Nevada National Security Site Tour — Mercury, Nevada

Discover the Nevada National Security Site Tour in Nevada

Located north of Las Vegas near Mercury, Nevada, the Nevada National Security Site Tour offers visitors rare, guided access to one of the most historically significant federal research and testing locations in the United States. This official Government & Infrastructure Tour explores key sites associated with Cold War nuclear testing, scientific research, and national security operations. Guests travel by bus to historic test areas, observation points, and preserved facilities while learning about the science, engineering, and geopolitical context of nuclear testing.
Why it’s special: This is the only public tour that provides controlled access to the former Nevada Test Site, offering firsthand insight into Cold War history and nuclear research infrastructure.

History & Story of the Nevada National Security Site

Established in 1951, the Nevada National Security Site (formerly the Nevada Test Site) became the primary location for U.S. nuclear weapons testing during the Cold War. Over 900 nuclear tests were conducted here, both above and below ground. Following the end of full-scale testing in the 1990s, the site transitioned to research, security, and environmental stewardship operations. Today, limited public tours provide educational insight into its historical and scientific significance.

What You’ll See & Do on the Nevada National Security Site Tour

• Visit historic nuclear test areas and observation points

• Learn about above-ground and underground nuclear testing methods

• See remnants of test structures and scientific instrumentation sites

• Understand radiation monitoring, safety measures, and environmental impact

• View exhibits explaining Cold War strategy and nuclear science

Hands-On Elements: Guided educational presentations during bus stops; no interactive testing areas.
Photo/Video Policy: Photography allowed at designated stops; restricted in certain secure areas.
Souvenirs & Extras: Educational materials provided; no on-site gift shop.

Pricing of the Nevada National Security Site Tour

Adult price: $0 per adult (free)
Advance registration and security clearance required. Participants must be 18+ and U.S. citizens.

Visiting information

Duration: Approximately 10 hours (full-day bus tour)
Age limits: 18+ only; U.S. citizenship required
Accessibility: Limited; bus-based tour with designated walking stops
Working hours: Tours operate once per month, typically departing at 7:00 AM and returning around 5:00 PM. Exact dates are published annually.

Nearby

• Atomic Museum (Las Vegas)

• Las Vegas Strip

• Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area

FAQs About Visiting the Nevada National Security Site Tour

Do I need to apply in advance?
Yes. Registration must be completed weeks in advance due to background checks and security screening.

Are non-U.S. citizens allowed on the tour?
No. Participation is limited to U.S. citizens with valid government-issued identification.

Is this an underground tour?
No. Visitors do not enter underground test shafts but visit surface-level historic areas.

Is photography allowed everywhere?
Photography is permitted at most designated stops but restricted in sensitive areas.

How physically demanding is the tour?
Most of the tour is bus-based, but participants should be comfortable walking short distances at stops.