How to Visit the Bodies The Exhibition in Las Vegas

The Bodies The Exhibition in Las Vegas is one of the most compelling and educational public displays of human anatomy ever created. Designed to foster a deeper understanding of the human body through real, preserved specimens, this exhibit offers visitors a rare, up-close look at the intricate systems that sustain life. Unlike traditional museum displays that rely on models or illustrations, Bodies The Exhibition presents actual human bodies—plastinated through a groundbreaking scientific process—to reveal muscles, organs, nerves, and skeletal structures in astonishing detail. Located in the heart of the Las Vegas Strip, this immersive experience draws millions of visitors annually, from students and medical professionals to curious tourists seeking a profound glimpse into the inner workings of the human form.

Visiting Bodies The Exhibition is more than a tourist activity—it’s an educational journey that bridges science, art, and ethics. The exhibit challenges perceptions of mortality, promotes health awareness, and inspires appreciation for the complexity of the human body. For those planning a visit, understanding how to navigate the experience—from ticketing and timing to maximizing educational value—is essential to fully appreciate what the exhibit offers. This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step roadmap to ensure your visit is seamless, informative, and unforgettable.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Research the Exhibit Location and Hours

Before making any plans, confirm the exact location and current operating hours of Bodies The Exhibition in Las Vegas. The exhibit is housed at The Linq Promenade, adjacent to the High Roller observation wheel and near the LINQ Hotel + Experience. This central location makes it easily accessible from most major hotels on the Strip.

Operating hours vary seasonally and by day of the week. Typically, the exhibit opens daily at 10:00 AM and closes between 8:00 PM and 10:00 PM, with extended hours during holidays and peak tourist seasons. Weekends and evenings tend to be the busiest, so if you prefer a quieter experience, aim for weekday mornings or early afternoons. Always verify the latest schedule on the official website prior to your visit, as special events or private functions may alter hours temporarily.

2. Purchase Tickets in Advance

Buying tickets online before your visit is the most efficient way to guarantee entry and avoid long lines at the box office. The official website offers tiered pricing options, including general admission, student discounts, senior rates, and family packages. Children under a certain age (typically 3 or 4) may enter free with a paying adult—confirm age limits on the site.

Online tickets often include time-slot reservations, which help manage crowd flow and reduce wait times. Selecting a specific entry window (e.g., 11:00 AM–12:00 PM) ensures you can plan your day more effectively. Some packages also bundle admission with other nearby attractions, such as the High Roller or the Secret Garden, offering additional savings.

Pro tip: Look for promotional codes through local tourism websites, hotel concierge services, or loyalty programs. Many Las Vegas hotels offer exclusive discounts to their guests for nearby attractions.

3. Plan Your Transportation and Parking

Las Vegas is a car-centric city, but the Linq Promenade is also well-served by public transit and rideshare services. If you’re driving, parking is available at the adjacent LINQ Parking Garage, which offers both hourly and daily rates. The first hour is typically free, and validation may be available with a receipt from the exhibit or a nearby restaurant.

For those without a vehicle, the Las Vegas Monorail stops at the Linq Station, just a short walk from the exhibit entrance. Several bus routes, including the RTC Deuce and SDX, also serve the area. Rideshare drop-off points are clearly marked near the entrance, making it easy to arrive and depart without parking concerns.

Consider timing your arrival to coincide with the sunset. The High Roller offers panoramic views of the Strip, and the transition from daylight to nighttime lights enhances the overall Las Vegas experience. Plan to visit Bodies The Exhibition in the late afternoon, then enjoy the illuminated skyline afterward.

4. Arrive Early and Prepare Mentally

Arriving 15–20 minutes before your scheduled entry time allows you to use restrooms, review exhibit maps, and mentally prepare for what you’re about to see. The display includes real human remains, which can be emotionally impactful for some visitors. While the exhibit is scientifically respectful and educational, it is not intended for young children or those sensitive to depictions of the human body.

There is no strict dress code, but comfortable walking shoes are recommended, as the exhibit spans approximately 20,000 square feet and requires steady movement through multiple themed rooms. Avoid wearing strong perfumes or colognes, as the exhibit environment is preserved and sensitive to airborne chemicals.

