How to Visit the Burlesque Hall of Fame in Las Vegas

The Burlesque Hall of Fame in Las Vegas is more than a museum—it’s a living archive of one of America’s most vibrant, daring, and misunderstood performance traditions. Founded in 2006 and relocated to its current home in the heart of downtown Las Vegas in 2018, this institution preserves the legacy of striptease, vaudeville, cabaret, and neo-burlesque through artifacts, costumes, films, and live performances. For fans of vintage glamour, feminist art, and underground culture, a visit to the Burlesque Hall of Fame offers an immersive journey into a world that redefined entertainment, challenged societal norms, and celebrated individuality. Whether you’re a longtime enthusiast or a curious first-timer, knowing how to visit the Burlesque Hall of Fame ensures you experience its full richness—from the meticulously curated exhibits to the intimate backstage stories that shaped modern performance art.

Unlike typical museums, the Burlesque Hall of Fame doesn’t just display objects—it resurrects stories. From the feathered gowns of Tempest Storm to the comedic genius of Lili St. Cyr, every artifact tells a tale of resilience, creativity, and rebellion. The museum’s mission is not merely preservation but education: to correct misconceptions, honor pioneers, and inspire new generations of performers. Visiting isn’t just about seeing costumes under glass; it’s about understanding the cultural, political, and artistic forces that made burlesque a cornerstone of American entertainment. This guide will walk you through every practical detail you need to plan your visit, from ticketing and hours to insider tips that elevate your experience beyond the ordinary tourist trail.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Confirm the Museum’s Operating Hours

The Burlesque Hall of Fame operates on a limited schedule, primarily open Thursday through Sunday. Hours typically run from 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., though these may vary during holidays or special events. Before planning your trip, always check the official website for the most current schedule. The museum is closed Monday through Wednesday, and occasional closures may occur for private events or exhibit installations. Avoid disappointment by verifying hours at least 48 hours in advance. Weekends tend to be the busiest, so if you prefer a quieter experience, aim for a weekday visit.

2. Purchase Tickets in Advance

Tickets for the Burlesque Hall of Fame are available online through the official website. While walk-up tickets are sometimes permitted, they are not guaranteed—especially during peak tourist seasons or special exhibitions. Online ticketing not only secures your entry but often includes access to exclusive digital content, such as artist interviews or archival footage, available via QR codes throughout the museum. General admission is priced affordably, with discounts available for students, seniors, military personnel, and Nevada residents. Children under 12 are admitted free when accompanied by an adult. Group rates (10+ people) are also available and highly recommended for tour operators, theater groups, or cultural study clubs.

3. Plan Your Transportation

The Burlesque Hall of Fame is located at 1115 S 4th St, Las Vegas, NV 89101, in the historic Fremont East Entertainment District. This area is easily accessible by car, rideshare, or public transit. If driving, street parking is available but limited; the closest public parking garage is the Fremont Street Experience Garage, located just two blocks away. Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are reliable and drop off directly at the museum entrance. For those using public transportation, the RTC Deuce bus line runs frequently along Fremont Street and stops within a five-minute walk. The museum is also within walking distance of many downtown hotels, including the Golden Nugget and the Four Queens, making it a convenient stop on a broader Las Vegas itinerary.

4. Arrive Early to Maximize Your Visit

Arriving 10–15 minutes before your scheduled entry time allows you to explore the museum’s outdoor plaza, which often features rotating art installations and pop-up performances by local burlesque artists. The lobby houses a small retail space offering curated souvenirs—postcards, books, vintage-inspired jewelry, and limited-edition prints. Arriving early also gives you time to review the museum map and plan your route. The exhibits are arranged chronologically and thematically, so starting at the beginning ensures you don’t miss key historical context.

5. Navigate the Exhibit Layout

The museum spans two floors with six core exhibit areas:

• The Origins of Burlesque: Explore 19th-century vaudeville, minstrelsy, and the evolution of the striptease from European cabaret traditions.
• The Golden Age (1920s–1950s): See original costumes worn by legends like Gypsy Rose Lee, Tempest Storm, and Blaze Starr. Interactive touchscreens play rare film clips and audio interviews.
• The Decline and Underground Era: Learn how burlesque was suppressed during the McCarthy era and survived in underground clubs and military bases.
• The Neo-Burlesque Revival: Discover the 1990s resurgence led by performers like Dita Von Teese, and how modern burlesque blends comedy, dance, and political commentary.
• The Hall of Fame Inductees: A rotating gallery honoring the most influential performers, each with a dedicated case featuring personal items, handwritten letters, and performance programs.
• The Workroom: A behind-the-scenes look at how costumes are designed, sewn, and maintained. Tools, feathers, rhinestones, and half-finished gowns are displayed alongside videos of artisans at work.

