Vegas's Most Famous TV Set Locations to Explore
In the vibrant city of Las Vegas, the glitz and glamour of television production have left an indelible mark. From reality shows to crime dramas, numerous television productions have called Las Vegas home, attracting tourists and offering unique experiences for visitors.
One of the most popular reality shows filmed in Las Vegas is Pawn Stars, which has been airing on The History Channel since 2009. The Gold and Silver Pawn Shop on the Las Vegas Strip, where the series is filmed, has become a tourist attraction in its own right. Reality TV tours often include this location, along with other filming sites such as Count’s Kustoms, offering travelers a VIP experience and guided mini-coach transport starting at Treasure Island Hotel & Casino [2][4].
Another successful reality show is Tanked, a series on Animal Planet that has been going since 2011. The show profiles the daily goings-on at Acrylic Tank Manufacturing in Las Vegas, with brothers-in-law Brett Raymer and Wayde King taking center stage, giving viewers an insight into how customized aquarium installations are made. The success of Tanked has drawn a large number of tourists to the firm’s headquarters in Las Vegas [5].
The crime drama CSI: Crime Scene Investigation, which first aired in 2000, is another renowned Las Vegas-based production. The show revolved around staff working at the fictional Montecito casino resort, and a number of scenes were shot at the Mandalay Bay [6]. The CSI: Experience attraction can be found at the MGM Grand and celebrates the series' involvement with the city [7].
For those interested in the history of Las Vegas, the Las Vegas original of CSI starred notable actors such as William Petersen, Laurence Fishburne, Elisabeth Shue, Ted Danson, and Marg Helgenberger, among others [8]. The TV show Las Vegas, which ran between 2003 and 2008, glamorized the security side of casino management.
The reality TV show Casino Confidential was first aired in 2012, focusing on the lives of employees at Binion’s Casino in Downtown Las Vegas [9]. Meanwhile, the recurring cast members of Rehab, a show that aired from 2008 to 2011, included Director of Nightlife Matthew Minichino, Special Events Security Supervisor Sharon Meyers, Jake the security guard, and a number of bar staff and cocktail waitresses [1].
For a broader context, some iconic Las Vegas TV-related and movie spots, such as those featured in shows and movies like The Hangover and Ocean’s Eleven, can be explored independently or via tours highlighting famous scenes and landmarks [3]. These add an entertaining layer for travelers interested in the glamour and history of filming in Las Vegas beyond reality TV.
For a well-organized visit to multiple filming sites, complete with guides and transportation, consider booking a dedicated TV show tour [2][4]. These tours have high ratings from visitors who appreciate the behind-the-scenes insights into Las Vegas television production spots.
In addition, Sandy Valley Ranch near Las Vegas has served as a filming location for various TV series, music videos, and shows such as Top Chef, providing a scenic desert backdrop just 45 minutes from the city center [1]. This location offers production amenities like lodging, dining, secure equipment storage, and a private airstrip, making it attractive for filming in remote desert settings while maintaining comfort [1].
Whether you're a fan of reality TV or crime dramas, a visit to Las Vegas offers a unique opportunity to explore the locations where your favourite shows were filmed. So, pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable journey through the world of Las Vegas television!
- The Gold and Silver Pawn Shop, filmed for the reality show 'Pawn Stars,' has become a tourist attraction, offering travelers a VIP tour and guided mini-coach transport starting at Treasure Island Hotel & Casino.
- Acrylic Tank Manufacturing in Las Vegas, profiled in the Animal Planet series 'Tanked,' has drawn a large number of tourists to its headquarters due to the success of the show.
- For those intrigued by Las Vegas's television history, the Mandalay Bay served as a filming location for the crime drama 'CSI: Crime Scene Investigation,' while the MGM Grand houses the CSI: Experience attraction.