5. Navigate the Exhibit Layout

The Bodies The Exhibition is organized into thematic zones that follow the structure and function of the human body. A typical tour begins with the skeletal system, moves through muscular and nervous systems, then explores internal organs, reproductive anatomy, and fetal development. Each section includes labeled diagrams, interactive touchscreens, and brief educational panels that explain the biological significance of what you’re viewing.

Start at the entrance and follow the designated path. The exhibit is designed as a linear journey, with each room building upon the previous one. Skipping sections may reduce your understanding of how systems interconnect. For example, seeing the heart’s structure in isolation is less meaningful without understanding its relationship to the circulatory system as a whole.

Take your time. The average visit lasts 60–90 minutes, but many visitors spend up to two hours absorbing details. Use the audio guide (available for rent at the entrance) for in-depth narration. The guide is available in multiple languages and provides historical context, anatomical facts, and insights into the plastination process.

6. Engage with Interactive Elements

Modern enhancements to the exhibit include touchscreens that allow visitors to explore 3D models of organs, compare healthy versus diseased tissues, and simulate the effects of lifestyle choices—such as smoking or poor diet—on internal systems. These interactive tools are especially valuable for students and educators.

One popular station lets you “see” how your own posture affects your spine by comparing your silhouette to a plastinated specimen in a similar pose. Another demonstrates the impact of alcohol on liver tissue through side-by-side comparisons. Don’t skip these stations—they transform passive observation into active learning.

7. Capture Memories Responsibly

Photography is permitted throughout the exhibit for personal, non-commercial use. However, flash photography, tripods, and selfie sticks are prohibited to preserve the integrity of the specimens and maintain a respectful atmosphere. Use natural lighting and avoid obstructing other visitors’ views.

While it’s tempting to photograph every display, consider the ethical dimension. These are real human beings who donated their bodies for education. Focus on capturing details that enhance your understanding—such as labeled diagrams or unique anatomical features—rather than taking selfies with the specimens. Many visitors report that restraint in photography deepens their sense of reverence and connection to the exhibit.

8. Visit the Gift Shop and Reflection Area

Before exiting, take time to explore the gift shop and the quiet reflection area. The shop offers educational books, anatomical models, apparel, and children’s learning kits. Proceeds support ongoing educational initiatives and museum operations.

The reflection area is a serene space with soft lighting and benches, designed for visitors to process their experience. It often includes quotes from body donors and information about the donation process. This final stop reinforces the exhibit’s core message: that these specimens were once living individuals who chose to contribute to science and education.

9. Follow Up with Educational Resources

After your visit, deepen your understanding by accessing free educational materials available on the official website. These include downloadable lesson plans for teachers, anatomy quizzes, video explainers on plastination, and virtual tours. Many schools and universities use these resources to extend classroom learning beyond the exhibit.

If you’re particularly interested in anatomy, consider enrolling in an online course through platforms like Coursera or Khan Academy. Topics such as “Human Anatomy and Physiology” or “The Science of the Human Body” complement the exhibit and provide context for what you’ve seen.

Best Practices

Respect the Donors

Every specimen in the exhibit was donated voluntarily by individuals who wished to advance medical education. Treat the display with dignity. Avoid loud conversations, laughter, or inappropriate gestures. This is not a carnival attraction—it’s a tribute to human generosity and scientific progress.

Manage Expectations

The exhibit does not show complete, unaltered human bodies. Specimens are dissected and plastinated to highlight specific systems. You won’t see faces or recognizable features—only anatomical structures. This is intentional, to focus on science rather than identity. Understanding this beforehand helps prevent disappointment.

Bring a Notebook or Use Your Phone

Take notes on concepts that intrigue you. Did you learn something surprising about the lymphatic system? Was the complexity of the nervous system overwhelming? Documenting your reactions helps solidify learning and provides material for later reflection or discussion.

Visit with a Purpose

Are you a student? A teacher? A health enthusiast? Tailor your visit accordingly. Students should focus on connecting exhibit content to their coursework. Teachers can use the exhibit as a field trip supplement. Health-conscious visitors might pay special attention to sections on cardiovascular health, lung function, or the impact of obesity.

Consider the Ethical Dimension

Some visitors raise questions about the origins of the specimens and the ethics of displaying human remains. The exhibit’s organizers maintain that all bodies were donated legally and ethically under Chinese law, with informed consent documented. While this remains a topic of global debate, the exhibit provides transparent information about its sourcing. Approach the subject with an open mind and a willingness to engage in thoughtful dialogue.