Each exhibit includes QR codes linking to extended video interviews, rare photographs, and scholarly articles. Take your time—this isn’t a rushed exhibit. Many visitors spend 90 minutes to two hours exploring.

6. Participate in Live Programming

The Burlesque Hall of Fame hosts weekly live performances on Friday and Saturday nights. These are not traditional stage shows but intimate, curated sets featuring current neo-burlesque artists, many of whom are inductees or protégés of Hall of Fame legends. Tickets for performances are sold separately from museum admission but can be bundled for a discounted rate. If you’re visiting on a weekend, consider booking a show—seeing burlesque performed live adds profound depth to the artifacts you’ve just viewed. Shows typically begin at 8:00 p.m. and last about 60 minutes. Seating is limited and often sells out, so reserve your spot when purchasing museum tickets.

7. Engage with Staff and Volunteers

Many of the museum’s docents are former performers, historians, or archivists with decades of personal experience in the burlesque world. Don’t hesitate to ask questions. They often share anecdotes not found in exhibit text—how a particular feather was sourced from a peacock in New Orleans, or how a costume survived a fire in a 1970s club. Staff are trained to respond with warmth and expertise, and they welcome respectful curiosity. This human connection transforms the visit from educational to emotional.

8. Explore the Archives and Research Center

For researchers, students, or deeply invested fans, the museum maintains a non-circulating archive accessible by appointment. The archive includes over 12,000 items: handwritten letters from performers, original choreography notes, vintage posters, press clippings, and film reels. Access requires a 48-hour advance request via email. Researchers are granted one-hour sessions in a climate-controlled reading room, with staff assistance available. This is the only public archive of its kind in the world dedicated exclusively to burlesque history.

9. Visit the Gift Shop and Take Home a Memory

The museum’s gift shop is more than a retail space—it’s an extension of the exhibits. Items are carefully curated to reflect the aesthetic and values of the art form. You’ll find limited-run prints by burlesque photographers, books by authors like Michelle Finamore and Rachel Shteir, vintage-style lingerie from independent designers, and even DIY kits to make your own feather boa. Proceeds from the shop directly fund preservation efforts and educational outreach. Consider purchasing a “Burlesque Passport”—a collectible booklet stamped with each exhibit area you visit, signed by staff, and accompanied by a digital download of your visit’s highlights.

10. Share Your Experience Responsibly

Photography is permitted throughout the museum for personal use, but flash and tripods are prohibited to protect delicate textiles and lighting-sensitive materials. Social media tagging is encouraged—use

BurlesqueHallOfFame and tag the museum’s official accounts. However, avoid posting images of performers in private collections or items marked “Do Not Photograph” on signage. The museum values respectful representation and asks visitors to honor the dignity of the artists whose legacies are on display.

Best Practices

Respect the Art, Not Just the Aesthetic

Burlesque is often misunderstood as mere nudity or titillation. In truth, it’s a complex performance art rooted in satire, storytelling, and self-expression. Approach the exhibits with cultural sensitivity. Avoid reducing performers to their costumes or physical appearance. Read the biographical text. Listen to the audio clips. Understand the context: many performers used burlesque to escape poverty, challenge gender norms, or assert autonomy in male-dominated industries. The museum exists to honor their intellect and courage, not just their glamour.

Dress Appropriately—But Comfortably

There is no formal dress code, but the museum’s ambiance invites thoughtful attire. Many visitors choose vintage-inspired clothing—think 1940s silhouettes, lace gloves, or retro hats—as a nod to the era. However, comfort is key: you’ll be standing and walking for extended periods. Avoid high heels on the museum’s historic hardwood floors. Layered clothing is recommended, as the climate control can vary between exhibit halls.

Plan for a Full Day in Downtown Las Vegas

The Burlesque Hall of Fame is nestled in the Fremont East District, an area rich with independent restaurants, record shops, street art, and live music venues. Consider making a day of it. After your museum visit, explore the Neon Museum’s nearby Boneyard, grab coffee at The Coffee Shop, or enjoy a craft cocktail at the historic Downtown Cocktail Room. The area is pedestrian-friendly and best experienced at a leisurely pace.

