hoover dam tour military discount

The Dam Crew

Boulder city/hoover dam museum, environmental/cultural exhibits .

Location: The dam is located 7 miles northeast of Boulder City, NV. Take US Highway 93 to Nevada State Route 172. The dam is on the Nevada-Arizona border.  Get Directions.

Hours and Fees:

Parking Deck: 8 AM - 5:15 PM

Parking Fee: $10:00

Visitor Center: 9 AM - 4:15 PM

Tickets: $10:00; children 3 and under are free

Power Plant Tour: 9 AM - 3:45 PM

Adults: $15.00

Seniors (62+): $12.00

Juniors (16 & Under): $12:00

U.S. Military:  $12.00

How to spend a day at Hoover Dam, Lake Mead and Boulder City for FREE

- 7 stops in 7 miles -.

1. Park in one of the free parking lots on the Arizona side of the dam, then enjoy the amazing architecture as you walk across the top of the dam to the stunning Art Deco sculptures on the Nevada side.

2. Relish the spectacular views of Hoover Dam and Black Canyon from 890 feet above the Colorado River on the Hoover Dam Bypass Bridge walkway.  The bridge is the world's tallest concrete arch span.

3.  Stop by the Alan Bible Visitor Center to see a full size relief map of the Lake Mead National Recreation Area and explore the plants and animals that make Lake Mead home.

4. Drop in on the desert big horn sheep as they graze at Hemenway Park in Boulder City. You'll find them there most afternoons. They're wild, so keep a safe distance!

5. Step back in time with a visit to the historic Boulder Dam Hotel in downtown Boulder City. Built in 1933, the hotel operates today with 21 guest rooms, a Hoover Dam museum, a popular restaurant and an art gallery.

6. Inside the Boulder Dam Hotel, you'll discover the Boulder City/Hoover Dam Museum. Their interactive exhibits tell the story of the Hoover Dam, as well as the men and women who built it and settled Boulder City.

7. WALK BC is a self-guided audio walking tour of Boulder City, the town formed to house the workers who built Hoover Dam. The tour takes you through the historic district, which is recognized on the National Register of Historic Places.

Map to all 7 Stops

Lake Mead Activities

The Town That Built Hoover Dam

Historic Downtown

Colorado River Activities

Hiking & Biking Trails

Grand Canyon Tours

Desert Adventures

Excellent Restaurants

"What's in a name?" and other dam facts:

What's in a name, you ask?  Politics!  The dam was originally planned for Boulder Canyon and the early 1920's blueprints were labeled Boulder Dam. Although the site for the dam was moved to Black Canyon, the dam continued to be called Boulder Dam until 1931 when Secretary of the Interior, Ray Wilbur pronounced the dam would be called Hoover Dam.  In 1933, the new Secretary of the Interior under the Roosevelt administration, Harold L. Ickes, ordered the name "Boulder" be used as the official designation.  Finally, in 1947, under President Harry Truman, the dam was officially named "Hoover."

The Hoover Dam has appeared in dozens of movies, including The Silver Streak (1934), Heldorado (1946), The Amazing Colossal Man ( 1957), Ocean's Eleven (1960), Viva Las Vegas (1964), Diamonds Are Forever (1971), Superman (1978), Lost In America (1985), Universal Soldier (1992), Fools Rush In (1996), Vegas Vacation (1996), Head of State (2003), and Transformers (2007).

Hoover Dam is 724.6 feet high and weighs 6,600,000 tons.

The water pressure at the base of the dam is 45,000 pounds per square foot.

The sculptures at the dam were created by Oskar J. W. Hansen who saw his work as "a monument to collective genius asserting itself in community efforts around a common need or ideal."

There is enough concrete in Hoover Dam to build a two lane highway from Seattle, Washington to Miami, Florida or a four foot wide sidewalk around the Earth at the equator.

Because of the dam's remote location and difficult terrain, a town had to be built to house the construction companies and their workers. That town became Boulder City, NV and currently thrives as a safe, clean community of approx. 16,000 with beautiful parks, excellent restaurants and accommodations, educational museums and sites, and an array of outdoor adventure activities. Learn more about the Hoover Dam/Boulder City area at explorebouldercity.com .

