Hoover Dam Inside and Out: Guided Luxury Tour from Las Vegas
Ride out of Las Vegas into Mojave country and walk the 1,244-foot crest of Hoover Dam on a guided luxury small-group tour. Descend into original construction tunnels, see eight generators in the Nevada powerhouse, and learn the human story behind this 1930s engineering project.
The Experience
Before You Go
Wear sturdy shoes
The tour covers paved but uneven surfaces and stairs—closed-toe, comfortable walking shoes will keep you steady.
Bring sun protection
Desert sun and reflective concrete make a hat and sunscreen valuable, especially on midday departures.
Carry ID for interior access
Bring a government-issued photo ID in case Bureau of Reclamation rules require verification for the power plant tour.
Reconfirm pickup
Hotel pickups are standard but times vary—call the operator 24 hours ahead to confirm your exact pickup time.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Drive-through historic Boulder City for period architecture and a quieter view of dam-era life
- •Walk partway onto the Mike O’Callaghan–Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge for a panorama that compresses dam height and river depth
Wildlife
- •Desert bighorn sheep seen on surrounding cliffs
- •Raven and kestrel species commonly hunting thermals near the canyon
Conservation Note
Water levels in Lake Mead fluctuate with long-term drought and demand; visitors are encouraged to follow Leave No Trace principles and use existing facilities to reduce impact.
Built between 1931–1936, Hoover Dam was a monumental New Deal-era project that created Lake Mead and provided water and power that fueled Southwest population growth.
Photographer's Notes
- • Crest of the dam for wide-angle river and spillway shots
- • Arizona-side overlook for head-on dam perspectives
- • Mike O’Callaghan–Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge for compressed telephoto views
What to Bring
Comfortable walking shoesEssential
Support and grip for paved walkways and stairs across the dam.
Sun hat and sunscreenEssential
Protection from strong desert sun while on exposed viewpoints.
Light jacket
Mornings and late afternoons can be breezy on the bridge and dam crest.
Camera or smartphone
Capture sweeping views from atop the dam and the bridge—extra battery recommended.
Common Questions
How long is the tour and what does it include?
The tour lasts about four hours and includes round-trip transport from most Las Vegas Strip hotels, a guided walk across the dam, visitor center time, and a Bureau of Reclamation–led power plant tour when available.
Is the dam tour wheelchair accessible?
Much of the visitor areas and transportation are wheelchair accessible; however, some interior passages may include stairs—check with the operator in advance for specific needs.
Can I go into the generator room?
Access to the generator room is led by Bureau of Reclamation guides and can be restricted; if unavailable, the tour substitutes stops at the memorial bridge and Boulder City museum.
Are children allowed?
Yes—minimum age is 3 years; infant seats are available and the tour is family-friendly though supervision is required near railings and viewpoints.
Is food provided?
Bottled water is included; there are vending options at the visitor center but no full meal service, so plan accordingly.
What should I do if I’m claustrophobic?
Some parts of the interior tour include enclosed tunnels and viewing platforms; guests with severe claustrophobia may find these sections uncomfortable and should notify the guide.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
4 hours
Location
Boulder City, Nevada
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; expect up to an hour of walking on paved paths and some stairs—stamina for short, steady walking is helpful.
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