Bring a Notebook or Journal

Many visitors leave inspired to create their own art, write stories, or study performance history. Bring a small notebook to jot down quotes, questions, or ideas sparked by the exhibits. The museum occasionally hosts writing workshops and artist residencies—your notes might be the first step toward applying.

Don’t Rush the Emotional Moments

One of the most powerful exhibits is “Letters from the Backstage,” a wall of handwritten notes from performers to their families, lovers, and audiences. These are often deeply personal, revealing vulnerability, fear, and triumph. Pause. Read slowly. Let the emotion settle. This is not just history—it’s human experience.

Support the Mission Beyond Your Visit

The Burlesque Hall of Fame is a nonprofit organization. Your admission fee helps fund restoration projects, educational programs in schools, and digital archiving. Consider making a tax-deductible donation at the front desk or signing up for their monthly newsletter. You can also volunteer as a docent or help transcribe archival materials remotely. The museum thrives on community engagement.

Be Mindful of Accessibility

The museum is fully wheelchair accessible, with elevators, wide pathways, and restrooms designed for mobility needs. Audio descriptions and large-print guides are available upon request. If you have sensory sensitivities, notify staff at check-in—they can offer quiet hours or adjust lighting for your comfort. The museum is committed to inclusive access and welcomes all visitors.

Tools and Resources

Official Website: burlesquehalloffame.org

The museum’s website is the primary hub for all planning. It includes interactive maps, virtual tours, upcoming event calendars, and a searchable database of Hall of Fame inductees. The site is optimized for mobile use, making it easy to check hours or buy tickets while on the go.

Mobile App: Burlesque HOF Companion

Download the free companion app (available on iOS and Android) to enhance your visit. It offers audio tours narrated by inductees, augmented reality features that animate costumes when viewed through your phone’s camera, and a scavenger hunt game for children and families. The app syncs with your ticket and saves your favorite exhibits for later review.

Recommended Reading

• Striptease: The Untold History of the Girlie Show by Rachel Shteir
• The Burlesque Handbook by Dita Von Teese
• Girls of the Golden Age: The Art of Burlesque by Debra L. Friedmann
• Peepshow: The Burlesque Artist as Cultural Icon by Michelle Finamore

All are available for purchase in the museum shop and can be found in local libraries such as the Las Vegas-Clark County Library District.

Online Archives

For deeper research, explore:

• Library of Congress Performing Arts Archives – digitized burlesque posters and programs
• Burlesque Hall of Fame YouTube Channel – interviews, performance clips, and restoration documentaries
• The Burlesque Archive – a global database of performers and venues (unaffiliated but highly respected)

Local Partnerships

The museum collaborates with:

• Fremont Street Experience – joint ticket packages and walking tours
• UNLV’s Special Collections – academic research access
• Las Vegas Little Theatre – co-hosted performances and workshops

Check their websites for cross-promotions and discounted entry.

Social Media Channels

Follow the museum on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok for:

• Behind-the-scenes restoration timelapses
• Live Q&As with inductees
• Weekly “Costume of the Week” features
• Announcements for pop-up events and artist residencies

Engaging with their content helps support visibility and ensures you’re the first to know about limited-time exhibits.

Real Examples

Example 1: The Journey of a 1940s Feathered Gown

In 2021, the museum received a donation from the estate of performer “Sapphire,” a Black burlesque artist who performed in segregated clubs across the South. Her signature gown—made of over 2,000 dyed ostrich feathers, hand-sewn with silver thread—had been stored in a cedar chest for 60 years. Conservators spent six months cleaning, stabilizing, and digitally mapping each feather’s placement. The exhibit, titled “Feathers in the Dark,” included audio recordings of Sapphire’s daughter recounting how her mother used the gown to command respect in rooms where she was otherwise dismissed. The display drew national media attention and sparked a renewed interest in the contributions of women of color to burlesque history.

Example 2: The Student Who Became a Performer

A 19-year-old college student from Ohio visited the museum on a spring break trip. She had written a paper on gender performance in 20th-century theater and was skeptical about burlesque’s artistic merit. After spending two hours in the “Neo-Burlesque Revival” exhibit and speaking with a docent who was also a university professor of performance studies, she enrolled in a local burlesque workshop upon returning home. Two years later, she debuted her own show, “Class and Corsets,” which incorporated archival footage from the Hall of Fame. She now volunteers as a youth educator for the museum’s outreach program.