Time Your Visit to Avoid Crowds

Las Vegas is a high-traffic destination. To enjoy a more contemplative experience, avoid weekends, holidays, and school breaks. Early weekday mornings (10:00 AM–12:00 PM) are typically the least crowded. If you must visit during peak times, use the time-slot reservation system to enter promptly and move through the exhibit efficiently.

Prepare Children Appropriately

While children are welcome, the exhibit is not recommended for those under 8. For older children, prepare them in advance by discussing what they’ll see using age-appropriate language. Avoid graphic terms. Focus on curiosity and wonder: “You’ll see how your muscles work when you run,” or “You’ll learn how your heart pumps blood.”

Stay Hydrated and Take Breaks

Las Vegas is dry and hot, even indoors. The exhibit is climate-controlled, but walking for an hour or more can be tiring. Bring water (bottled water is allowed) and take breaks on benches if needed. Don’t push through discomfort—your experience will be more meaningful if you’re physically comfortable.

Use the Exhibit as a Conversation Starter

Whether you’re visiting with family, friends, or a partner, use the exhibit to spark meaningful conversations about health, mortality, and the body. Many visitors report that the experience changed how they view their own lifestyle choices. Use that insight to encourage healthier habits in your circle.

Tools and Resources

Official Website

The primary resource for accurate, up-to-date information is the official Bodies The Exhibition website. It provides ticket purchasing, hours, FAQs, educational content, and virtual tours. Bookmark this page before your visit: www.bodiestheexhibition.com/las-vegas

Audio Guide App

Available for rent at the entrance for a small fee, the audio guide is narrated by medical professionals and includes over 100 points of interest. It’s available in English, Spanish, French, German, Mandarin, and Japanese. The app version (downloadable prior to arrival) offers additional features like captions and adjustable playback speed.

Mobile Apps for Anatomy Learning

Enhance your understanding before or after your visit with these apps:

• Visible Body – Interactive 3D models of every human system.
• Anatomy Learning – 3D Atlas – Free app with detailed organ breakdowns.
• Human Anatomy Atlas – Used by medical schools worldwide.

Books for Further Reading

Deepen your knowledge with these recommended titles:

• “The Human Body: A Visual Guide” by DK Publishing
• “Anatomy: A Photographic Atlas” by Johannes W. Rohen
• “Bodies: The Exhibition” (Official Companion Book)

Online Courses

For structured learning:

• Coursera: “Human Anatomy and Physiology” by the University of Michigan
• Khan Academy: Free video series on the circulatory, respiratory, and nervous systems
• edX: “The Science of Everyday Life” – includes human biology modules

Virtual Tour

Can’t visit in person? The official website offers a high-resolution 360-degree virtual tour that mirrors the physical exhibit. It’s ideal for remote learners, classrooms, or those unable to travel. Access it through the “Explore Online” section of the site.

Teacher Resources

Educators can request free curriculum guides aligned with NGSS (Next Generation Science Standards) and Common Core. These include pre- and post-visit activities, discussion prompts, and assessment tools. Submit a request via the “Educators” tab on the website.

Real Examples

Example 1: High School Biology Class Trip

A group of 30 students from a Nevada public high school visited the exhibit as part of their human anatomy unit. Before the trip, their teacher assigned readings on the skeletal and muscular systems. During the visit, students used provided worksheets to identify specific bones and muscles in the specimens. Afterward, they wrote reflective essays comparing textbook diagrams to real tissue. One student wrote: “Seeing the actual diaphragm made me understand breathing in a way I never could from a drawing.” The class later created a poster presentation for the school science fair, citing the exhibit as their primary resource.

Example 2: Medical Student’s Personal Journey

A first-year medical student from Texas visited the exhibit during a family vacation to Las Vegas. He had only studied anatomy through cadaver labs and digital simulations. Seeing plastinated specimens—preserved with such precision—helped him visualize how nerves branch in real tissue. He later shared his experience on a medical student forum: “It was the first time I felt the weight of what we’re learning. These weren’t just samples. They were people who gave everything so we could learn.” He went on to volunteer with a local organ donation advocacy group.

