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Hoover Dam Parking Guide: All Free Lots & Convenient Options

Last Updated on October 24, 2023 by Usama

Hoover Dam parking

Hoover Dam , an engineering marvel that sits in the Black Canyon of the Colorado River, is the most frequented dam in the world. Visiting the dam is free, and on-site parking is available in the Nevada and Arizona sections. Before you visit Hoover Dam, read our guide to learn about free lots, parking rates, and tips on where best to park.

The dam is located on the Nevada-Arizona border at the following address: Nevada 89005, United States

Hoover Dam Operating Hours and Admission

The dam is open to the public every day from 5 AM to 9 PM. Walking or driving across the dam is free, and reservations are not required , but visitors looking for a more in-depth experience may purchase tickets for guided Hoover Dam tours. For dam tour information, contact (702) 494-2517 or (702) 494-2546.

Convenient Parking at the Dam

Convenient Hoover Dam parking is available on the Nevada and Arizona sides. We listed all the options below with their accompanying parking fees. We also included a few recommendations for a pocket-friendly and more convenient parking experience.

Parking Garage: This multi-level garage sits on the Nevada side (red circle) and may be accessed via the Hoover Dam Access Road. It is the safest and most convenient place to park. Visitors with disabled placards and stickers are permitted to park here for free, while high clearance vehicles more than 10.5 feet high and 23 feet long are prohibited from entering.

This is the best place to park if you’re heading to the Visitor Center. However, you may contend with crowds for parking spots during the peak season of June to August, so come early during these months. The parking garage is open from 8 AM to 5:15 PM.

Parking Lot 9: This surface lot sits closest to the dam on the Arizona side (purple circle). Apart from serving regular vehicles, this paid surface lot also offers parking spaces for high-clearance vehicles in non-covered marked spaces. You may be able to park here for free if the demand is low. Parking Lot 9 opens from 8 AM to 5:15 PM.

Upper Lots: These free parking lots sit farther from the dam on the Arizona side and offer free parking. Recreational vehicles, trailers, and oversized vehicles can park on these lots.

Boulder Dam Bridge Parking : Park in this free surface lot (brown circle) to view the dam from across the Memorial Bridge. The Hoover Dam bypass bridge parking is located on the Nevada side right after the security checkpoint.

Take Public Transit

Several bus and shuttle services can take you from Las Vegas to the dam. The Boulder City Express shuttle service runs from the Las Vegas Strip and Downtown hotels to Boulder City’s most popular attractions, including the dam. The round-trip fare is $25.

A cheaper option is to take the HDX public bus from Las Vegas to Boulder City, then take a 10-minute taxi, rideshare, or Boulder City Express Shuttle ride to the dam. A 24-hour pass costs $8.

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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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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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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

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Know Before You Go, Shaka Guide's Hoover Dam & Lake Mead Tour

June 10, 2023

Shaka Guide’s Hoover Dam and Lake Mead Tour covers a lot of ground. From iconic stops in Las Vegas to Boulder City, “The Town That Built Hoover Dam,” and Lake Mead National Recreation Area, this tour is chock full of adventure. 

To get as much out of this Shaka Guide tour as you can, you’ll want to start as early in the morning as possible – preferably around daybreak.

Otherwise, you may have to choose some options for today, while saving the rest for another day.

You’re the captain of your ship on a Shaka Guide tour…but we’ll arm you with all the info you need for an incredible road trip! 

Start Planning

• We’ll get up close to iconic signs and landmarks, experience scenic drives, overlooks and hiking trails, visit museums and exhibits, and walk along Hoover Dam and the bridge that towers over it. 
• This tour begins along Las Vegas Boulevard near Mandalay Bay. 
• The tour is a large loop, returning along the same road you started on. 
• We suggest you plan to spend the full-day touring if you want to visit all 14 stops.
• Remember: Hoover Dam is a major tourist attraction that gets very crowded.
• The first stop, the Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas Sign, can also get extremely crowded, with the parking lot filling up and a line forming to grab a selfie next to the sign. Again, the earlier the start, the easier things are, and the less traffic. Las Vegas is crowded!
• We recommend you stop at downtown Boulder City for supplies. You’ll find a grocery store, gas station, and multiple options for packing a cooler full of water, food, and snacks for the day. We’ll be on the road for a while after we leave Hoover Dam. There isn’t another place to pick up supplies once we are inside Lake Mead or all the way back to Las Vegas.
• The Boulder City-Hoover Dam museum is free and located inside the lobby of the Boulder Dam Hotel. Parking for the museum is also free in the town plaza right next to the hotel, the museum is open 365 days a year from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., and all you do is walk through the lobby to get to it.
• There is another gas station on the same street as Hemenway Park in Boulder City, if you didn’t top off your tank while in the downtown historic district, here’s your chance. 
• You’ll go through a Nevada Security Checkpoint upon approach to Hoover Dam. All vehicles are subject to inspection.
• Hoover Dam has some free parking lots on the Arizona side if you don’t mind a ten-minute or so walk. 
• The two closest parking lots (a garage on the Nevada side and Parking Lot 9 on the Arizona side) cost $10. The parking garage is open from 8 a.m. to 5:15 p.m., and Parking Lot 9 is open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. (Motorhomes and other high-clearance vehicles must use the Arizona lots.)
• Admission to Hoover Dam is free but there are guided and self-guided tours that range from $10 - $30. Tickets for these tours are available on a first-come, first-serve basis. 
• You can purchase Power Plant Tour tickets here . 
• Hoover Dam is open daily from 5 a.m. to 9 p.m. (except for Thanksgiving and Christmas Day). Tours run from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., with the last tour departing at 3:45 p.m.
• The parking lot and pedestrian bridge at the Mike O’Callaghan-Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge (aka the Hoover Dam Bypass) are both free. Bring sunscreen and a light jacket - it’s sunny and windy. 
• The entrance fee for Lake Mead (paid at the Fee Booth between the Visitor Center stop and the Boulder Beach stop) is $25 per vehicle, good for 7 consecutive days. Your annual National Park Pass is also accepted here.
• The Little White Chapel allows anyone to walk inside and check things out when the doors are unlocked. The parking lot is free and there is no admission. Hours vary. Or, just grab a photo out front with Elvis and that pink Cadillac. 
• There is free parking at The Strat, which is highly unusual for Las Vegas! So grab your tickets (or try to purchase them when you get there) and head to that Observation Tower !

