There is a lot of history in Clark County, but with how rapidly Las Vegas continues to change, it's often difficult to get a taste of it. The Clark County Heritage Museum in southern Henderson houses much of Clark County's history, from long before civilized times to the era of the Rat Pack to today. This multi-faceted museum preserves historical artifacts, including complete replicas of homes throughout the ages and a small ghost town.
Best and worst time to go to the Clark County Heritage Museum
As a bulk of the heritage museum's exhibits are outside, it is best to avoid it during the span of June through September. If it is unavoidable, stick to an early morning visit and bring plenty of water.
Must see/do at the Clark County Heritage Museum
The museums collection of restored historic homes and buildings transport guests to a variety of eras, from the roaring 1920's to the 1950's. These buildings show how life was in Las Vegas, Boulder City, Henderson, and Goldfield during these time periods. Visits to a classic chapel and an early 1900's newspaper print shop are possible.
The Anna Robert Parks Exhibit Hall is the best look at Clark County's ecosystem before man came in and took over. The Ice Age exhibit shows what fascinating creatures resided in these lands before being pushed out for the glitz and glam of today.
Explore the historical intrigue of a mining trail that leads up to historical buildings like the Tuscarora Jail and Troll Cabin of 1880 and a general store from the 1950's. The trail will lead you a little ways away from the museum, past the remnants of the ghost town, into a nature trail that remains genuine.
Admission to the Clark County Heritage Museum
The Clark County Heritage Museum offers self-guided tours that start at $1 per person. Group tours and museum memberships are available at special rates.
Parking and public transportation to the Clark County Heritage Museum
The Clark County Heritage Museum offers free on-site parking in a lot right next to the museum.
The HDX bus towards Henderson towards Boulder City makes a stop at Boulder Hwy and Museum Dr. From there, it's a .2 mile walk to the museum entrance.
Food at the Clark County Heritage Museum
The Clark County Heritage Museum doesn't currently serve food on-site.
Insider tip for visitors to the Clark County Heritage Museum
One detriment to most museums is the inability to bring history home with you, but the heritage museum's on-site gift shop provides a variety of unique items for sale. Most interesting is the collection of locally written books chronicling several aspects of Clark County's history.
Author's bio: Mark is a Vegas local and freelance writer with expertise in Las Vegas nightlife and entertainment. He's also the owner and contributor to the video game site, The Spirit of Gaming.
Founded as an observatory in 1883, Chabot Space & Science Center provides a place to explore the universe without leaving Oakland. Kids and adults alike can learn what astronauts eat on the International Space Station, learn how to tame "monster" storms in Bill Nye Climate Lab and discover the relationship between the sun, moon and stars. The museum also hosts special events that include lectures, night hikes, children's "Star Stories" and a Lego lab. Chabot Observatories offer celestial viewing day and night.
Best and worst time to go to Chabot Space & Science Center
Friday and Saturday nights, guests can check out the stars and one of the best views of the East Bay from the Observatory deck. Night viewing starts when the skies go dark and lasts until 10:30 p.m.
Must see/do at Chabot Space & Science Center
Take a gander through one of the observatory's three telescopes: Nellie, Rachel and Leah.
Admission to Chabot Space & Science Center
Adult $16; Youth (ages 3-12) $12; Seniors (65+) and Students (13-18 or with college ID) $13; Members Free.
Parking and Public Transportation Chabot Space & Science Center
Free parking at Chabot Space & Science Center. AC Transit offers limited service from Fruitvale BART to the museum.
Food at Chabot Space & Science Center
Bean Sprouts Café offers healthy sandwiches, soups and salads.
Insider tip for visitors to Chabot Space & Science Center
Extend your stay in the Oakland hills. After a full day of hands-on exhibits, take a stroll along one of the trails through adjacent Redwood Park.
Author's bio: Heather Johnson is a freelance writer living in Oakland, California.
The Hiller Aviation Museum, located at the San Carlos Airport, is an aircraft history museum founded by Stanley Hiller, Jr. The museum specializes in Northern California aircraft and helicopter history. Its mission is to stimulate and engage its visitors to discover the past, celebrate the present and imagine the future of aviation. Hiller's is educational and fun for the whole family.