i am your damn tour guide

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Vegas Vacation 1997

Hoover Dam Guide: I am your dam guide, Arnie, please don't wander off the dam tour and please take all the dam pictures you want. Now are there any dam questions?

Cousin Eddie: Yeah, where can I get some damn bait?

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Welcome everyone. I am your dam guide, Arnie. Now I'm about to take you through a fully...

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Clip duration: 24 seconds Views: 777 Timestamp in movie: 00h 29m 32s Uploaded: 21 November, 2022 Genres: comedy Summary: In the fourth outing for the vacation franchise, the Griswolds have to survive Vegas fever when they go to Las Vegas for a fun family vacation.

• Movie quotes
• Vegas Vacation

“Vegas Vacation” quotes

“- Cousin Eddie: I haven't seen a beatin' like that since somebody stuck a banana in my pants and turned a monkey loose. - Clark Griswold: Thanks for the pick me up Eddie.” Randy Quaid - Cousin Eddie Chevy Chase - Clark Griswold

“Bet with the bank. Bet with the player. Nine is a natural.” Chevy Chase - Clark Griswold

“You don't know when to quit, do ya Griswold?... Here 's an idea : why don't you give me half the money your were gonna bet, then we'll go out back, I'll kick you in the nuts , and we'll call it a day!” Wallace Shawn - Marty

“- Rusty: Dad ? - Clark Griswold: In a minute Russ. - Clark Griswold [talking to Cousin Eddie]: You see the promise of material possesions can often blind one to... - Clark Griswold: [Rusty taps Clark on the arm] What is it, Russ? - Rusty: Those four cars over there... they're mine. - Clark Griswold: What do you mean they're... they're yours? -...” (continue) (continue reading) Ethan Embry - Rusty Griswold Chevy Chase - Clark Griswold

“I'll have some of that there yella'... and don't you get cheap on me ya hear ?” Randy Quaid - Cousin Eddie

“- Wayne Newton: Very special lady. - Clark Griswold: That's why I entered into the sacred bond of marriage with her.” Wayne Newton - Wayne Newton Chevy Chase - Clark Griswold

“You're in food preservatives? What a gas.” Wayne Newton - Wayne Newton

“I don't care if you ruined my life. I love you!” Miriam Flynn - Cousin Catherine

“Nice place for a pearl necklace .” Chevy Chase - Clark Griswold

“It is a blazer out there. You're lucky you got air conditioning in here like mother nature intended.” Randy Quaid - Cousin Eddie

“Don't think unnatural thoughts about your cousin , Russ.” Chevy Chase - Clark Griswold

“- Clark Griswold: Audrey! What are you doing? Ten years of tap dancing lessons and this is the way you repay us? - Audrey Griswold: What? You told me to get a summer job.” Chevy Chase - Clark Griswold Marisol Nichols - Audrey Griswold

“ Sorry , my pen burst in the... altitude.” Chevy Chase - Clark Griswold

“- Pit Boss: No, uh, corrective lenses tonight? - Rusty: No, I do not require them.” S.A. Griffin - Pit Boss Ethan Embry - Rusty

“Who knew, my sister has the legs of a thoroughbred? Am I right?” Ethan Embry - Rusty Griswold

“Have you ever swam with the dolphins? Them things are hard to catch!” Randy Quaid - Cousin Eddie

“- Hoover Dam Guide: Welcome everyone. I am your dam guide, Arnie. Now I'm about to take you through a fully funtional power plant, so please, no one wander off the dam tour and please take all the dam pictures you want. Now are there any dam questions? - Cousin Eddie: Yeah, where can I get some damn bait?” John Finnegan - Arty, the Hoover Dam Guide Randy Quaid - Cousin Eddie

“Isn't there legalized prostitution?” Ethan Embry - Rusty Griswold

“Oh My God! It's Wayne Newton! Can I be your bodyguard? I'd die for ya.” Randy Quaid - Cousin Eddie

“- Rusty: Holy crap, Wayne Newton's hittin' on mom ! - Clark Griswold: It's all part of the act, Russ.” Ethan Embry - Rusty Griswold Chevy Chase - Clark Griswold

“- Marty: Come on, Griswold, You think that sign is there to hold the table down? - Clark Griswold: What can I do with five dollars ? - Marty: Gee, I don't know. Buy a bullet and rent a gun ?” Wallace Shawn - Marty Chevy Chase - Clark Griswold

“- Ellen Griswold: Oh my Lord... Rusty! - Girl in Hot Tub: Oh, you must be lost. This is Mr. Pappagiorgio. - Clark Griswold: His name is not Pappagiorgio! His name is Rusty Griswold and he's a C+ student ! Now out of the pool, let's go young man! Now!” Beverly D'Angelo - Ellen Griswold Hayley Mortison - Girl in the Hot tub Chevy Chase - Clark Griswold

“Where the hell is the damn dam tour?” Chevy Chase - Clark Griswold

“Pick a number? ! I'm great at that! Coin toss!! Eddie, these are my games!!” Chevy Chase - Clark Griswold

“Clark, its not the way it looks. We were just having pasta.” Beverly D'Angelo - Ellen Griswold

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Tips For Family Trips

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Tips for Visiting Hoover Dam

Nevada / April 14, 2018 by Allison / 53 Comments This article may contain sponsored content or affiliate links.

Planning a trip to or through Las Vegas? Hoover Dam is located about 30 minutes south of Las Vegas, Nevada and it's a “dam” good family-friendly attraction in a city that is not known for its family attractions. It's educational too!

We have visited Hoover Dam twice, about five years apart and our experience was similar – and positive – both times. Here's what you can expect from a stop at Hoover Dam.

Hoover Dam straddles the Nevada-Arizona state line. The road over the dam used to be part of the main highway through that area, but now it ends on the Arizona side. It is easy to spend an hour or more just walking on and around the dam itself.

The dam is an engineering marvel. Lake Mead and the surrounding mountains are scenic. The state line marker is a popular photo op and it's fun to get a good look at Lake Mead on one side and then wonder at HUGE drop down the concrete wall on the other.

There is a statuary on the Nevada side where you can get an idea of just how challenging Hoover Dam was to build and how many lives were lost for it. There is a gift shop and cafe.

It costs nothing to visit Hoover Dam. There is a charge to take a tour and see the visitor center. Admission to the visitor center is included with a tour, or can be purchased separately.

We would like to take a tour and see the visitor center, but we haven't yet. On one trip, our kids were younger, and kind of grumpy on the day we visited. On the other, we arrived too late in the day for a tour, but our visit was still well worth the time.

• 9 Ways to Do Las Vegas on a Budget
• Best Family Activities on the Las Vegas Strip

Don't Miss the Bridge

About a mile before you reach Hoover Dam, look for a parking lot near the Mike O'Callaghan-Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge. This bridge, which was completed in 2010, spans the gorge in front of Hoover Dam. The bridge is an engineering feat on its own and there is an informative foot path up to the bridge and a pedestrian walkway across it.

You can get great photos of the bridge from Hoover Dam and of Hoover Dam from the bridge. Standing over that much air was a little unnerving for me, but still pretty neat. Hang on to your hats! It's quite windy on the bridge.

On our last visit, we spotted several mountain sheep just above the bridge, across the road from the Welcome to Nevada sign. 

There is only one small parking lot at the bridge, compared with hundreds of spaces at the dam. To beat the crowds, consider stopping at the bridge first if you arrive in the morning, or last if you arrive in the afternoon.

How to Get There

We drive our own car when we visit Hoover Dam. It's the easiest and least expensive way to get there. 

If you don't need a car for any other reason than to visit Hoover Dam, you can book a tour from Las Vegas. Concierges at every hotel in Las Vegas can help you book a tour to Hoover Dam. Or, choose from dozens of tours at Viator.com , starting at around $50 per person. Basic tours typically include

• Transportation
• Hoover Dam Tour
• Visitor Center
• Memorial Bridge

Some tours may also include a helicopter ride, Lake Mead cruise or a combination Grand Canyon trip. Click the button below to see tour options at Viator.com .

Related: Top Ways to Get the Best Price on Your Rental Car

Hoover Dam has a multi-level parking garage on the Nevada side and several parking lots on the Arizona side. The parking garage charges $10 per vehicle and it is the most convenient parking option for the dam. Your car will be shaded from the sun, which will be nice on a hot day. There is no parking charge for those with accessible plates and placards.

Additional parking is available on the Arizona side of the dam. There is a pay lot just on the other side, but if demand is low you may be able to park there for free. That was the case on our most recent visit. Additional free parking is available in several places up the hill. Oversize vehicles are required to park on the Arizona side.

Parking will fill up on busy days, so arrive early or late in the day if you can.

What to Bring

Hoover Dam is located in the desert and temperatures will usually be hotter than 100 degrees (F) in the summer. It was 90 degrees (F) on our last visit in early April.

Bring plenty of drinking water with you, especially if you plan to park in the free parking on the Arizona side. You'll be walking uphill on the way back to your car. The walk across the dam is a half-mile, round trip.

Wear sunscreen and sun hats on the dam. There will be little shade.

I recommend bringing your own snacks and picnic. The cafe at Hoover Dam serves lunch, bottled water and cold treats too.

Where to Stay

Hoover Dam is located about 30 minutes from Las Vegas, just outside Boulder City, Nevada. If your visit to Hoover Dam is part of a Las Vegas vacation, then I would stay in Las Vegas. Tahiti Village Resort is a good option for families in Las Vegas.

If you're just passing through and need a place for the night, then Boulder City or Henderson have a number of hotels to choose from.

Click the red button to check rates and availability for Boulder City hotels on TripAdvisor.com .

• Review of Tahiti Village Resort in Las Vegas
• Tips for Finding a Family-Friendly Hotel in Las Vegas

Good to Know

Where:  Hoover Dam is located approximately 30 miles southeast of Las Vegas, on the Nevada-Arizona border. From Las Vegas, take US Highway 93 to Nevada State Route 172. From Boulder City, follow the signs.

When: Open year-round except for Thanksgiving Day and Christmas. Visit Hoover Dam between 5 AM and 9 PM. Tours and Visitor Center availability is 9 AM to 5 PM. 

How Much:  It's FREE to walk or drive across Hoover Dam and the Colorado River Bridge. However, there is a charge for parking, the visitor center and tours:

• $10 for parking. If you don't mind walking, free parking is available farther up on the Arizona side.
• $10 per person (ages 4 and up) for the visitor center
• $12-15 per person for 30-minute Powerplant tour (includes visitor center)
• $30 per person for 1-hour Hoover Dam tour (includes visitor center)

How Long: 1-2 hours without the visitor center or a tour

Amenities: Free access to restrooms, gift shop and cafe.

Website:  www.usbr.gov/lc/hooverdam/

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Reader Interactions

May 24, 2012 at 10:47 am

I’ve seen the dam as I’ve flown into Vegas but never drive. I think it would be a very interesting outing. I love the first photo.

May 24, 2012 at 11:17 am

Thanks! That sign is funny, isn’t it? Hoover Dam is an easy half-day excursion from Las Vegas and I enjoyed it even more than I expected to.

Dick Jordan

May 24, 2012 at 11:45 am

Back in 1998, my wife and I took the top-end “Hard Hat Tour” of the dam, and got to keep our plastic “fedoras” as a souvenir. Alas, I think that particular tour was canceled after 9/11.

May 24, 2012 at 11:53 am

It did feel like some things had changed since 9/11. I’m sure the security checkpoint is a product of that event. There are still two different dam tours, though probably not the same tour as yours, for visitors who want an inside look.

May 24, 2012 at 12:24 pm

I’ve always thought that this would be a fun day trip from Vegas! Not sure that I could do the pedestrian walkway though – I get a bit freaked out on the glass floor at the top of the CN Tower in Toronto!

May 26, 2012 at 8:40 pm

Glass floors in a tower would make me anxious too, but I think that the view from this bridge was worth it. Walking across the dam is not scary, so be sure to make the trip if you get the chance!

Debbie Beardsley @ European Travelista

May 24, 2012 at 12:44 pm

Hoover is an amazing dam and an engineering feat! Great pictures.

May 26, 2012 at 8:36 pm

May 24, 2012 at 2:10 pm

we did this trip from Vegas one day and it was great. I didn’t realize how much of a history lesson we would also get but it was great learning about how the dam came to be.

I agree. We got more from it than we expected, even without taking the tour or seeing the visitor center.

May 24, 2012 at 9:50 pm

We stopped by there on our way to Vegas once – no tour either though. It’s impressive how huge it is! Your pics show that much better than mine from back then 🙂

May 26, 2012 at 8:42 pm

Thanks! That new bridge helped us get a shot that wasn’t possible a couple of years ago, because it’s definitely not my photography skills.

Becca@ R We There Yet Mom?

May 25, 2012 at 7:38 am

I used to live in Vegas back when there was no security check point to drive over the Hoover Dam – I bet that takes time to get through. There was no problem just pulling over in the TWO parking lots (free) and walking the dam – funny to hear how things have changed!

Make sure to link this up with Friday Daydremin’ too – this is perfect! Thanks!

May 25, 2012 at 8:04 am

Will do. Thanks! The checkpoint slowed us down a bit, but we were there early enough that it only took a couple of extra minutes, even on a busy morning. There were some cars pulled over for more extensive checks, but I don’t know if that was random or not.

Tonya @ The Traveling Praters

May 25, 2012 at 3:41 pm

Hoover Dam is top on our list of places to visit when we make it out West. My teens would really enjoy the tour but I’m not sure that they would have when they were younger. I’d love to walk onto the bridge and snap an amazing photo, but I’m terrified of heights and afraid I’d hyperventilate or pass out right there. 🙁

LOL. Perhaps you could delegate that photo op to one of your kids.

Andi at The Particular Traveler

May 25, 2012 at 9:33 pm

Awesome photos! I saw Hoover Dam as a kid but haven’t been back since. When my daughter gets a little older I’d love to take her there. I read somewhere that kids under 8 aren’t allowed somewhere there? Maybe it’s just on the tour…

May 26, 2012 at 8:34 pm

That’s how it was for me too. I don’t recall any restrictions on taking my young kids on a tour, but it could have been the longer tour that we wouldn’t have considered anyway, or the older tour Dick Jordan mentioned. As Tonya mentioned, older kids are probably going to enjoy the tours more than younger children.

March 21, 2013 at 10:08 am

This is awesome! I am actually just looking at this because I am doing a project for School on the Hoover Dam, during the Great Depression. I hope to visit here someday! It’s a long trip from Oregon, but I bet it’s worth it!

November 16, 2013 at 10:15 pm

“Let us find the dam snack bar.” ~Zoe in Titan’s Curse by Rick Ridorian

December 23, 2014 at 2:53 am

Hay Tyler! That’s good your are doing research on that dam. I hope you could make a visit there as soon as possible, and yap it would be worthwhile. Hoover dam is in itself one of most promising and wonderful attractions of Southwest area of United States. I visited there during my las vegas sunset helicopter tour(GetBusTours) along with my bests friend. Throughout that tour we really had seen amazing and worthwhile sky views of that region. After completing our tour we landed on Lake Mead. That is one of most promising attractions of Hoover dam which is known as a creation of that dam. There a visitor could enjoy fishing, boating, swimming and other water activities. I really had unforgettable experiences there. After reading your article my all memories are so fresher now, thanks for that lovely sharing…..

August 2, 2017 at 6:51 pm

How long of a walk is it from the free parking on AZ side?

August 2, 2017 at 10:05 pm

It isn’t long. The first lot immediately on the AZ side was a pay lot when we visited. Then the road goes up the hill and there was some free roadside parking. It’s not far – a quarter mile or so and all in view of the dam – if you don’t mind the hill.

March 4, 2019 at 12:06 pm

How do you get to the free parking on Arizona side? Do you drive 8ver Tillman Bridge or 9ver the dam itself?

March 4, 2019 at 12:40 pm

Hi James! You drive over the dam itself.