What to Expect

To Spend 8 - 12 Hours Exploring

Although you could drive straight through today’s tour route in under two hours, there are actually 14 stops planned for today. 

If you want to take advantage of everything there is to do, you’ll need at least eight hours, if not more, to experience everything.

Or, you decide which stops to make, and which to skip.

Should you have two days available to spread out this Shaka Guide tour, check out our 2-Day Itinerary for Hoover Dam and Lake Mead.

You’ll Be On Your Feet

There will be lots of walking and some hiking options at:

• the Boulder City-Hoover Dam Museum
• Hoover Dam and its exhibits and guided tours
• the Hoover Dam Bypass Bridge
• trails like the Historic Railroad Trail 

Our goal is to deliver information and entertaining stories so that you’ll learn more than you expected about the places you’re visiting today.

Stories from the history of Hoover Dam to the Mojave Desert geology and details about what lies under Lake Mead. 

• Along with picking up a portable cooler to fill with lunch items, drinks, and snacks for the day, and making sure you have a full tank of gas, here is the list of what you may need to spend: 
• Hoover Dam Parking: $10 (but you do have the option of free parking)
• Hoover Dam Guided Tour Tickets: $15 - $30 (or you can choose to walk around the dam free of charge without taking a tour)
• Hoover Dam Exhibits: $10 (it is not mandatory to pay an entrance fee unless you want to see the exhibits.)
• Lake Mead National Recreation Area: $25 per vehicle (good for 7 consecutive days), or, your National Park Annual Pass is accepted
• The Strat SkyPod Observation Deck: $30 (or less – this price varies, but parking is free.)

Safety Information

Hot Weather

From May through October, you could experience some really hot weather in the Mojave Desert, where today’s tour stops take place.

Even if the wind is blowing, the sun can be strong and protection is important.

Bring sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and perhaps long sleeves and pants that have built-in sunblock.

The desert can cause dehydration, so it’s important to have water on hand.

You’ll do a lot of walking without shade at Hoover Dam and at Lake Mead.

And once we leave Hoover Dam, there won’t be any place to pick up supplies like extra food or water. So stock up in the town of Boulder City along the way. 

Best Time to Hike

You should not hike in the months of June, July, and August, but it can also get too hot during the day in the months of April, May, September, and October.

Only hike during those times if you are having cool enough early-morning weather.

If you’re traveling and hiking alone, make sure to tell someone where you are, what hike you’re taking, and what time you plan to get back to your car.

And always stay on the trails. There are dangerous creatures in the desert and some unexpected heights and drop-offs in the mountains.

Start Packing!

Here’s our recommended packing list, so that you’re prepared for the tour and more! 

• Car charger - You’ll need a charging wire and adapter so that you can plug your phone into your car charger while you’re driving. 
• Cell phone mount 
• Charged, portable backup charger - There is nothing worse than a dead cell phone when you’re in the middle of nowhere…or when you want to take photos.  
• Hiking Boots - If they’re new, break them in before you take this tour. Dirt and gravel trails can actually be quite slippery even when dry, and rocks can become slick after rain. The other reason for high tops is that there are prickly cactuses low to the ground, so you want to protect your ankles from being stabbed with cactus spines on hikes in the desert.
• Sun Protection -  Sunglasses, a large hat for shade and to protect your face from burning, and sunscreen are essentials for this tour. And don’t forget lip balm with SPF, too.
• Long pants - Even if it’s hot, it is recommended when hiking in the desert that you keep as much of your skin covered as possible to help protect it from the sun, low-lying cactuses, dirt, dust, and quickly dropping temperatures. 
• Long-sleeved shirt - Again, even if it’s hot, protect yourself from the severe sun and sudden cold gusts and changes in temperatures. When you’re walking around the rim of the dam, over the tall bridge, or later in the day on hikes, the winds and temperatures can change.
• Light jacket/layers - The desert can get surprisingly and suddenly cool or cold in the early morning and evenings, and very windy, too. Better to have a jacket on hand and shed it once you get warm. 
• Personal Locator Beacon if hiking alone.
• Bug spray 
• Small first-aid kit
• Insulated water bottles - Have at least two on hand, especially if you want to keep your water cool. 
• Snacks - Keep a protein bar or some nuts and crackers in your backpack in case you get hungry in the middle of a hike. 
• Wet wipes/sanitizer
• A good, positive attitude. I personally find this is always a good thing to ‘pack’ and bring with you on an adventure. Being able to adapt to unexpected situations is a real plus. But being prepared with all of the information you now have at your fingertips will go a long way in helping to have a successful day trip.

Like this article? Share it on Pinterest!

We hope that we’ve given you all the information you need to make the most of your day. Your vacation is extremely important to us so if you have any questions feel free to reach out at [email protected] .

For more details, as you plan your trip, please check out our Shaka Guide Hoover Dam & Lake Mead Itinerary !

RELATED ARTICLES:

Shaka Guide’s Hoover Dam & Lake Mead Tour Itinerary

The Ultimate Hoover Dam Travel Guide

2-Day Itinerary: Hoover Dam + Lake Mead

Hoover Dam & Lake Mead Weather: When’s the Best Time to Visit?

Las Vegas to Hoover Dam – How to Get There

Can You Visit the Hoover Dam and the Grand Canyon on the Same Day?

Las Vegas to Grand Canyon: The Must-Stop Gems Along the Way

Why Was the Hoover Dam Built?

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Alexander Migl, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

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Explore Hoover Dam Visitor Center Tours For An Unforgettable Experience

Embark on guided or self-guided tours at Hoover Dam Visitor Center to see the powerplant, observation deck, and educational exhibits. Don’t miss out on planning tips for a great experience!