Boulder Dam Hotel

Rated #1 in Boulder City in:

Cleanliness

Wireless Internet

How to Visit Hoover Dam – Things to Do + Tips

Home | Travel | North America | United States | Nevada | Hoover Dam | 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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• General History
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Hoover Dam Tours

Categories Southwest Travel

89005 » Hoover Dam Tours

Hoover Dam Overview

You can’t visit Las Vegas and not see the “best dam tour” ever!!!

The Hoover Dam (originally known as the Boulder Dam) is one of the most intriguing engineering feats in America, which was constructed during the Great Depression, that both kids and adults will enjoy.

With over 1 million annual visitors, the Hoover Dam offers visitors picturesque scenes of Lake Mead and the Colorado River.

Click here to view Hoover Dam Museum / Tour discounts .

How to Get to the Hoover Dam

Parking can be found near the visitors center.

Hoover Dam Tour Hours and Ticket Prices

The Hoover Dam Tour offers a unique way to see, learn and appreciate what Hoover Dam is all about. This tour offers a guided exploration into lesser-known parts of the dam and lasts longer than the Powerplant Tour.

Note: The Dam Tour includes a 1-hour guided tour of the powerplant and passageways within the dam itself, and admission to the Visitor Center; the Powerplant Tour includes a 30-minute guided tour of the powerplant only, and admission to the Visitor Center.

The first Dam Tour is offered at 9:30 a.m. (Pacific Time); tours continue every half hour throughout the day until 3:30 p.m. This guided tour is offered on a first come-first served basis (only 20 people allowed on each tour) and lasts about one hour. The route requires over a mile of walking on concrete or similar hard surfaces.

No reservations are taken for this tour; tickets must be purchased at Hoover Dam (credit cards and cash accepted).

Visitor Center Admission – This option allows entry into the Visitor Center WITHOUT access to the tours of the dam or power plant.

Visitor Center Admission Tickets are available for purchase inside the Hoover Dam Visitor Center every day, except Thanksgiving and Christmas.  Visitor Center tickets must be purchased by  4:15 pm  for access.

Hoover Dam Tour Tips

The busiest season at Hoover Dam is in the summer from Memorial Day until Labor Day.

The slowest months for visitation are January and February.

The least crowded time of day for tours is from opening until 10:30 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. until closing.

During the summer months, Vegas and the surrounding areas can reach upwards of 110 degrees.

Even though it may be hot outside, inside the damn it stays nice and cool so you don’t have to worry about combating the heat the entire tour.

Bring sun protection, comfortable shoes, and plenty of water (at least 1 liter per person for every 2 hours).

A concession stand is located at the base of the dam’s parking garage and offers a variety of food and drink options.

The Hoover Dam Visitors Center and power plant tour are wheelchair accessible, but the dam tour is not accessible.

Complimentary parking is available for wheelchair users.

Built between 1931 and 1936 during the depression era on the border between Arizona and Nevada. The Hoover Dam was dedicated by President Franklin D. Roosevelt but is named after former president Herbert Hoover.

In order to build it in a timely manner, engineers decided to pour concrete into sections allowing it to cure and solidify faster. If all the concrete was poured at once, it would’ve taken around 125 years for the concrete to cool down and cure. For those keeping count, the concrete would still be curing to this day and it wouldn’t be done until 2061!

If you really want to WOW the family, check into scheduling a Hoover Dam helicopter tour.

Discounts, Special Fees & Refunds

Nevada State Parks offers several different types of discounts. The various discounts are described in more detail below.  For questions or to get more information, please call 775-684-2770.

Disabled Discount :   A $1 discount on the daily entrance fee is available for an individual who holds a disability placard and presents it upon entrance to a park.

Military & Veteran Discount :   A $1 discount on the daily entrance fee is available for all active military and veterans.

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Special Fees

Walk-In, Bike-In, Ride-In or Vessel Arrival : A $2 per person charge will be levied in all parks that have an entrance fee for those who walk into a park, arrive by horseback or vessel or who bicycle into a park. 

RV Dump Stations :   The charge for use of sanitary dump stations by individuals not camping in a state park is the park entrance fee.

Showers :   The established park entrance fee will be charged for shower use by a person not camping in the park.

