What to do at Hoover Dam- 10 Things To do - Grand Canyon Hoover Dam

What To Do at The Hoover Dam – The 10 Best Things To Do

The Hoover Dam is one of America’s greatest engineering feats, and it still stands among the most iconic structures in the Southwest today. This great dam was built in the 1930s. It is a national historic landmark and is considered one of the seven wonders of modern civil engineering. Hoover Dam is a top tourist destination, and many say a trip to Las Vegas would not be complete without a visit to the dam. From water to air, there are plenty of ways to fit your plan.

Hoover Dam Tour

1. Kayak The Hoover Dam

If you want to explore Hoover Dam while away from the crowds, a Las Vegas kayak tour on Hoover Dam is the perfect activity. You can kayak on Hoover Dam by Christianson Tours, where you’ll find plenty of options for exploring the natural areas around Las Vegas by boat. One of the best ways to take a personalized tour of Hoover Dam is to take a day trip that will take you on a scenic journey down the Colorado River. Along with great views of the dam, you’ll travel through the Black Canyon and learn about the area’s natural history as you go. For added convenience, Christianson Tours even offers a free shuttle service with convenient pickup points along the Las Vegas Strip.

2. Schedule a Power Plant Tour

The Power Plant Tour is one of two tours you can take to learn more about the Dam. Note that tours run from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm daily and start at the Visitor Center. With the Power Plant Tour, you can (and should) buy tickets in advance. Tickets are available online. The factory tour begins with a video showcasing the history of Hoover Dam, followed by a 30-minute guided walk to the observatory. The tour then continues to the Nevada Wing, which is a publicly accessible part of the power plant. This tour also includes a presentation at the original exhibition building from the 1940s.

3. Take a Dam Guided Tour

The Dam Guided Tour is another option for those who want to learn more about the history of the Hoover Dam. The Dam Guided Tour is a longer tour with a minimum age requirement of eight years. The guided tour of the dam also begins with a brief introductory video explaining the history of the dam. The tour continues with an hour-long guided walk to the observatory overlooking the power plant. You’ll pass by the power station on this tour, and you’ll also stop at the test tunnel. The tour ends with a presentation at the original exhibition building, built shortly after the construction of the Dam.

4. Check Out Lake Mead

Hoover Dam Tour  Grand Canyon
If you visit Hoover Dam, you can also include a visit to Lake Mead. Lake Mead was formed by the Dam. This is a large reservoir that is also the first and largest amusement park in the country. Lake Mead is another prime spot for kayaking. The reservoir is also open for fishing, boating, and swimming. Hiking and camping are available along the perimeter of Lake Mead. Be sure to bring your camera with you when you go, as you’ll get stunning views of the park’s valleys, canyons, and mountains as well as its majestic blue waters.

5. Cross The Memorial Park

Although the Hoover Dam is considered the main attraction, another engineering wonder in the park is the Mike O’Callaghan-Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge. The bridge is relatively new compared to the dam. It was built in 2010 and spans the Colorado River to connect the dam on the Nevada and Colorado sides. If you are looking for a good photo, you can pause to take a photo at “Welcome to

6. Catch a Glimpse of Bighorn Sheep

Although Hoover Dam is a man-made attraction, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy the wildlife nearby. Resident bighorn sheep are a common sight at the Dam. You can spot them from the Memorial Bridge, hiking around Lake Mead, or kayak to Hoover Dam.

7. Stop at The Hoover Dam Visitor Center

The Hoover Dam Visitor Center is a natural stop for many visitors. The visitor center has restrooms, a cafe, and a gift shop. You can take tours from the Visitor Center and have the opportunity to learn about the history of the dam at your own pace with topographic maps and other historical information located on site.

8. Visit The Boulder Dam Hotel

The Boulder Dam Hotel is located in nearby Boulder. The hotel was built in 1933, just a few years before the construction of the dam was completed. The Boulder Dam Hotel originally provided housing for construction workers as they completed work on the dam. The hotel is still in operation to this day and has more than 20 rooms for rent. The Boulder Dam Hotel also has an art gallery and restaurant.

9. Take a Self-Guided Audio Tour

If you want to tour Hoover Dam but at your own pace, consider an audio-guided walking tour. A tour called Walk BC is available for those who want to learn more about the history of the Dam and the adjacent city of Boulder. The tour takes you past the Dam and the Boulder City Historic District, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

10. Visit Boulder City

Boulder City is also worth a visit if you’re exploring Hoover Dam. Boulder City contains several historical landmarks along with museums dedicated to the town itself and the Dam. And Boulder City also has wonderful restaurants and shops that provide great opportunities for an afternoon of urban exploration and relaxation.

From the water to the sky, there are many unique and memorable ways to explore Hoover Dam and the surrounding area. Don’t hesitate to contact the friendly staff at Christianson Tours if you want to add a kayaking tour of the Hoover Dam to your list of Las Vegas activities.

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