Alexandria Martinez

August 8, 2017 at 8:58 pm

My uncle has been touring the United States as a retirement gift to himself. He isn’t great with the GPS so, it is good to hear that the Hoover Dam is easy to find. He will be so excited to visit.

april stocker

February 25, 2018 at 10:30 pm

Does anyone know if there’s free parking at the Hoover dam??

February 26, 2018 at 10:05 am

You can find free parking if you get there first and are willing to walk a little. Drive to the Arizona side and keep driving up the hill past the parking lot. There is some free parking along the road above the parking lot.

Richard Travis

September 19, 2021 at 10:29 pm

$10 to park? A slap in the face after paying to get into Lake Mead!

September 22, 2021 at 6:56 am

Hi Richard. In my experience, driving in to see Hoover Dam is not the same entry point as getting in to play on Lake Mead. Driving from Las Vegas through Boulder City, we didn’t have to pay to drive to Hoover Dam. And on our first trip, we found free parking on the far side of the dam. Has that changed?

Kimberley Mein

November 5, 2023 at 6:48 pm

Yes, there is free parking. The free lots are in the AZ side and they are further away. Keep in mind, free parking sounds great until you have to walk back. There is NO loading or unloading on the Dam, there is not a shuttle either. You cannot wait on the side of the street for a ride. In thesumm or it gets up to 120 degrees, the road is black asphalt (hot and sticky), there are stairs between the upper and lower parking lot but, going down is easier than going up. I would recommend visiting Hoover Dam in the Spring or Fall, it’s not to hot nor to cold. The dam is open Thanksgiving, the dam is open every day, 365 a year. The only things that change are the hours that things are available or open I would check the website for seasonal hours before arrival. The last, Dam Tour is at 3:15pm and the last Power Plant Tour starts at 3:45pm. Keep in mind that these hours are seasonal.

If you choose to drive yourself, that is awesome but please be mindful of the laws, if you receive any type of ticket while on the Dam, it is a Federal ticket. So pay attention to the posted speed limit, do not enter the parking garage and immediately try to make a uturn, don’t walk in area’s where pedestrian traffic is frowned upon, don’t pick up or drop off anywhere on the property of Hoover Dam. It’s not difficult to follow the rules, there are reasons for the rules so just obey them. The number one rule is DO NOT SIT OR STAND ON THE DAM. It just takes a second and the day will have an entirely different meaning. Oh, we are not a National Park so the Park Pass does not apply here. If you are coming from within the US or from another Country AND you use a Handicap Placard at home, bring something with you that shows you require Handicap Parking. Handicap parking is free IF, you can prove or show the credentials. Only SERVICE ANIMALS are allowed on the Dam. No children or pets can be left in a vehicle, unattended. Honestly, it gets to hot and there are to many people to have animals running around as well, there is little to no shade, the only pet area is in the parking lot for the Brandon Tillman Memorial Bridge.

November 13, 2023 at 11:34 am

Great details! Thank you!!

Fatima Alvir

June 21, 2018 at 9:36 am

Is first week of August is the best time to go there?

June 22, 2018 at 11:14 am

Hi Fatima! I haven’t been there during the first week of August, but I would expect the weather to be very hot during that time. There will still be summer crowds, but Hoover Dam is big enough to handle crowds. I would arrive early in the day to avoid the worst heat and crowds. Consider parking your car in the covered garage rather than the free parking on the other side, where you will need to walk in the heat. Dam tours and the visitor center should be air-conditioned and comfortable – if not a little cold – any time of year.

Mark Citsay

July 14, 2018 at 10:33 pm

Hoover Dam is a great place to bring family and friends and simply enjoy an outing. From the looks of it, it’s a very scenic place so taking those instagram friendly photos would be no problem at all. It’s also a lovely place if you just want a change of scenery once in a while. Thank you for the tips and details.

December 10, 2018 at 7:35 pm

H20, the power of earthlings comes to slots millinial time.Thanks hoover

Michelle Murray

December 14, 2018 at 7:26 am

Thanks for the great information!

December 27, 2018 at 8:38 am

Hi Allison, wondering if i can go early, i know parking lot open by 8, but is visitor center worth to wait? We ll be heading to south rim and wanted to reach there by noon, so can i just park my car by 8 and roam around and then head to south rim? or i have to wait till 9 to open visitor center to explore ? thanks

January 2, 2019 at 9:33 am

Hi Sanjay! I have visited Hoover Dam twice, but haven’t yet been inside the visitor center. There is an admission fee, and when I do it I want to do the tour too.

You can easily spend 1-3 hours walking on the bridge, looking at the outdoor monuments and checking out the bridge. If you’re arriving early, I would start with the bridge, then head over to the dam. By the time you’ve seen the bridge and dam, the visitor center will probably be open and you can decide whether or not to see it and take the tour then.

January 2, 2019 at 9:47 am

that helps…. thanks Allison and Happy new year 🙂

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February 9, 2019 at 10:12 am

In your opinion would someone who is slightly claustrophobic be able to ‘survive’ either of the Dam tours? I don’t enjoy enclosed spaces but I’m able to tolerate a three hour airplane flight.

February 11, 2019 at 11:04 am

Hi Michael. I have not taken a Hoover Dam tour in many years. We only explored the top of the dam on recent trips. However, I toured the Glen Canyon Dam in Arizona in 2017, and it matched my memories of the Hoover Dam tour. I think that if you can handle an airplane or elevator ride, you’ll probably be fine on a standard tour of the Hoover Dam. You may spend some time in windowless spaces, but they will be large enough to accommodate a tour group. Some of the spaces that house dam operations are quite large. You’ll probably be able to look out at the grassy area at the base of the dam part of the time.

Kathy Ignasiak

April 27, 2019 at 5:49 pm

I will be driving from San Diego to Michigan and really wanted to stop by the dam to show my daughter. The hours you have posted is 9-5. My question is if we arrive after 5 is the whole dam access closed? I mean is there a gate or something or can we park and walk the bridge and stuff or no? I am not interested in the visitors center or tour, just would like to sneak a peek as we go through.

April 30, 2019 at 12:46 pm

Hi Kathy! I’ve double checked the hours and you can see/drive across the dam between 5 AM and 9 PM every day. The Visitor Center and tours are available from 9 AM to 5 PM, but if you don’t care about those, then it sounds like you’re still good to go early or late in the day.

I’ll make sure that’s updated in my post. Thanks for your question!

Lisa LoMarro

June 16, 2019 at 10:35 am

We want to do the Dam tour but will only get there 1pm. Should we pre-book the Powerhouse Tour and then r we able to cancel it if we are able to get into the Dam tour that day?

June 17, 2019 at 12:51 pm

Hi Lisa. According to the official website, Powerplant Tour tickets are non-refundable. If that is not the tour you want, do not purchase them in advance.

If you want the Dam Tour, I would wait until you arrive and inquire about them immediately. If it’s a busy day, you may not get the next tour, but if you’re flexible, I’m hoping that you could get into a tour that afternoon. I haven’t done it, so I can’t say for certain, but 1 PM is still fairly early for a first-come-first-served situation.

Good luck! I’d love to hear how it goes when you return.

June 24, 2019 at 10:36 am

Is there a phone number to call the visitors center or the folks who sell the dam tours (not the power plant). Thank you for this information!

June 24, 2019 at 11:30 am

Hi Bob. It took a little digging, but I found a number on the official Hoover Dam site under the Bureau of Reclamation. “For information about Hoover Dam tours, contact us during operating hours at: Telephone: (702) 494-2517”

Hope that helps! Have a great trip!

June 28, 2019 at 1:08 am

Thank you so much Allison! This was a totally big help. I could not seem to find the number. You are amazingly kind!

Matt Roberts

August 30, 2019 at 12:54 am

Great job! Do you outline all of your blog posts? I’ve read a few of them now and they are way higher quality than other blogs I’ve read.

December 20, 2019 at 7:52 am

Hi Allison, Than you, this is all great info. We are in Vegas with our teenage kids (16, 17, 19) for three more days and have decided to rent a car tomorrow to go see the Dam.

Do you have any recommendations for other fun things to do while we have the car for these next couple of days? A good place to eat on the way back from the Dam?

Also, we wanted to see the Grand Canyon – South Rim.. It seems like the place to go (instead of the West rim). Have you been to either?

Do you have a blog for any GRand Canyon experiences?

December 20, 2019 at 2:21 pm

Hi! I hope that you have a great time at Hoover Dam. I don’t have any favorite local restaurants between Hoover Dam and Las Vegas. You’ll drive right through the cities of Henderson and Boulder City, which might help you narrow your search. Our family also enjoyed the buffet at M, which is on I-15, south of Las Vegas.

Here is a list of activities off the Las Vegas Strip that your family may enjoy with a car. They will not all be great for teens, or winter weather.

Red Rock Canyon Pinball Hall of Fame Lion Habitat Ranch The Neon Museum National Atomic Testing Museum Las Vegas Natural History Museum DISCOVERY Children’s Museum Lake Las Vegas Wet n Wild Water Park Cowabunga Bay Water Park Trampoline parks GameWorks or other arcades Ethel M Candy Factory Tour – FREE Seven Magic Mountains public art – FREE NASCAR and other events at Las Vegas Motor Speedway University of Nevada-Las Vegas museums, tours, sports and performing arts Helicopter tour Day trip to Death Valley National Park (not in summer)

I have visited the Grand Canyon North Rim, but not the South or West Rims yet. They’re on my wish list! The South Rim is open year round, and has the most amenities of the three. The North Rim is not open at this time of year. Here is my post for the North Rim, and the official Grand Canyon National Park website, which should give you good information about the South Rim in winter.

https://tipsforfamilytrips.com/grand-canyon-north-rim/ https://www.nps.gov/grca/index.htm

I hope that your family has a great trip!

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How to Visit Hoover Dam – Things to Do + Tips

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The Hoover Dam is one of the coolest historical landmarks in the American Southwest. An impressive feat of human engineering and hydropower, the dam continues to amaze visitors nearly 90 years after it was built.

Moreover, its close proximity to Sin City makes visiting the Hoover Dam one of the best things to do outside of Las Vegas . You can easily rent a car in Vegas and get to the dam in less than an hour. If you don’t want to drive, I recommend taking a Hoover Dam day tour like this one or flying over this monumental structure on 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 Hoover Dam , and more.

Guide to visiting the Hoover Dam

This guide includes everything you should know about Hoover Dam tourism , including ticket prices, directions, and activities. Feel free to read through the entire guide or skip to the topic you’re curious about:

How to visit Hoover Dam

• Best things to do at the Hoover Dam
• Hoover Dam tourist information

Tips for visiting Hoover Dam

Where is the hoover dam located.

The Hoover Dam is on the border of Nevada and Arizona, on the Colorado River in Black Canyon. It’s just 40 minutes from Sin City and one of the best stops on a road trip from Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon .

You can visit the Hoover Dam by car or take a tour from Las Vegas. An organized tour is the most convenient 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 just 37 miles southeast of Las Vegas, so the drive only takes about 40 minutes.

If you don’t have a vehicle, renting a car in Las Vegas is the best option since you can go on your own schedule and spend as much time at the dam as you want. Plus, you’re free to take any detours or pit 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 about 34 miles to NV-172 (Exit 2).
• Continue on NV-172, which converts to Hoover Dam Access Rd. You’ll see signs for Hoover Dam bridge parking and the Visitor Center.

Hoover Dam tours from Las Vegas

Of course, if you don’t want to drive, you can take a Hoover Dam tour from Las Vegas . This is definitely the easiest option since most of the tours include the Hoover Dam shuttle from Las Vegas and a live guide. Some of these Hoover Dam tours even include extra stops along the way, so they’re perfect for a day trip.

I recommend this full or half-day tour , which passes through Boulder City and Lake Mead before arriving at the Mike O’Callaghan – Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge. Then, you’ll take a tour through the construction tunnels, powerplant, and Hoover Dam Visitor Center. This tour is included in several Las Vegas tourist cards , including the Las Vegas Go City Pass . I suggest getting the pass if you plan on seeing other Vegas attractions so you can visit them at a discount.

Another option is a Hoover Dam helicopter tour to get a unique aerial view of the Hoover Dam . I like this heli-tour , which flies over the dam and the Grand Canyon West Rim .

10 Best things to do at the Hoover Dam

There is more to do at the Hoover Dam than meets the eye. In addition to some great lookout points, there are interesting attractions and nearby places to check out. Keep reading to see my top 10 recommendations below!

1. Hoover Dam Visitor Center

The first place you should check out is the Hoover Dam Visitor Center . It costs $10 to enter and see the informational exhibits. Here, you can learn more about the history of the Hoover Dam , its legacy, and the power systems and infrastructure that keep it functioning. You can also watch a short documentary about the dam’s construction, including the engineering prowess and manpower it took to build such a huge structure.

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

Hoover Dam self-guided tour

The self-guided Hoover Dam tour costs $10 and is the tour that’s included in your Visitor Center admission. You’ll be able to walk through the narrated exhibits and watch the historical Hoover Dam film. The tour also includes 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 feel 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, you can take the complete Hoover Dam tour , which includes everything in the powerplant tour, plus an elevator ride to the inner workings of the dam. Take a walk through the old inspection tunnels and check out the ventilation shaft, where you can also see the Colorado River churning. It’s the best deal if you’re interested in the behind-the-scenes logistics of the Hoover Dam.

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 – Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge . From here, you’ll get some of the most impressive views of the dam and its surroundings.

This Hoover Dam Bridge was named after former Nevada Governor Mike O’Callaghan and football player Pat Tillman, who died while on military duty in Afghanistan. It was built to provide a safer route over the dam and ease traffic congestion.

The arch bridge runs across the Colorado River, connecting Nevada and Arizona and measuring 1,900 feet long. Since it opened in 2010, it’s been the widest concrete arch in the Western Hemisphere, and the second-highest bridge in the U.S., at 890 feet tall.

You can walk or drive across the bridge, although you’ll have to get out of your car if you want to get the full view.

3. Hoover Dam Lookout – Kingman Wash

Another one of the best ways to see Hoover Dam is by visiting Kingman Wash . This Hoover Dam Lookout is on the Arizona side of the dam and has the most breathtaking views of the massive structure. From here, you can take in the magnitude of the manmade dam and witness the rushing water while glimpsing Lake Mead, Black Canyon, and the desert environment in the distance.

Best of all, this overlook tends to be less crowded than the others, so you can get a front-row seat to the beautiful views. To get there, follow the Hoover Dam Bridge into Arizona and take the Kingman Wash exit. You’ll find the access road, which is unpaved, and you can take that about a half-mile to the overlook.

If you’re up for it, you can continue along this trail and see the stunning expanse of Fortification Hill, Black Mesa, and the surrounding mountains.

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

I’ve mentioned that you can get nice views of Lake Mead from Hoover Dam , but it’s also worth visiting this place for 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 largest of its kind in the U.S.

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

The calm blue water of the lake is the 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 sports like boating, kayaking and swimming. If you prefer on-land activities, you’ll find hiking trails here, including the Railroad Tunnel Trail .

This family-friendly trail starts at the Lake Mead Visitor Center and has sturdy terrain and signposts, so it’s quite easy. Since it travels along the Boulder City Highway, you’ll be able to see the Hoover Dam’s construction tunnels while you hike. You’ll also see the Hoover Dam Boneyard, the Lake Mead – Lakeview Overlook, and natural scenery, so it’s one of the best hikes near Las Vegas .

5. Gold Strike Hot Springs Trail

Hiking the Gold Strike Hot Springs Trail is one of the best things to do at the Hoover Dam , especially if you love outdoor activities like us. This 6-mile off-road hike is a bit of a challenge, but most people can do the first mile or so without any problems. Just be sure to bring plenty of water and snacks and to dress appropriately for the weather.

The trail has a few areas where you’ll have to scramble over boulders and watch your footing, but it’s worth the effort. As you make your way through the wash canyon, you can find scenic grottoes, natural pools, and maybe some bighorn sheep.

