Where is the best place to view the Hoover Dam?
The Hoover Dam is a massive concrete arch-gravity dam located on the border between Arizona and Nevada, about 30 miles southeast of Las Vegas. It is a popular tourist destination and attracts millions of visitors each year who come to see its impressive size and learn about its history and engineering. So, where is the best place to view the Hoover Dam? Let us show you on one of our Hoover Dam tours from Las Vegas!
All kidding aside, there are several great spots to view the Hoover Dam, and the best one for you will depend on your preferences and what you are looking to see. Here are a few options:
- Hoover Dam Bypass Bridge: This bridge, also known as the Mike O'Callaghan-Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge, offers panoramic views of the Hoover Dam and the Colorado River below. The bridge is about 1,500 feet downstream from the dam and offers a unique perspective of the dam from above. It's a great spot for photography and for getting a sense of the scale of the dam.
- Hoover Dam Visitor Center: The Visitor Center is located on the Nevada side of the dam and offers panoramic views of the dam and the surrounding area. From the observation deck, you can see the dam from the front and get a close-up view of the Colorado River and power plants. The Visitor Center also has a museum with exhibits about the history and construction of the dam.
- Hoover Dam Tour: If you want a more in-depth experience, you can take a guided tour of the dam. These tours take you inside the dam and give you a behind-the-scenes look at the inner workings of the power plants and other facilities. You can choose from the longer $30 Dam Tour and the shorter $15 power plant tour.
- Arizona side of the dam: If you want to see the Hoover Dam from the Arizona side, you can park at the Arizona Hoover Dam Plaza and walk across the dam to the Nevada side. From the Arizona side, you can get a good view of the dam from the front, as well as the spillways and power plants. The Plaza also has a gift shop, restaurant, and restrooms. Keep in mind that the Arizona side of the dam is not as developed as the Nevada side and does not have as many amenities or attractions. However, it can be a good option if you want a less crowded, more peaceful experience.
- Top of the dam: If you want to get an up-close and personal view of the Hoover Dam, you can take a self-guided tour that takes you to the top of the Hoover Dam. These tours typically include a walk along the crest of the dam, where you can see the spillways and intake towers up close. You'll also get a bird's-eye view of the Colorado River and the surrounding area. These tours are a great way to get a sense of the scale and engineering of the dam.
- Helicopter tour: If you want to see the Hoover Dam from a completely different perspective, you can take a helicopter tour. These tours typically take off from Las Vegas and fly over the dam, giving you a bird's-eye view of the structure and the surrounding area. You'll be able to see the dam from above, as well as the Colorado River and the surrounding landscape.
There are several companies that offer helicopter tours of the Hoover Dam, and the tours typically last about 30-45 minutes. Be sure to book in advance and bring your camera, as the views from the helicopter are truly breathtaking.
- Kayaking in Black Canyon: If you want to get a unique perspective on the Hoover Dam, you can take a kayaking trip through Black Canyon, which is located downstream from the dam. Black Canyon is a beautiful and rugged area with towering cliffs and crystal-clear waters, and it's a great spot for a kayaking adventure.
There are several companies that offer kayaking tours through Black Canyon, and the tours typically last about half a day. During the tour, you'll paddle through the canyon and get a close-up view of the dam from below. You'll also get to see the beautiful landscape and wildlife of the area, and learn about the history and geology of the canyon.
To take a kayaking tour through Black Canyon, you'll need to book in advance and be in good physical condition. The tours can be physically demanding, but they are also very rewarding and offer a truly unique perspective on the Hoover Dam.
No matter which option you choose, be sure to plan your visit in advance and allow plenty of time to explore. The Hoover Dam is a truly awe-inspiring structure and is definitely worth a visit if you're in the area.
- Boating on Lake Mead: If you want to see the Hoover Dam from the water, you can take a boat tour on Lake Mead, which is located downstream from the dam. Lake Mead is a vast artificial lake that was created by the dam, and it's a popular spot for boating, fishing, and other water sports.
There are several companies that offer boat tours on Lake Mead, and the tours typically last about half a day. During the tour, you'll get to see the dam from the water, as well as the beautiful landscape and wildlife of the lake. You'll also learn about the history and operation of the dam and the lake.
To take a boat tour on Lake Mead, you'll need to book in advance and be prepared for the elements. The weather can be hot and sunny in the summer, so be sure to bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water.
No matter which option you choose, be sure to plan your visit in advance and allow plenty of time to explore. The Hoover Dam is a truly awe-inspiring structure and is definitely worth a visit if you're in the area.
