How to Experience the REAL BODIES at Bally’s in Las Vegas

The REAL BODIES exhibition at Bally’s Las Vegas is not just another tourist attraction—it’s a profound, scientifically grounded exploration of human anatomy that bridges art, science, and education. Unlike traditional museum displays, REAL BODIES presents real human specimens preserved through a revolutionary process called plastination, allowing visitors to witness the intricate complexity of the human body in astonishing, lifelike detail. Located in the heart of the Las Vegas Strip, this immersive experience draws over 250,000 visitors annually, making it one of the most talked-about educational attractions in the city. Whether you’re a medical student, a curious traveler, or someone seeking a deeper understanding of the human form, experiencing REAL BODIES offers an unforgettable journey into the mechanics of life itself.

What sets REAL BODIES apart is its commitment to authenticity. Every specimen—ranging from individual organs to full-body dissections—is derived from legally donated human bodies. The exhibition does not rely on models or replicas; instead, it reveals the raw, unaltered truth of human biology. This authenticity transforms the experience from mere observation into a visceral, emotional, and intellectually stimulating encounter. In a city known for spectacle and illusion, REAL BODIES stands as a rare, powerful reminder of our shared humanity.

Understanding how to fully experience this exhibition goes beyond simply purchasing a ticket. It requires preparation, mindfulness, and an openness to engage with content that can be both awe-inspiring and deeply moving. This guide will walk you through every step of the journey—from planning your visit to interpreting what you see—ensuring you leave with not just memories, but a lasting appreciation for the science and dignity behind the display.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Research and Plan Your Visit

Before heading to Bally’s, take time to understand the exhibition’s layout, duration, and thematic sections. REAL BODIES spans over 10,000 square feet and features more than 200 authentic human specimens. The exhibition is divided into thematic zones: the Muscular System, the Nervous System, the Cardiovascular System, the Respiratory System, the Digestive System, the Reproductive System, and the Skeletal System. There are also special displays showcasing athletes, pregnant women, and comparative anatomy between humans and animals.

Visit the official REAL BODIES website to confirm current operating hours, ticket pricing, and any seasonal closures. Las Vegas weather can be extreme, so plan your visit during cooler parts of the day—early morning or late afternoon—to avoid the peak heat and crowds. Weekdays, particularly Tuesday through Thursday, tend to have fewer visitors, allowing for a more contemplative experience. Avoid weekends and holidays if you prefer quieter exploration.

Check for any special events or guided tours offered during your visit. Some dates feature live demonstrations or expert talks by anatomists or educators, which can greatly enhance your understanding. Book tickets online in advance to skip the box office line and secure preferred entry times.

Step 2: Prepare Mentally and Emotionally

REAL BODIES is not a typical museum. The specimens are real, preserved, and displayed without concealment. This can be confronting for some visitors, especially those unfamiliar with human anatomy or who have personal sensitivities around death and the body. It’s important to approach the exhibition with an open but respectful mindset.

Consider reading brief introductory materials on plastination—the preservation technique developed by Dr. Gunther von Hagens—to better understand how these bodies were preserved without decay. This knowledge helps contextualize the exhibit as a scientific endeavor, not a morbid curiosity. Many visitors report that understanding the ethical sourcing and educational purpose of the specimens transforms their emotional response from discomfort to deep reverence.

If you are visiting with children, assess their maturity level beforehand. While the exhibition is family-friendly and educational, some displays—particularly those involving reproductive systems or fetal development—may require parental guidance. The exhibition provides age-appropriate signage, but parental discretion is advised for children under 10.

Step 3: Arrive Early and Begin at the Entrance

Upon arrival at Bally’s, follow signs for the REAL BODIES exhibition, located near the hotel’s main lobby entrance on the first floor. Do not confuse it with other attractions like the “Bally’s Theater” or “Bally’s Casino.” The exhibition has its own dedicated entrance with ticketing kiosks and a small gift shop.

Once inside, take a moment to absorb the ambiance. Soft ambient lighting, subtle background music, and quiet spacing encourage reflection. Avoid rushing. Begin with the introductory video and informational panels at the entrance, which explain the history of anatomical study, the ethics of body donation, and the science of plastination. These elements are essential for framing your experience.

Step 4: Follow the Logical Flow of the Exhibition

REAL BODIES is designed to be experienced in sequence. The path is clearly marked with directional arrows and thematic signage. Do not skip sections or backtrack frequently—this disrupts the narrative arc the curators have created.

Start with the Skeletal System. Here, you’ll see articulated skeletons demonstrating posture, movement, and bone density variations. Pay attention to the differences between male and female pelvises, the curvature of the spine in athletes, and the wear patterns in elderly specimens. These details reveal how lifestyle, occupation, and age shape our physical form.