Some of the hot springs in the area have dried up, but there are a few you can swim in, and there are some thermal waterfalls, too. It’s one of the coolest places to visit near the Hoover Dam , so I highly recommend it.

6. Dam Builders Memorial at Hoover Dam

By the entrance to the Hoover Dam , you can see the beautiful, winged figures built by Norwegian sculptor Oskar J. W. Hansen. The figures represent guardian angels looking over the dam, and they’re accompanied by a plaque dedicated to the people who died during the dam’s construction.

The plaque was on the canyon wall on the Arizona side of the dam but was moved so it would be closer to the sculptures. The accompanying plaque reads, “They died to make the desert bloom. The United States of America will continue to remember that many who toiled here found their final rest while engaged in the building of this dam. The United States of America will continue to remember the services of all who labored to clothe with substance the plans of those who first visioned the building of 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, off Highway 93, you’ll find Hemenway Park in Boulder City. I recommend taking this detour to visit the park, get some fresh air, and spot some wildlife.

Hemenway Park is a pleasant green space that’s perfect for the whole family. It’s mostly known for its herds of bighorn sheep, who often graze in the park. The bighorn sheep is Nevada’s state animal, so keep your eyes peeled for strays snacking on the grass or resting in the shade.

There are also tennis courts, picnic areas, 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 inside the Boulder Dam Hotel at 1305 Arizona Street. This is another Boulder City attraction near the Hoover Dam that you should add to your itinerary.

The museum chronicles the construction of the dam as well as the history of Boulder City through artifacts, photos, and an educational theater. Many of the objects on display date back to the Great Depression, offering a look back at the social and political climate of the time. You’ll also learn more about the Hoover Dam’s impact and how it paved the way for hydroelectric power and engineering.

The Boulder City/Hoover Dam Museum is free and 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 is a great place to explore during your trip, so I recommend spending a few hours here if you have time.

In addition to the Boulder City/Hoover Dam Museum and Hemenway Park, the city is home to the Southern Railroad Museum , one of the most popular attractions in Nevada . This museum has a collection of historic trains and locomotive models dating back as far as the 1840s. There are also interpretive exhibits and a 7-mile heritage railroad ride that you can enjoy. This family-friendly attraction is one of the best things to do near Hoover Dam with kids.

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 several sports fields and courts, a 3-acre fishing pond, a skatepark, and walking/biking paths. Another outdoor option is the Alan Bible Botanical Garden , which is home to various species of desert shrubs and cacti.

10. Get stunning aerial views of the Hoover Dam

Finally, to make your visit to the Hoover Dam extra special, consider taking a Hoover Dam helicopter tour . It’s the best way to get aerial views of Hoover Dam and fully grasp the magnitude of this massive structure.

Keep in mind that most helicopter tours 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 dam, this type of tour can be a great deal. We took this heli-tour and got some exceptional photos of the Hoover Dam and the Grand Canyon from above. The birds-eye view was so amazing that we’ve taken additional helicopter tours over the area. I highly recommend seeing it for yourself !

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

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

Hoover Dam hours

The hours for the Hoover Dam are 5:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. daily. The Hoover Dam Visitor Center is open from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 pm, and official tours operate from 9:00 a.m. to 3:45 p.m. You can visit Hoover Dam 365 days a year, except for Thanksgiving and Christmas Day.

Entrance fee and tickets to Hoover Dam

There is no cost to see the dam, but if you want to go into 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 includes an overview of the dam, the parking lots, and attractions surrounding the dam.

Parking at the Hoover Dam

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

Hoover Dam hotel

If you want more time to visit the Hoover Dam and the surrounding area, consider staying overnight. The Hoover Dam Lodge in Boulder City is the best hotel by the Hoover Dam . It’s just a 5-minute drive away and offers good nightly rates and free parking.

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

Otherwise, we have a full guide on where to stay in Las Vegas , for more accommodation options.

Hoover Dam history & facts

What’s so special about the Hoover Dam anyway? You’ll learn all about it when you visit and take a tour, but for now, here are some Hoover Dam facts to entice you:

• The dam was built between 1931 and 1936 to hold back the waters of the Colorado River and supply hydroelectric power to the surrounding area, which was rapidly developing. 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 Hoover Dam’s height of 726.4 ft made it 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 Western Hemisphere’s longest single-span concrete arch bridge . It replaced the portion of US-93 that crossed over the top of the dam to help ease traffic congestion.

• The construction of the Hoover Dam was a huge project and provided employment for thousands of people who were out of work due to the Great Depression. As these laborers flocked to the area, they needed a place to live, so Boulder City was built to house the workforce .
• During the five years it took to build the dam, over 130 workers died , either from accident or illness.
• The dam is named after U.S. President Herbert Hoover , whose administration approved the project’s construction. However, President Hoover 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 the target of a German military bomb threat , and U.S. officials were able to stop the attack .

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

• Plan to spend 3-4 hours here. This will give you time to take pictures, go to the Hoover Dam Visitor Center, take a tour, and explore the Lake Mead area.
• 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 car from Vegas. Make sure you give yourself enough time to get there and maximize your visit.
• It is free to cross the Hoover Dam Bridge , but there is a fee to get into the Visitor Center. Also, the tours at the Hoover Dam range from $15-$30 per person.
• Parking at the Hoover Dam Visitor Center costs $10. You can find free Hoover Dam parking on the Arizona side, across from the Memorial Bridge.
• Be prepared for desert heat and bring plenty of water to carry with you. There isn’t much shade around the dam, so sunscreen, sunglasses, and hats are must-haves.

FAQs about visiting Hoover Dam

To round out this guide on how to visit the Hoover Dam , here are the answers to some common questions:

How tall is Hoover Dam?

The total height of the Hoover Dam is 726.4 feet.

The Hoover Dam is on the border of Nevada and Arizona, on the Colorado River in Black Canyon.

How far is Hoover Dam from Las Vegas?

The Hoover Dam is just 37 miles from Las Vegas, or about a 40-minute drive.

When was the Hoover Dam built?

Construction on the Hoover Dam began in April 1931, and it opened in March 1936.

Why was the Hoover Dam built?

The purpose of the Hoover Dam was to control flooding on the Colorado River and to help with agricultural irrigation and hydroelectric power to Nevada, Arizona, and California.

How long does it take to visit Hoover Dam?

You should plan to spend about 3 hours touring the Hoover Dam .

When is the best time to visit Hoover Dam?

The best time to visit the Hoover Dam is in fall or winter when there are minimal crowds, and the temperatures are mild.

Can I see the Hoover Dam without a tour?

Yes, you can walk across the Hoover Dam and see the lookout points, but if you want to go into the Visitor Center, you need to pay the admission fee.

Can you see the Hoover Dam for free?

Yes, you can see the Hoover Dam for free, but it’s worth taking the tours.

How much does it cost to visit Hoover Dam?

It’s free to go to the Hoover Dam, but the Visitor Center costs $10 per person. The tours at the Hoover Dam range from $15 to $30.

Is Hoover Dam worth seeing?

Absolutely! It’s worth visiting the Hoover Dam and learning about its history while seeing it up close. Plus, the dam is close to Las Vegas and on the way to the Grand Canyon.

Can you walk across the Hoover Dam?

Yes, and it’s free to walk across the Hoover Dam Bridge .

Can you drive across Hoover Dam?

Yes, you can drive across the dam and park in one of the free lots or the paid parking garage.

That’s it from me! I hope you feel better prepared for your Hoover Dam visit 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!

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7 Must-Know Tips For Visiting The Hoover Dam

This post is all about The Hoover Dam, featuring seven must-know travel tips for visiting The Hoover Dam in Nevada!

I imagined visiting the Hoover Dam about a thousand times. I imagined the moment I first saw the giant slice of concrete, the moment I looked down and down and down, the moment I felt dizzy and excited, shocked and in awe.

This was years ago when I was in fourth grade. I had just finished reading The Titan’s Curse and I couldn’t shake Rick Riordan’s Hoover Dam description from my head.

“Then we straggled back toward the dam. It was cold and windy on top. On one side, a big lake spread out, ringed by barren desert mountains. On the other side, the dam dropped away like the world’s most dangerous skateboard ramp, down to the river seven hundred feet below, and water that churned from the dam’s vents.” Rick Riordan (From Percy Jackson & The Olympians, The Titan’s Curse)

Fast forward a decade and I’m now wedging a beat-up copy of The Titan’s Curse into our car’s map pocket. I didn’t consider the logistics of this trip. I probably should have. So as I’m heading out to see “The Greatest Dam In The World” (as Franklin D. Roosevelt called it), I have a dozen questions cycling through my head.

Does the Hoover Dam have an entrance fee? Can you park near the Hoover Dam? How far is the Hoover Dam from Vegas? How long does it take to visit the Hoover Dam? Is there anything to see at the Hoover Dam besides the dam itself?

The short answer: no, yes, further than you think, a half-day, yes. I promise I’ll get into more details in this travel guide.

Here are seven tips you need to know before visiting the Hoover Dam!

Table of Contents

Know That Visiting The Hoover Dam Is Free

The Hoover Dam is free to visit. I came to the Hoover Dam, prepped with my National Park pass (which I absolutely did not need. The Hoover Dam isn’t even part of the National Park system. What was I thinking?), ready to bypass a hefty admission. After all, this is the Hoover Dam. I assumed it was going to cost an arm and a leg. And it can.

“Wait, Anshula,” you ask. “I thought you just said the Hoover Dam was free.”

Well…it depends on how you want to visit the Hoover Dam. Seeing the Hoover Dam is absolutely free . Touring the Hoover Dam is up-there in cost. And then there’s parking (ah, parking fees. I love you so). Parking at the parking garage costs $10. There’s free parking closer to the Arizona side of the dam, but it’s a walk (a giant, I-don’t-remember-signing-up-for-The Unlikely-Pilgrimmage-Of-Harold-Fry walk).

Note that the Hoover Dam’s tour packages are also tiered . So you’ll find an all-inclusive package (Guided Dam Tour), the mid-range package (Guided Powerplant Tour), and the Self-Guided Visitor Center Tour (the cheapest deal).

I really wanted to go on the Guided Dam Tour (you get to walk through inspection tunnels. need I say more?), but unfortunately, only the Self-Guided Tour was available when I visited the Hoover Dam.

Hoover Dam Travel Tip: Although you can officially purchase Hoover Dam tour tickets on the Bureau Of Reclamation website (I’ll link it here ), I highly recommend purchasing the tour in person! You’ll get a better feel of the area, what you can do, and whether or not the tour is a good fit for you.

For me, personally, the Self-Guided tour wasn’t worth it . It wasn’t the fault of the tour itself, we just weren’t well-matched (here’s my it’s not you, it’s me momen t). I mean, I loved the presentation and exhibits (they were thoughtful, to-the-point, and informative), but I have a body-numbing fear of heights so I couldn’t appreciate the full glory of the views from the observation deck.

I think that if you get a chance to go on the hour-long Guided Dam Tour, do it. And if you don’t, I recommend listening to this podcast episode during your Hoover Dam visit instead (it’s not officially an audio guide, but it works well as one).

General Info

ADDRESS: 81 Hoover Dam Access Rd, Boulder City, NV 89005 COST: Free + $10 PARKING + $30 Guided Dam Tour Per Person

Know Where To Park At The Hoover Dam

• Hoover Dam Parking Garage: This 450-plus space parking garage is right next to the Visitor’s Center. There are stunning views of Memorial Bridge from the upper levels of this garage. Although it will set you back $10, it’s the most convenient location.
• Initial Parking Lot: Drive past the Hoover Dam parking garage and you’ll see one outdoor lot up ahead. Due to its proximity to the Hoover Dam, this lot also costs $10.
• Arizona Side Parking Lots: Later on, as you drive closer to the Arizona side, farther and farther away from the dam, parking fees halt. I don’t recommend walking from these lots in the summer. The Arizona side parking lots are, at the very least, over a quarter of a mile away, which doesn’t seem like much on a cool weather day, but in the heat…(I don’t even want to think about it).

Hoover Dam Travel Tip: Mike-O’Callaghan-Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge has its own dedicated parking lot. If you’re interested in walking across the bridge, park here!

Know The Best Way To See The Hoover Dam

Grab a thesaurus. Look for the words big, huge, ginormous. Combine all the words suggested into one singular idea, one singular thought. The Hoover Dam is larger than that.

I find it hard to describe the Hoover Dam. It’s one of those places that pictures can’t capture fully . No matter how many angles I take, I can’t capture the depth and breadth of the Hoover Dam. I can’t capture the hollow space and the water that flows just beyond. I can’t capture the way the mud-colored mountains tighten the landscape. And I can’t capture feelings – the pride in people’s eyes as they snap a picture with the dam in the background, the laughter of kids as they bounce along the pathway screaming “look, look”, the erratic heartbeats of Hoover Dam visitors as they look down and down and down.

The best way to see the Hoover Dam is in person. You need to let the sight of the dam overwhelm you, amaze you, and inspire you.

Here are the best vantage points of the Hoover Dam:

• Mike O’Callaghan–Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge Pedestrian Walkway: This is a wind-whipped path where you can see it all: the dam, Lake Mead, the mountains beyond. It’s also unbelievably high-up. I didn’t realize how far Memorial Bridge shoots up until a little too late. Although this walkway offers one of the best views of the Hoover Dam, my legs felt wobbly as soon as I neared the rail. My mind blanked, I forgot how to breathe, and I froze a fourth of the way down the path. If you have acrophobia, like me, I do not recommend this viewpoint at all. But if you don’t have a fear of heights, this might turn out to be your favorite viewpoint! It was just too much for this lil’ blogger to take.
• Observation Deck: This viewpoint was included in the self-guided tour package. I loved that I could see the hauntingly deep drop of the Hoover Dam from behind glass windows. There’s also an outdoor area perfect for grabbing a selfie with the dam! I didn’t venture out for long because I was still trying to regain my senses after Memorial Bridge but the view from here is incredible .
• Hoover Dam Bridge Bypass Trail: this isn’t really a trail. It’s a massive, paved walkway from the parking garage to the Hoover Dam. You’ll find thick crowds moving in one continuous photo-taking mass along the path. Hoover Dam Bridge Bypass Trail is one of the most accessible and popular Hoover Dam viewpoints.
• Initial Parking Lot: I was taken aback by the views from the first open parking lot past the parking garage. Smooth dark blue water stretched out to brown-toned rocky edges like a poured-in glaze. The cloudless sky above was bluer, brighter. And the mountains – oh my goodness, if I wasn’t a mountain person before, I was in that moment.

Know That The Hoover Dam Takes A Half-Day To See

I originally planned for the Hoover Dam to be a day trip from Las Vegas (it’s about a one-hour drive from The Strip). Including the tour, the dam takes four-ish hours to see (I think I would have spent longer had I been in a position to savor the views). Traffic from the entrance to the parking garage halted our trip a little (the line took thirty minutes to get through and it took us twenty minutes to find parking ).

If you’re visiting the Hoover Dam, plan to spend at least a half-day here.

🎟️ Guided Tours Of The Hoover Dam

Ultimate Hoover Dam Tour

Lunch, round trip transport from select Vegas hotels, and a Hoover Dam Powerplant Tour are included in this small group VIP tour of The Hoover Dam.

Hoover Dam Electric Bike Tour

A guided e-bike tour (e-bikes provided) that cycles along The Historic Railroad Trail. You’ll see beautiful views of Lake Mead and end your trip at The Hoover Dam!

Black Canyon Kayak Hoover Dam Day Trip

A full day guided kayak excursion (perfect for all experience levels ) with unique views of The Hoover Dam! Hotel pick-up and drop-off included.

as a Viator Affiliate , I may earn a fee when you book through this widget.

Know What To Bring To The Hoover Dam

Before visiting the Hoover Dam, I wish I knew to leave my hat at home. Back then, I only knew that this part of Nevada was unshaded, so I happily planted my hat on top of my head and went out to explore the Hoover Dam area.

Big mistake.

