The sign “Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas” has become a symbol of Las Vegas, becoming an almost obligatory point for tourists wishing to record their passage through the city.
When the sign was created in 1959, access was very limited; People would stop their cars in a parking lot near the site and risk crossing the avenue, dodging speeding cars. But now all that is a thing of the past and to take a photo next to this famous symbol you don’t have to risk it.
The “Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas” has parking for 12 cars, has been designed to improve pedestrian safety and even access for people with disabilities. There is also enough space to park two buses.
Located south of Las Vegas Boulevard, known as Strip, the sign is nothing more than a welcome wish (on the front) and “Drive carefully” (on the back), augmented by the words “Come back soon”.
This illuminated sign was designed by Betty Willis while she was working for the Wester Neon Company. The creation was inspired by his father, Clark County’s first tax assessor, who died 18 years before the sign was unveiled.
“Dad loved bringing people here,” Betty Willis told the Las Vegas Sun in 2005. “I think he would be proud of what this plaque represents today.”
On May 1, 2009, the “Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas” has been added to the National Register of Historic Places.
Visiting or taking photos on site is free of charge. Nowadays there are people and characters on duty at the site to offer help to tourists. Although the photos are still free, if you use their services, they expect to receive a tip in return.
To reach this famous sign, just go a little south of the Mandalay Bay Casino Hotel, in the direction of Las Vegas Premium Outlet – South.
Open 24 hours a day.
