Nevada State Museum Announces Extension of its Featured Exhibit, “The Old Spanish Trail: Connecting a Network of Paths”
The exhibit will now be open to the public until July 7
Photos available for download HERE. Courtesy of Nevada State Museum, Las Vegas.
LAS VEGAS (March 31, 2025) – The Nevada State Museum, Las Vegas, located within the Las Vegas Springs Preserve at 309 S. Valley View Blvd., has announced the extension of its featured exhibit, The Old Spanish Trail: Connecting a Network of Paths. Due to strong public interest since its debut last fall, the exhibit will now remain open to the public through Monday, July 7.
“Nevada’s past is a fascinating blend of our native ancestors’ heritage, deeply rooted in the Old Spanish Trail,” said XX. “The museum offers an engaging way to explore this rich legacy—not just for history buffs, but for anyone looking for a fun and unique experience in the valley.”
The museum is uniquely positioned to host the exhibit, as its location coincides with a key stop along the Old Spanish Trail—an approximately 2700-mile trade route that connected New Mexico to the Los Angeles area via Nevada. Established in 1829 by Mexican merchant Antonio Armijo, the trail traversed high mountains, arid deserts, and deep canyons, serving as a vital commercial link between regions.
Called “the longest, crookedest, most arduous pack mule train in the history of America” by Colorado historian Leroy R. Hafen, the Old Spanish Trail played a crucial role in transporting wool, textiles, and piñon nuts from New Mexico in exchange for horses and mules from California. The exhibit explores the significance of this trade network through illustrated wall panels, maps, textiles, and historical artifacts.
The Old Spanish Trail exhibit is featured alongside the museum’s permanent collection, an interactive experience that chronicles Nevada’s history from prehistoric times to the present. The 13,000-square-foot gallery highlights Nevada’s state fossil, the Ichthyosaur, as well as stories of Native Americans, pioneers, miners, railroad workers, ranchers, and entrepreneurs. Visitors can also explore exhibits on the Hoover Dam, the atomic era, and Las Vegas’ transformation into the entertainment capital of the world—including a dazzling pink sequin-adorned display of vintage showgirl costumes.
The museum, including the Old Spanish Trail is open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursday through Monday. Admission for museum members is free. Non-members pay at Springs Preserve box office. Nevada residents: $9.95 adults, $4.95 children (ages 3-17.) Non-Nevada residents: $18.95 adults, $10.95 children (ages 3-17.)