How to Visit Hoover Dam – Things to Do + Tips

The Hoover Dam is one of the most fascinating landmarks to see in the deserts of the southwestern United States. As a spectacular achievement of human engineering and hydropower generation, the dam continues impressing visitors nearly nine decades after its construction was finished.

Moreover, being in close proximity to Sin City makes traveling to the Hoover Dam one of the best activities that can be enjoyed outside of Las Vegas. You can easily rent a vehicle in Vegas and get to the dam in less than an hour. If driving is not preferable, I recommend taking an organized Hoover Dam day excursion like this one or experiencing an aerial view of this monumental construction via a Hoover Dam helicopter tour

To help you decide how to visit Hoover Dam and plan your trip, I’m sharing everything you need to know about this landmark attraction. I’ll share how to get there, the 10 best things to do at the HooverDam, and more.

Guide to visiting the Hoover Dam

This guide provides a comprehensive overview of touring the Hoover Dam, including admission fees, directions, and activities available. Feel free to browse the entire guide or skip ahead to anything that piques your interest:

• How to visit Hoover Dam
• Top highlights or activities to experience at the Hoover Dam
• Tourist Information about Hoover Dam
• Tips for visiting Hoover Dam

Where is the Hoover Dam located?

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How to visit Hoover Dam

You can explore the Hoover Dam by car or take a guided tour from Las Vegas. An organized tour is the most practical option especially if you don’t have a vehicle or don’t want to drive.

Directions to Hoover Dam from Las Vegas

The Hoover Dam is only 37 miles southeast of Las Vegas, so the drive only takes about 40 minutes.

If you don’t own a vehicle, renting an automobile in Las Vegas is the best choice since you can follow your own schedule and spend as much time at the dam as desired. Plus, you’re free to take any detours or stops you’d like. The directions to the Hoover Dam from Las Vegas are quite simple:

• Take I-515 S/US-93 S and follow it for approximately 34 miles to NV-172 (Exit 2).
• Continue on NV-172, which converts to Hoover Dam Access Rd. Signs will direct you to Hoover Dam bridge parking and the Visitor Center.

Hoover Dam tours from Las Vegas

Of course, if self-propelled transport is not preferred, an alternative is to participate in a guided exploration of Hoover Dam from Las Vegas. This is decidedly the most convenient choice since most of the excursions incorporate transportation to Hoover Dam from Las Vegas and an on-site guide. Some of these Hoover Dam trip options even include additional stops en route, making them ideal for a day outing.

I advise considering this complete or partial day outing, which passes through Boulder City and Lake Mead before reaching the Mike O’Callaghan – Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge. Then, you will join a guided tour through the development tunnels, power station, and Hoover Dam Visitor Center. This tour is incorporated within several Las Vegas tourist cards, for example the Las Vegas Go City Pass. I suggest getting the pass if you plan on seeing other Vegas attractions so you can experience them at a discounted rate.

Another choice is a Hoover Dam helicopter tour to get an exclusive aerial view of the Hoover Dam. I like this air tour, which flies above the dam and the Grand Canyon West Rim.

10 Best things to do at the Hoover Dam

There is more activity available at the Hoover Dam than is immediately evident. In addition to excellent vantage points, there are intriguing attractions and surrounding areas worth exploring. Continue reading to see my top 10 suggestions below!

1. Hoover Dam Visitor Center

The initial place to explore is the Hoover Dam Visitor Center. Entrance costs $10 to tour exhibits providing information. Here, the historical background of the Hoover Dam, its legacy, and power infrastructure maintaining operations can be learned. A brief documentary about the construction`s engineering mastery and workforce needed for the huge structure can also be watched.

The Visitor Center is also where you can procure tickets for a Hoover Dam tour. There are three tours from which to choose:

Hoover Dam self-guided tour

The self-guided Hoover Dam tour costs $10 and represents the tour that’s covered in your Visitor Center admission fee. Visitors will be able to wander through the narrated exhibits and watch the historical Hoover Dam film. The tour also allows access to the Visitor Center observation decks, which offer panoramic views of the Hoover Dam and Lake Mead, the Colorado River, and the Bypass Bridge in the distance.