The region right around the Hoover Dam is windy . If Chicago is one of the windiest cities, the Hoover Dam is definitely one of the windiest attractions in the United States. The winds here don’t howl, but they are big and strong and forceful. Imagine a parade of sumo wrestlers sneaking along a walkway and then hitting you, one at a time, at full blast. That’s what the winds at the Hoover Dam felt like. It’s a miracle my hat made it.

Hoover Dam Travel Tip: There are two security checkpoints at the Hoover Dam. The first checkpoint is a vehicle checkpoint (don’t bring any weapons or fireworks, etc). The second checkpoint happens when you enter the Visitor Center for the tour (it’s very TSA-like and yes, you need to take your shoes off).

Here’s what you can and can not bring during your Hoover Dam visit:

Know Where To Eat Near The Hoover Dam

The food at the Hoover Dam is exactly what you’d expect: typical tourist trap. I usually don’t dine in heavily-trafficked areas, but I made an exception for the Hoover Dam. Remember when I said I visited the Hoover Dam because I read about it in The Titan’s Curse?

Well, there’s this scene:

“Nothing,” Grover said, trying to keep a straight face. “I could use some dam french fries.” Rick Riordan (From Percy Jackson & The Olympians, The Titan’s Curse)

So I ended up ordering this…

I’m the ultimate tourist.

On that note, I’d highly recommend bringing your own food and just eating it in your car (since food isn’t allowed in any of the Hoover Dam buildings). You could also picnic at Lake Mead National Recreation Area ($25 per vehicle) or dine in Boulder City.

If I could redo my trip, I’d visit Dam Roast House & Browder Bookstore first and grab a specialty latte and a filling breakfast-to-go (alongside some light snacks).

Know That The Hoover Dam Is Worth Visiting

Is the Hoover Dam worth visiting? Yes! Absolutely. Visiting the Hoover Dam felt like a bucket-list moment ticked off. It’s one of those places that’s 100% more magical in person than in pictures. The scale. The brilliance. The grandeur.

Sure, I made tons of travel mistakes while visiting the Hoover Dam (who doesn’t?), but you live and you learn. And even with my fear of heights, I don’t regret visiting the Hoover Dam one bit . It was everything I dreamed it would be and so much more.

Have you ever visited the Hoover Dam? What tips would you add to this list? Let us know in the comments below! As always, I love hearing from you!

Hotels Near Las Vegas (Nevada)

Wynn Las Vegas

Wynn’s rooms are spacious , polished, and functional! Each room is enhanced by subtle luxurious details: floor-to-ceiling windows (with sprawling views of Vegas), smart shelving, and deep bathtubs .

Caesars Palace

One of the oldest and most iconic hotels in Las Vegas, Caesars Palace, surprisingly, doesn’t feel dated (you may remember it from Friends). Check-in is easy and rooms have a standard level of comfort.

If you opt to stay here, be sure to get a fountain view room ! You’ll be enviously positioned , and granted window-side access to The Bellagio’s dramatic, evening-to-midnight waterworks show.

as an Expedia Affiliate , I may earn a fee when you book through this widget.

Editor-In-Chief

Anshula grew up with a love of stories and places. Thirty-five states and 100 bookstores later, she's made her hobbit home in Middle Tennessee. Her Tookish side still takes over and leaves her chasing window seats, literary destinations, adventure books, sunrise coffee, and indie bookshops. She's appeared as a travel source on HuffPost, Reader's Digest, and MSN.

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Visiting the Hoover Dam: The Complete Guide

TripSavvy / Deanna Mazzola

History of the Hoover Dam

How to visit the hoover dam, how to drive across the hoover dam, the best views of the hoover dam, tours of the hoover dam, how to get there, where to stay nearby, tips for your visit.

The  Hoover Dam (originally known as the Boulder Dam), which holds back the mighty Colorado River forming Lake Mead , is located on the Arizona-Nevada border on Highway 93. It's 30 miles southeast of Las Vegas . 

It's a popular tourist destination whose Bureau of Reclamation tour alone draws nearly 1 million visitors every year. The bureau has been leading visitors through the dam and power plant since the '30s, and it is no less impressive today. If you're planning a trip to see the Hoover Dam in person, here's what to know.

The construction of the Hoover Dam originally named the Boulder Dam, backed up the Colorado River, resulting in the formation of Lake Mead. The dam was completed in five years. The contractors were allowed seven years from April 20, 1931, but concrete placement in the dam was completed May 29, 1935, and all features were completed by March 1, 1936.

Nearby Boulder City was built in 1931 to house the dam workers. It is the only city in Nevada where gambling is illegal. Visitors can enjoy antique shopping and restaurants.

If you want to visit the Hoover Dam, the first place to start is at the visitor center . Here, you can make your reservations, get the opening hours, learn about special events, and more.  Yes, you can enjoy the Dam for free. Park in one of the free parking areas and walk across the dam, where you will find plenty of great photo opportunities and interesting information posted along the way. Look up as you walk and see another marvel of engineering: the construction of an immense bridge across the river just downstream from Hoover Dam, on the Hoover Dam Bypass.

There are restrooms in the visitors center, parking garage, adjacent to the Old Exhibit Building and in the downstream face towers on top of the dam. Shopping for a souvenir? You'll find some interesting things at the gift shop on the lower floor of the parking garage. There is also a food concession at the dam.

Look for the warning signs before you cross the Hoover Dam. Not all types of vehicles are allowed to cross the dam. Even better, do a little research on the important  information  before you leave. You might be surprised to know that RVs and rental trucks can cross the dam (but they may be inspected). 

It's tempting to want to stop and take photos of the Hoover Dam or just pause and take it all in. Look for the many pullouts to safely do this. Don't stop on the street. 

The visitors center is on the Nevada side of the dam and it can be a bit more crowded but is another place to park. If you want covered parking or primo parking spots, be prepared to pay. Oversized vehicles, those with trailers and recreational vehicles can't park in the garage closest to the visitors center, though. They have to park in a lot on the Arizona side of the dam. If you're on a budget, you can find lots on the Arizona side a bit further up the canyon that offers free parking, if you don't mind the walk across. There is a closer lot on the Arizona side that costs a fee.

TripSavvy / Taylor McIntyre

Tours of the Hoover Dam are available at the visitors center a first come, first served basis for those over 8 years of age. (Younger children cannot go on the tour.) For those wanting to see the Power Plant, too, you can reserve a ticket online or at the visitors center. All ages are allowed on the Power Plant tour. Neither tour is accessible for those in wheelchairs or with limited mobility.

The Hoover Dam is about a 45 minute drive from the Las Vegas Strip . Exact times may vary due to traffic. Rideshare services can cost around $60 one way depending on the time of day. If you are taking your own car, a parking garage can be found on the Nevada side of the dam. This garage costs $10 and only accepts cash.

There are no public transportation options that go directly to the dam. Take note that the Hoover Dam does not have an exact address, so make sure to set your GPS to the Hoover Dam Visitors Center.

The closest nearby cities to the Hoover Dam are Boulder City, Nevada, Henderson, Nevada, and Winchester, Nevada. A few affordable options are the Hoover Dam Lodge & Casino , the Boulder Dam Hotel , and the Best Western Hoover Dam .

You can find more mid-range options in nearby Lake Las Vegas , including The Westin Lake Las Vegas Resort & Spa and the Hilton Lake Las Vegas Resort & Spa .

If you're planning on staying in Las Vegas and road tripping, make sure to check out our list of the best hotels to book in Las Vegas .

• The Hoover Dam is a major attraction. It is worth visiting, but you may want to avoid the crowds. The slowest months for visitation are January and February. The least crowded time of day for tours is 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. and 3 p.m. to 4:45 p.m.
• Remember that you are in the desert. It can get hot at Hoover Dam (lots of concrete, remember?). Dress accordingly and bring water.
• When you are at the Hoover Dam, be sure and take the time to look at the Hoover Dam Bypass. The bridge over the Colorado River is viewable from the dam and as you drive across. The immense bridge is both amazing and scary. It is 900 feet above the river, making it the world's highest concrete arch bridge and the second-highest bridge in the United States, behind the Royal Gorge Bridge in Colorado.
• The main part of the bypass, which rerouted the highway to have fewer sharp turns, is named the Mike O'Callaghan–Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge. The bypass opened in 2010.

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Is a Tour of the Hoover Dam Worth It?

Jessica Nemire Last Updated: December 30, 2022

The Hoover Dam is one of the greatest engineering feats in the United States. What’s more, according to the National Park Service, the dam sees around 7 million tourists per year. This makes it the most-visited dam in the entire world! But you might be wondering, is a guided tour of the Hoover Dam worth it? This article will help you decide if a guided Hoover Dam tour is right for you!

Pro Tip:  It’s easier to organize your trip when you have all your resources in one place. Create a browser folder and bookmark this post along with our  Las Vegas Guide  for more planning resources, our  top Hoover Dam and Las Vegas tours  for a memorable trip, and check out other cool things to do around Las Vegas .

Why You Should Take a Hoover Dam Tour

One of the biggest dams in the United States is the Hoover Dam, and it sits right on the Colorado River between Nevada and Arizona. For those who don’t know, a man-made dam is a barrier that stops the flow of a body of water to create a reservoir of water and hydro-electric power. In 1931, the creation of the Hoover Dam across the Colorado River formed Lake Mead!

According to the Bureau of Reclamation website, the Hoover Dam is 726 feet high. There’s a power plant located at the base of the Hoover Dam, which provides electricity for both Nevada and Arizona, as well as California. This power plant generates enough power to serve 1.3 million people! You can’t go inside the 590-foot-deep dam, but you can marvel at it by walking or driving across it. At the dam, there’s a visitor’s center, as well as a café. There’s also a lookout point with binoculars that people can use to look out over the dam.

The Hoover Dam is around a 40-minute drive from the Las Vegas Strip, but there are many interesting stops along the way to make a trip to the dam even more interesting. For this reason, many people chose to take a guided tour to the Hoover Dam . Let’s take a look at what a Hoover Dam tour includes.

Not ready to book a tour? Find out how to visit Hoover Dam from Las Vegas.

Top Areas You’ll Visit During a Hoover Dam Tour

Seven Magic Mountains and Boulder City

There are several interesting stops between Las Vegas and the Hoover Dam. One of them is the Seven Magic Mountains, a desert art installation that’s a unique photo op! Another stop between Vegas and the Hoover Dam is Boulder City, a small town that was built specifically so that the construction workers building the dam would have somewhere to live during construction!

According to the tour guide, workers only made $1.83 a day building the dam! Today, Boulder City is home to 17,000 people, and is one of the very few cities in Nevada that doesn’t allow gambling.

The Desert Bighorn Sheep at Hemenway Park

Hemenway Park is a park in Boulder City where families used to camp out in the 1930s while waiting for members of their family to be admitted into the Hoover Dam project. They stayed here because if a family member received approval to work on the Hoover Dam, they would be given a place to live in Boulder City.

Today, Hemenway Park has a playground and is a fun place for kids to play. However, the best part of Hemenway Park is that it’s home to free-roaming bighorn sheep! The state animal of Nevada roam freely all over the park. They make for great photo subjects; however, be careful not to get too close, because they are wild animals!

Lake Mead Panoramic Lookout

Lake Mead is the largest reservoir in the United States. To get there, you’ll drive on the same road the original builders used to get to the Hoover Dam! The panoramic lookout over Lake Mead was originally built for people to stand and watch the lake fill up. Unfortunately, it’s kind of the opposite these days, as the water level is low due to frequent drought.

The Colorado River is 195 feet lower than usual, but despite this, the view is still lovely and good for photos. If you look closely, you may be able to see the many tiny antelope ground squirrels that call the area home. In fact, your tour guide might even give them some water so you can see them up close!

Cross the Hoover Dam

Since you’re in a small group with a climate-controlled van, you’ll be able to drive right up to the dam. Big tour busses are not allowed near the dam so this is a huge perk on our small group tour! Once you’re there, you’re free to walk across the Hoover Dam and get to learn all about its history. And you might enjoy using the binoculars to get a better look at the vista.

Hoover Dam Bypass Bridge

Although the Hoover Dam was constructed in the 1930s, the Mike O’Callaghan-Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge was only recently built in 2010. The intention was so cars can drive to Arizona over Interstate 11 and alleviate the traffic over the dam. It also made it safer for pedestrians to explore the dam.

The cool thing about the overlook bridge is that pedestrians can also climb up the bridge by using the stairs or the ramp. Once on top of the bridge, there’s an amazing view of this desert country.

Benefits of a Guided Hoover Dam Tour

Okay, so now you may understand more about the Hoover Dam and why it’s important. But why should you take time out of your Las Vegas trip to go see the Hoover Dam? We have a few reasons!

It’s Close to Vegas

The Hoover Dam is a just short drive from the Las Vegas Strip. How often do you get to say that you’re less than an hour away from one of the greatest engineering feats in the country? The whole tour from pickup to drop-off takes around 4 hours. This means you can visit the Hoover Dam in just a half-day trip and still be back in time for your dinner reservations on the Strip!

It’s an Engineering Masterpiece 

Not only does this enormous dam supply the water and electricity for three different major U.S. states, but it also helps protect southern California and Arizona from floods. It was truly a feat of engineering when it was constructed in 1931, and it remains so today.

Tours Make It Easy to Visit

There are several ways to visit the Hoover Dam from the Las Vegas Strip. However, going with a guided tour is the easiest way to see the dam and learn all about it. Instead of having to navigate your way there and back, all you have to do is meet your friendly driver/guide at the designated pickup on the Strip! What’s more, going with a tour will ensure you learn all the intricate facts about the dam and surrounding areas you likely would not have discovered otherwise.

The View Is Better Than You Think

Both of the views from the Lake Mead Panoramic Lookout and from the Mike O’Callaghan-Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge are quite impressive! They make for some amazing photo ops and are unlike anything you can see anywhere else.

It’s a Family-Friendly Activity 

While not every popular activity near Las Vegas is family-friendly, this one certainly is! If you’re planning on visiting Vegas with the kids in tow, visiting the Hoover Dam is interesting for the whole family. What’s more, it’s educational! If you’ll be in Vegas with the fam, and you’re unsure where to stay, check out our list of the best family-friendly hotels in Las Vegas .

Why Hoover Dam Tours Are Worth It

So now you’re convinced how cool the dam is, but is it worth taking a guided tour there? The answer is: Absolutely, yes ! There are several reasons why taking a guided tour to the Hoover Dam is much better than going on your own.

Hotel Pick-up Included

You don’t have to worry about getting to the Hoover Dam yourself or figuring out where to meet your guide. The Hoover Dam tour picks you up from any of the major hotels on the Strip. They’ll send you a text the day before so you know exactly where to meet them! They are very organized and make sure not to leave anyone behind! Your tour guide will drop you off at the end of the tour as well. What’s more, the luxury tour van has chargers for iPhones! The driver (who doubles as the tour guide) will also give you cold water bottles when you get on the bus. Make sure to bring a cash tip for the driver to give them at the end!

Two-for-One Experience

Not only does this tour take you to the Hoover Dam, it also takes you to the Seven Magic Mountains for some unusual photos. We actually think the tour is more of a four-for-one experience, because you also get to stop at Hemenway Park to see bighorn sheep, and stop at the beautiful Lake Mead Panoramic Lookout! It’s worth mentioning that the Seven Magic Mountains is free to visit as of the writing of this article. However, the state is thinking about making the Seven Magic Mountains a paid attraction. If they do this, they will start requiring tour companies to have a permit in order to visit. Therefore, if you’re considering taking this tour, you should make sure to do it soon!

See and Understand More 

When you’re with a knowledgeable driver and guide who knows so much about each of your stops (and also where the three bathrooms are on the tour), your trip is so much more stress free. Plus you learn much more about the Hoover Dam, Boulder City, and the other stops than you would if you went on your own. For example, the our tour guide’s grandfather had personally worked on the Hoover Dam and lived in Boulder City! This definitely gave a unique perspective to the tour.

