It's been a long time since Marvel was just a comic-book company. Today, the brand is a modern media juggernaut, creator of blockbuster film hits such "Iron Man" and "Captain America: Civil War" and home to a whole slew of evil-fighting superheroes who wield hammers, shields and sophisticated onesies in the name of protecting all that is right and good. Marvel even has its own "cinematic universe." How many companies can claim that?
That universe meets our own in Las Vegas, where the Marvel Avengers STATION (Scientific Training and Tactical Intelligence Operative Network) invites visitors to immerse themselves in the world of Thor, Hawkeye and the Hulk through an interactive exhibit at Treasure Island. During the experience, which costs $24 to $34 and is free for Treasure Island guests, attendees get an in-depth look at the Avengers' backgrounds and origin stories and train to become a STATION agent through weaponry practice and games. Captain America's uniform and shield are on display, as are Bruce (the Hulk) Banner's laboratory and Iron Man's Mark 45 suit.
Now, guests can take home a piece of the Marvel Cinematic Universe from a retail store. The 7,500-square-foot shop, which opened its doors in December, offers toys, collectibles and clothing, as well as items customized with greenscreen photos that embed guests into the world of the Avengers. The store, the largest Marvel retail outlet in the world, is also home to the interactive Become Iron Man attraction, which allows visitors to step into Tony Stark's famous suit via virtual reality.
Marvel Avengers STATION is open daily 10 a.m.-10 p.m. at Treasure Island.