The Underground House

From the Listing

One of America’s most extraordinary residences: The Underground House. Concealed 26 feet below ground, this 14,620 sq. ft. subterranean estate was built in the 1970s by businessman Jerry Henderson and architect Jay Swayze as the world’s largest “Atomitat” — a Cold War–era luxury bunker designed for self-sufficient living. Featuring a total 5 bedrooms, 6 baths over 2 homes (one above ground and one below ground), an indoor pool, putting green, theater, dance floor, bar, saunas, and a programmable faux sky, it recreates the feeling of being above ground while offering total privacy and security. Hand-painted landscape murals, sculpted trees, and retro 1970s design details create an immersive, time-capsule setting unlike any other. This is a rare investment opportunity — ideal as a private residence, event venue, museum, luxury rental, or cultural landmark. A true piece of Las Vegas history and a chance to own a property that is equal parts residence, attraction, and legend.

Hidden in plain sight, just minutes from the world-renowned Las Vegas Strip, stands one of the most extraordinary and rarest residences in America: The Underground House at 3970 Spencer Street. Concealed 26 feet below an ordinary above-ground estate, this subterranean masterpiece offers an unmatched blend of history, privacy, and imagination—an entire world carved beneath the desert sands. 

The story begins in the mid-1970s, when visionary businessman Jerry Henderson, working alongside architect Jay Swayze, set out to create a secure, self-sufficient residence unlike anything else in the country. His dream was a place that could withstand the uncertainty of the Cold War era while offering a lifestyle of comfort, creativity, and luxury. The result was a 15,000+ square-foot subterranean estate unlike any other—a home that remains iconic nearly half a century later. 

Step into a ship-in-a-bottle world, where every detail has been carefully designed to evoke a sense of wonder. Above ground, the property sits on over one acre with a 4-car garage, but its true magic lies below. Here, 5 bedrooms and 6 bathrooms are surrounded by immersive living spaces designed to mimic the outdoors. A programmable faux sky shifts from sunrise to starry night, giving each day a natural rhythm. Surrounding walls are adorned with hand-painted murals depicting landscapes from Henderson’s favorite places—New Zealand, Switzerland, the Hollywood Hills, and more. 

The residence is as functional as it is imaginative. A retro 1970s kitchen, pristine in its original detail, offers a nostalgic yet practical culinary hub. Leisure amenities abound: an indoor swimming pool, putting green, theater, dance floor, bar, sauna, and hot tubs create endless possibilities for entertaining and relaxation. Every space was designed for self-contained living, blending both extravagance and purpose. 

Built with Cold War–era engineering, the home features a private generator, water supply, advanced ventilation, and natural insulation from the desert climate, providing year-round efficiency and independence. What was once a haven from global uncertainty now offers a retreat from the world above—a sanctuary of peace, quiet, and total seclusion. 

The location itself enhances the home’s allure. Situated near Flamingo and Eastern, 3970 Spencer Street enjoys a central position within Las Vegas, with the glittering Strip just minutes away. Here, convenience meets privacy—residents can easily access world-class dining, shopping, and entertainment while returning home to complete discretion and tranquility. 

This is more than a home; it is a piece of living history. Few properties in America can rival its uniqueness or its story. From its origins as a Cold War safe haven to its enduring role as a cultural and architectural marvel, the Underground House has captured imaginations for decades. Rarely do opportunities like this arise—a chance to own not just real estate, but a legend. 

For those seeking the truly extraordinary, 3970 Spencer Street represents a once-in-a-lifetime offering. Subterranean, concealed, private, and unforgettable—this iconic Las Vegas residence invites its next steward to carry forward its remarkable legacy. 

 To get the full details, more photos and a tour video visit the listing here.