Move next to the Muscular System. Here, muscles are peeled back layer by layer, showing how tendons connect to bone and how different muscle groups function during motion. Look for the contrast between a sedentary individual’s muscle mass and that of a professional athlete. The precision of the dissections is remarkable—each fiber is preserved, allowing you to see the striations that enable movement.

The Nervous System section is often the most mesmerizing. Entire spinal cords, brains, and peripheral nerves are displayed in situ, showing how signals travel from the brain to the extremities. Some specimens include brain slices that reveal the hippocampus, amygdala, and cortex in cross-section. This is where you’ll understand how memory, emotion, and cognition are physically rooted in the body.

As you progress, the Cardiovascular and Respiratory Systems demonstrate the elegance of internal networks. The heart, with its chambers and valves, is displayed alongside lungs filled with bronchioles that branch like trees. One particularly powerful display shows a smoker’s lung next to a healthy one—visually stark and unforgettable.

The Digestive System reveals the full pathway from mouth to anus, with specimens showing the effects of diet, disease, and surgery. The Reproductive System includes fetal development stages, from conception to late-term pregnancy, offering a rare glimpse into human origins. These sections are handled with sensitivity and are accompanied by clear, factual explanations.

Step 5: Engage with the Interactive Elements

REAL BODIES includes several interactive stations designed to deepen understanding. Touchscreens provide 3D animations of organ function, blood flow, and neural pathways. Some stations allow you to compare your own body metrics (height, weight, BMI) to those of the specimens, creating a personal connection.

One standout feature is the “Body Puzzle” station, where visitors can assemble a virtual human torso using drag-and-drop organs. This hands-on element is especially effective for visual learners and children. Another station features a mirror that overlays your silhouette with a translucent anatomical model, showing how your internal structure corresponds to your outward form.

Take time at each interactive point. Don’t treat them as afterthoughts—they are integral to transforming passive viewing into active learning.

Step 6: Reflect and Journal

Before exiting, spend at least 10–15 minutes in the contemplation area, a quiet corner with seating and soft lighting. Many visitors find this space the most powerful part of the experience. Here, you’re encouraged to write reflections in provided journals or simply sit with your thoughts.

Consider these prompts: What surprised you most? How does seeing the inner workings of the body change your perception of life and mortality? Did any specimen remind you of someone you know? These questions are not meant to be answered aloud—they’re for personal insight.

Journaling enhances retention. Studies show that visitors who write reflections after visiting anatomical exhibitions report higher levels of empathy, scientific curiosity, and long-term memory retention. If you’re visiting with a group, consider sharing your reflections afterward—it can spark meaningful conversations.

Step 7: Visit the Gift Shop with Intention

The gift shop offers educational books, anatomical models, and high-quality prints of specimens. Avoid impulse purchases. Instead, select items that align with what moved you most during your visit. A book on plastination, a detailed poster of the human heart, or a children’s anatomy coloring book can extend the learning experience beyond the exhibit.

Proceeds from the gift shop support global anatomical education initiatives and body donation programs. Your purchase contributes to the continuation of this vital work.

Best Practices

Respect the Dignity of the Donors

Every specimen in REAL BODIES was donated with informed consent. These individuals chose to contribute to science and education, often after reflecting deeply on mortality. Treat the exhibit with reverence. Avoid loud conversations, photography with flash, or gestures that could be interpreted as disrespectful. Do not point, laugh, or make casual remarks. This is not a carnival—it is a tribute.

Use the Provided Educational Materials

Each exhibit panel includes concise, accurate descriptions written by anatomists and educators. Read them fully. Avoid relying on social media summaries or hearsay. The signage provides context you won’t find elsewhere—such as the age, sex, cause of death, and lifestyle of the donor. This information humanizes the specimens and reinforces the ethical foundation of the exhibition.

Limit Your Group Size

For the most meaningful experience, visit in groups of no more than four. Larger groups can create noise, disrupt the atmosphere, and reduce personal reflection time. If you’re bringing children, ensure each adult is responsible for no more than two. Quiet, focused exploration yields the greatest insight.

Wear Comfortable Clothing and Footwear

The exhibition is a walking tour lasting approximately 60–90 minutes. There are no benches throughout the main galleries, though rest areas are available at the end. Wear flat, supportive shoes and avoid bulky bags. The space is climate-controlled, but Las Vegas can be hot outdoors—dress in layers.

Turn Off or Silence Electronic Devices

While photography is permitted (without flash), the use of phones for calls, social media, or gaming is discouraged. The exhibition is designed for mindfulness. Let your phone be a tool for capturing images—not a distraction from the experience.

Engage with the Staff

Exhibition attendants are trained in anatomy and education. They are not security guards—they are educators. If you have a question, ask. They can explain the difference between a coroner’s autopsy and a plastination specimen, or clarify the function of the thalamus. Their knowledge enhances your visit significantly.

