The Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas Sign stands in the median of Las Vegas Boulevard South, at the southern end of the Strip. Betty Willis designed it in 1959 as a gift to the city. Its neon border, mid-century shape and ring of silver circles make it a classic photo stop, and the full neon display shows after dark. Visitors can see the sign for free at any hour, and it is easy to reach by car, bus or rideshare. Most people come for the photo, but the design and the story behind it are worth a few minutes of attention.
Who designed the sign and why
Betty Willis, a Nevada native who studied art in Los Angeles, designed the sign in 1959. Businessman Ted Rogich wanted a sign to greet people arriving in the city, and Western Neon, the company where Willis worked, built it. Willis regarded the sign as a gift to her hometown.
Willis never trademarked the design. Because of that, the image has appeared on souvenirs, clothing and other goods across the city for years. She also designed signs for other local businesses, including the Blue Angel Motel and the Blue Heaven bar.
Design and details
The sign stands about 25 feet tall. Its design follows the Googie architecture style, a style of the period that used bold shapes and bright lighting to catch the eye of people driving by.
The word WELCOME is spelled out in silver circles, a reference to Nevada's nickname, the Silver State. A border of yellow incandescent bulbs runs around the edge, a typical choice for roadside neon of the era. The front carries the city's welcome message, and the back bids departing drivers farewell.
The sign sits within a landscaped setting with palm trees and lighting, which frames it for photos from several angles.
Recognition and the site today
In 2009 the sign was added to the National Register of Historic Places. It stands in the median of Las Vegas Boulevard South, near Mandalay Bay and the airport, and it marks the beginning of the Strip for many visitors.
The site has a small free parking lot, with a one-way entry and exit that keeps traffic moving. Wheelchair accessible parking, an accessible entrance and accessible seating are available.
Visitors will often find people offering to take photos. Those helpers are not owed a tip, and you can say no without any difficulty.
Timing your visit
Early morning brings softer light and fewer people. The sign is quietest before the day's crowds arrive, which is the most comfortable window for a photo without a long line.
After dark, the neon and yellow bulbs show the sign at its full brightness. Solar panels installed in 2014 power the lighting, so the sign is lit day and night.
Tour buses stop at the sign during the day, and lines can grow quickly at busy times. Plan a short stop, and allow a few extra minutes if you want to wait for a clear view.
FAQ
Is there an entry fee?
No. The sign is free to see and photograph, and it is open to the public at any hour.
Is there parking at the sign?
Yes. A small free parking lot sits beside the sign. Drivers enter southbound on Las Vegas Boulevard, and the entry and exit are one way.
Do I need to tip the people who take photos?
No. Tipping is optional. Some photographers charge a fee, so it helps to ask about the cost before the photo is taken.
Is the sign wheelchair accessible?
Yes. The site has wheelchair accessible parking, an accessible entrance and accessible seating.
