Historic Las Vegas Artifacts Find New Home in Downtown Las Vegas Museum After Conservation Work
The Neon Museum – the Las Vegas non-profit illuminating the city’s cultural legacy through historic signage and storytelling – will officially add The Mirage Hotel & Casino Lagoon sign and a Volcano FireShooter™ from the iconic Strip attraction to the Neon Boneyard on June 5. Taking place during a special ceremony at 7:30 p.m., the addition of these artifacts presents the first mass-scale, free entertainment on the Las Vegas Strip and became a signature attraction, engaging tourists and locals for over a generation.
“The Neon Museum is beyond excited to present two new objects to our Collection: The Mirage Lagoon sign and the Volcano FireShooter. These pieces represent the excitement and wonderment for literally millions of people around the world. They’re pure joy.” said Aaron Berger, Executive Director and CEO of The Neon Museum. “To think of the number of people who have their photos in front of The Mirage Volcano as it erupts is overwhelming. Knowing a piece of that history will be protected and presented at The Neon Museum is an honor and a happy responsibility.”
Originally fabricated in September 2008, The Mirage Lagoon sign once sat within the resort’s Volcano attraction along Las Vegas Boulevard. Now, the artifact will return to public view as part of a new display that also includes one of the custom-built Volcano FireShooters.
Because The Mirage Lagoon sign was donated in working condition, the project focused on remedial and preventive conservation rather than full restoration. This included detailed examination, documentation, cleaning and minimal intervention to preserve the sign’s original materials and appearance. The piece retains its original paint, LED white strip lighting and construction materials, including metal sheeting, plexiglass and angle iron.
As part of The Neon Museum’s conservation efforts, the Lagoon sign was transported to Hartlauer Signs in December 2025 for testing and fabrication of a new base. Preventive measures included replacing the trim cap strip to protect against water intrusion. The sign, weighing approximately 400 pounds and measuring roughly 13 feet wide, was transported and installed as a single piece and will now be permanently anchored within the Neon Boneyard.
The Mirage Lagoon sign and Volcano FireShooter was donated by The Mirage and Hard Rock International. Transportation, installation and restoration have been made possible by PENTA CARES, Hartlauer Signs and The Neon Museum’s Sign Conservation Fund.
ABOUT THE NEON MUSEUM
The Neon Museum illuminates the cultural essence of Las Vegas by sharing iconic signage, diverse collections and stories that define its vibrant past, present and future. Its core values seek to create a sense of belonging for everyone; promote scholarship through its work and collaborations; offer fun engagement that reflects the spirit of Las Vegas; and demonstrate overall excellence.
Founded in 1996, The Neon Museum achieved accreditation by the American Alliance of Museums (AAM) in 2021, the highest national honor for museums in the United States. Situated on a 2.27-acre campus, the Museum features:
- The Neon Boneyard: An outdoor exhibition space displaying historic signs no longer in use.
- The North Gallery: Home to Brilliant! Jackpot, an immersive audiovisual experience that re-illuminates over 40 non-operational signs using advanced technology.
- The Boulevard Gallery: A transitional space showcasing collection pieces.
- The Visitors’ Center: Located in the iconic former La Concha Motel lobby designed by famed architect Paul Revere Williams.
- The Neon Boneyard Park: A green space where visitors can learn more of Las Vegas’ rich history.
The museum’s collection also includes 15 restored signs displayed as public art in downtown Las Vegas collectively known as The Las Vegas Boulevard Scenic Byway Project and additional pieces on loan to non-profits and government entities. Its ongoing initiatives encompass public education, outreach, research, and arts preservation.
For more information, including tour schedules and tickets, visit www.neonmuseum.org. Also follow @NeonMuseum on Facebook and @theneonmuseumlasvegas on Instagram.