Tour Options at Hoover Dam Visitor Center

When visiting the Hoover Dam Visitor Center, you will have two main tour options to choose from: Guided Tours and Self-Guided Tours. Each option offers a unique way to experience this iconic landmark and learn more about its fascinating history.

Guided Tours

Guided Tours at the Hoover Dam Visitor Center are led by knowledgeable and experienced tour guides who will take you on a journey through the inner workings of the dam. You will have the opportunity to explore areas of the dam that are not open to the general public and learn about the dam’s construction, operation, and significance. This interactive tour is perfect for those who want a more in-depth and educational experience.

• Highlights of Guided Tours:
• Insider access to restricted areas
• Detailed explanations from tour guides
• Interactive learning experience

Self-Guided Tours

If you prefer to explore at your own pace, the Self-Guided Tours at the Hoover Dam Visitor Center are the perfect option for you. You will receive a map and informational guide to help you navigate the and dam area on your own. This option allows you the freedom to spend more time in areas that interest you the most and take in the sights at your leisure.

• Highlights of Self-Guided Tours:
• Flexibility to explore at your own pace
• Opportunity to focus on specific areas of interest
• Ability to take breaks and rest as needed

Whether you choose a Guided Tour or a Self-Guided Tour at the Hoover Dam Visitor Center, you are sure to have a memorable and informative experience. Both options offer unique perspectives on this engineering marvel and allow you to appreciate the history and significance of the Hoover Dam in your own way. So, which tour option will you choose for your visit to the Hoover Dam Visitor Center?

Related: Explore The Best Attractions In Myrtle Beach For An Unforgettable Vacation

Highlights of Hoover Dam Visitor Center Tours

Powerplant tour.

When visiting the Hoover Dam Visitor Center, one of the must-do tours is the Powerplant Tour. This tour takes you deep inside the dam where you can see the massive generators that produce electricity for thousands of homes. You’ll learn about the history of the dam, how it was built, and the engineering marvel that it is. The tour guides are knowledgeable and will answer any questions you have along the way.

Observation Deck Tour

Another highlight of the Hoover Dam Visitor Center tours is the Observation Deck Tour. From the observation deck, you’ll have panoramic views of Lake Mead, the Colorado River, and the surrounding desert landscape. It’s a great opportunity to take in the beauty of the area and snap some unforgettable photos. The guides will point out interesting landmarks and provide insights into the significance of the dam to the region.

• Experience the inner workings of the dam on the Powerplant Tour.
• Enjoy breathtaking views from the Observation Deck Tour.

Whether you’re interested in the engineering marvel of the dam or simply want to take in the stunning scenery, both tours offer something for everyone. Don’t miss out on these highlights during your visit to the Hoover Dam Visitor Center.

Planning Your Visit to Hoover Dam Visitor Center

Ticket information.

When planning your visit to the Hoover Dam Visitor Center, it’s important to consider the ticket information. Tickets can be purchased online in advance or at the on the day of your visit. Prices vary depending on the type of tour you choose, with guided tours typically costing more than self-guided tours. It’s recommended to check the official website for the most up-to-date ticket prices and availability.

Tour Schedule

Once you have purchased your tickets, it’s time to plan out your tour schedule. The Hoover Dam Visitor Center offers a variety of tour options, including guided tours and self-guided tours. Guided tours are led by knowledgeable staff members who provide in-depth information about the dam’s history and significance. Self-guided tours allow visitors to explore the center at their own pace.

Related: Fascinating Facts About The Hoover Dam Construction

• Consider the time of day you want to visit the Hoover Dam Visitor Center. It can get quite crowded during peak hours, so arriving early in the morning or later in the afternoon may provide a more enjoyable experience.
• Wear comfortable shoes as you will be doing a fair amount of walking during your visit. The dam’s terrain can be uneven, so it’s important to wear appropriate footwear to ensure your comfort throughout the tour.

By planning ahead and considering ticket information and the tour schedule, you can make the most of your visit to the Hoover Dam Visitor Center. Whether you choose a guided tour or opt for a self-guided exploration, you’re sure to be amazed by the history and engineering marvel of this iconic landmark.

What to Expect on Hoover Dam Visitor Center Tours

Educational exhibits.

When embarking on a tour of the Hoover Dam Visitor Center, one can expect to encounter a wide array of educational exhibits that offer a fascinating glimpse into the history and engineering marvels of this iconic structure. From interactive displays detailing the construction process to informative panels highlighting the dam’s impact on the surrounding environment, visitors are sure to come away with a newfound appreciation for the ingenuity and perseverance that went into building the dam.

One of the standout exhibits at the Visitor Center is the “Power of Water” display, which showcases the vital role that water plays in generating electricity and sustaining life in the arid desert landscape . Through engaging visuals and hands-on activities, guests can learn about the intricate workings of the dam’s hydroelectric power plant and gain a deeper understanding of the importance of water conservation in the region.

Views of the Colorado River

In addition to the educational exhibits, visitors can also look forward to breathtaking views of the mighty Colorado River as it winds its way through the dramatic Black Canyon. Whether gazing out from the observation deck or taking a leisurely stroll along the perimeter of the dam, the stunning vistas provide a perfect backdrop for capturing memorable photos and soaking in the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape.

As the sun casts its golden glow over the shimmering waters below, visitors can witness the interplay of light and shadow that creates a mesmerizing spectacle against the rugged cliffs and rugged terrain. The juxtaposition of nature’s raw power and human ingenuity serves as a poignant reminder of the delicate balance between progress and preservation, making the Hoover Dam Visitor Center a truly awe-inspiring destination for travelers of all ages.

Related: Construction And Timeline Of Hoover Dam

Tips for a Great Experience on Hoover Dam Visitor Center Tours

Arrive early.

When embarking on a tour of the Hoover Dam Visitor Center, one of the most important tips for ensuring a fantastic experience is to arrive early. By arriving before the crowds, you can beat the rush and have more time to explore all that the center has to offer.

