Located in the historic Elks Lodge building, the National Neon Signs Museum is home to the world’s largest collection of neon signs. Exhibits feature signs from the 1800s through the 1960s. The museum also showcases neon artifacts, interactive displays, and documents illustrating the history of advertising.
Business Signs Canada – National Neon Signs Since 1949
A short video about the history of light and neon will begin the tour. Visitors will then move to the next exhibit, which explores the background of neon and early lighted signs from the 1920s. This exhibit also contains a five-foot margarita glass of glowing bubbles.
The building was originally constructed in 1910. It is a colonial style brick structure. Although the building is in bad shape, the remnants of its former grandeur are still apparent.
After the city’s urban renewal district purchased the three-story building in 2015, David Benko promised to transform the building into a museum for his neon collection. He did so for two years. In addition to the renovation, the building will include a classroom space and a neon sign shop. He plans to add more vintage signs over time.
The museum is a fun, educational experience. Visitors can learn about the invention of the light bulb, the thorny beginnings of neon signs, and the evolution of signage. The museum is open Thursday through Saturday from 10 am to 5 pm.
The museum is located in The Dalles, Oregon. It is 84 miles east of Portland. The city is home to several craft breweries and restaurants. The Dalles is a revitalized town. It’s also the oldest settlement along the West Coast.