If you’re interested in exploring one of the world’s most popular tourist attractions, the Hoover Dam, you’re in luck. This breathtaking structure is located just outside of Las Vegas in Nevada, USA. Here’s what you need to know before you go.
Visitors are able to view the Dam from the top, to see the reservoir and the Colorado River downstream. To get there, you will need to take US Highway 93 from Las Vegas to the Nevada/Arizona state line. Once you reach the Arizona side, you will cross into the Lake Mead National Recreation Area where you can park your vehicle and walk across the bridge to the top of the Dam. Admission to the Dam is free.
To learn more about the history and the building of the Dam, visitors can take advantage of the variety of tours available. There is a 30-minute Power Plant Tour, a 45-minute Discovery Tour, and an in-depth Hoover Dam Tour. These tours are offered by the Bureau of Reclamation and are available seven days a week. Prices vary from $15-$30 per person.
Additionally, there are numerous other points of interest and activities to enjoy in the area. These include a wildlife viewing area, a scenic drive, and a variety of hiking and biking trails. There is also a museum located near the Dam where visitors can learn more about the history and construction of the Dam.
Before heading to Hoover Dam, visitors should keep in mind that the temperature can be extreme in the summer months. Therefore, visitors should make sure to bring plenty of water and sunscreen with them. Additionally, visitors should be aware that there are no restaurants or stores in the area, so it is important to plan accordingly.
While exploring Hoover Dam, visitors should take extra caution and follow all safety instructions. There are many signs that explain safety guidelines, and visitors should be aware of their surroundings at all times. Furthermore, visitors should never attempt to cross any dams or structures.
Visiting Hoover Dam is an amazing experience, and with a bit of preparation, visitors can make the most of their trip. By following the guidelines mentioned above, visitors can ensure that their trip is safe, fun, and rewarding.
What To Prepare Before Visiting Hoover Dam
If you’re planning a trip to the magnificent Hoover Dam, you need to be prepared before you head out. Hoover Dam is an iconic landmark and offers many activities for everyone to enjoy. Here are just a few things you should know before visiting the dam.
First, you should know that Hoover Dam is located in the Black Canyon of the Colorado River, just a few miles east of Las Vegas. The dam was built in the 1930s and is considered to be one of the greatest engineering feats of the 20th century. The dam stands at an impressive 726 feet (220 meters) tall and is 1,244 feet (379 meters) wide at its widest point.
The Hoover Dam Visitor Center is open 9am-5pm, seven days a week, and offers guided tours of the dam. The cost of a tour is $30 per person, and it includes a guided tour, a movie about the dam, and access to the observation deck. You can also purchase a souvenir photo of yourself standing in front of the dam for an additional fee.
You should also be aware that no vehicles are allowed on the dam, so you will need to park at the designated visitor center parking lot and walk across the dam. You should also wear comfortable shoes, as the walk is approximately a mile-long (1.6 kilometers).
When planning your trip, consider the time of year you will be visiting. Summers are hot and dry in the desert, but winters can be cold and wet. Be sure to bring plenty of water and sunscreen, no matter what time of year you visit.
Finally, you should be aware of the local regulations and rules before visiting the dam. No pets are allowed on the dam, and no food is allowed in the visitor center. There is also a dress code, so be sure to dress appropriately.
Now that you know the basics of what to prepare before visiting the Hoover Dam, you’re ready to go explore this amazing structure. Be sure to take plenty of pictures and enjoy the amazing views of the Colorado River from the observation deck.
Key Facts To Know About Hoover Dam
Hoover Dam is one of the most remarkable engineering achievements in the world. Located on the Colorado River, it stands 726 feet tall and is 1,244 feet long. It is the tallest dam in the United States and the second tallest in the world. Here are the key facts that you need to know about Hoover Dam before visiting.
Location: Hoover Dam is located on the Nevada-Arizona border on the Colorado River, about two hours southeast of Las Vegas.
Tours: Tours are available for the dam’s inner workings and visitors can take a tour of the powerplant. There are several restaurants and gift shops in the area and there is a Visitor Center with a movie and a museum.
Construction: Construction began on the dam in 1931 and was completed in 1935. It took 21,000 workers to build the dam and it is estimated to have cost more than $49 million. The dam is made up of 3.25 million cubic yards of concrete and its walls are 45 feet thick at the base.
Capacity: The reservoir created by the dam can hold up to 9.2 million acre feet of water. The dam generates enough electricity to power over 1 million homes. It also prevents flooding and helps control the water levels of the Colorado River.
Time: The best time to visit Hoover Dam is between mid-March and mid-May, as this is the time when the temperatures are the mildest. During this time, visitors can take in the magnificent views of Lake Mead, the Colorado River, and the surrounding area.
Fees:
| Ticket Type | Price |
|---|---|
| Adult | $12 |
| Children (4-16 years) | $8 |
| Children (under 4 years) | FREE |
Clothing: It is important to wear comfortable and appropriate clothing when visiting Hoover Dam. Make sure to wear sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the sun. Wear closed-toe shoes, as some areas of the dam may be slippery.
If you want to take in all the amazing views and learn about the history of the dam, then you need to know these key facts about Hoover Dam before visiting.
Hoover Dam is a concrete arch-gravity dam located on the Colorado River on the border between the US states of Arizona and Nevada.
Hoover Dam is open to visitors from 9AM to 5PM every day except for Thanksgiving and Christmas Day.
All visitors to the Hoover Dam are required to bring a valid form of government issued identification.
Yes, an admission fee for visitors to the Hoover Dam is required to access the grounds and buildings.
Yes, visitors are not allowed to bring any bags, purses, cameras, or other items that can obstruct the security checkpoints.
No, visitors do not need to make a reservation in order to visit the Hoover Dam.
Yes, visitors are welcome to take photos both inside and outside of the dam.
Yes, guided tours are offered at the Hoover Dam for visitors who would like to learn more about the dam.
Yes, food and beverage options are available at the dam from various vendors and concession stands.
Yes, there are numerous hotels close to the Hoover Dam for visitors to stay in while visiting the dam.