• Make sure to check the tour schedule in advance and plan your visit accordingly.
• Consider arriving at least 30 minutes before your scheduled tour to allow time for parking and getting oriented.
• Early arrival not only allows you to avoid long lines and overcrowding but also gives you the opportunity to take in the breathtaking views of the dam and surrounding area without feeling rushed.

Wear Comfortable Shoes

Another essential tip for making the most of your Hoover Dam Visitor Center tour is to wear comfortable shoes . With so much to see and explore, including educational exhibits, the powerplant tour, and the observation deck tour, you’ll be doing a fair amount of walking.

• Opt for supportive, closed-toe shoes with good traction to navigate the various indoor and outdoor areas of the center.
• Comfortable footwear will help prevent fatigue and ensure that you can fully enjoy the experience without being distracted by discomfort.
• Remember that the terrain around the dam can be uneven, so sturdy shoes are a must for safety and ease of movement.

By following these simple tips and arriving early with comfortable shoes, you’ll set yourself up for a memorable and enjoyable visit to the Hoover Dam Visitor Center. So, lace up those sneakers, grab your camera, and get ready to explore one of the most iconic landmarks in the United States!

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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.

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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
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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/

Thanks for Sharing!

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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Journey With Confidence

How To Find Hoover Dam RV Parking

• Great RVing Destinations

How to See Arizona’s Biggest Dam with Your RV

Is the Hoover Dam on your bucket list for your next RV road trip? Here’s how to find Hoover Dam RV parking so you can take in all the sights of this amazing engineering feat!

What is the Hoover Dam?

The Hoover Dam is one of the most marvelous engineering feats made by mankind, especially when you consider that it was constructed in the early 1930s. In fact, it’s considered one of the seven wonders of the engineering world, along with the International Space Station and Burj Khalifa, so you know it must be impressive!

The impressive engineering is only one of the allures of the Hoover Dam. Lake Mead, our country’s largest reservoir, is a picturesque beauty of blue water surrounded by steep cliffs and canyons. Although man-made, it’s spread over 248 square miles, making it so big you can even take a boat tour on it!

Visitors can not only view the dam in all its glory from the outside, but can tour inside as well to view the hydroelectric generators and passageways. Its proximity to the Grand Canyon and Las Vegas make the Hoover Dam a unique and logical addition to many different trips. So it’s no surprise that RVers love to swing by and check it out for themselves!

Tips to Find RV Parking at Hoover Dam

The Hoover Dam does allow most recreational vehicles and trailers to visit. There are a few vehicles that are not allowed, such as c ommercial semi-trucks, d ouble-stacked trailers, and end-enclosed box trucks.

The full guidelines for what vehicles are or are not allowed can be seen on this Crossing Guide .

When crossing the Hoover Dam, you will have to pass an inspection checkpoint. According to the Crossing Guide, all RVs will be thoroughly inspected before being allowed to pass through. The Bureau of Reclamation will fully inspect all passenger areas, cargo, and compartments, including any locked areas. You will be responsible for opening all areas and repacking all removed items. All weapons are prohibited.

Hoover Dam map courtesy of the US Bureau of Reclamation

Does the Hoover Dam have RV parking?

Yes, the Hoover Dam does have RV parking. There are a couple of options for paid and free parking. 

Paid parking

The Hoover Dam sits between Nevada and Arizona, and there are parking lots on both sides. If you’ve unhitched your rig and are touring in your tow vehicle, there is a 459-spot parking lot across from the visitor center on the Nevada side. This lot costs $10.

However, RVs and trailers are only allowed on the Arizona side . You can cross to the Arizona side via the Mike O’Callaghan-Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge. Be aware that the road is now closed on the Arizona side, so when you’re finished you will have to go back the way you came from. There is no stopping on the bridge allowed.

Once you reach the Arizona side, the first parking lot you see on your left is the closest option and costs $10 to park. 

Free parking

If you keep driving, you will find four more parking lots, each with no fees. If you park here, be prepared for a long walk back to the Visitor Center on the Nevada side of the dam.

Once you park, you can walk back over the bridge to take in the awe-inspiring views of the dam and make your way to the visitor center. Once there, you have your choice of a few different tours, all of which are super interesting and educational.

Overnight RV parking near the Hoover Dam

Once you’ve explored the Hoover Dam and you’re ready to make your way to your next campgrounds, you can pull out your RV LIFE App or get onto RV LIFE Trip Wizard ! If you’ve already added the Hoover Dam as a stop on your trip’s itinerary, you can look quickly for nearby RV parks. You will be able to easily check out ratings, amenities, and park details, plus how far away it is from your current location. It couldn’t get any easier than that!

Photo courtesy of RV LIFE Campgrounds

If you’re looking for the closest campground to Hoover Dam with the highest rating, you’ll find Boulder Beach Campground that is only six miles away with a 9.1 rating. By having a look at the features and reviews, you’ll see this is a no-frills campground with easy access to hiking and the lake.

If you realize that you actually need something with full hookups and easier access to a town, you can adjust your search to options in Boulder City. You’ll see that Canyon Trail RV Park also has great reviews plus full hookups, paved streets, Wi-Fi, and easy access to downtown Boulder City.

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Hoover Dam Exploration Tour

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Starting at

Departure Time

Boulder City, Nevada

• Approx. 5 Hours

Your tour begins with a pickup from the Las Vegas strip for a ground tour of Hoover Dam National Historic Landmark. Your tour includes the Power Plant Tour, 500 feet into the dam to view the turbines and the famous generator room. Also see the Visitor Center, along with historical exhibits and the observation deck. Then marvel at the Hoover Dam, the Colorado River, and Black Canyon from 900 feet high above on the Mike O’Callaghan-Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge. Enjoy a visit to Historic Boulder City with charming antique stores, cafes and the Hoover Dam Museum.

What's Included:

Round-trip luxury motor coach transportation, entry fee into the bureau of reclamation, entry fee for hoover dam visitor center, ticket for interior tour of hoover dam and generator room, complimentary bottled water.