Small Group Tour 

The tour van holds 14 people or fewer, so it’s not a massive 52-passenger bus of strangers. This means you’ll get the chance to interact with the guide more and learn more useful facts about the Hoover Dam and surrounding areas. You’ll be able to ask your guide questions about what you’re seeing and double-check about any factoids you missed.

Stories and History 

Not only do local tour experts know a lot of information about all of the stops on the tour, they are also a lot of fun! For example, at the Lake Mead Panoramic Lookout, our tour guide poured water from water bottles on the cliff so the antelope ground squirrels would come out to drink the water that’s so hard for them to find in the desert. We got an up-close view of these cute critters. That’s probably not something we would have thought to do otherwise!

With a guided tour, you don’t have to through the trouble of renting a car. You also won’t have to wonder what you’re looking at or why it’s significant. Perhaps most importantly, you won’t have to personally deal with the traffic heading back into Las Vegas. Let your driver handle it with ease. All in all, a Hoover Dam tour is more than worth it for the price!

Where to Stay in Las Vegas

Discover some of the most iconic and best places to stay in Las Vegas to make this trip the most memorable of all your trips to the Strip

About Jessica Nemire

Jessica Nemire has been writing about about travel since 2011. She graduated from San Francisco State University in 2016 with a BA in journalism. She loves the ocean, Mission District burritos, and amazing sunsets.

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The 5 best hoover dam tours from las vegas (2024).

Learn more about this architectural marvel on a guided tour.

Best Hoover Dam Tours from Las Vegas

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If you're planning what to see and do in Las Vegas , you may be considering a day trip to the Hoover Dam – the National Historic Landmark that diverts water from the Colorado River to various corners of the southwestern United States. Authorized by President Calvin Coolidge in 1928, the dam took around five years to build. At the time of its completion in 1935, dam workers used 6.6 million tons of concrete, more than 5 million barrels of cement and 45 million pounds of steel.

Tours of the facility are available on-site and include access to the power plant and the dam's tunnels. However, independent tour companies – many of which depart from Las Vegas – also make stops at the dam. Many of the Hoover Dam tours from Las Vegas include additional experiences, such as a stop at the Las Vegas welcome sign or the Seven Magic Mountains public art installation.

Considering both traveler sentiment and expert input, U.S. News selected the best Hoover Dam tours from Las Vegas.

Comedy on Deck Tours – Hoover Dam Ultimate VIP Tour

Price: Adults from $90; kids from $80 Duration: 7 hours

Guides double as stand-up comedians on this Hoover Dam bus tour. In addition to round-trip transportation from your Las Vegas Strip hotel and a dedicated driver, this full-day tour includes a 45-minute walk across the top of the dam, the chance to see interior generators and learn how they work, and a sit-down lunch at a local restaurant. Plus, you'll stop at the iconic Las Vegas welcome sign for a photo-op and drive through historic Boulder City, Nevada. Tourists call it a great way to spend a day thanks to the entertaining and talented guides and the manageable pace of the tour.

This tour departs daily between 7:25 and 8:20 a.m., depending on your hotel's location along the Strip. The company also offers a Grand Canyon West tour that departs from Las Vegas.

Check prices & availability on:

Gray Line Las Vegas – Half Day Hoover Dam from Las Vegas Tour

Price: From $72 Duration: 4.5 hours

An ideal option if you're short on time, this half-day Hoover Dam tour operated by Gray Line Las Vegas promises round-trip transportation from the Strip to the dam, plenty of photo opportunities and two hours to explore at the dam. During the excursion, you'll also enjoy access to the dam museum and visitor center, as well as a guided tour of the power plant. Plus, the tour includes time for a photo-op at the famous Las Vegas welcome sign. Reviewers rave about the views seen along the tour and the entertaining, informative guides. Travelers also say this is a convenient, affordable tour for visitors based in Las Vegas.

Two departures are available daily at 10 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. Gray Line also offers tours to see the Grand Canyon .

Pink Adventure Tours – Hoover Dam Tour

Price: Adults from $119; kids from $109 Duration: 4 hours

Take in views of Lake Mead, the Hoover Dam and the Colorado River on this small-group tour that's capped at 10 participants. You'll get picked up from your Las Vegas hotel in one of the company's air-conditioned "Tour Trekker" vehicles, which features oversized windows, leather captain's chairs and an onboard audio system so you can easily hear the commentary from your driver, who doubles as your guide. Along your drive to the dam, you'll learn about the Mojave Desert, as well as early mining in the area and housing for dam workers. Upon reaching the dam, you'll enjoy 360-degree views from the observation deck before descending to the Power Plant. Guides from the Bureau of Reclamation will take you through the inspection tunnels and the generator room. Most reviewers give this tour high marks, praising the knowledgeable, entertaining tour guides, the comfortable vehicles and the small group size. Travelers also said this is a good option for visitors who do not want to devote an entire day to seeing the Hoover Dam.

Take your pick between an 8 a.m. or 1 p.m. departure. Pink Adventure Tours also offers tours of Red Rock Canyon and the Strip.

MaxTour – Hoover Dam Walk On Top Tour with Seven Magic Mountains

Price: From $80 Duration: 5 hours

You'll see more than just the Hoover Dam on this jam-packed outing. After being picked up from your Las Vegas hotel, you'll stop at the Las Vegas welcome sign to snap some photos before heading to Seven Magic Mountains, a public art installation by Ugo Rondinone that features a collection of colorful stacked boulders. Next up is a walking tour across the Hoover Dam and the Mike O'Callaghan–Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge. Along the way, your guide will make bonus stops at some of their favorite "hidden gem" spots. Participants laud the knowledgeable guides, who reviewers say make the experience fun and memorable. Others appreciated the guides' willingness to take photos for them, and their many restaurant recommendations.

Tours, which are capped at 14 people, are offered Monday, Wednesday and Saturday at 8 a.m. The company also operates tours that combine a visit to the Hoover Dam with a stop at the Grand Canyon.

Mr. Las Vegas – Hoover Dam Mini Tour

Price: Adults from $70; kids from $65 Duration: 3 hours

If you don't want to devote an entire day to seeing the Hoover Dam, consider this "mini" small-group tour operated by Mr. Las Vegas. It includes round-trip transportation from the Strip in a 14-person vehicle, a drive through Boulder City, and stops at Lake Mead and Hemenway Park (known for its herds of wild big horn sheep). You'll also enjoy plenty of panoramic views and photo-ops at the Hoover Dam, including at the Mike O'Callaghan-Pat Tillman Bridge. Reviewers praise the length of the tour and applaud the guides for their informative, engaging delivery. They also admired the views to and from the dam.

Hoover Dam tours are available twice-daily at 8 a.m. and noon. Note that tour lengths may stretch to four hours based on where you are picked up or dropped off on the Strip. Mr. Las Vegas also operates tours that combine a visit to the Hoover Dam with a stop at Seven Magic Mountains.

Frequently Asked Questions

The length of a Hoover Dam tour depends on which one you select; the Bureau of Reclamation offers two. If you opt for the Guided Power Plant Tour, it takes about 30 minutes. The Guided Dam Tour lasts about one hour. A tour with an independent company – which provides round-trip transportation from Las Vegas and may stop at other locales – will likely last several hours.

Yes, you can see the Hoover Dam without a tour. The exterior of the dam is open to visitors daily from 5 a.m. to 9 p.m. You can take a self-guided tour of the visitor center for $10, which includes access to the center's exhibits and access to the observation deck and Original Exhibit Building. You can also view parts of the Hoover Dam for free from the pedestrian plaza, which features panoramic views of the Colorado River, Lake Mead and the dam. However, if you'd like to see the historic construction tunnels, walk through the inspection tunnels or take a tour of the power plant, you'll need to purchase tickets for one of the guided tours.

To avoid crowds, plan your visit to the Hoover Dam on a weekday. According to the Bureau of Reclamation, the least busy times for tours are 9 to 11 a.m. and 2:30 to 3:45 p.m.

You may also be interested in:

• The Best Las Vegas Tours
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Hoover Dam Guide : Welcome everyone. I am your dam guide, Arnie. Now I'm about to take you through a fully funtional power plant, so please, no one wander off the dam tour and please take all the dam pictures you want. Now are there any dam questions?

Cousin Eddie : Yeah, where can I get some damn bait?

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The 7 Best Hoover Dam Tours From Las Vegas [2024 Reviews]

Explore the amazing hoover dam while learning it's history. we examine the top hoover dam tours from las vegas.

Constructed in the early 1930’s, Hoover Dam represents the kind of manpower and possibility American workers and industry were capable of.

As one of the tallest concrete dams in the world, it’s quite the site to see! Located just 30 minutes outside of Las Vegas, it’s absolutely worth going to see if you have the time!

We have all of the top Hoover Dam tours from Las Vegas tours right here for you!

Be sure to see our reviews of Red Rock Canyon tours , Antelope Canyon tours and Grand Canyon tours .

Best Hoover Dam Tours

Quick answer: the 7 best rated hoover dam tours from las vegas.

• Best Value Tour: Ultimate Hoover Dam Tour from Las Vegas With Lunch
• Best Half-Day Tour: From Las Vegas: Hoover Dam Half-Day Tour
• Best Private Tour: Half-Day Hoover Dam Private Tour from Las Vegas
• Best Guided Tour: Hoover Dam Experience from Las Vegas
• Best Full Day Tour: Grand Canyon West Rim With Hoover Dam Photo Stop
• Best Budget Tour: Hoover Dam Tour from Las Vegas
• Best Adventure Tour: Hoover Dam Trike Tour

Hoover Dam Tour Reviews

1. best value tour: hoover dam tour from las vegas with lunch.

• Duration: 6.5 hours
• Departure: Hotel pickup and drop-off included
• Departure Time: 8 am
• Includes: Professional Guide, Government’s Power Plant Tour inside the Visitor Center, Exhibit Tour Exclusive, 45 minute Walk On The Top tour, bottled water, complimentary ticket for the LA Comedy Club at the Strat

The Hoover Dam Tour from Las Vegas with Lunch is one of the most comprehensive tours, making it one of the most highly-rated from consumers time after time.

Lasting 6.5 hours, you’ll get to see an in-depth version of Hoover Dam that most people don’t even know exists! If you’re ready for a fun, educational adventure away from Vegas, you’ll love this one!

Once you’re picked up from your Las Vegas hotel, you’ll board an air-conditioned, comfy vehicle. The drivers are very experienced, and make the entire drive entertaining with their anecdotes and stories about the area. Due to the small group size, you’ll be able to ask your guide questions regarding the Hoover Dam history and related subjects.

Once you all arrive, you’ll head straight into the Powerplant Tour. This was particularly interesting, where you’ll climb up to a whopping 524 feet into the walls of the Black Canyon.

Expand To See More See Less

This area lets you see the Nevada Powerwing, full of massive generators and pipes inside the diversion tunnels! After learning about how it operates and how it began, you’ll then take the elevator back to the Visitor Center.

The Walk on the Top portion of the tour tends to be the crowd favorite, as you’re literally walking over the dam! The vast majority of Hoover Dam tours do not offer this!

You’ll stop on the bypass bridge to check out the incredible aerial views (make sure you don’t have a fear of heights!), take some photos, and head back to the bus.

More Information & Tour Booking

100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours of tour experience, other experiences you may enjoy:, 2. best half-day tour: from las vegas: hoover dam half-day tour.

• Duration: 5 hours
• Departure: Hotel pickup and drop-off is included
• Departure Time: 8 am and 1 pm
• Includes:  Professional Guide, hotel pickup and drop-off, bottled water

If you want to sneak away from the Las Vegas hustle-and-bustle, this next tour is a great way to do so! The  Hoover Dam Half Day Tour from Las Vegas is just a ton of fun, with the opportunity of seeing something that many people don’t get the opportunity to. However, you’ll see much more than just the dam on this excursion!

Once picked up from your Vegas Strip or downtown hotel in the morning (afternoon available), you’ll head straight to the dam. On the way, your tour guides will fill you in on some of the important highlights of the history of the dam and surrounding area.

All guides are certified professionals with a lot of experience, and the small group size means it’s more personalized. Once you arrive to the dam, you’ll go on an extended exterior tour of the dam.

You’ll learn even more about how it was built, how difficult it was to get it going during this crucial time in history (the Great Depression), and much more.

You’ll get to walk across the dam into Arizona, standing almost 1000 feet above the Colorado River! It almost feels like you’re soaring above in an aircraft, it’s so high!

On the way back to your Vegas hotel, you’ll make a stop at a local park full of Big Horn Sheep! Of course, this does depend on the time of year, but they come down from the mountains to graze on the grass in this area when it’s warmer.

At this time, you’ll even learn about the Native American history here, local flora and fauna, and more!

3. Best Private Tour: Half-Day Hoover Dam Private Tour from Las Vegas

• Departure Time: 7 to 8 am
• Includes:   Professional, local guide, pickup and drop-off, entry fees

Next we have the Private Half-Day Hoover Dam Tour from Las Vegas . This 4.5 – 5-hour tour is a great way to slow down, get some exercise in, and learn about a very important structure in US history.

This tour does include round-trip transportation and all entry fees, making it one of the most seamless ways to go about seeing the dam.

Once you get picked up from your hotel, you’ll head out to the Dam and settle in to the comfy, climate-controlled vehicle with the rest of your group. The guides will talk to you about the history of the dam, so you already have a good idea of what to expect when you arrive.

Once you arrive, you’ll further learn about the area and follow the guide around to the best lookout spots.

In fact, from the Mike O’Callaghan/Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge you’ll be able to see pretty much all of the Dam and Black Canyon! Not only will you be able to see Nevada, you’ll be able to see Arizona!

We loved being able to see Lake Mead, with rich blue waters and a rich history. In fact, it’s the largest reservoir in the country, and is a popular destination for fishing, boating, swimming, and more!

You’ll then head inside the dam for the interior tour and powerplant tour. It’s so fascinating to see it from the inside, along with the displays and photos on the walls! On your way back to your Vegas hotel, you’ll stop in the beautiful 1930’s town of Boulder City and the historic Boulder Dam Hotel.

4. Best Guided Tour: Hoover Dam Experience from Las Vegas

• Includes:  Bottled water, hotel pickup and drop-off, air-conditioned vehicle, light breakfast snack

If you’re on a budget and want something that isn’t going to empty out your pockets, we have just the tour for you. The Hoover Dam Experience from Las Vegas 5-hour tour is a fantastic way to let loose and get out into the open desert. If you’re looking for a bit of calm to contrast the glitz and glamor of Las Vegas, this is a fantastic option!

The tour starts by being picked up at your Las Vegas hotel by a comfy vehicle that will take you out for a 33-mile drive in the desert. Despite being a desert, it’s quite scenic and beautiful to look at.

While you are riding along, listen to the commentary offered by the guides who are experts in this area and have quite a bit of knowledge about the history. They’ll teach you all about the dam workers who lived in Boulder City in the 1930s – some of which who unfortunately didn’t make it.

You’ll then drive past Lake Mead, which is the second largest man-made lake in all of the Western Hemisphere! The cool thing is, if you didn’t know it, you’d probably never even realize that it’s manmade! You’ll then cross over the top of the dam.

For many, this is really the most breathtaking experience, and at 900 feet up it’s no wonder why. You’ll get plenty of close-up views of the structure, penstocks, and Arizona Spillway.

While it was closed due to COVID regulations, the generator room and power plant should now be open up to guests again. The interior tour is just as fascinating as the exterior, offering more in-depth knowledge about the history and operation of the dam.

5. Best Full Day Tour: Grand Canyon West Rim With Hoover Dam Photo Stop From Las Vegas

• Duration: 10.5 hours
• Departure Time: 6 am
• Includes:  Air-conditioned vehicle, breakfast, selected hotel pickup and drop-off, unlimited bottled water, lunch (if option selected)

Are you on the hunt for a tour that’s more in-depth than just a couple of hours? Or perhaps you’d like to spend a bit more time outside of the city than just a morning? If either of those sound like you, then the Grand Canyon West Rim with Hoover Dam from Las Vegas tour is just for you!

