BOULDER CITY, Nev. — Las Vegas is a must-see destination, luring visitors from around the world with its bright lights, gambling and flamboyant shows.
But even the most die-hard revelers can get worn out from the never-ending party on The Strip.
Two of the top destinations for Vegas visitors who need a break from the action are just 30 minutes to the southeast at the Arizona-Nevada state line: Hoover Dam.
A rundown of what you’ll see at this popular tourist destination:
The Hoover Dam was built between 1931-36, Hoover Dam is an architectural marvel, considered one of America’s seven modern civil engineering wonders.
The dam spans 1,244 feet across Black Canyon and rises 726 feet from the Colorado River.
But like the Grand Canyon or Niagara Falls, Hoover Dam is a sight — albeit man-made — where descriptions or pictures don’t do it justice; it’s something that has to be seen to truly appreciated.
The view from the road is unimpressive, but once you look over the edge to the sliver of river below, expect your breath to be taken away. The view from the O’Callaghan-Tillman Memorial Bridge above the dam — accessed from a parking lot on the road to Hoover Dam — also is spectacular and looking back toward the deep blue water of Lake Mead isn’t bad, either.
The visitor center offers interesting details about the dam’s history, but to get a true appreciation, take the tour to see the inner workings.
A quick warning: The large elevator can be crowded and there are warnings about claustrophobia. The trip is short, though, and the friendly guides tend to ease the tension during the 530-foot ride down.
The 30-minute guided power plant tour includes viewing the 30-foot penstock pipes, which control the flow of water, along with massive generators and access to the visitor center. The hour-long dam tour has the same elements, but visitors also get to explore the various tunnels throughout the dam and peer out the air vents facing the downstream face.
Tickets: Dam tour, $30 (no one under 8 permitted, not accessible for wheelchairs). Power plant tour, $15 adults, $12 children 4-12. Visitor center, $10.
Parking: $10 in the parking garage, but there are free spots across the dam if you’re up for a short walk.
Hours: Visitor center is open 9 a.m.- 5 p.m., tickets must be purchased by 4:15 p.m. Last dam tour is at 3:30 p.m., last power plant tour is at 3:55 p.m. Open daily except Christmas and Thanksgiving.
Learn more at www.usbr.gov/lc/hooverdam