Cancellation Policy: We offer free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start of the tour. Any cancellations received less than 24 hours will not be refunded.

Disclaimer: Every effort will be made to adhere to the published itineraries. National Park Express reserves the right to alter any itinerary at any time based on local conditions, and will not be responsible for losses incurred due to unforeseen circumstances. Tour prices are subject to change. NPE reserves the right to adjust the listed price at any time for any reason, however, we will not adjust prices once the booking has been confirmed and full payment has been received. Once a tour departs, there will be no refunds extended.

Should weather issues or other unforeseen circumstances cause a delay in our tour or transportation before the departure, National Park Express reserves the right to postpone or cancel, and any loss or additional expenses incurred shall be borne by the participants.

The listed tours are designed by National Park Express; we do our best to make sure all the tour arrangements and inclusions will be the same as planned. Should any unforeseen situation(s), such as traffic, road conditions, accidents, mechanical problems, public enemies, strikes, riots, political upheavals, the authority of law, bad weather, or any other natural circumstances beyond our control arise, local agents conducting the tour or our office staff reserve the right to alter the itinerary as necessary for the comfort and safety of the participants. Any additional expenses incurred shall be charged to the participants. Participants should strictly abide by the laws and regulations of the local governments. National Park Express will not be responsible for individuals, for any and all penalties due to any regulations of the governments of the cities, counties, countries, and other jurisdictions visited.

To ensure comfort, quality, and safety, NPE reserves the right to accept, reject, or expel any individual who is deemed disruptive or incompatible with the interests, comfort, and safety of the group. All expenses to do so will be borne by the passenger. NPE will not be responsible for the behavior of any tour participant. NPE reserves the right to make changes in the itinerary, or to cancel, whenever the Company deems it necessary for the comfort, convenience, or safety of the tour participants.

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• Helpful Tips for Visiting Hoover Dam from Las Vegas
• Post author: Rachel Means
• Post last modified: 2023-10-25

Hoover Dam. One of America’s greatest engineering achievements, born of necessity and sheer will and still faithfully serving the Southwest today.

Visiting Hoover Dam is a quintessential summer vacation stop in the United States, for good reason. And I’m not just saying that because I’m a former structural engineer who loved seeing this modern marvel in person!

Here’s everything you need to know about how to get there, where to park, what to do, and more!

This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate and associate of other programs, I earn from qualifying purchases. This means if you click a link and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Table of Contents

Why You Should Care about Hoover Dam: Quick Fun Facts

• Built in the 1930s to control devasting flooding in California, Nevada, and Arizona
• 726ft tall ( taller than the Washington Monument ), 45ft thick at the top, and 660ft thick at the bottom ( that’s 2 football fields )
• Created Lake Mead , which holds enough water to cover the entire state of New York in a foot of water (when it’s not in a drought)
• Boulder City was started as a company town for workers building the dam
• Sometimes called Boulder Dam , it was officially named Hoover Dam by an Act of Congress after the Secretary of Commerce-turned-President of the United States Herbert Hoover who championed the Colorado River rights negotiations and subsequent dam construction
• Power generated by the dam’s hydroelectric power plant serves 1.3 million people every year
• Completely self-sufficient from tour fees (requires no government budget to operate)

How to Get to Hoover Dam from Las Vegas

Hoover Dam is a straightforward 45 minute drive from the Las Vegas strip .

It’s a super easy day trip from Vegas, one we highly recommend for the cool factor.

Not just because I’m a civil engineer that’s obsessed with these types of things, but because it’s an engineering marvel built in the 1930s that forever changed the American Southwest.

If you don’t have a car available to drive yourself, then take a rideshare.

It’ll be a bit pricey, around $50 each way, but that’s still quite a bit cheaper than a taxi.

We don’t recommend a guided tour to just Hoover Dam from Las Vegas. There’s no point.

Everything you’re going to do at Hoover Dam is easy to do without paying for another guide to drive you there.

Tours do make sense if they include other places in addition to Hoover Dam and you don’t have transportation of your own.

Parking at Hoover Dam

You have two options for parking at Hoover Dam:

• Covered parking garage near the visitor center on the NV side (paid)
• Open parking lots on the AZ side (closer one is paid, further up the hill is free)

Can You Drive Across the Hoover Dam?

Personal vehicles, including RVs, are allowed to cross the Hoover Dam to use the parking lots on the Arizona side.

Security screenings are required well before you get anywhere near the dam.

The Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge was built a short way downstream specifically to get traffic off of the dam.

The new bridge accommodates two lanes in each direction at high speed, whereas the dam is one lane in each direction at ultra-low speed.

You are absolutely never allowed to stop a vehicle on top of the dam, even to take a quick picture. It’s a security issue.

However, you’re free to walk across the top of the dam at your leisure and get all the pictures you want!

What to Do at Hoover Dam

There are actually quite a few things to do at Hoover Dam. Several different views and tours will keep you busy for a full day or half day trip from Las Vegas.

Don’t miss these cool things to do at Hoover Dam!

Take an Epic Picture from the Bridge Overlook

The Pat Tillman Bridge has a protected pedestrian walkway for those that want to walk out onto the bridge and get a phenomenal view of Hoover Dam!

Pro Tip : This path has operating hours, meaning they close it at dusk. We saved this for last on our first visit to Hoover Dam but got there 5 minutes after the last entry to the parking lot…

Check out the Visitor Center Museum

The most comprehensive and informative visitor center we’ve seen in a while!

Take a self-guided tour through the gallery and learn how the massive dam was built and how the power plant works.

Take a Dam Tour

Arrive early in the day and secure a ticket for Hoover Dam’s most in-depth guided tour.

Visit the interior power plant as well as stroll through the inspection tunnels for up-close views of how this behemoth structure was built in the 1930s and is still structurally sound today, 90 years later!

This was the highlight of our visit! Don’t skip this!

Walk across Hoover Dam

Hold on to your phones, cameras, and kids, but enjoy that view!

Looking upstream is one leg of Lake Mead National Recreation Area. Looking downstream is the Colorado River.

