Shelby Heritage Center

The basics

Opened in 2014, the Shelby Heritage Center includes a working manufacturing facility, a museum, and a gift shop. Find out more about the specialty car manufacturer’s history and founder, and get up close to many of the cars—including classic Mustangs, the very first Shelby Cobra, and more recent productions. Tours take you through the factory, where a designated area lets you watch the action up close.

Things to know before you go

• The Shelby Heritage Center is a must for car enthusiasts and historians.

• Don’t confuse the Shelby Heritage Center with the Shelby American Collection in Boulder, Colorado—the latter features cars donated by owners and collectors.

• The Shelby Heritage Center has a working manufacturing floor. Visitors can see technicians building and customizing Shelby cars, and some Shelby Heritage Center tours include a peek into the production process, so you’ll get a sense of the precision that goes into each vehicle.

How to get there

Located adjacent to Interstate 15, the Shelby Heritage Center is about 10 minutes away from the Las Vegas Strip, making it a quick and easy destination. Taxis and rideshares are readily available. There’s free parking on-site, too! Prefer public transit? Hop on the RTC bus to Sunset and Las Vegas Boulevard, then it’s about a 10-minute walk. Plan ahead, as traffic around the Strip can get busy during peak times.

When to get there

The center is open daily, with guided tours available every day but Sunday. If you’re an early riser, get there Saturday morning for the weekly Cars and Coffee event featuring breakfast food trucks and giveaways. Spring and fall typically see the most pleasant weather—and the biggest crowds.

Drive a race car in Las Vegas

If looking at cars isn’t enough, head to the Las Vegas Motor Speedway to learn how to maneuver a Ferrari, a Porsche, or maybe a Lamborghini. Get a lesson in the proper driving position, steering techniques, car specs, and racing lines. Then, take several laps around the track on your own.

Ways to explore

Opened in 2013, the Shelby Heritage Center features a working manufacturing facility, a museum, and a gift shop. Find out more about the specialty car manufacturer’s history and founder, and get up close to many of the cars, including classic Mustangs, the very first Shelby Cobra, and more recent productions.

You can explore the 10,400 square feet (966 square meters) of museum space free of charge. Alternatively, book a VIP tour to go behind the scenes at the on-site manufacturing facilities and receive a gift bag with Shelby merch.

Accessibility

Tours are wheelchair accessible, but check at the time of booking if you require specific accommodations.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Water bottle, camera (though photography may not be allowed in some manufacturing areas)

What to wear

Comfortable clothing, flat shoes

Not allowed

Pets

Amenities

Restrooms, gift shop

Address

The Shelby Heritage Center is just off I-15, across from the Harry Reid International Airport and just south of the Strip. Transportation isn’t typically included in tours, so you’ll have to find your own way.

Driving

If you have your own car, the Shelby Heritage Center is a straight shot south of the strip via the I-15. There’s plenty of free parking, too.

Public transportation

While public transportation options aren’t great in this part of the city, you can take the Deuce to the SB Las Vegas After Sunset stop, about a 15-minute walk from the center.

Best times to visit

It’s best to choose a tour time that works for you. Tours are capped at 20 participants, so you will never have to worry about crowds.

Best days to visit

There’s no ideal day to visit the center, but note that opening hours are slightly shorter on Sundays.

Best months to visit

The museum is open year-round, but Las Vegas is at its most pleasant between late fall and early spring, when temperatures aren’t too hot.

Special events

While the center doesn’t typically run special events, you can rent it out for your own special events.