Hook-Ups :   For the use of a campsite at which a hook-up is available a $10 per vehicle charge will be assessed. In the event two separate camping vehicles choose to camp in a single site and both connect to utilities, each will be assessed a separate camping and utility connection fee.

Commercial Bus Tours :   The established entrance fee or $2 per person, whichever is greater, or the fee established by a special use permit, will be the amount charged.

Additional Watercraft : There will be a $5 charge for each watercraft in excess of two that are launched from a boat ramp.

Towed-In Equipment :   No fee will be charged for a vehicle that is towed into the park for transportation within that park.

Self-Service Noncompliance :   If a user does not deposit the required fee in available self-service devices, a collection fee of $10 will be charged.

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Refunds Requests

Request a refund by submitting this form and back up documents to [email protected] or by mailing it to 901 South Stewart Street, Carson City, NV 89701.

Refunds may not be considered without proof of payment/receipt.

Under no circumstance shall staff issue a refund at the park level or take funds from a separate transaction to put towards another.

Exceptions to the refund policy outlined below are determined case-by-case by the Division Office after investigation including but not limited to: reviewing park notes, speaking with park staff and supervisor, pulling call recordings and other correspondence, etc.

Refunds may be given for:

• Personal emergency is defined to include a death, serious illness, extreme medical circumstances, or accident involving immediate family.
• Refunds will be given on a prorated basis for the days the reservation site are unoccupied.
• Park closures due to emergency closures, extreme weather events, and natural disasters.
• Entrance fees paid within 14 days of the purchase of an annual permit.
• Errors or mishaps caused by park staff.

Refunds will not be given for:

• Annual permits (except for permit upgrades made within 14 days of initial purchase).
• Fees paid for more than one night at a time at a self-pay station for a reservable space.
• Including bad weather and other weather conditions (smoke), early departure not due to an emergency, drought, bugs, fire restrictions or bans, water conditions, trail closures, algae, traffic/city noise, equipment failure, customer error and Wi-Fi/cellular service availability.
• Early departures or cancellations after arrival date.
• Termination of stay by a park employee due to violation of park rules.
• Unapproved commercial activity and use.
• Park being at capacity (as long as the park was open).

Reservation Specific Refund Rules

Reservation/Transaction fees are non-refundable.

If a cancellation is made less than a month out from your camping reservation, a $10.00 fee is assessed. Camping reservations cancelled within three days of the arrival date will require a $10.00 transaction fee and the cost of a one-night stay. The remaining amount is subject to a full refund.

Camping reservations will be held until 2:00 pm the scheduled date after your arrival date, if you have not called the park before that time, you will be considered a “no show” and your reservation will be cancelled and not subject to a refund.

If a cancellation is made more than a month out from your group use reservation, no fee is assessed.  If a cancellation is made less than a month out from your group use reservation, a $10.00 fee is assessed. The remaining amount is subject to a full refund.

If a cancellation is made more than a month out from your parking space reservation, a $5.00 fee is assessed. If a cancellation is made less than a month out from your parking space reservation, a $10.00 fee is assessed. The remaining amount is subject to a full refund. Group Use reservations cancelled within three days of the reservation date will be non-refundable. If you do not arrive on your reserved date, you will be considered a “no show” and your reservation will not be subject to a refund.

Parking Space reservations will be held until 11:30 am on the scheduled date. If you do not arrive prior to 11:30 am on your reserved date, you will be considered a “no show” and your reservation may be cancelled and not subject to a refund.

Refund Forms of Payment

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Essential tips for visiting the breathtaking hoover dam,usa.

Visiting the Hoover Dam was one of the highlights of you our American Southwest road trip last summer.

Located on the state line between Nevada and Arizona, USA, Hoover dam is an impressive engineering feat attracting visitors from all over the world and a stop we strongly recommend to anyone driving in this area.

In this post, we share information about what there is to see in Hoover Dam, how to get tho Hoover Dam from Las Vegas, how to plan a visit to Hoover Dam and why you should add it to your USA travel bucket list!

Disclaimer: this post contains affiliate links and if you make a purchase through them, we might make a small commission a no extra cost to you. 

Table of Contents

Visiting the Hoover Dam: location and how to get there

Hoover Dam is located approximately 35 miles South East of Las Vegas, on the Nevada-Arizona border.