As you cross the dam, you’re also crossing the state line. There’s a marker so you can get a fun picture of you standing in two states at once! We definitely did.

Visit the Original Exhibit Building

Included in the Visitor Center ticket, this retro building across the street from the Visitor Center holds a 3D terrain map of the area and discusses how the landscape of the canyon has changed with the construction of Hoover Dam.

Workers’ Memorial at Monument Plaza

The Winged Figures are art deco brilliance and memorialize the workers lost during construction.

Contrary to popular rumor, nobody is buried in the concrete in the dam.

Find all the Informational Plaques

Scattered throughout the area around Hoover Dam, the informational plaques tell unique stories for those that haven’t purchased a tour ticket or visitor center pass.

Don’t miss the Dog Mascot plaque, near the stairs down to the tour lobby. He was a good boy!

Stock up on Souvenirs

Get all your dam shirts, dam magnets, dam shot glasses, and other kitschy souvenirs at the on-site gift shop.

There are many jokes to be made, so be prepared for some rude humor, but keep looking and you’ll find some nice souvenirs.

Which Hoover Dam Guided Tour Option is Best?

There are two guided tour options and one self-guided tour option at Hoover Dam. The Dam Tour is our hands down favorite guided tour at Hoover Dam!

It has the most access and information and is the only one that takes you into the dam itself, not just the observation deck for the power plant.

There’s a catch, though! Dam Tour tickets don’t have online reservations. (The other ticket options do.)

They sell Dam Tours on-site only, first come, first served. In peak season, Dam Tour tickets can sell out by mid-morning.

What Tours are Available at Hoover Dam?

There are three ticketed options for touring Hoover Dam, increasing in cost as more access is included with each tier:

• The Visitor Center Tour ($10, self-guided)
• The Power Plant Tour ($15, guided)
• The Dam Tour ($30, guided)

The Visitor Center Museum is super thorough with great visual exhibits.

It’s the best place to start, learn about the building of Hoover Dam, how the power plant works, and take in awesome views from the outdoor observation deck.

The Power Plant Tour is a good 2 nd best option if there aren’t any Dam Tour time slots left for the day. It still gets you inside the dam for a minute.

This tier includes a brief video presentation about the Hoover Dam before taking visitors down into the dam itself to see one of the penstock tunnels and the observation deck for the Nevada side of the power plant.

From here, the Power Plant Tour guests take an elevator back to the surface. The Dam Tour guests, though, continue further into the dam.

The Dam Tour continues through beautiful Art Deco tunnels, made for the first visitors, and then down another elevator to the inspection tunnels in the heart of the dam.

See up close how this behemoth concrete dam was built, learn how the structure is continuously monitored, and get amazing photos looking downstream at the Colorado River from one of the inspection ventilation shafts in the middle of the dam.

The Dam Tour is the whole dam package, for visitors that want to know and see it all!

Booking a Tour

As mentioned above, Dam Tour time slots are sold first come, first served on-site only and go fast in peak season.

Reserve spots ahead online for the first two tour options.

You can always upgrade them to a Dam Tour when you arrive on-site, if there are still Dam Tour time slots available.

Good to Know : National Park America the Beautiful Annual Passes are not accepted at Hoover Dam . The Bureau of Reclamation, which operates oversight for Hoover Dam and the tours, is one of the six agencies that participates in the pass, but the Hoover Dam site does not receive funding generated by pass sales because it’s completely self-sufficient from tour sales.

Is There a Self-Guided Tour of Hoover Dam?

Sort of. You can’t go inside the dam without a guide, but you can explore everything else at your own pace.

If you don’t particularly care for the history and just want to stop by to get some cool pictures, this can be a quick and free stop on a Southwest USA road trip .

The Visitor Center Museum requires a paid ticket but is self-guided and gives TONS of detailed information on both the construction of the dam and how the dam’s hydroelectric powerplant works.

If you take the time to read all the exhibits, you’ll learn just as much, possibly more, than if you took just a guided tour.

(But you get better anecdotes and random, interesting facts from the guided tours, in our opinion.)

Visitors are also free to explore the area above and around Hoover Dam during normal operating hours.

No ticket is required for any of the following:

• Memorial Bridge Walkway to the Bridge Overlook on Pat Tillman Bridge
• Walking across the top of Hoover Dam
• Admiring views of Lake Mead and the Colorado River
• See Monument Plaza and the Worker’s Memorial
• Find all 12 interpretive plaques around the area
• Shop at the gift shop

Can You Visit Hoover Dam for Free?

Yes, exploring the area around and atop of Hoover Dam is free.

You can even park in the furthest parking lot on the Arizona side of the dam for free.

(Read up on the rules for driving across Hoover Dam before you go.)

But you can’t go inside the dam or even the Visitor Center Museum without a paid ticket.

If you’re not into the history, you should be because this is an impressive engineering masterpiece even for non-engineers.

But if you just don’t have the time or patience for that, you can make a quick stop, take pictures, buy a souvenir, and be on your way.

How Much Does It Cost to Visit Hoover Dam?

Visiting Hoover Dam can be FREE if you need it to be, but we recommend taking at least one of the paid tours. Parking may also incur a fee, depending where you park.

Here’s the full cost breakdown for visiting Hoover Dam:

• Access to gift shop, grounds, memorials, and atop the dam: FREE
• $10 for the garage on the NV side or for Parking Lot 9 (the lowest/closest one) on the AZ side
• FREE parking in the upper lots (Lots 13 and 14) on the AZ side
• The Visitor Center Tour ( $10 , self-guided)
• The Power Plant Tour ( $15 , guided)
• The Dam Tour ( $30 , guided)

Visiting Hoover Dam: Practical Info & FAQs

• Area Hours: 5AM to 9PM PST
• Tour & Visitor Center Hours: 9AM to 5PM PST, last tour at 3:45PM, visitor center last entry at 4:15PM
• Time Zone: The visitor center is on the Nevada side, so the entirety of Hoover Dam operates on Pacific Standard Time.