Example 3: Family with a Child with Autism

A family with a 12-year-old son on the autism spectrum scheduled a private, early-morning viewing to accommodate sensory sensitivities. The exhibit staff worked with them in advance to provide a quiet entry, minimize auditory stimuli, and offer a visual schedule of the tour. The child, who had previously struggled to understand internal organs, spent 45 minutes at the heart display, repeatedly asking questions. His mother later emailed the exhibit team: “He hasn’t stopped talking about the heart since. He drew a diagram of it on his bedroom wall. Thank you for making science accessible.”

Example 4: Tourist with a Personal Health Awakening

A 58-year-old visitor from California, who had been diagnosed with high blood pressure, came to the exhibit out of curiosity. He was particularly drawn to the cardiovascular section. Seeing the difference between a healthy artery and one clogged with plaque was a turning point. “I thought I was doing okay,” he said. “But seeing that blockage… it hit me.” He changed his diet, started walking daily, and returned six months later to thank the staff. He now volunteers at his local hospital’s wellness center.

Example 5: International Visitor’s Perspective

A group of medical interns from Japan visited the exhibit during a conference in Las Vegas. They were struck by the transparency of the donation process and the educational focus. “In our country, anatomy is taught with limited access to real specimens,” one intern noted. “This exhibit shows what’s possible when science and ethics are balanced.” They later wrote a comparative article for their medical journal, citing the exhibit as a model for ethical public anatomy education.

FAQs

Is Bodies The Exhibition appropriate for children?

The exhibit is recommended for visitors aged 8 and older. While no explicit content is displayed, the nature of the specimens—real human bodies—may be unsettling for younger or more sensitive children. Parents should use discretion and prepare children in advance. The exhibit does not display faces or identifiable features.

How long does it take to go through the exhibit?

Most visitors spend between 60 and 90 minutes. Those who read all labels, use the audio guide, and engage with interactive stations may take up to two hours. There is no time limit once inside.

Can I take photos?

Yes, personal photography is allowed without flash or tripods. Commercial photography requires prior written permission. Please be respectful and avoid taking selfies with the specimens.

Are the bodies real?

Yes. All specimens are real human bodies preserved through plastination—a process developed by Dr. Gunther von Hagens. They were donated voluntarily under legal and ethical guidelines.

Is the exhibit wheelchair accessible?

Yes. The entire exhibit is fully wheelchair accessible, with ramps, elevators, and wide pathways. Wheelchairs are available upon request at the entrance.

Do I need to book in advance?

While walk-in tickets are sometimes available, booking online in advance is strongly recommended. Time-slot reservations ensure entry and often include discounted pricing.

Is there a guided tour?

There are no scheduled guided group tours, but an audio guide is available for rent. Self-guided exploration is the standard format, allowing visitors to move at their own pace.

Can I bring food or drinks inside?

No. Food and beverages (except water) are not permitted inside the exhibit. Water bottles are allowed and encouraged.

What is plastination?

Plastination is a preservation technique that replaces bodily fluids and fat with plastics, resulting in specimens that are dry, odorless, and durable. Developed in the 1970s, it allows for detailed, long-term display of anatomical structures.

Are the donors identified?

No. For ethical and privacy reasons, the identities of donors are not disclosed. The exhibit honors their contribution without revealing personal details.

Is the exhibit religiously or culturally sensitive?

The exhibit is designed to be educational and non-denominational. It does not promote any religious or cultural viewpoint. Visitors from all backgrounds are welcome.

Conclusion

Visiting Bodies The Exhibition in Las Vegas is not merely a tourist stop—it’s a transformative experience that bridges the gap between abstract science and tangible reality. Whether you’re a student, educator, healthcare professional, or simply a curious individual, the exhibit offers a rare opportunity to witness the astonishing complexity of the human body in its most authentic form. By following this guide, you ensure that your visit is not only smooth and efficient but also deeply meaningful.

The power of the exhibit lies not in shock or spectacle, but in quiet revelation. Seeing a lung ravaged by smoking, a heart strained by hypertension, or a fetus in its earliest stage of development compels a new kind of awareness—one that extends beyond the exhibit hall and into daily choices about health, respect, and mortality.

As you plan your visit, remember: you are not just observing anatomy. You are honoring a legacy of generosity. You are engaging with science at its most profound. And you are, in a small but significant way, becoming part of a global conversation about what it means to be human.

Prepare thoughtfully. Visit respectfully. Learn deeply. And carry the experience forward—not just as a memory, but as a commitment to understanding, curiosity, and compassion.