Guided Powerplant Tour

The powerplant tour through Hoover Dam costs $15 and grants you access to the dam’s original construction tunnels. A guide will lead you through the passageway and take you to the Nevada Powerhouse to see its commercial generators. You can even sense the force of the water rushing through the pipes below. This tour also includes everything in the self-guided tour.

Guided Dam Tour

For $30 US dollars, visitors can participate in the full depth excursion of the Hoover Dam, which features the powerplant tour as well as an elevator ride exploring the inner construction of the dam. Attendees can walk through previous inspection tunnels and observe the airflow shaft, also seeing the Colorado River churning. This option offers the best value for those interested in understanding the behind-the-scenes operations enabling the Hoover Dam`s function.

2. Hoover Dam Bridge – Mike O’Callaghan – Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge

When you visit the Hoover Dam, you’ll also be able to see the Mike O’Callaghan – PatTillman Memorial Bridge. From here, you’ll get some of the most striking views of the dam and its surroundings.

The concrete archway bridge crossing Hoover Dam was named after former Nevada governor Mike O’Callaghan and football player Pat Tillman, who perished while serving his country in Afghanistan, in an effort to provide safer passage over the dam and ease congestion.

Stretching 1,900 feet across the Colorado River, connecting Nevada and Arizona, the arched bridge serves as the widest of its kind in the Western Hemisphere upon its 2010 debut. Towering 890 feet tall additionally, it stands as the second highest bridge located within the U.S.

You can traverse the bridge on foot or by vehicle, although you’ll need to exit your automobile if wanting to take in the full vista.

3. Hoover Dam Lookout – Kingman Wash

Another one of the best ways to behold Hoover Dam is by visiting Kingman Wash. This view of Hoover Dam from the Lookout is on the Arizona side of the dam and has the most spectacular perspectives of the immense structure. From here, one can take in the scale of the man-constructed dam and observe the rushing water while glimpsing Lake Mead, Black Canyon, and the desert scenery in the distance.

Best of all, this scenic overlook tends to be less busy than others, so you can get an up-close view of the beautiful scenery. To get there, follow the Hoover Dam Bridge into Arizona and take the Kingman Wash exit. You’ll find the unpaved access road, and you can take that about half a mile to reach the overlook.

If you opt to continue further along this trail route, you will be able to admire the stunning expansiveness of Fortification Hill, Black Mesa, and the surrounding mountainous regions.

4. Historic Railroad Tunnel Trail at Lake Mead National Recreation Area

I’ve mentioned that you can obtain nice views of Lake Mead from Hoover Dam, but it’s also worth visiting this place yourself. Lake Mead was formed as a result of the construction of the Hoover Dam and spans 247 square miles. The Lake Mead National Recreation Area is the biggest of its genre in the U.S.

The tranquil blue water of the lake stands in perfect contrast to the concrete and steel parts of the Hoover Dam. It’s worth spending some time in this area, especially if you enjoy water activities like boating, kayaking and swimming. If you prefer on-land activities, you’ll find hiking trails here, including the Railroad Tunnel Trail.

This trail near Lake Mead Visitor Center is suitable for families as it has stable terrain and signposts, making it quite easy. Since it follows along the Boulder City Highway, hikers can see the construction tunnels of the Hoover Dam during the hike. Sights along the trail include the Hoover Dam Boneyard, the Lake Mead – Lakeview Overlook, and natural scenery, so it is one of the best hikes near Las Vegas.

5. Gold Strike Hot Springs Trail

Hiking the Gold Strike Hot Springs Trail represents one of the best activities available at the Hoover Dam, particularly for those who enjoy outdoor pursuits like hiking. This 6-mile off-road trek presents a moderate challenge, but most individuals can manage the initial mile or so without difficulties. Be sure to bring ample water and snacks and dress appropriately based on the weather conditions.

The trail has some sections requiring climbs over boulders where footing must be watched, but the effort is rewarded. Wandering through the canyon washway reveals scenic grottoes, natural pools, and potential sightings of bighorn sheep.

Some of the hot springs in the area have run dry, but there are still a handful you can soak in, and there are also some thermal waterfalls. It`s one of the most fascinating places to visit near the Hoover Dam, so I strongly recommend checking it out.

