ShoreTrips says...

Take a break from the city to visit perhaps the most important reason for Las Vegas' growth and success.

Without the water and electricity provided by the Colorado River via the Hoover Dam to supply residents and visitors alike, Las Vegas would still be a dusty desert town. So a visit to the Hoover Dam is a must, to appreciate it as a remarkable feat of engineering and to understand its importance to the city where millions come to play every year.

As your knowledgeable guide drives you to your destination, you will hear about the history of Las Vegas, a fascinating tale that it seems, is constantly "under construction". Just 25 miles from the glitz and glamour, you'll find Boulder City, one of only 2 towns in the state of Nevada where gambling is prohibited. As you drive through his charming town, you'll see the beautiful and iconic Boulder Dam Hotel, visited by presidents and celebrities alike.

Approaching Hoover Dam, you'll see Lake Mead, one of the largest man-made lake in the western hemisphere. At more than 1.5 million acres, the Lake Mead National Recreation Area attracts visitors from near and far who come to swim, fish and boat in the sparkling blue waters.

Upon arrival at the dam, the first thing you'll notice is its sheer immensity. Stop at the visitors center for a multi-media presentation to hear how the mighty Colorado River was tamed to provide water and growth to the entire region. As you can imagine, the planning and construction of the dam was a huge undertaking and you'll hear fascinating stories about it.

A tour of the Hoover Dam Power Plant will leave you mesmerized. It is simply, remarkable. You'll have the chance to actually walk along the dam itself. Then step onto the observation tower to take in the entire project and its surroundings...stunning!

Almost impressive as the dam itself is the Hoover Dam Bypass, which opened to the public in 2010. This arch bridge, 900 feet above the Colorado River incorporates the widest concrete arch in the western hemisphere.

After this tour, you will have a new appreciation for every drop of water and every twinkling light on the strip.

The Hoover Dam is considered One of America's Seven Modern Civil Engineering Wonders.