The founding of the Las Vegas Natural History Museum stemmed from the realization of a tremendous need in the community for a museum promoting an appreciation and understanding of global life forms, past and present. With the assistance of local businesses and private individuals, the Las Vegas Natural History Museum opened its doors in July 1991, exhibiting a varied collection of wildlife and prehistoric exhibits on loan. Since then, the Museum has obtained its own multi-million dollar, world-class collection, and created an exciting and interactive learning experience. In 2013, the Museum was accredited by the American Alliance of Museums. The Las Vegas Natural History Museum's mission is to inspire, through educational exhibits and programs, a better understanding and appreciation of the natural world, the sciences, and ourselves.