If it’s true what they say, that you are who you are by association, then Daniel Pearce is a superhero. Pearce, a Las Vegas native, is the general manager of one of the coolest attractions—Marvel’s Avengers S.T.A.T.I.O.N., an interactive hub for the Marvel franchise at Treasure Island.

“You go deep inside the Marvel cinematic universe,” Pearce explained. “The easiest way to say it is it’s like being on a movie set—original costumes, props, interactives—it really makes the guest feel like they’re on the Avengers’ military base or station. But at the same time you’ll get classified information, studies and experiments as to why the Avengers are who they are, why they are superhuman. We’ve worked with NASA, JPL, Neuroverse and others to add an entertainment and educational component.”

But what is Pearce’s own story? What makes him who he is? “Working on the Strip—it’s in the family DNA,” he said. His mom has worked at Harrah’s for 30-plus years, his father worked for MGM and his brother currently works at Bellagio. So having a career on the Strip was Pearce’s destiny. He’s been with the attraction before it opened its doors; before that he spent five years with MGM Grand’s CSI: The Experience as the general manager and eventually moved into the director of retail operations for the property itself. In 2014 he learned that Marvel’s Avengers would be opening.

Marvel Retail

Marvel Retail

“What really attracted me to this project is just how big the franchise is,” he said. “... Marvel has done such a great job marketing this and it’s such a great project that it’s really easy to get onboard and be enthusiastic.”

Marvel Retail

While the attraction is one awesome adventure, the fun doesn’t come to an end after you’ve completed the tour. The retail shop is a treasure trove of all things Marvel and comic-book fandom. You’ll find unique as well as collector’s items, like the Pop! Winter Soldier collector’s toy, Captain America’s shield and Thor cuff links and the official Marvel Avengers coffee mug. There’s also clothing, toys, keepsakes and so much more. Definitely spend some time exploring.