I finally went to check out the Mob Museum last week and I'm happy to report that it does live up to the positive hype. While I don't think this is a place I'd need to revisit, it is a beautifully curated museum! The displays are well organized and informative, and there are a few interactive exhibits that keep the material from becoming too boring too quickly. It's a multi-level museum in the heart of downtown Vegas, so be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes because you'll be on your feet for a while. Allow about 2 hours to fully experience the museum (longer if you are super interested in mob history and shorter if you are a fast reader and don't care about watching short films that are peppered throughout the museum).
During our visit, we heard some parents grumbling about the content of some areas of the museum -- um, it's a museum about the MAFIA, morons! Why did they think that was appropriate for a 6 year old? If you are a parent, you know what your kids can handle -- but beware that this is a very graphic museum. In one room (you are forewarned about the content) you'll see actual death photos of lots of mob hits. They are gruesome and graphic but that was also the most crowded room in the entire museum! That's what everybody came to see, let's be honest. There's also a cool (but too short) movie about the mob in movies (and yes, there are a couple of uses of the "f" word). Just be warned that this museum might not be a great choice if you are uptight or have sensitive sensibilities.
The gift shop is a thing of beauty -- it's by far one of the best museum shops I have ever seen (though they are missing the boat by not selling the hidden cane flasks that they have on display -- we totally wanted one of those)!
Don't forget to ask about any local's discounts as there are often unadvertised specials if you live in Vegas. This is a great museum and I'm proud to have it here in town.