>> How Long Do You Need to Visit Hoover Dam?

Half a day, minimum, is recommended to explore everything at Hoover Dam , but as little as an hour or two is sufficient for a quick stop just for pictures.

If you take a tour, you’ll likely be here for at least a half day, assuming you don’t have to wait for an afternoon tour time.

>> Best Time of Year to Visit Hoover Dam?

Hoover Dam is in a desert climate, and in a canyon to boot, which basically makes it an oven. Winter temperatures are pleasant. Summer temperatures soar.

Summer is also peak tourist season, but that doesn’t mean it won’t be busy other times of year.

Is Visiting Hoover Dam Worth It?

Visiting Hoover Dam is 100% worth it.

If you’re a history buff, you’ll love it. If you think impressive buildings are cool, you’ll love it.

It’s well-worth a stop on your way to the Grand Canyon or as a half day trip from Las Vegas.

Looking for other things to do in the area near Hoover Dam? Here’s some ideas.

More Southwest USA Ideas

• 35 Sober Things to Do in Las Vegas – no drinking or gambling needed!
• Epic 7 Day Southwest USA Road Trip Itinerary
• Top 5 Awesome Things to Do in Valley of Fire State Park – easy day trip from Vegas!
• Where to Stay Between Zion and Bryce Canyon
• How to See Everything in One Day in Bryce Canyon National Park
• 17 Best Things to Do in Death Valley National Park
• How to Day Trip to Joshua Tree National Park: Easy 1 Day Itinerary

Happy travels!

About the Author : Rachel Means

With six-figure student loan debt and only 10 PTO days per year, Rachel started traveling the world. A decade later, she’s paid off her loans, changed careers, and been to 36 US states and 14 countries. She’s an expert at planning and budgeting for travel and loves to help others do it, too! Read her full story here.

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The 6 Best Grand Canyon Bus Tours From Las Vegas

W hile the Strip is certainly one of Las Vegas' most famous features, it's not all the city has to offer. A trip to Las Vegas wouldn't be complete without experiencing the awe-inspiring natural wonders just outside of it, such as the Grand Canyon. Tourists and locals alike will enjoy a break from the bright lights and bustling city on a bus tour to the Grand Canyon. As one of the largest natural canyons on Earth, the Grand Canyon is more than 270 miles long, meaning there are multiple destinations to explore; the most popular are the South and West Rims.

We've rounded up the top options for Grand Canyon bus tours from Las Vegas, whether you seek an adventurous ride or a more tranquil sightseeing experience.

Best Overall: Grand Canyon West Rim Bus/Helicopter & Landing Tour with Optional Skywalk

Tour operator: Canyon Tours

Price: From $358 per person

Duration: About 10 hours

Visitors can experience the ultimate Grand Canyon bus tour paired with an unforgettable helicopter ride down to the floor of the canyon. The adventure begins on an air-conditioned tour bus that departs from the Vegas Strip and carries passengers to the West Rim. From there, passengers will board a helicopter that descends 4,000 feet, landing on the floor of the canyon. Visitors can explore the canyon floor before reboarding the motorcoach and continuing onto Grand Canyon West, which is home to Guano Point, Eagle Point and Hualapai Ranch. You'll also have the option to brave the world-famous glass Skywalk for sweeping views (and an additional fee).

Local tip: Grand Canyon West is located on the Hualapai Indian Reservation, which is owned and operated by the Hualapai Tribal Nation. In the tribe's traditions, the Grand Canyon and the Colorado River are considered living, spiritual entities. When visiting Grand Canyon West, travelers are immersed in the rich culture and history of the Hualapai Nation.

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Best West Rim Tour: Grand Canyon West Rim Bus Tour with Lunch, Hoover Dam Stop and Skywalk

Tour operator: Grand Canyon Destinations

Price: From $99 per person

Duration: About 11 hours

Located in Peach Springs, Arizona, the West Rim is only a few hours from Las Vegas. This tour will show you the best that the West Rim has to offer, including the glass-bottomed Grand Canyon Skywalk bridge (for an added fee). After being picked up from select Vegas hotels and traveling three hours on an air-conditioned bus, passengers get to spend up to four hours exploring the West Rim. A must-see lookout point at the West Rim is Guano Point, from which you can hike to Highpoint Hike and get a view of the Colorado River.

A lunch box, snacks and plenty of water are included with the tour. One unique feature of this outing is that you get to stop at the Hoover Dam for a photo during the bus journey (but keep in mind this stop is available seasonally). You can also choose from several upgrades, including a Skywalk admission ticket, a helicopter ride or a boat excursion.

Local tip: Because it's closer to the Las Vegas desert, this side of the Grand Canyon is the warmest year-round, with hot and dry summers, mild shoulder seasons, and occasional snowfall in the winter.

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Best Budget: Grand Canyon South Rim Bus Tour from Las Vegas

Price: From $84 per person

Duration: About 15 to 16 hours

A South Rim bus tour offers a quieter, more historic sightseeing experience. The South Rim is one of the most popular parts of Grand Canyon National Park . Guests can see the wide variety of flora and fauna native to the area. This bus tour – which takes around four hours to get to the South Rim's Mather Point from Vegas – gives visitors the opportunity to walk along Bright Angel Trail; it leads to Bright Angel Lodge, located in the Village Historic District.

You can also stock up on snacks and souvenirs at the Grand Canyon Visitor Center, since the tour only includes a box lunch and water. Or, upgrade your excursion with the guided walking tour add-on. Another historic part of the tour is the scenic drive along the famous Route 66, one of the first U.S. highways.

Local tip: Located farther from Vegas, the South Rim is cooler, with rainy and snowy winters, and more moderate temperatures in spring, summer and fall.

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Best South Rim Tour: Grand Canyon National Park South Rim Tour from Las Vegas with Lunch

Tour operator: National Park Express

Price: From $119 per person

Duration: About 13 hours

This guided bus tour includes lunch, bottled water and a granola bar to snack on during the day, as well as admission to some of the most popular Grand Canyon destinations, like Mather Point and Bright Angel Point. You'll get about three hours total at the Grand Canyon. Plus, you can select your own pickup location from several Las Vegas-area hotels and be dropped off at one of three locations (Excalibur, Horseshoe or Treasure Island).

