Witness one of the world’s most magnificent engineering wonders – the Hoover Dam.
Exploring the Hoover Dam on a Self-Guided Tour
One of the most magnificent engineering wonders you’ll ever witness, the Hoover Dam is a sight to behold. You can take a free, self-guided walking tour of this iconic landmark, located on the Colorado River, just outside Boulder City and only a short 30-minute drive from Las Vegas.
Discovering Hoover Dam’s Highlights
- Strolling Across the Dam: Begin by walking across the top of the dam. Revel in panoramic views of the Colorado River, Lake Mead, and the surrounding mountains while marveling at the original intake towers, spillways, and powerhouses.
- Mike O’Callaghan – Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge: Venture to the Mike O’Callaghan – Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge, the second-highest bridge in the US. Take a stroll along the pedestrian sidewalk for a unique perspective of the dam and the Colorado River.
- Visitor Center Exploration: Delve into the Visitor Center, a four-level structure housing exhibits, displays, and a theater. Learn about the dam’s history, construction, and operation. While the Visitor Center itself costs $10 per person, access to the outdoor observation deck is complimentary.
- Power Plant Tour: For those seeking an insider’s view, embark on the Power Plant Tour. Priced at $15 per person, this guided tour takes you inside the dam to witness massive generators and penstocks. Tickets are sold on a first-come, first-served basis.
- Dam Tour: For a comprehensive experience, opt for the Dam Tour at $30 per person. This in-depth excursion includes everything from the Power Plant Tour, offering access to inspection tunnels and the dam’s control room. Tickets are limited and sell out quickly.
Tips for Visiting and Self-touring Hoover Dam:
- Hoover Dam offers a free self-guided walking tour with free parking on the Arizona side.
- Bring your camera, snacks, and water, especially in the scorching summer months when temperatures can reach 105-115 degrees.
- Wear outdoor adventure attire for a comfortable experience and to enjoy the breathtaking scenery.
Navigating the Route to Hoover Dam
Situated approximately 35 miles southeast of Las Vegas, the Hoover Dam is accessible by car, bus, or bike.
- By Car: The most convenient option is by car, taking US 93 South from Las Vegas. Park at the Nevada or Arizona lots for $10, or opt for free parking at Hemenway Park or Memorial Bridge Plaza, located about a mile away.
- By Bus: Various tour companies offer round-trip transportation from Las Vegas to the Hoover Dam, with prices ranging from $50 to $100 per person, depending on the itinerary.
- By Bike: For the adventurous, biking from Las Vegas via the 34-mile River Mountains Loop Trail is an option. The trail, passing Lake Mead and the Hoover Dam, offers a scenic but challenging ride. Bikes can be rented in Boulder City, approximately 8 miles from the dam.
Driving directions from Las Vegas:
- Take US 93 South toward Boulder City.
- Once there, you will have two ways to get to the dam:
- For the quickest route, at Buchanan Blvd., stay on US 93 (to the left) and follow the signs to Hoover Dam!
- To see historic downtown Boulder City (a great place to grab a bite and peruse a variety of cool shops), go straight onto Nevada Way and follow the signs through town.
Here is a map of Hoover Dam that might come in handy and put the structure into perspective:
Ideal Timing for Hoover Dam Exploration
Open daily from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm (except Thanksgiving and Christmas), the Hoover Dam is best experienced in the morning or late afternoon. Avoid the scorching summer months (June to August) when temperatures soar over 100°F and crowds swell. Opt for the quieter winter months (December to February), with temperatures dropping below 40°F.
The Hoover Dam, a testament to engineering brilliance, beckons visitors to witness its wonders without breaking the bank. Immerse yourself in the rich history, architectural marvels, and natural beauty that have shaped this iconic destination, making it an essential stop for those exploring Las Vegas.
About Hoover Dam:
Although it was once the world’s largest dam, the Hoover Dam currently ranks 23rd among the world’s largest dams. Nevertheless, it remains an enduring engineering marvel and a top tourist attraction. Constructed during the Great Depression in the 1930s, the Hoover Dam project employed thousands of people and vitalized the local economy. It is renowned for creating Lake Mead, the largest human-made lake in the United States. The construction of the Hoover Dam required an astonishing amount of concrete, equivalent to paving a 2-lane highway stretching from San Francisco to New York City. Spanning over 220 acres, it stands as a testament to engineering prowess.
- Hours of operation: Hoover Dam is open from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm daily, but holidays might affect these hours.
- Phone: (702) 494-2517
- Website: usbr.gov
Explore more of Hoover Dam.
- Learn about the Hoover Dam Bypass Bridge.
- Take a Luxury Motorcoach Tour from the Las Vegas Strip to the Hoover Dam and the O’Callahan-Tillman Memorial Bridge.
- Embark on a captivating tour of Arizona’s natural wonders, exploring the Grand Canyon South Rim, Route 66, and Hoover Dam on a 14-hour day trip from Las Vegas.