6. Dam Builders Memorial at Hoover Dam

By the entrance to the Hoover Dam, you can see majestic, winged sculptures created by Norwegian artist Oskar J. W. Hansen. The figures represent guardian angels overlooking the dam, accompanied by a memorial dedicated to the lives lost during its construction.

The memorial was initially located on the canyon wall on the Arizona side of the large dam but had been relocated closer to the sculptures. The accompanying text reads, “They gave their lives to make the desert fertile. The United States will continue remembering those who toiled here and found their final rest while engaged in constructing this dam. The United States will continue honoring the efforts of all who labored to give substance to the plans of those who first envisioned building this dam.”

Visiting this little piece of the dam is even more meaningful after going through the Hoover Dam Visitor Center and learning about the history of this monument.

7. Hemenway Park

Not far from the dam, just off Highway 93, you’ll find Hemenway Park in Boulder City. Taking a detour to visit this park is recommended to get some fresh air and potentially spot wildlife.

Hemenway Park offers a pleasant natural setting suitable for families. It’s primarily known for herds of bighorn sheep frequently grazing in the park or resting in the shade. The bighorn sheep represents Nevada`s state symbol, so keep an eye out for stray sheep feasting on grass.

There are also courts for playing tennis, areas for picnics, and a playground at the park, so you can take a brief break here before continuing your journey to the Lake Mead and Hoover Dam area.

8. Boulder City/Hoover Dam Museum

The Boulder City/Hoover Dam Museum is situated inside the Boulder Dam Hotel at 1305 Arizona Street. This additional attraction near the Hoover Dam in Boulder City is another spot you should make plans to see on your itinerary.

The museum details how the dam was constructed along with the story of Boulder City via artifacts, pictures, and an informative theatre presentation. Many of the objects displayed date back to the period of the Great Depression, providing a glimpse into the social and political environment of that time. You’ll also gain further understanding about the Hoover Dam`s impact and how it paved the way for hydroelectric power and engineering design.

The Boulder City/Hoover Dam Museum has free admission and is open daily from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.

9. Nevada Southern Railroad Museum & other places to visit in Boulder City

Given its proximity to the Hoover Dam, Boulder City offers a nice place to explore during your trip, so I advise setting aside a few hours here if time permits.

Additionally to the Boulder City/Hoover Dam Museum and Hemenway Park, the city is home to the Southern Railroad Gallery, one of the most popular attractions in Nevada. This gallery possesses a collection of historic trains and model locomotives dating back as far as the 1840s. There are also interpretive exhibits and a 7-mile heritage railroad trip that you can enjoy. This family-friendly attraction is one of the best things to do near Hoover Dam with youngsters.

Another cool place to check out is Bootleg Canyon Park, a haven for mountain bikers and hikers. The cross-country and downhill trails here wind through the desert landscape and pass by some stunning viewpoints overlooking Lake Mead.

For a scenic change of pace, head to Veteran`s Memorial Park, a 25-acre green space with multiple sports fields and courts, a 3-acre fishing pond, a skatepark, and paths for walking and cycling. Another outdoor choice is the Alan Bible Botanical Garden, home to different species of desert shrubs and cacti.

10. Get stunning aerial views of the Hoover Dam

Finally, to make your visit to the Hoover Dam extremely remarkable, consider taking a Hoover Dam aerial tour. It’s the best approach to obtain bird`s eye views of Hoover Dam and fully grasp the magnitude of this massive construction.

Remember that most helicopter trips from Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon also fly over the Hoover Dam. So, if you’re traveling from Vegas and don’t mind just doing a helicopter ride over the structure, this type of tour can be a good deal. We took this heli-ride and got some exceptional photos of the Hoover Dam and the Grand Canyon from above. The bird`s-eye perspective was so amazing that we’ve taken additional helicopter trips over the region. I highly recommend experiencing it yourself !

Hoover Dam tourist information (hours, ticket price, map, and more)

Now that you know the prime things to do at the Hoover Dam, here is some important information you’ll need to plan your visit.

Hoover Dam hours

Access to the Hoover Dam is permitted daily from 5:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. The Hoover Dam Visitor Center hours are from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. for guided tours operating from 9:00 a.m. to 3:45 p.m. Hoover Dam welcomes visitors 365 days a year except Thanksgiving and Christmas.

