Las Vegas is a very popular tourist destination, and for good reason. There is so much to see and do in the city, from gambling in the casinos to enjoying world-class shows. If you’re looking to explore some of Nevada’s natural wonders, however, you’ll need to venture out of Las Vegas. One popular destination is Hoover Dam. How far is Las Vegas to Hoover Dam? – Let’s read to know!
Overview Hoover Dam
Hoover Dam is a concrete arch-gravity dam, designed by Frank Crowe. It is named after Herbert Hoover, who was the United States President at the time of its construction. Let’s explore some interesting news about the perfect destination!
- Location: The Hoover Dam was built in the Black Canyon of the Colorado River, on the border between Nevada and Arizona.
- Construction period: The Hoover Dam was built between 1931 and 1935. The construction of the Hoover Dam was a massive undertaking, employing over 5,000 men at its peak. The project was fraught with difficulties, including the death of over 100 workers, but it was completed ahead of schedule and under budget.
- Characteristic: The dam extends 1,244 ft. (379.2 m) between the canyon walls and is 726.4 ft. (221.3 m) high, with a concrete base 660 ft. (201 m) thick and a two-lane highway on top. The concrete alone used in the construction of the dam weighed more than 2,6 million tons.
- Benefits of Dam: The Hoover Dam was an important project both for its time and for the future, and it continues to play a vital role in the Southwest United States because of the below significant reasons:
- Provide hydroelectric power
- Control the flow of the Colorado River
- Prevent floods and silt
- Supply water available for people, agriculture, and industry.
- Popularity: The Hoover Dam is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the United States. More than 7 million people visit the dam each year. It was also one of the largest public works projects in American history for over seventy years.
- Benefits of visiting: When visiting the Hoover Dam, visitors have the opportunity to learn about the history of the dam as well as its construction. Visitors can also experience the power of the water by walking across the dam or by looking at it from various angles. Additionally, visitors can enjoy the view of the surrounding area from the overlooks located on both sides of the dam.
- Best time to visit: The Hoover Dam is a great place to visit year-round, but if you want to see the dam in all its glory, then you should visit it during the summer. The temperature is usually nice and warm, and there are plenty of activities to keep you busy. You can go for a walk or bike ride on the trails that run along the Colorado River or take a guided tour of the dam itself. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even rent a boat and explore the river canyon.
Explore more: How Far From Las Vegas To Grand Canyon? And Related Information
How far from Las Vegas to Hoover Dam?
There are 3 routes to go from Las Vegas to Hoover Dam by car. Let’s into the detail!
ROUTE 1:
- Driving Distance: 37 miles
- Driving Time: 38 mins
- Describe the way: Enter I-515 S/US-93 S/US-95 S –> Go along I-515 S/US-93 S/US-95 S and I-11 S to NV-172 –> Follow Exit 2 from I-11 S –> Take Hoover Dam Access Rd to your destination
ROUTE 2
- Driving Distance: 44,1 miles
- Driving Time: 48 mins
- Describe the ways: Enter I-515 N/US-95 N –> Go along I-15 S, I-215 E and I-11 S/US-93 S to NV-172 –> Take Exit 2 from I -11 S/US-93 S –> Ride along Hoover Dam Access Rd to your destination
ROUTE 3:
- Driving distance: 36,5 miles
- Driving Time: 51 mins
- Describe the ways: Take I-515 S/US-93 S/US-95 S to W Galleria Dr at Henderson –> Take exit 64B –> Continue W Galleria Dr to E Lake Mead Pkwy –> Go along follow E Lake Mead Pkwy and Lakeshore Rd to NV-172/Hoover Dam Access Rd -> Go along Hoover Dam Access Rd to your destination
TIPS
Some advices when going from Las Vegas to Hoover Dam by car:
- Plan your route before you go – make sure you know where you’re going and how to get there.
- Get an early start – the drive from Las Vegas to Hoover Dam can take a few hours, so it’s best to leave early to avoid rush hour traffic.
- Make sure your car is in good condition – the drive from Las Vegas to Hoover Dam is a long one, so you’ll want to make sure your car is up for the challenge.
- Bring snacks and water – there aren’t many places to stop for food along the way, so it’s a good idea to bring snacks and plenty of water with you.
- Take breaks if needed – the drive from Las Vegas to Hoover Dam can be tiring, so take breaks as needed to rest and refuel.
Read more: 24 Of The Best Things To Do With Toddlers In Las Vegas
How to get to Hoover Dam in other ways?
By Tour
The easiest way to visit Hoover Dam is by taking a tour. There are a few different tour companies that offer trips to the dam, and most of them include transportation from Las Vegas. Let’s explore!
TIME: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
ROUTE (provided by Comedy On Deck Tours)
Your hotel (all most major Strip resorts) –> Arrive at the Dam –> You can walk across the Top of the Dam –> Descend inside the Dam for a tour of its enormous power plant –> Back outside for a look at the massive spillways –> Get to visit the dam’s Museum and Visitor Center –> The bus then takes you to a restaurant for lunch –> On the way back, you can stop at the iconic “Welcome to Las Vegas” -> Back to your hotel!
Advantages and Disadvantages
When traveling from Las Vegas to Hoover Dam by tour, there are both advantages and disadvantages to consider.
Advantages
- On the plus side, a tour is a great way to see the sights and learn about the history and culture of the area.
- Tours typically include transportation, admission to attractions, and sometimes lunch or dinner.