Local tip: Visitors who are looking to experience the wildlife native to the area often choose the South Rim of the Grand Canyon, which is home to more animal species than the West Rim, such as coyotes and bighorn sheep.

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Best All-Inclusive: Grand Canyon West Rim Bus Tour & Hoover Dam Photo Stop with Optional Skywalk

Tour operator: Comedy on Deck Tours

Price: From $149 per adult

Duration: About 10.5 hours

This full-day Grand Canyon tour run by Comedy on Deck Tours gives guests several options to customize their experience, such as a VIP Skywalk tour. But there is also a great base package. Guests are treated to not one but two sit-down meals from local restaurants: a freshly prepared breakfast and a barbecue lunch with an incredible view of the canyon. Additionally, this all-inclusive tour also stops at the Hoover Dam on the way to the Grand Canyon, so guests get to experience two national landmarks for the price of one. The professional comedian who doubles as tour guide makes for an even more fun experience.

Local tip: The West Rim is typically less crowded than the South Rim, so it may be a good option for your Grand Canyon destination if you're hoping to avoid all the tourist congestion.

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Best for Families: Grand Canyon South Rim Bus Tour

Price: $85 per person

Duration: About 14 hours

Although there are plenty of kid-approved activities in Las Vegas itself, a day trip to the Grand Canyon is a must-see for any family vacation. This South Rim bus tour from Canyon Tours offers a full day of activities that kids of all ages will enjoy.

Not only will youngsters marvel at the beauty of the canyon, but they can also have an interactive experience at the IMAX theater, which plays a film that takes you into the center of the canyon. Visitor centers throughout the park also offer free activities that allow children 4 and older to earn an official Junior Ranger badge and learn about nature, history and park preservation.

Local tip: The South Rim is divided into different viewpoint areas that visitors can explore. One of the most popular viewpoints is Hermit Road, which is ideal for families with children.

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"Excellent Tour, Highly Recommend" - SWEETours, Inc.

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"Excellent Tour, Highly Recommend"

We were a family of five from New Zealand who travelled to the Grand Canyon 4th October. We were picked up at the specified time and then transferred to a big bus. We had a wonderful time, Derek was our Tour Guide and he was excellent, very informative making sure every one had a Great Day! The Grand Canyon (West Rim) is an amaazing site , absolutely breathtaking. We thoroughly enjoyed Lunch at Guano Point. This Tour was excellent value for money in comparison to other Tour Companies, easy online booking, good email communication and again when i rang to confirm the day before. We would highly recommend to friends and family.. Thank you Sweet Tours for a Fabulous Day, this was one of the highlights of our trip to the U.S.A. Kia Ora!!

My wife and i were looking for a tour of Hoover Dam and the hotel concierge told us that the Lake Meade tour included the same Hoover Dam tour plus a boat ride and dinner on Lake Meade, lasting 7 hours from start to finish. For $119 each that seemed fair. When the tour began we discovered that for $125 each (tax maybe?) we would not get a full Hoover Dam tour, but would spend 15 minutes taking pictures. It was almost a drive by tour of the dam in that our stop was very brief and from an oblique angle of the dam at dusk. The Lake Meade boat ride and dinner was actually a $62 fare from the ticket counter. The meal and boat ride was okay, but after dusk not much to see. The bus ride back to the hotel (total 5 hours round trip, maybe because no Hoover Dam tour) was worse than the way out, extremely rough like they didn't have any shock absorbers at all. My wife became nauseous and barely made it back to the hotel room. We, and perhaps the hotel concierge because we heard other comments about this tour not represented correctly, were misled as to the tour contents and the experience was fair at best, but overall poor.

This Grand Canyon Bus Trip from Las Vegas will be remembered forever. Our tour guide (drove bus and provided oratory the entire time) is Wally Carter with Sweetours. Sweetours picks you up at your hotel and takes you to a staging area infront of the airport, where you switch over to one of their incredible coaches (with washroom) for the day tour. Hoover Dam at Lake Mead. Incredible sight of a man made marvel. Next, we pass through Seligman Arizona (origin of famous "Route 66". Stop at the famous Barber Shop / now gift store, which provides a look back at an era gone bye. On to Grand Canyon South Rim at Mather Point. Here we take tram car one of many walking paths available and begin our journey along the South Rim walkway/trail. Everything is mobility friendly (ADA) and we are thrilled beyond measure. Time is short at the park, so we calculate our route and begin our journey with tram and trail. The beauty of the landscape and scenery are beyond words. Thrill seekers of every age are taken in by the shear size and impressiveness of the canyon walls. The colors are vivacious and extreme. It is difficult to fathom just how old these formations are until you read the scientific and history behind the scenes. The visitor center is filled with all one can take in for a day.

Outstanding tour, numerous photo opportunities. Tour guide was very good at ensuring everyone had a great day. Well worth it..

If you would really like to see Grand Canyon then you need to allocate for an overnight stay. Be prepared to spend 6 hours on the bus each way just so that you can enjoy the view for about 2 hours and having to make sure not to miss the departure time. However there are always some individuals that don't care that the whole bus is waiting for them for 45 minutes, that could have been better spend enjoying the view instead. No complains about the trip, picked up on time, the driver was engaging and informative. If you are trying to follow a healthy lifestyle than consider bringing your own food, as the breakfast consisted of - a wheat bun, a banana and some sweet granola; for lunch - a sandwich and nothing better than Subway along the way. Left at 6am and got back to the hotel by 11pm, so plan accordingly!

Our driver (the Awesome Anthony) was informative, entertaining and very good at building a pleasant atmosphere on the bus. Advice given was great and tips for photo opportunities on the way very welcome. Destination (Grand Canyon) also splendid - perhaps under our own steam we would have stayed longer just to sit and stare, but it was enough time to fill a camera and not feel too rushed.

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