Visit During Off-Peak Hours for Deeper Engagement

Early mornings (10:00–11:30 a.m.) and weekday afternoons (2:00–4:00 p.m.) offer the most tranquil experience. You’ll have more space to observe details, read signage without crowding, and spend time in reflection areas. Weekends and evenings after 6:00 p.m. are busiest, especially during tourist season.

Combine Your Visit with Other Educational Attractions

Las Vegas is home to several science-focused venues. After REAL BODIES, consider visiting the Mob Museum for historical context on human behavior, or the Neon Museum for an exploration of cultural decay and preservation—both of which echo themes of mortality and legacy. The Discovery Children’s Museum is ideal for families seeking a lighter, complementary experience.

Tools and Resources

Official Exhibition Website

The REAL BODIES official site (www.realbodies.com) is your primary resource. It includes virtual tours, donor stories, educational standards aligned with K–12 curricula, and downloadable teacher guides. Bookmark the “Plan Your Visit” section for real-time updates on hours, pricing, and special events.

Mobile App: REAL BODIES Explorer

Download the free REAL BODIES Explorer app (available on iOS and Android). It offers audio commentary in multiple languages, augmented reality overlays that animate internal systems, and a digital scavenger hunt for families. The app syncs with exhibit markers, so as you stand before a specimen, your phone displays related facts, videos, and historical context.

Recommended Reading

• “Bodies: The Exhibition” by Dr. Gunther von Hagens – The definitive guide to plastination and the ethics of anatomical display.
• “The Human Body: A Visual Encyclopedia” by DK Publishing – A comprehensive, illustrated reference for deeper study.
• “Stiff: The Curious Lives of Human Cadavers” by Mary Roach – A witty, insightful exploration of how bodies contribute to science.

Online Learning Platforms

Supplement your visit with free courses on platforms like Coursera and Khan Academy:

• Khan Academy: Human Anatomy and Physiology – Free video lectures covering all systems displayed in the exhibit.
• Coursera: “Anatomy Specialization” by the University of Michigan – A series of accredited courses ideal for students and lifelong learners.

Virtual Reality Experience

For those unable to visit in person, REAL BODIES offers a VR experience through select educational institutions and partner museums. The VR tour allows 360-degree exploration of key specimens, with voiceover narration and interactive hotspots. It’s not a replacement for the physical exhibit, but an excellent pre-visit or alternative resource.

Educational Kits for Teachers

Teachers planning field trips can request free curriculum kits aligned with Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS). These include pre-visit lesson plans, post-visit worksheets, and discussion guides. Contact the education department via the official website for access.

Donation Information and Ethical Resources

REAL BODIES is transparent about its sourcing. All bodies are donated through the Institute for Plastination’s global network of ethical donation programs. Visit www.bodydonation.org to learn how individuals can legally donate their bodies to science. Understanding this process reinforces the exhibition’s integrity.

Real Examples

Example 1: The Athlete’s Body

One of the most frequently photographed specimens is “The Marathon Runner,” a male donor who competed in international races. His body is displayed in motion, with muscles hypertrophied and tendons thickened from decades of training. His heart is enlarged—evidence of athletic adaptation. His lungs show exceptional capillary density. A plaque beside him reads: “He gave his body to teach others how dedication shapes physiology.”

Visitors often stand before this specimen for extended periods, comparing their own fitness levels. One high school biology teacher reported that after seeing this display, her students began training for a 5K to honor the donor. The exhibit didn’t just teach anatomy—it inspired action.

Example 2: The Pregnant Woman

A full-body specimen of a woman in her 34th week of pregnancy is displayed with her uterus expanded, the fetus positioned for birth. The placenta, umbilical cord, and fetal membranes are meticulously preserved. Surrounding panels explain the hormonal changes, blood volume increases, and biomechanical adaptations of pregnancy.

Many visitors, especially women, report emotional responses. One mother wrote in the journal: “I saw my own body in her. I didn’t know my ribs had moved that much. I didn’t know my organs had been pushed so far aside. Thank you for showing this truth.”

Example 3: The Smoker’s Lungs

Two lungs are displayed side by side: one from a lifelong nonsmoker, the other from a man who smoked two packs a day for 40 years. The healthy lung is pink and elastic; the smoker’s lung is blackened, stiff, and scarred. The contrast is visceral. A nearby touchscreen lets visitors simulate the effect of smoking on lung capacity over time.

Health educators use this display in anti-smoking campaigns. A Las Vegas hospital incorporated it into a public health initiative, resulting in a 17% increase in smoking cessation program sign-ups among visitors who saw the exhibit.