Lasting a whopping 10.5 hours, you’re going to see not only the Hoover Dam, but the Grand Canyon, Joshua Tree forest, and more. This educational, fun, adventurous excursion is great for people of all ages and is one that you’ll surely take again.

You’ll start off at the crack of dawn with a pickup at your Las Vegas hotel, then travel straight into the desert. You’ll get to see various Joshua Trees that grow here – some of which are almost a whopping 1,000 years old if you can believe it!

Before arriving at the Grand Canyon, you’ll make a stop at the Hoover Dam bypass bridge, where you’ll be able to take some photos and enjoy the incredible vistas of the structure.

Next, you’ll head out to the Grand Canyon’s west rim, which is where the famous Skywalk is located. The glass Skywalk may be a bit intimidating at first, but it offers some of the best views possible of the canyon, including the 4,000-foot drop to the Colorado River at the bottom!

The guides will tell you all about the geologic and cultural history of the area, creating even more of an impact.

Eagle Point is also a Native American village which features various tribal homes and offers a bit of insight into their lifestyle. You’ll get to enjoy some of their cultural activities, such as their traditional dance performances!

Then, head over to Guano Point with some more breathtaking views over the river, You can hike the trail over here, which leads to an insane lookout! Take lunch over and enjoy it with a view.

6. Best Budget Tour: Hoover Dam Tour from Las Vegas

• Duration: 4.5 hours
• Departure Time: Morning
• Includes:  Hotel pickup and drop-off, helicopter flight (If option selected), bottled water

The Hoover Dam Tour from Las Vegas is another one we had to mention, due to the consistently top-notch ratings it receives. Lasting 4.5 hours, it’s a great way to fill in your morning and be back before the afternoon! Learn all about the history of the dam, how it was constructed, and how it’s played such a massive role in Vegas’ success.

Hotel pickup and drop-off is offered, so you don’t have to worry about transportation. Once you arrive to Hoover Dam, you’ll receive an express tour where you can check out the exhibit gallery and visitor center.

The penstock viewing platform offers incredible views, and you will also be able to take a guided tour where they teach you all about how it was made – during one of the most difficult parts of US history!

If you’d like, you can choose to upgrade to their “deluxe tour”, which includes lunch at The Hoover Dam Lodge and a stop at Ethel M’s chocolate factory and botanical gardens.

If you are a foodie, this is just a must-do. Alternatively, you can select the deluxe tour and the Lake Mead Cruise, which gets you out on a paddlewheel boat with a picnic lunch served on board!

Whichever one you choose, however, know that you’ll have a great time. The cruise is always a load of fun, with amazing views of the water and a yummy lunch.

The crew are funny, entertaining, and always place safety first. If traffic is light on the way to your hotel, you’ll also be able to make some stops for photo ops at the legendary Las Vegas “welcome” sign!

7. Best Adventure Tour: Hoover Dam Trike Tour

• Duration: 4 hours
• Departure:  3050 Westwood Dr, Las Vegas, NV 89109
• Includes:  Use of Automatic Trike Motorcycle, bottled water, driver/guide

Okay, now we’re almost positive you’ve never gone on a tour like this next one! The Hoover Dam Trike Tour is hands-down one of the most interesting ways to see the dam! You’ll hop on to a motorized trike and drive this one-of-a-kind vehicle and see the area’s most beautiful lookouts.

You do get an option of different vehicles if you don’t want a trike (though they’re pretty awesome). There are also slingshot vehicles and others that are similar to motorcycles, so it really just depends on what you choose.

However, the trikes are truly unique, and so easy to operate! If you don’t feel comfortable driving, however, it does fit 2 passengers which makes it great for going with a partner!

Before you head out, you’ll receive a thorough safety lecture by the guides and then the opportunity to take some practice runs before hitting the road.

As you ride around, the guides will explain the history of the area and the dam, mixing adrenaline with education. They do take you to various stops throughout so you have time to really see the area.

You’ll have time to walk across the dam’s overlook, take plenty of photos, and even view Lake Mead. The guides are very attentive, making sure everyone is safe, comfortable, and following them.

This is definitely a tour great for all ages and experience levels, as it does not require a motorcycle license. It gives you an amazing sense of freedom, and lets you get in some fresh air, too!

Las Vegas Travel Guide

Getting there –.

As Las Vegas is such a popular spot for tourists, it’s really convenient getting there (in most cases). It seems like a lot of major airlines offer direct flights to Vegas! American Airlines, Spirit, United, Delta, Southwest, British Airways, Virgin Atlantic, and many more.

As you can probably imagine, there are certain times throughout the year where flights are more expensive, such as New Year’s. If you can stand the heat, summer usually has the cheapest flights.

If you live in Southern California or Arizona, for example, you may prefer driving. The roads there are usually worth it alone, whether you like natural beauty or are itching to explore some of the various art displays in the middle of the desert.

Getting Around

While it’s very likely you’re going to spend the vast majority of your stay on the Strip, it’s not always as easy as just walking from one end to the other. Not to mention, if you’re going in the summer, that sun is going to be beaming on down on you, hard! Let’s talk about the most convenient ways to get around.

Monorail – Did you know that Las Vegas has a monorail? It sure does! This makes it so much easier for people to get around, from business travelers to tourists. This way, you can get around the Strip in less than 15 minutes! You have different types of fares, depending on how long you’re going to be there and how often you’ll need to move around. The mobile tickets are a breeze to use, too. We recommend the unlimited ride pass!

This system operates at trains every 4-8 minutes, including: MGM Grand, Paris Las Vegas, Flamingo/Caesar’s Palace, Harrah’s/The LINQ, Convention Center, Westgate, and SAHARA.

Taxi – Taxis are still heavily used in Vegas, and have been an iconic part of the city’s history. There are various companies operating in the city, and this is one place you never have to worry about it being “too late” to hail a cab.

Rideshare – If you’re not very keen on taxis, that’s okay. Lyft and Uber do operate here as well, though we feel like Lyft has been more reliable and a bit more affordable in our experience.

Rental Cars – If you didn’t drive to Vegas but you still want to drive, we recommend you grab a rental at the Harry Reid International Airport Rental Car Center. Here, there are a whopping 10 car rental companies in one convenient spot. Not to mention, it literally never closes, and has non-stop shuttle service to and from the airport terminals.

Limos – When in Vegas, right? If you want to go all out and get really flashy, limousines are a fun way to go about getting from point A to point B. There are plenty available at McCarran International Airport, though as they’re more limited than a rental car or taxi, it’s best to make a reservation ahead of time. There are also party limos and those that do Strip tours, too!

Bus – It’s available, but it’s not always the most desirable. The Deuce is Vegas’ public transportation that runs on 2 routes that can take you to the Strip or downtown. Deuce on the Strip makes stops at pretty much every resort located on the Strip, and DVX goes a bit through downtown/Fremont Street area.

Where to Stay –

One of the reasons why Vegas is so appealing, is because there really is something for every budget. From the budget-friendly to ultra-luxury, you’ll find it all here. This can make it difficult to choose where to stay, though, as there is just so much to choose from!

If you didn’t know already, The Strip is basically the very center or heart of Las Vegas. While it’s just 4 miles long, there’s a lot packed in, including endless different resorts. However, as you may imagine, it’s generally more expensive to stay on the Strip. Also, you probably want a hotel that’s located more in the center of the Strip so you aren’t having to make a trek every time just to see other things on the other end.

Budget-Friendly – If you’re really on a tight budget, we recommend taking a look at a hotel off the Strip. The Westgate is a great choice. However, there are also some other options like the STRAT which is located on the north end of the Strip. While certainly impressive in appearance and spacious rooms, it’s not a solid option. However, it’s a bit barren around the hotel, and you’ll have to travel a couple miles to get to the center of the Strip or Fremont Street.

The Luxor , Excalibur , and Circus Circus are a few other notorious hotels on the strip that are more affordable! Speaking of impressive in appearance, the Luxor is literally an enormous pyramid, and the Excalibur, a castle.

Middle Options – If you have a bit more budget, give The Tropicana a try. It has a kind of old-school Miami feel to it, and even houses one of the few original 1950’s casinos inside! We love the Paris Las Vegas, which is just a classic. It’s in a prime location and close to most of the main attractions. With their own versions of the Louvre, Eiffel Tower, and Arc de Triomphe, it’s kind of like being in Paris! The rooms are a tiny bit dated, but are in good shape. The hotel also has the Chateau nightclub and over a dozen restaurants.

Caesar’s Palace and the Mirage are a couple of other nice selections in this price range.

Higher-End – The Bellagio is always a fine choice when you’re in Vegas. It’s one of the largest on the Strip, and is located right in the center of it. Thanks to the massive fountains in front of it, however, you are still set a bit away from the noisiness of the streets.

The Skylofts at MGM Grand are one of our favorites, and are absolutely impressive. With rooms starting at 1,400 square feet up to 3-bedroom lofts, you can imagine the magnificent vistas of the Strip when you look out your floor-to-ceiling windows!

The Waldorf Astoria (formerly the Mandarin Oriental), is a bit more of a peaceful form of luxury. You can rest assured that whatever you experience in this hotel – from the rooms, to the spas, to the restaurants – will be the ultimate in luxury.

Restaurants and Eating Out –

Oh boy, where to begin? If you’re a foodie (and even if you aren’t), you’re going to love Vegas! Literally everything you can imagine (and things you could never fathom) are here for the eating, at all hours of the day. Just like with hotels, you have options for all budgets. However, we highly recommend making reservations as far in advance as possible (if the restaurant accepts reservations).

Celeb Chef Restaurants – Did you know that Vegas houses the most celebrity chefs in the world (per mile)? That’s right, over 40 of them work on the Strip, offering tourists and locals prime, unique dishes and fun places to dine.

If you’re a sushi fiend, do not miss Nobu Matsuhisa at Caesars Palace and Virgin Hotels . Famous for fusing traditional Japanese with Peruvian ingredients, his dishes are fresh and flavorful. Another great Caesars Palace eat is Guy Savoy’s namesake restaurant.

Serving posh French Cuisine, it’s often dubbed the best restaurant in all of Las Vegas. Who doesn’t love some good Italian food? Paying homage to the Italian-American restaurants of the mid-20 th century, you can expect opulence and unmatched tableside service at Carbone .

Buffets – Did you know that the earliest version of what we currently know as the “buffet” started in Vegas? It makes sense, then, that they’re still masters at the craft. Buffets keep gamblers in the casinos, while still keeping things more affordable than it’d be to keep a full restaurant open all the time.

Garden Court Buffet is located inside Main Street Station, and is one of the best bang for your buck if you’re in Fremont Street. The Buffet at the Golden Nugget is another budget option, offering breakfast, lunch, dinner, and brunch on the weekends. Not only that, they have a full bar! The Buffet at Wynn is probably the most beautiful buffet in the city, with a whopping 15 live-action cooking stations! You can expect delicious steaks, seafood, and if we may say – fine dining?

First-Time Musts – There are places that you just have to eat at if it’s your first time in Vegas. One of them, is the Golden Steer. This steakhouse originally opened in the late-50’s, with serious legends having dined here, like Elvis Presley, Frank Sinatra, actress Natalie Wood, Nat King Cole, Muhammad Ali, and more.

Tao Asian Bistro is certainly an impressive place, both in taste and appearance. I mean, where else are you going to enjoy flavorful Pan-Asian food in the midst of an enormous Buddha floating over a Japanese Koi pond?

The Paris has a lot to offer, including the Mon Ami Gabi. Located right at the base of their Eiffel Tower, you can grab some yummy breakfast, lunch, and dinner here. It’s a prime people-watching spot, and also has some nice views of the Bellagio fountains.

Tacos are always a good idea, but not every taco is good. Tacos El Gordo offers delicious ones, and if you’re just coming out of the club or casino you have to fill up on these delicious ones!

Nightlife and Entertainment –

We simply won’t be able to cover every single excellent option Vegas has in terms of nightlife and entertainment, as it’s what it’s known for and has something new seemingly every month. However, we’re going to do our best to recommend you what we feel is worth your money, along with what’s simply the most popular.

Nightclubs – There are a ton of world-class nightclubs in Vegas. If you’re into electronic music, you’re in for a real treat. Zouk Nightclub is the newest and most high-tech in Vegas, with multiple rooms. You’ll see the biggest artists, like Tiesto, Disclosure, and so on here. XS Las Vegas in the Wynn is maybe the most “elegant” on the Strip, and has different areas that each time is a bit different. Top-notch, mainstream DJs are always here, and it’s always packed.

Omnia inside Caesars Palace is another luxury option, with world-famous DJs, bands, and other musical acts. Hakkasan in the MGM Grand is another great option, with various floors all offering a different genre. However, it’s most well-known for the mainstage area with electronic acts.

Here are some other great options: Drai’s, Drenched at Marquee, Tao, Chateau, Jewel, and Marquee.

Bars and Speakeasys – Vegas is definitely a drinking city, and with that comes a ton of supreme bars and speakeasys.

Downtown Cocktail Room is a swanky speakeasy oozing with elegance. The front door is a bit difficult to find, but it’s absolutely worth it once you’re enjoying a smooth craft cocktail in a velvet chair. The Laundry Room inside Commonwealth is an intimate, small little place marked with a laundry pin outside! With images of iconic Hollywood women such as Rita Hayworth and Marlene Dietrich hanging on the walls, make sure to check the red light outside or text the number to see if space is available.

Frankie’s Tiki Room is a must-see! It’ll transport you to another world, with its kitschy bar decorated with complete tiki vibes. Their cocktails are simply iconic, and the staff is so much fun. If you’re a craft beer buff, you have to check out The Silver Stamp: a 1970s den complete with wood paneling and vintage beer memorabilia.

Shows – We couldn’t leave out one of the biggest entertainment offerings in Las Vegas! Cirque du Soleil is a classic, with 6 different shows in Vegas. “O” by Cirque du Soleil is an aquatic show with the famous acrobats you probably equate with the Cirque du Soleil name. “Michael Jackson ONE” is a must-see for MJ fans, as well as “The Beatles Love” for Beatles fans. “Mystere”, “KA”, and “Mad Apple” are also great options.

David Copperfield is a legendary Vegas show that never fails to wow audiences. Even if you aren’t particularly into magic tricks, it’ll leave you scratching your head over how he pulls some of these illusions off. Other solid magic show options are Criss Angel’s Mindfreak and Mat Franco at The LINQ.

Blue Man Group has been impressing Vegas audiences for years. Their playful miming, use of music, and invented instruments is a blast! Jabbawockeez offers a kind of similar experience, and became famous from winning America’s Best Dance Crew over 10 years ago. If you’re into humor, try checking out Terry Fator’s funny ventriloquist talents.

Casinos – If you’re on the hunt for the biggest, most upscale casinos with the newest games, we recommend heading to The Venetian is a smart move. Not only that, but it has a race and sports book, a very popular poker room, and tons of slots.

If you’re looking for a certain game, then it’s worth searching around online first. Lots of newbie gamblers want to go with a low limit table. You’re not as likely to find these on the Strip, but El Cortez on Fremont Street is an excellent option with many low-limit games and blackjack from a single or double-deck shoe. It’s always fun to play around on the penny and nickel machines here, too. South Point is at the end of Las Vegas Boulevard is a great alternative.

On the other end of the spectrum lies Caesars Palace. High rollers love this place, and the fact that it often shows up in Hollywood movies is just another reason why. Be prepared to spend some serious cash here. The Bellagio is a nice alternative, with luxury and a massive 7,000 square-foot poker room.

Between March to May and September to November are commonly known as the best times of year for Vegas weather. It is a desert, so you can absolutely count on summers being above 100 degrees. Spring and fall are pretty nice – not too hot, not too cold. Wintertime tends to be pretty cold, so dress accordingly!

Attractions

What else is there to do in Vegas that isn’t gambling, eating, or seeing a show? Let’s take a look!