- They are also often led by knowledgeable guides who can provide interesting information about the destinations.
Disadvantages
- Price can be expensive, and sometimes you may feel rushed or like you’re not getting your money’s worth.
- Tours can also be crowded, particularly during peak season, which can make it difficult to enjoy the experience.
TIPS
- Make sure to book your tour in advance, as they tend to fill up quickly.
- Dress comfortably and prepare for a lot of walking.
- Bring sunscreen, hats, and water bottles to stay hydrated.
- Be prepared for some stunning views along the way.
- Keep an open mind and enjoy the experience!
See also: You Have To Go To These 15+ Las Vegas Beaches
By Rideshare or Taxi
Taking a taxi or Rideshare is another simple option for traveling from Las Vegas to Hoover Dam.
Price
(From the Las Vegas Strip area to the Hoover Dam visitor center per car each way):
- Lyft or an Uber: about $60.
- A taxi: at least $100.
Time: 45 minutes.
Note
Although it’s easy to take an Uber or Lyft from Las Vegas to Hoover Dam, you may have difficulty finding a rideshare car to pick you up for the return trip.
TIPS
RECOMMENDATIONS for getting from Las Vegas to Hoover Dam:
- When traveling to Hoover Dam from Las Vegas, either by rideshare or taxi, be sure to plan your trip in advance. This will ensure that you have a smooth and stress-free experience.
- Make sure you know the address of Hoover Dam before departing for your trip. This will help your driver find the destination quickly and easily.
- If you are traveling by taxi, be sure to ask the driver for a receipt at the end of your ride. This will help you keep track of your expenses.
- If you are traveling by rideshare, be sure to check the reviews of your driver before departure. This will help ensure a safe and comfortable experience.
See more: 18 Of The Best and Biggest Arcades in Las Vegas
By Bus
Some of the companies
- The Boulder City Express
- The shuttle bus (operated by National Parks Express)
- The Lake Mead Visitor Center, and the marina
- The HDX (Henderson and Downtown Express)
- …
Some destination
Boulder City The downtown historic district is a great place to explore!), Ziplines, Lake cruises, and Kayak tours.
TIPS
Some recommendations when traveling from Las Vegas to Hoover Dam by bus include:
- Check the bus schedule in advance and make sure you arrive at the bus station on time.
- If you have a large amount of luggage, make sure there is enough space on the bus for you to store it.
- Bring snacks and drinks with you, as there may not be any available on the bus.
- Make sure to bring sunscreen and a hat, as it can be very hot during the day.
- Pack sensible shoes, as there will be a lot of walking involved.
See continue: 13+ Best Restaurants In The Bellagio Hotel & Casino
By Helicopter
Helicopters are the most convenient and cost-effective method to appreciate the huge scale of Hoover Dam.
Route
Helicopter flights over Hoover Dam are available from the Las Vegas airport via Papillon. They also fly out of their headquarters at the Hoover Dam Lodge in Boulder City.
TIPS
When traveling to Hoover Dam by helicopter, it is important to be aware of the following suggests:
- Always check the weather conditions before departing, as the area can be prone to severe weather changes.
- Be sure to have all necessary documentation and identification ready, as checkpoints will be present on the way.
- Pack snacks and water, as there are no food or drink options available at Hoover Dam.
- Be prepared for a bumpy ride, as helicopters do not have the smoothest ride.
- If possible, try to book a tour that includes a stop at the dam – this provides the opportunity for visitors to get off the helicopter and explore on their own.
Explore more: Top Rated Michelin Star Restaurants Las Vegas
How to get to the Hoover Dam’s Visitor Center?
Parking
There are two parking lots on the Arizona side of the dam and a parking garage on the Nevada side (the dam is on the border between the two states). The nearby lot and the parking garage both demand fees, while the farther-reaching lot—about three-quarters of a mile from the dam—is free.
Activities
- Sign up for a tour of the power plant
- Walk the Hoover Dam Bridge
- Check out the theater
- View exhibit gallery
- Access the rooftop observation deck
- Purchase food and beverages at the concession stand
- Visit the Hoover Dam Lodge
This power plant tour is only available to those who include the following:
- 10-minute movie on dam history
- 30-minute guided tour
- A visit to the platform overlooking a 30-foot diameter penstock pipe
- Nevada wing of the powerplant
- Admission to Visitor Center exhibits and observation deck
- 1940s topographical map
Read more: Everything You Should Know When Visiting Mandalay Bay Pool
FAQs
How far apart are the Grand Canyon and Hoover Dam?
The road distance from Hoover Dam to the Grand Canyon is 247 miles or 398 kilometers.
Can you still drive over to the Hoover Dam?
You cannot drive through the dam.
The Arizona side of the roadway has been closed but you can still visit the Arizona viewpoints and concessions. All visitors are required to turn around and re-enter Nevada to access Highway 93.
How do I travel from Las Vegas Strip to Hoover Dam without a car?
Without a car, you can get to Hoover Dam by taking the bus, taxi, or drive share. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, you can even take a helicopter! We’ve provided detailed information for each option. Back to read!
Conclusion
If you’re looking for an interesting day trip from Las Vegas, make sure to add Hoover Dam to your list. How far is Las Vegas to Hoover Dam? We provided the exact answers and some of the best ways to get there. Let’s enjoy your trip!!!
Explore more on our website bbalessandra.com!