways, each stop offers a peek into a bygone era where wallpaper was wild, kitchens were futuristic and every detail had a story.

It’s a rare opportunity to see the city from the inside out and a powerful reminder of how design, architecture and memory intertwine.

Planning Your Weekend of Discovery

Tickets for Home and History Las Vegas start at just $15, making it accessible without compromising on quality. Each event is ticketed individually, allowing you to create a custom itinerary that fits your interests whether that’s diving deep into historic preservation or simply enjoying a scenic drive through town with curated commentary.

To explore the full calendar of events and purchase tickets, visit the official Home and History Las Vegas website. Events take place across various locations throughout the valley, offering something new at every turn.

Why This Matters More Than Ever

In a city often celebrated for its ability to reinvent itself, Home and History Las Vegas reminds us that preservation is its own kind of innovation. These homes, landmarks and stories are not relics they are the soul of the city. By stepping into them, we don’t just honor the past we understand the present more deeply.

So whether you’re a history buff, a design lover or just someone looking for something beautiful and different to do in Las Vegas, this is your invitation to look again. There’s a whole other side of the city waiting to be discovered. And for one extraordinary weekend, it’s all yours.

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