It is a popular destination for day trippers from Las Vegas and also for traveler driving from the city to the Grand Canyon .

Driving from Las Vegas, the journey is easy.

From the strip, we followed US Highway 93 towards Boulder city and then Nevada State Route NV-172.

The dam is very well signposted and gas is available at many gas stations in the outskirts of Las Vegas.

When we traveled, road works were happening close to the exit serving the dam and we missed our turn.

However, soon after the exit, there is a pullout and the opportunity to turn the car, which is good to know should you for any reason find the exit difficult to locate.

If you prefer not to drive or have no access to a car, there are many available tours from Las Vegas to Hoover Dam. The following is a short selection of some available from our booking platform of choice, GetYourGuide:

Las Vegas to Hoover Dam deluxe shuttle

Hoover Dam and Lake Meade cruise from Las Vegas

Hoover Dam small group tour from Las Vegas

Express Hoover Dam Tour from Las Vegas

Parking at the Hoover Dam

Hoover Dam is a major tourist attraction in the area and is served by several parking lots.

The closest one to the dam is a multi-level covered car park on the Nevada side of the dam and has an entrance fee of 10$ per vehicle.

A second parking lot, also at a 10$ charge, is located on the Arizona side of the dam and additional parking lots are available on the Arizona side of the dam free of charge.

These can be a  good option if you are traveling on a budget but be aware of the heat especially if taveling in summer. 

Some of the parking lots on the Arizona side are up to a 10 minute walk uphill from the dam, which can be challenging in hot weather conditions.

Parking in full sun should also be avoided due to the specific weather conditions in this area.

Hoover Dam Visitors center opening hours in 2022

Parking Garage: Open 8:00 a.m. Closes 5:15 p.m.  Parking fee: $10.00

Visitor Center: Open 9:00 a.m. Closes 5:00 p.m. Visitor Center tickets must be purchased by 4:15 p.m.

Tickets are sold at the Visitor Center sold from 9 AM – 4:15 PM

Power Plant Tour Tickets sold from 9 AM – 3:45 PM

The Hoover Dam Visitor Center is open every day of the year except for Thanksgiving and Christmas.

What is special about Hoover Dam

Hoover Dam is a massive concrete dam holding back the waters of the Colorado River.

According to the Bureau of Reclamation , who manages the dam and water resources in the area, the dam was built between 1931 and 1935 to limit the impact of the unreliable flowing of the river onto the lowing land in this area.

When built, the dam was unprecedented engineering accomplishment: 6 companies worked together to the construction of the dam and a large number of men were employed to work in a harsh environment and remote conditions.

It is nowadays responsible for the supply of electricity to a large part of the American Southwest and beyond and it is now regarded as a world-renown structure for size and impact.

For the visitor, Hoover Dam is a place to marvel at engineering, its challenges and accomplishments.

The dam is an impressive sight and the visitors center a great place to learn about how the dam came to be, how this affects the power supply in the Southwestern states and the risks liked to potential changes in water supply in the area.

What to see in Hoover Dam

There are 3 things to do in Hoover dam: walk or drive across the dam itself, explore the dam visitors’ center or take a guided tour of the dam workings.

Walk or drive across the dam

The dam is a sight to behold: the massive concrete stricture has the same color as the land around and you first get a glimpse of it as you leave the cover car park.

If you are not afraid of heights, the best way to see the dam is to walk or drive across it.

From this height, you get to appreciate how huge the dam is, how much work and hardship must have been endured to build it and how beautiful the mountains in this area are.

The view from the dam is vast and somewhat scary: the concrete dam slides almost vertically down to the bottom of the valley and the massive Colorado river is so far below you, you would this it is a small brook!

Vehicles of various sizes are allowed to cross the dam but there are security checks so be prepared to stop. Specific information about what vehicles cannot cross the dam (buses with luggage, certain types of trucks etc) can be found on the official dam website here.

While the dam is open to cars, be aware that this is not a though road and you will have to retrace your steps to regain the main road out of the dam area.

Visiting the visitors center

The dam has a visitors center of the Nevada side and I highly recommend a visit.

To access, you need to pass a metal detector and pay an entrance fee and while this may seem steep, I believe it is worth it since the displays are well made and informative.

The dam museum is entirely devoted to the building and workings of the dam.

