Hoover Dam

A historic site near the Arizona and Nevada state lines.

Located just 8 miles from Boulder City, Nevada, the Hoover Dam is a manmade dam that was built by Americans during the Great Depression era. It opened to the public and the project was completed in 1936. It was originally called the Boulder Dam but was renamed the Hoover Dam in honor of President Hoover. Years later, there was a Memorial Bridge walkway installed. This is actually the world’s tallest concrete arch bridge. It is almost 2,000 feet long and connects to both the Nevada and Arizona roadways. If you’re not afraid of heights, this is where you get to explore and take in the awe-inspiring sights of this historic place. 

This dam was built to provide hydroelectric power and impounds the largest reservoir in the United States, Lake Mead. All the workers who helped build the Hoover Dam were actually ahead of schedule and worked hard to get everything done. This was certainly a feat of engineering genius and is literally part of American history. Today, they offer tours and have exhibits to help their guests learn more about the history behind the Hoover Dam. You can purchase tickets to take a 1-hour guided tour of the dam and power plant. These tickets have to be purchased when you arrive and cannot be reserved for you in advance. The parking garage opens at 8 am and closes at 5:15 pm daily. There is also a historic railroad trail nearby where you can take in some sunlight and explore the Western desert landscape in the surrounding area.

This is a great place to visit if you’re taking a road trip through the Western United States. The Hoover Dam is really a unique place and it can bring a sense of gratitude for the people who worked so hard to build it back in the 1930s.