Example 3: The International Researcher

A historian from the University of Edinburgh spent three weeks in the museum’s archive studying the influence of British music hall traditions on American burlesque. She uncovered previously unknown correspondence between British performer Vesta Tilley and American impresario Billy Minsky. Her findings were published in the Journal of Performance Studies and later formed the basis of a BBC documentary. She returned to the museum last year to donate her translated letters, which are now on display in the “Global Connections” wing.

Example 4: The Wedding Proposal

In 2023, a couple planned their engagement at the museum. The groom, a burlesque enthusiast, arranged for the museum’s director to give a private tour. At the “Hall of Fame Inductees” display, he knelt before his partner and proposed using a vintage rhinestone brooch from the 1950s—reproduced by the museum’s artisans as a custom ring box. The moment was captured on video and went viral on TikTok, drawing thousands to the museum in the following weeks. The museum now offers “Proposal Packages” for couples, complete with personalized exhibits and champagne toast.

FAQs

Is the Burlesque Hall of Fame appropriate for children?

Yes, the museum is family-friendly. Exhibits are curated to be educational and non-explicit. Children under 12 are admitted free, and the museum offers a “Burlesque for Kids” activity kit with coloring pages, costume design challenges, and age-appropriate biographies. However, some adult themes and language are present in audio clips and historical context. Parents are encouraged to preview exhibits with younger children.

Can I take photos inside the museum?

Yes, personal photography is allowed without flash or tripods. Commercial photography, drones, and filming for professional content require prior written permission. Always respect signage indicating “No Photography” areas, which typically include private collections or fragile items.

How long does a typical visit take?

Most visitors spend between 90 minutes and two hours. If you attend a live performance or participate in a guided tour, plan for three to four hours. The museum is designed for deep engagement, not speed.

Is the museum wheelchair accessible?

Yes. All floors are accessible via elevator. Restrooms are ADA-compliant. Wheelchairs are available upon request at the front desk. Service animals are welcome.

Are guided tours available?

Yes. Free self-guided tours are included with admission. Guided group tours (10+ people) can be booked in advance for $15 per person. Private tours with a curator are available for $75 and include exclusive access to the archive.

Can I donate artifacts or costumes?

Yes. The museum accepts donations of burlesque-related items, including costumes, posters, scripts, and personal effects. All donations undergo a rigorous vetting process by the curatorial team. Contact the archives department via the website to initiate a donation inquiry.

Is there a café or restaurant on-site?

No, but the museum’s lobby serves complimentary sparkling water and vintage-style soda. There are over 20 restaurants within a five-minute walk, including vegan, gluten-free, and international options.

What if I have a disability or sensory sensitivity?

The museum offers sensory-friendly hours on the first Sunday of each month, with reduced lighting, quiet zones, and staff trained in accessibility support. Contact the visitor services team in advance to arrange accommodations.

Can I book the museum for private events?

Yes. The museum hosts weddings, corporate events, and film shoots. Rental fees vary based on space and duration. Contact the events coordinator for availability and pricing.

Is the museum open on holidays?

The museum is closed on major holidays including Thanksgiving, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day. It may have reduced hours on Easter, Independence Day, and Halloween. Always check the website before planning a holiday visit.

Conclusion

Visiting the Burlesque Hall of Fame in Las Vegas is not a casual tourist stop—it’s a pilgrimage into the heart of American performance art. This is where history is not preserved behind velvet ropes, but resurrected through feathers, sequins, and the defiant voices of women who turned shame into spectacle, silence into song. The museum doesn’t just show you what burlesque was—it makes you feel why it matters. From the meticulous restoration of a 70-year-old garter to the laughter echoing from a live neo-burlesque set, every moment here is a tribute to creativity, courage, and the enduring power of self-expression.

By following this guide, you’re not just learning how to visit—you’re learning how to honor. You’re stepping into a legacy that refused to be erased, and choosing to remember. Whether you come as a scholar, a performer, a curious traveler, or someone seeking beauty in unexpected places, the Burlesque Hall of Fame will leave you changed. So plan your visit with intention. Arrive with an open mind. Leave with a deeper understanding of what it means to perform, to resist, and to shine—on your own terms.