The first part of the exhibition has info panels and historical photos of the building process, plus interesting facts on why the dam was built and what it wanted to accomplish.

The second part has more detailed information about the dam’s working and some interesting interactive and fun displays that show how electricity is formed and daily activities’ impact on its demand for production.

We found the whole experience truly enriching and felt is was a good compromise between just driving across the dam and taking the full on guided tour.

Hoover dam guided tour

Guided tours of the dam and the power plants are available.

The Dam Tour includes a 1-hour guided tour of the power plant and passageways within the dam itself, and admission to the Visitor Center.

The Power plant Tour includes a 30-minute guided tour of the power plant only, and admission to the Visitor Center.

Please note that access to these tours is not recommended to people who suffer from claustrophobia or hart conditions (there are several notices about this before the ticket counter) and kids under 8 are not allowed on the Dam tour.

Mike O’Callaghan Pat Tillman memorial bridge

When visiting the hoover Dam there is only one additional man-made marvel able to steal the show: the incredible Mike O’Callaghan Pat Tillman memorial bridge.

The bridge was built between 2005 and 2010 and is 880 feet high. As such, it is the the second-highest bridge in the United States ( the highest is in Colorado ) and the highest concrete-arch bridge anywhere.

The bridge operates as a by-pass and can be viewed easily from the observation deck on top of the Hoover Dam’s visitor centre.

The opposite is, however, not the case: while you can see the dam if walking across the bridge, the dam is not visible if you are just driving across it due to the high walls framing the road.

Hoover dam with kids

We visited Hoover Dam with kids aged 6 and 8 and I was surprised to discover what a family friendly attraction it is, despite the age restrictions for the tours.

The Hoover Dam is actually one of our favorite places to see in Nevada with kids !

The dam is impressive for kids to see and while it is not the type of place you can get a child to run wild, it is possible to visit Hoover Dam safely at all ages.

The visitors center and exhibition have many displays that are easy to enjoy with kids and informative.

The displays are indoors, which is excellent in terms of shelter from the weather, and all levels are accessible by stair or lift.

You can read our tips for visiting and find facts about Hoover dam for kids on our family guide here

Visiting the Hoover Dam with fear of heights

Visiting Hoover Dam with a fear of heights can be challenging.

The dam is a massive concrete wall plunging down almost vertically into a deep river gorge.

Its impressive height and the in-hospitality of the environment are what make it so breathtaking but they will cause major issues to anyone who is unsteady in high places.

However, it is possible to visit the area and the visitors center without ever being exposed to heights as such.

If you park your car inside the covered parking lot on the Nevada side of the dam, there is only a small road to cross to enter the visitors center and this is in no way exposed to the sheer drop into the valley.

Once inside, the visitor center itself offers an exhibition without windows: this means that you can easily enjoy all the information panel and interactive artifacts without ever having to take in the landscape.

Depending on how easy or ill at ease you are on terraces, the visitors’ center has a terrace that offers incredible views of the dam but that is large enough to keep you away from the actual drop.

Hoover Dam facilities, food and souvenirs

Restrooms are available in several locations near the dam including the parking lot and the visitors center.

A souvenir shop and a cafe / cafeteria is at the dam selling burgers, crisps sandwiches, ice creams etc.

How much does it cost to visit Hoover Dam

Walking across the Hoover Dam is free. When budgeting for a day at the dam, consider costs up to:

• $10 for parking (unless using the free lots on the Arizona side)
• $10 per person (ages 4 and up) for the visitor center
• $12-15 per person for 30-minute Powerplant tour. Exact fee varies with age, military discounts etc
• $30 per person for 1-hour Hoover Dam tour. Exact fee varies with age, military discounts etc.
• Possible food and photo stop, both available on the Nevada side of the dam

What to bring to visit Hoover Dam

The dam is in a remote location and especially in summer it is important to be protected from the sun.

Recommended items to bring are:

• Good walking shoes if taking longer tours
• Camera /phone

Interesting books about the Hoover Dam

Hoover dam facts.

