Why the "Welcome to Las Vegas" Sign Became a City Symbol

A Symbol of Las Vegas

Imagine Las Vegas, and the famous sign that reads, "Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas" likely comes to mind. For many visitors, it's the first thing they see upon arrival and the last thing they see when leaving.

This is one of the most recognized signs in the world, evoking fun and excitement. Thanks to its unique design, known by people around the globe, this iconic landmark has been welcoming guests to Las Vegas since 1959. And since it stands right in the middle of a highway, it can be tricky to photograph this national treasure. The best way to do it is to hop on one of the tour buses, which will give you the best chance to capture the iconic view of the city.

What the Sign Looks Like

The 25-foot-tall sign is actually smaller than most Las Vegas signs. For example, the famous Vegas Vic sign reaches 40 feet.

The "Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas" sign is diamond-shaped, with pointed top and bottom corners and rounded side corners. At the top of the sign are seven white circles meant to symbolize silver dollars, honoring Nevada's nickname, "The Silver State."

Each letter of the word "Welcome" is inside the silver dollars, followed by "to Fabulous" in a fifties style, with "Las Vegas" in large capital letters taking up most of the sign, and "Nevada" in a smaller font at the bottom. The other side of the sign (which is much less known) reads, "Drive Carefully, Come Back Soon."

History of the Symbol

We all know the sign, but where did it come from? Contrary to what you might think, the Las Vegas sign wasn't born in a business council meeting or created by local officials. It was initially conceived by Ted Rogich, a local salesman who didn't understand why the city, then famous for its abundance of neon signs, didn't promote itself better. In the early 1950s, he began thinking about creating a bright Las Vegas sign.

While the sign was initially intended to attract tourists to the city, it has now become a tourist attraction itself. People risked their lives to take photos with the sign, standing in the middle of the road to get their picture with the legendary symbol. Eventually, the city decided that the potential for injured or killed tourists was bad for business, so in 2008, they installed a parking lot near the sign. Now it's much easier to take a photo... You just have to wait your turn.

Interesting Facts

• Although the sign says "Las Vegas," it is actually not within the city limits. The sign is located on the southern boulevard, which is in the neighboring city of Paradise.
• At the top of the sign are seven white circles, each containing a letter from the word "Welcome." These circles are designed to represent silver dollars since Nevada is the "Silver State."
• Technically, the sign belongs to the Young Electric Sign Company, which leases it to Clark County. However, Willis was adamant that the design of the sign would not be copyrighted, considering it a gift to Las Vegas.
• This is largely why you see it everywhere. People can freely use the design on anything, such as t-shirts, keychains, and bumper stickers.
• Brandon Flowers wrote a song about the sign. In 2010, The Killers' vocalist released an album titled "Flamingo" (a reference to the legendary hotel founded in Vegas). The album includes a track called "Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas," which references the sign.
• While driving through Vegas, you may feel like you've seen the sign more than once. In different places. No, you haven't had too much to drink. Well, maybe you have, but that's not why. In 2002, the city installed a replica on Las Vegas Boulevard within the city limits. And in 2007, another copy was installed on Boulder Highway.
• You can buy a piece of the sign. When the lights on the sign are replaced, they are sold as memorabilia. The proceeds go to charity.
• The "Welcome to Las Vegas" sign was designed in the Googie style, which was popular in the 1950s and characterized by futuristic elements.
• The sign has become a popular spot for wedding ceremonies and other celebratory events.

Iconic Places Nearby

Visiting the "Welcome to Las Vegas" sign is just the beginning of your journey through this amazing city. Nearby, you can find other iconic places worth visiting:

1. 01.Bellagio Fountains
   One of the most famous attractions on the Las Vegas Strip, where water dances to music, creating unforgettable spectacles.
2. 02.Fremont Street
   A historic street turned pedestrian zone with dazzling light shows and numerous attractions.
3. 03.High Roller
   The world's tallest observation wheel, lifting you 550 feet high, providing breathtaking views of the city.