Fremont Street – Fremont Street is a blast! It’s a little kooky, but reminds us of “old-school” Las Vegas. Located right in downtown, it’s pedestrian-only and comes with a ton of live entertainment, the ultra-fun zipline that goes right over the center of the street, and a light show. Container Park is here, too, with all kinds of little boutique shops and live entertainment.

Statosphere Tower/The STRAT Observation Deck – The tallest freestanding observation deck in the US is located here, too! If you’re already staying at The STRAT, make sure to check out the observation deck! Even if you aren’t staying there, it’s a pretty interesting way to see a 360-view of Vegas.

The Neon Museum – Often a go-to spot for local photographers, The 2.25-acre Neon Museum or Neon Boneyard, keeps old neon signs from the city, making for a fascinating cultural spot to take a stroll away from the crowds.

Drive Your Dream Car – Ever wanted to drive a Lambo, Ferrari, or Aston Martin? You can at Exotics Racing! You can drive up to 130 mph on their race track – don’t forget to take some pics or photos! At the Richard Petty Driving Experience you can join a pro driver on the Las Vegas Speedway, too!

Indoor Skydiving – Are you an adrenaline junkie? Perhaps you want the thrill of skydiving without having to jump out of a sketchy old plane? Then head over to Vegas Indoor Skydiving!

Atomic Testing Museum – The US has quite the history of nuclear testing, especially in the Nevada deserts. This museum is educational, entertaining, and even includes an exact replica of the control point where the countdown for each nuclear bomb detonation occurred.

High Roller Observation Wheel – Located at The LINQ, this is the world’s tallest observation wheel! You know Vegas has to do things big! At 550 feet above ground, this is another great way to see the city, 360 degrees.

Roller Coaster – Head over to Adventure Dome for some indoor roller coasters, laser tag, the swinging ship, bumper cars, and more. If you’re bringing kids along, you’re going to score big points with them if you go here.

Helicopter Ride – Until you see the Las Vegas strip with a helicopter tour , you don’t appreciate the beauty of the bright lights on the casinos and the surrounding desert.

Grand Canyon – If you have an extra day be sure to take a tour of the Grand Canyon. It’s well worth the drive to see this spectacular natural attraction.

ATV Tours – Explore the beauty of the the surrounding desert with an ATV tour . These guided trips will be the adventure of a lifetime!

Balloon Ride – There is no better way to see the surrounding desert and the strip then floating above it with a hot air balloon ride .

Antelope & Red Rock Canyon – A tour of Antelope Canyon is not to be missed. These canyons were formed by water and wind erosion and will boggle your mind that they were all created naturally. Red Rock Canyon is one of the most photographed area in the country and when you go there you will know why. The fiery red rocks are stunningly beautiful. Be sure to take a guided tour of Red Rock Canyon is great way to see it, you can get lost in there pretty easily.

• Walking from end-to-end of the Strip is not as easy as it may look. Especially if it’s the middle of the sweltering summer heat. The Strip is filled with people basically at all times, so take your time and try to plan.
• If you end up getting lost on the Strip (it happens, especially when alcohol is involved!), try to spot the STRAT tower on the north end.
• Plan for resort fees. These can vary from around $25 to $40 per night, which can add up quickly! These usually are not included in the fees when booking so make sure to read the fine print.
• Bring comfortable shoes. Yes, we know there’s a lot of glitz and glamour, but at least bring the most comfy heels you have! You’re likely to do a lot of standing and walking, and if you get blisters it can put a bit of a damper on things.
• Bring sunscreen – even if you don’t think you’ll need it! With the tall, reflective buildings and being in the middle of the desert, the sun can really blast down on you.

Tour Guides

The Ultimate Hoover Dam Tour With Lunch is our Editor's Choice as the the best Hoover Dam tour from Las Vegas

Robert Baker

Related articles, the 7 best las vegas atv tours [2024 reviews], the 7 best grand canyon tours from las vegas [2024 reviews], 🐎 the 5 best las vegas horseback riding tours [2024 reviews], the 7 best antelope canyon tours from las vegas [2024 reviews].

Amsterdam Walking Tour

Quick details.

• Hour Glass Duration: 3 hours
• Users Max. people: 8
• Info Tour Type: City

Start point:  Anywhere  central, usually your hotel.

Private Tour

Discover amsterdam on a walking tour.

Book a fun and informative exploration of old Amsterdam as we guide you through alleys and squares and along beautiful canals. We stop often and point out landmarks, interesting detials and tell stories about the city’s rich history.

Topics that we cover include history, art, architecture, culture, politics and more

• The history of Amsterdam and how the city was shaped
• Famous Dutch liberalism, their tolerance and directness, why it arose and just how far it goes
• The Protestant Reformation and how it suited the pragmatic Dutch culture of the time
• How the Dutch East India Company influenced modern business
• The bicycle culture and canals and why so many bicycles are inside the canals
• The history about the houseboats and the city’s crazy crooked and tiny houses
• Where to eat good food and drink tasty beer
• Coffeeshops and how that whole thing works
• Flea markets/farmers markets/street markets – which are worth a visit on which days and which are best to avoid
• Which museums and attractions are great and which are tourist traps
• We talk about a whole lot more too, whatever crops up in conversation

If you want to tour Amsterdam and get a local’s perspective, That Dam Guide is here to help and our Amsterdam walking tour is the perfect way to get to know the city.

• Chevron down Terms & Conditions

Refund policy:  If you cancel more than 24 hours before the start of the tour then you will receive a full refund.

A few Reviews…

Walking tour with lee (from tripadvisor april 2024 by scubedoo).

Took the private walking tour with Lee on our second day in Amsterdam. It was a great way to get to know the city early in the trip and learn a lot of history of the area. Lee met us at our hotel and we started from there, she is very knowledgeable on Amsterdam and was able to answer any questions we had. She also advised us on some great restaurants to visit which we did and wasn’t disappointed. Highly recommend this tour.

Perfect Tour (from Tripadvisor April 2024 by wendypstan)

A friend referred me to That Dam Guide. From start to finish it was an excellent experience. Booking was super easy. Directions on meeting place and follow up were perfect. Our guide, Lee, was amazing. We learned so much and she was super fun. This tour is a great start to a vacation in Amsterdam as you gain a great perspective of the city and you have a valuable source of information for how to spend the rest of your trip. Don’t hesitate to book.

Amsterdam private tour (from Tripadvisor August 2023 by MsKAB)

We only had one full day in Amsterdam and wanted to see as much as possible. Mark was amazing! Not only is he so knowledgeable about everything Amsterdam but he is just fun to be with! I would highly recommend hiring him for a private day tour. He took us to parts of the Amsterdam countryside that we would’ve never seen otherwise.

Great Tour (from Tripadvisor August 2022 by Graham L)

As a repeat customer, I can confirm that Mark is great. He gives you a mix of history of the city, local unknown spots, and current events and culture. He keeps it entertaining but informative. He also gave us a ton of great recommendations for restaurants and spots to visit. My girlfriend and I (both age 26) appreciated his great camera skills and knowledge of good photo spots. We did both the city walking tour and the Rijksmuseum tour.

The Amsterdam Walking Tour leaves one better informed – history, knowledge and unique points of interest (from Tripadvisor November 2019 by P7083VKsandrab)

The Amsterdam Walking Tour by That Dam Guide, Mark Law was fabulous, more than meeting my expectations. During the over three hours of walking we were introduced to many highlights of the care of Amsterdam. What made the tour so informative was Mark’s knowledge of the history of Amsterdam and how he weaved that knowledge into what he shared with the group. I appreciated the hidden gems he introduced us to, such as the Dutch East India Trading Company building which is now used by the University of Amsterdam, the Bols tasting bar, the significance of the stumbling stones, the gates and architecture. Following the tour I received an email with further links which was a first for me in terms of follow-up to a tour and added to the make he provided the map of recommendations he provided. Mark is has a wealth of information and the tour was fabulous!

Great Walking Tour with Lee (from Tripadvisor August 2019 by Arnold K

Walking tour with rob- fantastic (from tripadvisor january 2019 by stripes6).

My teenage son and I visited Amsterdam in September. Our first day we started with a 3 hour walking tour of Amsterdam with  Rob  of That Dam Guide…I am so happy we did!  Rob  was funny, pleasant, knowledgable and helpful. The walking tour gave us a general idea of the layout of central Amsterdam, some very interesting history and lots of humorous stories about the city. I highly recommend That Dam Guide!  Rob  is passionate about Amsterdam!

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Lake Mead Tour: Self-Guided Drive

Includes the valley of fire tour.

Tour Details

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Welcome to the lake mead hoover dam tour .

Discover the majesty of Lake Mead Hoover Dam with this self-guided driving tour! Take in vibrant rock formations millions of years in the making! Hike fantastic desert trails. Uncover the history of ancient tribes and their strategies for survival. Witness the Colorado River’s force and learn about the ongoing struggle surrounding this life-giving source of water. All from the comfort of your own vehicle!

About the Tour

The journey begins at the Lake Mead Visitor Center. From there, you’ll pass the Lake Mead Marina, a vibrant hub of recreational activities. As you drive on, take in the array of colored rocks along the cliffs! You’ll learn about the area’s fascinating geologic history which encompasses billions of years. Then delve into the Colorado River Tribes and find out how they survived in such a harsh climate. You’ll even pass the hot springs which ancient Paleo-Indians found therapeutic and sacred!

Discover tales of lawlessness and murder which played out during the region’s Wild West days, then continue on to the Wetlands Trail, packed with diverse wildlife. Stop by the Northshore Road Overlook for majestic views, then hear the fascinating story of explorer John Wesley Powell.

You’ll also hear about steamboats and how they served as a vital form of transportation until the railroads came to the area. Plus, find out about Elwood Mead and why this famous lake bears his name. Discover the geological wonder of the Hamblin-Cleopatra Volcano and the drowned archaeological marvel of the Lost City.

Then hear about the devastating MegaDrought and the ongoing fight over Lake Mead’s water. Next, head into Valley of Fire State Park, home to blazing rock formations, ancient petroglyphs, unforgettable hiking trails, and some proper Wild West history. Your tour concludes here.

Valley of Fire Tour

The Lake Mead tour also includes the full Valley of Fire tour. So you get two tours for the price of one.

Upgrade and Save:

Upgrade now to one of these bundles and secure the best value!

• 10 Tours from Las Vegas : Drive to 10+ national parks close to Vegas. Get the bundle for $49.99 and save 65%.
• Nevada National Parks & Hoover Dam: Enjoy self-guided driving tours of National Parks and Hoover Dam for $39.99 per car and save 65%.

Want all of our tours? Upgrade to Action+ :

• An annual $99.99/year subscription offers access to over 160+ tours.
• Unlimited use throughout the year.
• Includes free access to new tours as they are released.

Where To Start?

Start your tour at L ake   Mead  Visitor Center : 10 Lakeshore Rd, Boulder City, NV 89005

How Does It Work?

• Once you book a tour, you’ll get a text/email with instructions.
• Download the app (while in good wifi/signal) and use your unique password to access your tours. If there are multiple versions or entrances for your tour, be sure to download all audio guides.
• To begin touring, go to the starting point and launch the app.
• The audio starts automatically once you reach the starting point. Stick to the tour route and speed limit for the best experience.
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What You'll See

The marina has relocated due to dropping water levels in Lake Mead, requiring frequent moves, like shoveling snow in a never-ending blizzard.

Lake Mead's history began a billion years ago, with battles between water and volcanic activity resulting in layers of rock like gneiss and granite.

Colorado River Indian Tribes

Native American tribes, including Mohave, Chemehuevi, Hopi, and Navajo, thrived in the area using the river for their livelihood.

Hot Springs

Over 300 springs sustain wildlife and plants, with hot springs' mineral waters being significant for Native American cultures.

Hatchery Saddle Point

The Lake Mead Fish Hatchery once thrived here, but quagga mussel infestation and lowering water levels forced its shutdown.

Sunset View Scenic Overlook

This viewpoint offers stunning panoramas of Lake Mead, Muddy Mountains, and the Callville Mesa.

Despite the swift river, beavers thrive here with their dens scattered along the banks.

Owl Canyon Trail

Exposed by receding water levels, this canyon offers a 2-mile hike with potential owl sightings.

The area was dubbed Eldorado by Spanish explorers, but it was silver, not gold, they found, although later gold rushes transformed the region.

Ahvote’s Grudges

Infamous for murder, Ahvote killed a camp leader and others due to personal disputes.

The Ute and Paiute People

These tribes settled around 1,000 years ago, adapting to the harsh environment through hunting and gathering.

Wetlands Trail

This short trail is favored by bird enthusiasts for spotting species like the Black-throated Sparrow and Great Blue Heron.

The Las Vegas Wash

This channel carries excess water from the city to Lake Mead, with its flow increasing alongside urban growth.

Golden Eagles

With a wingspan of up to 7.5 feet, these raptors hunt prey like the prairie rattlesnake.

Northshore Road Overlook

Pause for panoramic views of the landscape and the Las Vegas Wash.

Powell’s Expedition

Led by John Wesley Powell in 1869, this daring expedition explored the uncharted Colorado River.

Steamboats On the Colorado River

Steamboats were crucial for transportation along the Colorado River in the late 1800s, with the first steamboat "Uncle Sam" making significant deliveries for the U.S. Army.

Elwood Mead

Lake Mead is named after engineer Elwood Mead, who revolutionized water laws in the region by proposing state ownership of water and permits for usage.

The Imperial Valley Disaster

The Imperial Valley disaster highlighted the need for river control, as the Alamo Canal led to massive flooding in the valley.

Harry Thomas Cory

Cory's innovative approaches, including redirecting the river and using massive rockfill, ultimately tamed the Colorado River during the Imperial Valley disaster.

Callville Wash Trail

The Callville Wash Trail offers views of Callville, a settlement established by Anson Call, and explores his journey as a Mormon pioneer.

Mesquite Trees

Mesquite trees were vital for Native tribes, serving multiple purposes, but drought and relocation have diminished their presence.

Anniversary Narrows Trail

Named after Francis "Borax" Marion Smith, this trail showcases his discovery of borax, which brought prosperity to him.

Hamblin-Cleopatra Volcano

The Hamblin-Cleopatra Volcano split due to earthquake faults around 13 million years ago, forming Hamblin Mountain and the Cleopatra Lobe.

The value of borax, despite high profits, was offset by significant overhead costs, leading to eventual changes in the industry.

After the Imperial Valley Disaster, the Bureau of Reclamation constructed the Hoover Dam, securing water distribution through the Colorado River Compact.

Northshore Summit Trail

This trail offers steep but rewarding views, named after Mormon pioneer Francis “Borax” Marion Smith.

The Lost City

The Lost City, discovered by the Perkins brothers in 1924, reveals an ancient settlement submerged under Lake Mead.

The Puebloans

The Puebloans built houses from clay, created pottery, and left petroglyphs in the region, surviving harsh conditions before leaving around 1000 AD.

The Most Repulsive Tree

Lake Mead boasts 700 flower species and Invasive Plant Management combats non-native plants threatening the ecosystem.

A Most Peculiar Specimen

Joshua trees, actually yuccas, are versatile and significant, serving as clothing material and offering sustenance.

Rattlesnakes

Rattlesnakes, though dangerous, give warning signals and are rarely lethal with modern antivenom treatment.

Redstone Dune Trail

This trail features sandstone formations that evolved from ancient sand dunes over millions of years.

Mountain Lions

Mountain lions are solitary carnivores with hissing and purring vocalizations, usually avoiding humans but requiring caution.

Monster of the Lake

Gila monsters, colorful lizards, can grow large and are native, storing fat in their tails.

Dinosaur Fossils

Lake Mead holds diverse fossils, including trilobites, crinoids, corals, and more, showcasing transitions in the environment.

How Do Fossils Form?

Fossils form as organisms are quickly covered by sediment, preserving their shape over millions of years.

Native razorback suckers struggle due to habitat changes, while non-native sportfish thrive in Lake Mead.