Once completed, the dam presented the following characteristics (taken from the dam official brochure):

• Type: arch gravity dam
• Height: 726.4 feet (221.3 mt)
• Crest length: 1244 feet (379.2 mt)
• Crest width: 45 feet(13.7. mt)
• Base width: 660 feet (201.2 mt), which equals two footballs fields measured end-to-end
• Volume of concrete: 3.25 million cubic yards (2.6 million cubic meters)
• The Colorado River is more than 1,400 miles long and supplies water to Los Angeles, San Diego, and Phoenix.

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Marta Correale

Marta Correale is the creator, writer and creative mind behind Learning Escapes. A travel loving mama of two from Italy, Marta currently lives in Ireland with her husband and two kids, they take frequent trips to European destination, the US and beyond. A professional travel blogger for over a decade, Marta is passionate about traveling with kids and helping others to travel more and better as a family.

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Hoover Dam Tour Coupons

Begins here, save with coupons.

Get discounts and tickets for Hoover Dam tours, helicopter rides, lodging, shopping, attractions, and more with these Hoover Dam coupon links.

The cheapest way to see Hoover Dam is to do it yourself. The dam is easily accessible by car, motorcycle, or bicycle via Highway 93 or Interstate 11.

If you want to save money on parking and walking is not an issue, park for free in an open air lot on the Arizona side. You can view the street level exhibits and structures for free.

The visitor center is reached by walking across the dam to the Nevada side.

EXPERIENCE THE DAM

There are many other ways to experience the dam, which has been dubbed one of “America's Seven Modern Civil Engineering Wonders”.

Bus, limo, air (small plane and helicopter), and boat tours from Lake Mead are fun options for those looking for adventure and a different experience.

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Check out the Hoover Dam coupon links on this page to save on your trip!

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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
• The Best Grand Canyon Helicopter Tours
• The Best Grand Canyon Bus Tours From Las Vegas
• The Best Things To Do With Kids in Las Vegas

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Hoover Dam Tours

Explore one of America’s most spectacular feats of engineering on one of our Hoover Dam tours. Combine your Hoover Dam tour with a trip to the Grand Canyon's West Rim, a leisurely cruise down the Colorado River, a relaxing boat tour of Lake Mead, or experience this man-made wonder from the comfort of a luxury helicopter .

Grand Canyon West Rim & Hoover Dam SUV Tour

Mini hoover dam bus & helicopter tour, mini hoover dam tour, lake mead cruise & hoover dam tour, lake mead dinner cruise, hoover dam suv tour, why visit hoover dam.

Reaching more than 700 feet tall and stretching over 1,200 feet across Black Canyon, the Hoover Dam is one of the Southwest's most impressive man-made sights. Snap a pic of the Mike O'Callaghan-Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge, see the imposing concrete walls from two states, and learn about the history of the Dam as you venture deep inside to view the massive generators. Turn to the northeast for stunning vistas of picturesque Lake Mead—the nation's largest reservoiar, covering 248 square miles.

The Hoover Dam is located just a few miles southeast of Las Vegas. Stop for a photo op en route to the Grand Canyon, or hop on a guided Hoover Dam tour. With a number of tour options available, the Hoover Dam is both educational and entertaining, making it the perfect excursion for your family’s Vegas adventure. If you only have a few hours or even a full day, it's easy to find a Hoover Dam tour that fits into your schedule.

The Hoover Dam is a short 30 minute drive from the Las Vegas Strip. Guided bus tours to the Grand Canyon will cross the Hoover Dam Bypass Bridge, and may include photo stops. Aerial Grand Canyon tours soar over the Dam, offering some of the most impressive views of this famous structure.

What You'll See at Hoover Dam

Bypass bridge.

The Mike O'Callaghan-Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge is one of the longest single-span concrete arch bridges.

Feat of Engineering

Built using 6.6 million tons of concrete, the Hoover Dam was the tallest in world when it opened.

The nation's largest reservoir, covering 248 square miles and featuring a picturesque shoreline.

Winged Figures

Some of the largest bronze structures ever cast in the United States, containing over 4 tons of bronze.

State Line Marker

Stand in two states at once as you cross state lines (and change time zones) between Nevada and Arizona.

Massive Generators

Drop 530 feet into the Dam to view the hydroelectric generators and explore the interior passageways.

Hoover Dam Travel Guides

Comparing tour types — what’s the best grand canyon tour for you [updated in 2023].

From bus tours that traverse the Mojave desert and airplane tours that fly high above the Southwest, there are guided tour options to suit any adventurer.