Example 4: The Child with a Congenital Defect

A rare and sensitive display features a child who died shortly after birth with a complex heart defect. The heart is open, showing the malformed chambers and vessels. The exhibit explains the condition, treatment options, and the importance of prenatal screening.

Parents of children with similar conditions have written letters to the exhibition, thanking them for “making their child’s struggle visible and understood.” This display, more than any other, underscores the exhibition’s mission: to honor life through truth.

Example 5: The Elderly Donor with Arthritis

A specimen of an elderly woman with severe osteoarthritis shows her spine fused, joints eroded, and cartilage completely worn away. Her hands are displayed curled, frozen in the deformity caused by decades of inflammation. The plaque notes: “She lived with pain for 30 years. She hoped her body would help others avoid this fate.”

This specimen has become a focal point for physical therapy students. One student wrote: “I thought I understood arthritis. I didn’t. I thought I was compassionate. I wasn’t. This changed how I treat my patients.”

FAQs

Is REAL BODIES appropriate for children?

Yes, but parental guidance is recommended. The exhibition is educational and non-graphic in presentation, but some sections—such as fetal development and reproductive anatomy—may require explanation. Children under 10 should be accompanied by an adult. The exhibit includes child-friendly signage and interactive elements designed for younger audiences.

How are the bodies preserved?

The bodies are preserved using a technique called plastination, developed by Dr. Gunther von Hagens. This process replaces bodily fluids and fat with plastics, which harden to create durable, odorless, and lifelike specimens. The preservation is permanent and does not involve chemicals that cause decay. The process takes 1,000+ hours per specimen.

Are the bodies real?

Yes. Every specimen is a real human body donated with informed consent. There are no models, wax figures, or synthetic replicas in the exhibition. The authenticity is central to its educational mission.

Is photography allowed?

Yes, but without flash. Photography is permitted for personal use only. Commercial photography, drones, tripods, and selfie sticks are prohibited. Respect the privacy and dignity of the donors by avoiding intrusive angles or inappropriate poses.

How long does the exhibition take?

Most visitors spend 60 to 90 minutes. There is no time limit, so you may stay longer if desired. The exhibit is self-guided, allowing you to move at your own pace.

Is the exhibition wheelchair accessible?

Yes. The entire exhibition is fully wheelchair accessible, with ramps, wide pathways, and tactile signage for visually impaired visitors. Audio guides are available upon request.

Do I need to book tickets in advance?

While walk-ins are accepted, booking online is strongly recommended. Online tickets often include discounted rates and guaranteed entry during peak hours. Tickets are timed to manage crowd flow.

Can I bring food or drinks?

No. Food and beverages are not permitted inside the exhibition. Water bottles are allowed, but must be kept closed. There are dining options available in Bally’s hotel and adjacent areas.

What if I feel uncomfortable?

It’s normal to feel overwhelmed. Take a break in the contemplation area. Staff are trained to assist visitors who need emotional support. You may exit and return at any time. The goal is not to endure discomfort, but to engage thoughtfully.

Is this exhibition religiously or culturally sensitive?

REAL BODIES respects all cultural and religious beliefs. The exhibition does not promote any doctrine. It presents anatomy as a scientific subject. Many religious groups, including Catholic, Muslim, and Jewish organizations, have endorsed the exhibit for its educational value and ethical sourcing.

Can I donate my body to REAL BODIES?

Donations are accepted through the Institute for Plastination’s official network, not directly through the Las Vegas exhibition. Visit www.bodydonation.org to learn about the legal and ethical process of body donation for science and education.

Conclusion

Experiencing REAL BODIES at Bally’s in Las Vegas is not about spectacle—it’s about revelation. In a city built on illusions, this exhibition offers something rare: truth. It strips away the veneer of appearance to reveal the astonishing machinery beneath our skin. Every muscle, every nerve, every organ tells a story—not just of biology, but of lived experience, resilience, and the quiet dignity of human contribution.

This guide has walked you through the practical, emotional, and intellectual dimensions of visiting REAL BODIES. From planning your visit to reflecting on its meaning, each step is designed to deepen your engagement and honor the donors whose generosity makes this experience possible.

As you leave the exhibition, you won’t just remember the sights—you’ll carry a new awareness. You’ll notice the way your breath moves your ribs. You’ll feel the pulse in your wrist with greater appreciation. You’ll understand that every movement, every thought, every heartbeat is the result of an intricate, fragile, and magnificent system.

REAL BODIES doesn’t just teach anatomy. It teaches humility. It teaches gratitude. And above all, it teaches us that the most extraordinary thing in the world is not a neon sign, a slot machine, or a magic show—it is the human body, alive, and the courage of those who gave it to help us understand what it means to be alive.

Plan your visit. Come with curiosity. Leave with reverence.