Tourism Growth in Las Vegas: Home Plus History Festival Highlights the City’s Unique Heritage

Published on December 11, 2025

The Heritage Tourism Festival ‘Home + History Las Vegas’ is back for its 11th year, continuing to celebrate the valley’s rich architectural history and cultural evolution. This year’s four-day festival, running from December 11-14, 2025, will feature more than 40 curated experiences, each designed to offer an in-depth look at Las Vegas’ iconic buildings, neighborhoods, and preservation efforts. Local historians, preservation experts, and cultural enthusiasts will lead these tours and events, providing visitors with a unique opportunity to explore the history of the city beyond its famous neon lights.

The ‘Home + History’ Festival is a significant event for both tourists and locals, as it highlights the hidden gems of Las Vegas’ architectural landscape. Unlike the typical image of the Strip, this festival focuses on the historical homes, neighborhoods, and landmarks that shaped the city’s development over the years. With an emphasis on the preservation of local history, the event provides a rich cultural experience for anyone interested in the city’s past.

Showcasing Las Vegas’ Architectural Legacy

One of the key aspects of the festival is its focus on the preservation of Las Vegas’ architectural heritage. Over the past decade, the festival has brought attention to the city’s evolving cityscape, which includes mid-century modern homes, historic neighborhoods, and unique buildings that tell the story of how Las Vegas grew from a small desert town into the entertainment capital of the world.

This year, festival-goers will have the chance to explore historic neighborhoods such as The Las Vegas Historic District and The McNeil Area, where some of the city’s earliest homes and buildings still stand. Local historians will guide visitors through the areas, sharing stories about the lives and events that shaped the development of these neighborhoods.

One of the highlights of the festival is the opportunity to visit Las Vegas’ mid-century modern homes, which are often overlooked in favor of the city’s famous hotels and casinos. These homes reflect the architectural trends of the 1950s and 1960s and provide a glimpse into the city’s post-World War II boom. Experts will share the history behind these designs and how they fit into the larger context of the city’s growth.

Curated Experiences Led by Experts

The festival offers a variety of curated experiences designed to engage visitors of all ages and interests. More than 40 unique events will be led by local historians and preservation experts, allowing attendees to gain a deeper understanding of Las Vegas’ history and heritage. These events include walking tours, home tours, and panel discussions on the importance of historic preservation in a city that is constantly evolving.

Walking tours will give participants a chance to experience the city’s architecture first-hand while learning about the cultural significance of the buildings and neighborhoods. Special home tours will allow visitors to step inside some of the valley’s most historically significant residences, many of which are typically closed to the public. These tours provide an intimate look at how Las Vegas’ earliest residents lived and how their homes reflected the city’s cultural shifts over time.

In addition to the tours, the festival will feature panel discussions and workshops focused on the importance of historic preservation. These events will bring together experts and community leaders who are working to protect and revitalize historic landmarks across Las Vegas. Visitors will have the opportunity to learn about the challenges and successes of preserving the city’s cultural heritage in the face of rapid development and change.

The Role of ‘Home + History’ in Las Vegas Tourism

The ‘Home + History Las Vegas’ Festival plays an important role in diversifying the city’s tourism offerings. While the world-famous Las Vegas Strip is a major draw for visitors, the city’s heritage tourism provides a more nuanced experience for those interested in learning about the history and culture that has shaped the community. The festival promotes sustainable tourism practices by encouraging visitors to engage with the local community and appreciate the importance of historic preservation.

The festival also provides a platform for local businesses, such as restaurants, shops, and museums, to showcase their offerings. Many of the festival’s events are held in or near historic neighborhoods, which gives visitors a chance to explore parts of the city they may not have visited otherwise. This not only benefits tourism but also supports the revitalization of Las Vegas’ historic districts.

A Cultural Celebration for All Ages

The ‘Home + History’ Festival is designed to be inclusive, offering something for everyone, from history buffs and architecture enthusiasts to families looking for an engaging cultural experience. The event’s activities provide an educational and enjoyable experience for all ages, with plenty of opportunities for families to learn about the city’s past in a hands-on way.

For younger visitors, there are interactive activities such as scavenger hunts, art projects, and educational games that teach them about the architectural history of Las Vegas in a fun and engaging manner. For adults, the festival offers a more in-depth exploration of the city’s cultural and architectural legacy, with expert-led discussions and tours that provide insight into the unique stories of Las Vegas’ past.

A Bright Future for Las Vegas Heritage Tourism

As Las Vegas continues to grow as a global tourist destination, the ‘Home + History Las Vegas’ Festival highlights the importance of preserving the city’s unique architectural and cultural heritage. The festival serves as a reminder that there is much more to the city than its casinos and entertainment venues—it is also a place with a rich and diverse history that is worth celebrating and preserving.

The continued success of the ‘Home + History’ Festival demonstrates the growing interest in heritage tourism and the desire of visitors to connect with the places they visit on a deeper level. By offering unique, curated experiences and emphasizing the importance of preservation, Las Vegas is positioning itself as a city that values its history while embracing modern growth and development.

Conclusion: A Celebration of Las Vegas’ Legacy

The ‘Home + History Las Vegas’ Festival is a significant event in the city’s tourism calendar, offering both locals and visitors the chance to explore the architectural and cultural heritage of one of the world’s most dynamic cities. With its curated experiences, expert-led tours, and focus on historic preservation, the festival provides a unique way to experience Las Vegas beyond its famous Strip. As the festival continues to grow, it will remain a key event that celebrates the rich history and legacy of this iconic city.