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Hoover Dam
Historical Landmark in Las Vegas, Nevada
Hoover Dam
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US Hwy 93
Boulder City, NV 89005
702-494-2517
Good-for-Kids Rating
Babies
Toddlers & Pre-K
School-Age KidsPre-Teens & Teens
Hoover Dam Description
Getting up close to the rushing water that turns the turbines of Hoover Dam makes the production of hydro-electricity very real and very interesting. You and your family will learn how the dam was built to harness the power of the Colorado River, and the amazing risks involved in doing it. The guided tour is self-paced, meaning kids can skip over the less interesting sections and head straight for the fascinating movie on dam construction. An elevator ride down 500 feet of canyon wall to view the power generators is, in a word, awesome.
Historical Landmark
Science & Nature Museum
History Museum
Kid Tips
Toddlers & Pre-K: Most of the tour is over their heads but even pre-schoolers will enjoy the elevator ride to the generators. The loud noise may bother some kids.
School-Age Kids: The high lake, the low river, the water that falls between them: Hoover Dam is a visual lesson in hydrodynamics easily grasped by elementary students.
Pre-Teens & Teens: Diverting the river and pouring a massive wall of concrete appeals to science and mechanical nuts and other teens given to grandiose thinking.
Planning Notes
- Plan for an hour in the car. Though only 30 miles south of Las Vegas, navigating the lights and traffic of leaving town may pad your trip.
- Drive-by touring. Don't miss the chance to drive over the dam for the sheer thrill of it. Views over Lake Mead are rewarding, too.
- Pack a picnic. There are few services near remote Hoover Dam. Bring lunch and plan to eat it on the Arizona side of the dam at Lake Mead.
Just the Facts
Hours: 9 a.m.-6 p.m. daily
Fees: $10 - $20
Recommended Time: 1 to 2 hours