The Colorado River Compact excluded Native tribes, leading to water disputes and a new showdown as the compact expires in 2026.

The founder of eBay named his website after Echo Bay Marina, which he enjoyed visiting.

B-29 Crashes into Lake Mead

Dr. Carl Anderson's B-29 crashed into Lake Mead in 1958 due to misjudgment of altitude.

Hidden Horrors of Lake Mead

Falling water levels at Lake Mead have revealed human remains from decades ago, some involving unresolved homicides.

Rogers Spring

Rogers Spring remains mysterious, possibly sourced from high mountain ranges and flowing upward through faults.

Blue Point Spring Trail

The trail leads to Blue Point Spring, linked historically to a failed irrigation project and a laxative water incident.

Historic St Thomas Loop Trail

St. Thomas, an early settlement, succumbed to Lake Mead's rising waters due to the construction of the Hoover Dam, leaving its history submerged.

Valley of Fire

The Valley of Fire State Park features stunning red rock formations shaped by erosion, holding historical significance for ancient civilizations.

Elephant Rock Overlook

Elephant Rock, a sandstone arch, resembles an elephant's trunk and sparks theories about its origin, but it's crucial to protect and admire from a distance.

Historic Cabins

Stone cabins built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in Valley of Fire hold petroglyphs, ancient rock carvings with cultural significance.

Seven Sisters

The Seven Sisters are eroded red boulder formations resembling a group of tall figures, reflecting the forces of weather and time.

Detour: Arch Rock

A detour leads to Arch Rock and other formations with abundant petroglyphs, offering a unique and recommended experience.

Atlatl Rock

Atlatl Rock features petroglyphs of Pueblo tribes using atlatls, ancient dart throwers, showcasing their history in vibrant red-orange rock.

Fire Cave and Windstone Arch

Fire Cave and Windstone Arch, once stunning attractions, saw Fire Cave's collapse, possibly due to a mix of natural erosion and human activity.

Mouse's Tank and Petroglyph Canyon Trail

Mouse’s Tank trail reveals ancient petroglyphs, while a legend surrounds Little Mouse, a renegade Southern Paiute Indian.

Silica Dome Trail

Silica Dome, named for its silica-rich sand grains, showcases unique rock transitions and a color change caused by iron content.

Cactus Wren

Amid the arid landscape, the Valley of Fire is a habitat for various wildlife, including Cactus Wrens that thrive on cacti.

Kangaroo Rat

The Kangaroo Rat, despite its name, is not related to kangaroos, but its unique adaptations help it survive the harsh desert conditions.

Valley of Fire is home to Coyotes, adaptable creatures often mistaken for wolves, showcasing their resilience against human-induced endangerment.

Pastel Canyon

Pastel Canyon, a hidden gem, boasts scalloped sandstone walls in pink and orange hues caused by mineral oxidation.

Fire Wave Trail

The Fire Wave Trail leads to a sandstone formation resembling a frozen ocean wave and offers glimpses of desert marigolds and indigo bushes.

Lights, Camera, Action

Valley of Fire's iconic landscape has made it a favorite Hollywood filming location, featured in films like Star Trek and Total Recall.

White Dome Trail

The White Dome Trail offers a short loop through slot canyons and unique sandstone formations, including fake ruins from a 1965 movie.

Preview The Tour

  what is lake mead famous for.

Lake Mead is famous for being one of the largest man-made reservoirs in the United States, formed by the Hoover Dam, and for its recreational activities.

  Why is it called Lake Mead?

Lake Mead is named after Elwood Mead, the Bureau of Reclamation commissioner during the construction of the Hoover Dam.

  Is Lake Mead safe to swim?

Yes, Lake Mead is safe for swimming and offers various water-related recreational activities.

  Is Lake Mead and Hoover Dam the same?

No, Lake Mead and Hoover Dam are not the same. Lake Mead is the reservoir created by the Hoover Dam.

  Does Hoover Dam flow into Lake Mead?

Yes, Hoover Dam impounds the Colorado River, creating Lake Mead as a result.

  What are Lake Mead and Hoover Dam used for?

Lake Mead serves as a water supply and provides hydroelectric power, while Hoover Dam controls flooding and generates electricity.

  How deep is Lake Mead next to Hoover Dam?

Lake Mead can reach depths of up to 500 feet (150 meters) near Hoover Dam.

  Can I take pets to the Lake Mead tour?

Yes, you can bring pets to some areas of Lake Mead, but they must be on a leash and follow park regulations.

  How long does it take to drive around Lake Mead?

Driving around the entire Lake Mead can take several hours, depending on stops and route choice.

  Can you enter Lake Mead at night?

Yes, some areas of Lake Mead are accessible at night, but it’s important to follow park hours and regulations for safety.

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What Kamala Harris has said so far on key issues in her campaign

As she ramps up her nascent presidential campaign, Vice President Kamala Harris is revealing how she will address the key issues facing the nation.

In speeches and rallies, she has voiced support for continuing many of President Joe Biden’s measures, such as lowering drug costs , forgiving student loan debt and eliminating so-called junk fees. But Harris has made it clear that she has her own views on some key matters, particularly Israel’s treatment of Gazans in its war with Hamas.

In a departure from her presidential run in 2020, the Harris campaign has confirmed that she’s moved away from many of her more progressive stances, such as her interest in a single-payer health insurance system and a ban on fracking.

Harris is also expected to put her own stamp and style on matters ranging from abortion to the economy to immigration, as she aims to walk a fine line of taking credit for the administration’s accomplishments while not being jointly blamed by voters for its shortcomings.

Her early presidential campaign speeches have offered insights into her priorities, though she’s mainly voiced general talking points and has yet to release more nuanced plans. Like Biden, she intends to contrast her vision for America with that of former President Donald Trump. ( See Trump’s campaign promises here .)

“In this moment, I believe we face a choice between two different visions for our nation: one focused on the future, the other focused on the past,” she told members of the historically Black sorority Zeta Phi Beta at an event in Indianapolis in late July. “And with your support, I am fighting for our nation’s future.”

Here’s what we know about Harris’ views:

Harris took on the lead role of championing abortion rights for the administration after Roe v. Wade was overturned in June 2022. This past January, she started a “ reproductive freedoms tour ” to multiple states, including a stop in Minnesota thought to be the first by a sitting US president or vice president at an abortion clinic .

On abortion access, Harris embraced more progressive policies than Biden in the 2020 campaign, as a candidate criticizing his previous support for the Hyde Amendment , a measure that blocks federal funds from being used for most abortions.

Policy experts suggested that although Harris’ current policies on abortion and reproductive rights may not differ significantly from Biden’s, as a result of her national tour and her own focus on maternal health , she may be a stronger messenger.

High prices are a top concern for many Americans who are struggling to afford the cost of living after a spell of steep inflation. Many voters give Biden poor marks for his handling of the economy, and Harris may also face their wrath.

In her early campaign speeches, Harris has echoed many of the same themes as Biden, saying she wants to give Americans more opportunities to get ahead. She’s particularly concerned about making care – health care, child care, elder care and family leave – more affordable and available.

Harris promised at a late July rally to continue the Biden administration’s drive to eliminate so-called “junk fees” and to fully disclose all charges, such as for events, lodging and car rentals. In early August, the administration proposed a rule that would ban airlines from charging parents extra fees to have their kids sit next to them.

On day one, I will take on price gouging and bring down costs. We will ban more of those hidden fees and surprise late charges that banks and other companies use to pad their profits.”

Since becoming vice president, Harris has taken more moderate positions, but a look at her 2020 campaign promises reveals a more progressive bent than Biden.

As a senator and 2020 presidential candidate, Harris proposed providing middle-class and working families with a refundable tax credit of up to $6,000 a year (per couple) to help keep up with living expenses. Titled the LIFT the Middle Class Act, or Livable Incomes for Families Today, the measure would have cost at the time an estimated $3 trillion over 10 years.

Unlike a typical tax credit, the bill would allow taxpayers to receive the benefit – up to $500 – on a monthly basis so families don’t have to turn to payday loans with very high interest rates.

As a presidential candidate, Harris also advocated for raising the corporate income tax rate to 35%, where it was before the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act that Trump and congressional Republicans pushed through Congress reduced the rate to 21%. That’s higher than the 28% Biden has proposed.

Affordable housing was also on Harris’ radar. As a senator, she introduced the Rent Relief Act, which would establish a refundable tax credit for renters who annually spend more than 30% of their gross income on rent and utilities. The amount of the credit would range from 25% to 100% of the excess rent, depending on the renter’s income.

Harris called housing a human right and said in a 2019 news release on the bill that every American deserves to have basic security and dignity in their own home.

Consumer debt

Hefty debt loads, which weigh on people’s finances and hurt their ability to buy homes, get car loans or start small businesses, are also an area of interest to Harris.

As vice president, she has promoted the Biden administration’s initiatives on student debt, which have so far forgiven more than $168 billion for nearly 4.8 million borrowers . In mid-July, Harris said in a post on X that “nearly 950,000 public servants have benefitted” from student debt forgiveness, compared with only 7,000 when Biden was inaugurated.

A potential Harris administration could keep that momentum going – though some of Biden’s efforts have gotten tangled up in litigation, such as a program aimed at cutting monthly student loan payments for roughly 3 million borrowers enrolled in a repayment plan the administration implemented last year.

The vice president has also been a leader in the White House efforts to ban medical debt from credit reports, noting that those with medical debt are no less likely to repay a loan than those who don’t have unpaid medical bills.

In a late July statement praising North Carolina’s move to relieve the medical debt of about 2 million residents, Harris said that she is “committed to continuing to relieve the burden of medical debt and creating a future where every person has the opportunity to build wealth and thrive.”

Health care

Harris, who has had shifting stances on health care in the past, confirmed in late July through her campaign that she no longer supports a single-payer health care system .

During her 2020 campaign, Harris advocated for shifting the US to a government-backed health insurance system but stopped short of wanting to completely eliminate private insurance.

The measure called for transitioning to a Medicare-for-All-type system over 10 years but continuing to allow private insurance companies to offer Medicare plans.

The proposal would not have raised taxes on the middle class to pay for the coverage expansion. Instead, it would raise the needed funds by taxing Wall Street trades and transactions and changing the taxation of offshore corporate income.

When it comes to reducing drug costs, Harris previously proposed allowing the federal government to set “a fair price” for any drug sold at a cheaper price in any economically comparable country, including Canada, the United Kingdom, France, Japan or Australia. If manufacturers were found to be price gouging, the government could import their drugs from abroad or, in egregious cases, use its existing but never-used “march-in” authority to license a drug company’s patent to a rival that would produce the medication at a lower cost.

Harris has been a champion on climate and environmental justice for decades. As California’s attorney general, Harris sued big oil companies like BP and ConocoPhillips, and investigated Exxon Mobil for its role in climate change disinformation. While in the Senate, she sponsored the Green New Deal resolution.

During her 2020 campaign, she enthusiastically supported a ban on fracking — but a Harris campaign official said in late July that she no longer supports such a ban.

Fracking is the process of using liquid to free natural gas from rock formations – and the primary mode for extracting gas for energy in battleground Pennsylvania. During a September 2019 climate crisis town hall hosted by CNN, she said she would start “with what we can do on Day 1 around public lands.” She walked that back later when she became Biden’s running mate.

Biden has been the most pro-climate president in history, and climate advocates find Harris to be an exciting candidate in her own right. Democrats and climate activists are planning to campaign on the stark contrasts between Harris and Trump , who vowed to push America decisively back to fossil fuels, promising to unwind Biden’s climate and clean energy legacy and pull America out of its global climate commitments.

If elected, one of the biggest climate goals Harris would have to craft early in her administration is how much the US would reduce its climate pollution by 2035 – a requirement of the Paris climate agreement .

Immigration

Harris has quickly started trying to counter Trump’s attacks on her immigration record.

Her campaign released a video in late July citing Harris’ support for increasing the number of Border Patrol agents and Trump’s successful push to scuttle a bipartisan immigration deal that included some of the toughest border security measures in recent memory.

The vice president has changed her position on border control since her 2020 campaign, when she suggested that Democrats needed to “critically examine” the role of Immigration and Customs Enforcement, or ICE, after being asked whether she sided with those in the party arguing to abolish the department.

In June of this year, the White House announced a crackdown on asylum claims meant to continue reducing crossings at the US-Mexico border – a policy that Harris’ campaign manager, Julie Chavez Rodriguez, indicated in late July to CBS News would continue under a Harris administration.

Trump’s attacks stem from Biden having tasked Harris with overseeing diplomatic efforts in Central America in March 2021. While Harris focused on long-term fixes, the Department of Homeland Security remained responsible for overseeing border security.

She has only occasionally talked about her efforts as the situation along the US-Mexico border became a political vulnerability for Biden. But she put her own stamp on the administration’s efforts, engaging the private sector.

Harris pulled together the Partnership for Central America, which has acted as a liaison between companies and the US government. Her team and the partnership are closely coordinating on initiatives that have led to job creation in the region. Harris has also engaged directly with foreign leaders in the region.

Experts credit Harris’ ability to secure private-sector investments as her most visible action in the region to date but have cautioned about the long-term durability of those investments.

Israel-Hamas

The Israel-Hamas war is the most fraught foreign policy issue facing the country and has spurred a multitude of protests around the US since it began in October.

After meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in late July, Harris gave a forceful and notable speech about the situation in Gaza.

We cannot look away in the face of these tragedies. We cannot allow ourselves to become numb to the suffering. And I will not be silent.”

Harris echoed Biden’s repeated comments about the “ironclad support” and “unwavering commitment” to Israel. The country has a right to defend itself, she said, while noting, “how it does so, matters.”

However, the empathy she expressed regarding the Palestinian plight and suffering was far more forceful than what Biden has said on the matter in recent months. Harris mentioned twice the “serious concern” she expressed to Netanyahu about the civilian deaths in Gaza, the humanitarian situation and destruction she called “catastrophic” and “devastating.”

She went on to describe “the images of dead children and desperate hungry people fleeing for safety, sometimes displaced for the second, third or fourth time.”

Harris emphasized the need to get the Israeli hostages back from Hamas captivity, naming the eight Israeli-American hostages – three of whom have been killed.

But when describing the ceasefire deal in the works, she didn’t highlight the hostage for prisoner exchange or aid to be let into Gaza. Instead, she singled out the fact that the deal stipulates the withdrawal by the Israeli military from populated areas in the first phase before withdrawing “entirely” from Gaza before “a permanent end to the hostilities.”

Harris didn’t preside over Netanyahu’s speech to Congress in late July, instead choosing to stick with a prescheduled trip to a sorority event in Indiana.

Harris is committed to supporting Ukraine in its fight against Russian aggression, having met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at least six times and announcing last month $1.5 billion for energy assistance, humanitarian needs and other aid for the war-torn country.

At the Munich Security Conference earlier this year, Harris said: “I will make clear President Joe Biden and I stand with Ukraine. In partnership with supportive, bipartisan majorities in both houses of the United States Congress, we will work to secure critical weapons and resources that Ukraine so badly needs. And let me be clear: The failure to do so would be a gift to Vladimir Putin.”

More broadly, NATO is central to our approach to global security. For President Biden and me, our sacred commitment to NATO remains ironclad. And I do believe, as I have said before, NATO is the greatest military alliance the world has ever known.”

Police funding

The Harris campaign has also walked back the “defund the police” sentiment that Harris voiced in 2020. What she meant is she supports being “tough and smart on crime,” Mitch Landrieu, national co-chair for the Harris campaign and former mayor of New Orleans, told CNN’s Pamela Brown in late July.

In the midst of nationwide 2020 protests sparked by George Floyd’s murder by a Minneapolis police officer, Harris voiced support for the “defund the police” movement, which argues for redirecting funds from law enforcement to social services. Throughout that summer, Harris supported the movement and called for demilitarizing police departments.

Democrats largely backed away from calls to defund the police after Republicans attempted to tie the movement to increases in crime during the 2022 midterm elections.

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