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Military Discounts in Nevada

Whether you’re visiting Nevada for the desert or the Las Vegas strip, you’re sure to find something for your military family. Check out these fantastic military discounts in Nevada the next time you make your way to the Sagebrush State!

Before you leave, don’t forget yo pick up a travel book or two! 

Terry Fator at The Mirage Las Vegas

Ventroloquist and past winner of America’s Got Talent, Terry Fator , salutes active and retired military members with a 40% discount to his Vegas shows at The Mirage. Fator’s latest show features fan favorite, Winston the Impersonating Turtle, as well as new puppets like Sir Elton John and President Donald Trump. Check out the singing, comedy, and impressions on your next Vegas visit.

Hoover Dam Nevada-Arizona Border

Witness the inspiring structure built as a water structure during the Depression. Located on the Nevada-Arizona border (30 miles southeast of Las Vegas), the Hoover Dam should be on everyone’s bucket list. Military members in uniform receive a free tour of the Hoover Dam Powerplant. This includes a 30-minute guided tour and admission to the Visitor Center. U.S. Military members not in uniform receive $12 admission ($3 discount). There is no discount for the full Hoover Dam 1-hour guided tour.

Tropicana Las Vegas

At Tropicana Hotel & Casino, military members are offered multiple discounts to honor their service! Check out the Laugh Factory Comedy Club and get 2-for-1 tickets with your military ID. Three new comics are featured each week. You’ll also get a 20% spa discount at the 10,000-square-foot Glow® , a Mandara Spa. Get a massage, skin treatment, pedicure or manicure, and more at Glow®! Additional discounts are available for booking rooms. Members also receive a 10% discount at the restaurants on property. Tropicana is the perfect place to stay and save in Vegas!

Blue Man Group at Luxor Las Vegas

The Luxor offers a generous discount for military members and their families to see the iconic Blue Man Group . You have to see this show live to truly experience what Blue Man Group is all about. They combine comedy, theater, music, dance, and a little messiness all into an outstanding performance. Discounts vary dependent on date, time, and seat selection. Luxor also offers hotel and other show discounts for military members.

Cash in your chips for a Vegas Vacation of savings, or visit historical wonders like the Hoover Dam with unbelievable military discounts in Nevada . These are just a few of the discounts you can take advantage of for you and your military family. Always make sure to ask when booking a hotel or buying show tickets. Many places in Nevada offer unadvertised military discounts. Enjoy your trip!

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Military discount! - Hoover Dam

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Military discount!

We stumbled upon this place en route from The Grand Canyon to Vegas and decided to stop. This is a neat area. Close parking is $10, but far away parking is free. It's worth the walk! The sites are picturesque! There is a gift shop and restaurant (both expensive) and they also offer tours. They offer a small military discount too. We were going to go on the tour, but it was too expensive and the staff person was VERY rude to us. Still, I recommend seeing the dam!

If you have watched the movie transformer, then you will like this place! Admission was not that expensive. I think everyone should include visit to this place on the way to LV.

I had visited Hoover Dam as a kid. You could just drive over it, park and walk around to see it. Now you have to drive several minutes in from the highway, drive thru a security checkpoint, pay $10 to park for the Visitor Center, go thru more security than I have seen at any airport and pay $10 per person for a small Visitor Center. My advice, drive past the Visitor Center, park by the dam and get out to see it for free. I understand the need for security, but it seemed over-the-top and the price was not worth it. They even had photographers there to take your family's picture to buy later like you are at Disneyland. The view of the Pat Tillman Bridge is worth seeing, so just drive over the dam.

Very glad my family and I were able to visit the Hoover Dam and learn about the history in how it was built. We weren't disappointed. We did the power plant tour only and paid $15/person. We also rented a mini van in Las Vegas for less than $65/day and drove there on our own since we wanted to be on our own time and not feel rushed. The drive time from Vegas to Hoover Dam was ~45 min and worth it. I highly recommend it. Please note that you cannot bring any food on the power plant tour, and you must go through a security check. We were able to walk to the Arizona side of the Dam as well. They have nice informational exhibits and a 10 min movie that you watch before the tour starts. We passed the Hoover Dam lodge on the way to the Hoover Dam.

