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TAM Lecture Series - Sin City Rising, How Las Vegas Became the City of Lights

  • June 20, 2026 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM
  • Tucson Auto Museum

    4825 North Sabino Canyon Road
    Tucson, Arizona 85750
Ticket Price $16.88 Register Now
Description

So how did one desert town become the entertainment capital of the world?

Long before dazzling casinos, neon lights, and world-famous entertainment, Las Vegas was a desert oasis shaped by one essential resource—water. Surprisingly, Las Vegas and Tucson share more in common than many might imagine. Both communities grew because of available surface water, became important stops for travelers, and were transformed by the arrival of the railroad, tourism, and climate promotion.

Join us for a fascinating journey through the rise of Las Vegas—from its early days as a railroad stop to the glamour, grit, and ambition that built “Sin City.” Explore the role of downtown gambling, the rise of the iconic Strip, and colorful figures like Bugsy Siegel and the legendary Flamingo Hotel. Along the way, we’ll uncover the many reinventions of a city fueled by risk, reinvention, spectacle—and money.

Guest speaker: Ken Scoville

Date & Time

Sat, Jun 20, 2026 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM

Venue Details

Tucson Auto Museum

4825 North Sabino Canyon Road
Tucson, Arizona 85750 Tucson Auto Museum
Tucson Auto Museum

The Tucson Auto Museum is a hidden gem in the Sonoran Desert. Featuring dozens of rare, classic cars, the Museum offers a unique experience that is sure to inspire and impress people of all ages. You don't need to be a car lover to enjoy the Tucson Auto Museum either. The beauty and rarity of the cars, along with the stories they tell, make the experience enjoyable for all. As non-profit, our mission is to preserve and showcase these historic vehicles while educating all generations on the importance of the automotive industry. Featuring a state-of-the-art museum space and air conditioning for year-round comfort, the Tucson Auto Museum is a must see.


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