Entrance fee and tickets to Hoover Dam

There is no cost to see the dam, but if you want to enter the Hoover Dam Visitor Center and see the exhibits, you must pay the $10 admission. There are also different guided tours of the Hoover Dam, which range from $15-$30 per person and include admission to the Visitor Center.

Hoover Dam map

You’ll have an easier time planning your visit with this Hoover Dam map. It features an overview of the dam, the parking lots, and attractions surrounding the dam.

Parking at the Hoover Dam

There is free parking by the Mike O’Callaghan–Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge and in another lot across the Arizona side for viewing Hoover Dam. Paid parking at the garage near the Visitor Center costs $10 per vehicle.

Hoover Dam hotel

If one wishes for additional time to visit Hoover Dam and its environs, opting to overnight can be considered. The Hoover Dam Inn in Boulder City provides the top lodging closest to Hoover Dam. It lies merely a 5-minute drive away while also offering reasonable nightly rates and free auto storage.

The lodging includes spacious and tidy rooms that are ideal for families. Plus, there are extra guest amenities like an outdoor pool, a fitness center, a casino, a general store and a restaurant.

Otherwise, we have a thorough guide on where to lodge in Las Vegas, for more lodging options.

Hoover Dam history & facts

If you’re seeking a more cost-effective means of traveling between the two metropolitan areas, taking the bus is recommended. Several reputable bus lines run daily services connecting New York City and Boston.

• The dam was constructed between the years 1931 and 1936 to retain the waters of the Colorado River and supply hydroelectric power to the surrounding area, which was rapidly expanding. Today, the Hoover Dam still fulfills this purpose and provides power to over a million people in three states and irrigates 2 million acres of land.

• The height of the Hoover Dam being 726.4 ft meant it was considered the world`s tallest dam until 1968 when it was surpassed by California`s Orville Dam (770 ft).

• The Mike O’Callaghan – Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge is the longest single-span concrete arch bridge in the Western Hemisphere. It replaced the portion of US-93 that crossed over the top of the dam to help alleviate traffic congestion.

• The construction of the Hoover Dam was a huge project and provided employment for many citizens who were unemployed owing to the consequences of the Great Depression. As these workers traveled to the region, they required a place to live, so Boulder City was built to house the workforce.

• During the years of construction on the dam, over 130 workers lost their lives, either due to accidents or illness.

• The dam is named after the United States` 30th president, whose administration approved the project’s construction. However, the 30th president wasn’t invited to the dedication ceremony, and the dam wasn’t officially named until 1947.

• In 1939, the United States discovered that the Hoover Dam was targeted by a German military explosive plan, and U.S. officials were able to halt the attack .

Tips for visiting Hoover Dam

Before planning your visit to the Hoover Dam, here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Plan for 3-4 hours here. That will allow time to take photos, visit the Hoover Dam Visitor Center, join a tour, and explore the Lake Mead region.

• The best time to visit Hoover Dam if you want to avoid crowds is between 9:00 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. or 3:00 p.m. to 4:45 p.m.

• Remember that it takes about an hour to visit the Hoover Dam by automobile from Vegas. Ensure you give yourself enough time to arrive and maximize your visit.

• It is free to cross the Hoover Dam Bridge, but there is a fee to enter the Visitor Center. Also, the tours at the Hoover Dam range from $15-$30 per individual.

• Paying for parking at the Hoover Dam Visitor Center is $10. You can discover complimentaryHoover Dam parking on the Arizona side, opposite the Memorial Bridge.

• Be prepared for desert heat and bring ample water to carry with you. There isn’t much shelter around the dam, so sun protection, eyewear, and headwear are essential items.

FAQs about visiting Hoover Dam

To wrap up this guide on how to take a tour of the Hoover Dam, here are the answers to some commonly asked questions:

That`s it from me! I hope you feel better prepared for your visit to the Hoover Dam and that you make the most of your time here. If you have any other questions, feel free to leave me a comment below. I’d also love to hear about your experience touring the Hoover Dam.

Stay safe and have a wonderful trip!