I wish I could give this tour more stars because it was really neat, but the level of rudeness by the staff knocks it down. I am going to describe one particular incident that left me disgusted, but overall we encountered mostly rude rather than friendly staff. My family and I visited the Hoover Dam on 11/25 (the day after Thanksgiving). Unbeknownst to us, this was the busiest day of the year to visit the dam. I believe we arrived sometime around 1 or 2pm. We did the power plant tour only because the dam tour was sold out. At first, it seemed as though our tour guide was in a bad mood, but we thought maybe he was being funny sarcastic. We were definitely wrong. I believe we took the elevator down to the penstock viewing room. It was crowded and tight, as you can imagine. The tour guide was up on the little stage with the diagram talking. There was a woman up front who had a stroller with her toddler in it. The toddler was being vocal, as children do (nothing out of the ordinary in my family's opinion). The man asked her to keep her child quiet or they would be asked to leave. This was not a polite interaction. He said this over the microphone to the whole tour group with a very rude tone. At other times throughout the tour when the child would start to make noise again, he would stop speaking and the woman would take her child out of the room to quiet her. It made us all very uncomfortable at the level of rude customer service that the tour guide displayed. I have never experienced such a thing. I understand all the excuses that could be made: it was a busy day, it was so crowded, tour guides were overworked, etc. At the end of the day, though, customer service matters.

As part of my R66 trip we headed though the Hoover Dam, it was insanely busy so we just parked up on a parking lot and walked around a little and took some photos. Unfortunately the heat was extremely intense so we only spent 30 minutes there, but it is a beautiful location.

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Hoover Dam - discounts - Las Vegas Forum

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Hoover Dam - discounts

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so are you talking about transportation included? tickets for the tour are only $11 for adults

its possible you may also be able to get a group rate since you have 10 people.

you can park on the arizona side for free and walk across the dam to the visitors center area. be sure to go early in the morning if you are comming anytime this summer it can get very hot.

https://secure4.gatewayticketing.com/HooverDamVisitorCenter/shop/ViewItems.aspx?Merchant=HDVC&CategoryGroupExternalID=HDVCTKTS&CategoryExternalID=HDTKTS

So we are looking for discounts for the guided tour.

Its very doubtful you will get a discount,as its run by the Federal government.

Here is the gov't website.Read the discounts section.

http://www.usbr.gov/lc/hooverdam/

They don't even give senior or military discounts!

oh, i wasnt looking, i forgot about that more expensive tour that is available, as said no discounts are available that im aware of for the tour at the dam if you drive yourself, and no discounts on that tour if you are purchasing 10 tickets.

there are usually good 2 for 1 discounts from tour companies that would be about $30 a person and include transportation which you can prebook.

This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity.

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Hoover Dam Rafting Adventures

Hoover Dam Rafting Adventures 268 Lakeshore Road Boulder City, NV https://hooverdamraftingadventures.com/

Take a unique and awe-inspiring day trip Located a short distance from the Las Vegas Strip in Lake Mead National Recreation Area, the Black Canyon is one of the country’s most unique places to visit. Formed over millions of years by volcanic activity, the canyon lies just below the unforgettable Hoover Dam where the canyon walls rise nearly 2,000 feet from the river’s edge. The Hoover Dam Raft Tour departs from the Lake Mead RV Village in the Lake Mead National Recreation Area. From here, guests board a raft for a trip downstream through the spectacular Black Canyon with a beach stop for lunch before arriving at Willow Beach Marina on the northern reaches of Lake Mohave. Disembark at our full-service marina where you’ll have time for a bit of shopping and refreshment before boarding tour buses on the ride back to the Black Canyon River Adventures location for drop off or continuation on to Las Vegas (depending on tour).

$15 off per passenger – valid for Regular Run or Postcard Tour for up to 6 guests.

To access discount: Purchase Your Monorail Ticket

• Use the link provided on your Monorail eTicket confirmation, or scan QR code on any “Show Your Ticket and Save” sign inside Monorail faregates. You can also visit a Monorail customer service desk (open from 10am-6pm daily) for more information.
• Click on the offer(s) you wish you purchase, and full offer redemption details (promo codes, links, and instructions) will be provided.
• Enjoy all of the fabulous offerings in Las Vegas!

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