The Hoover Dam - Connecting Nevada and Arizona Over the Colorado River

I recently had the pleasure of taking a vacation to the Nevada/Arizona area. One of the stops we wanted to make was at the Hoover Dam. Initially, I thought it would be something that we'd drive up to, get out and look at, and then be done with. I had no idea all the things to do and see there and the magnificence of the dam itself.

We were staying in a hotel in Las Vegas for our vacation. We rented a car to take down to see the Hoover Dam. I recommend renting a convertible if the weather as nice as the scenic route that takes you to the Hoover Dam is extraordinary going through the desert with the mountains on all sides.

The Hoover Dam separates Nevada and Arizona. If arriving through Nevada, you'll find a paid parking lot provided on the Nevada side. However, continuing over to the Arizona side, you'll find many spaces to park for free. We parked in the paid lot, simply because we didn't realize that further on there was free parking. If you are traveling with a trailer, expect to have it inspected prior to crossing the dam.

There are bus tours available for transport to the Hoover Dam as well, or take the helicopter tours for an aerial view!

Once at the dam, spend as much time as you wish walking across from the Nevada side to the Arizona side and back again. There are plaques describing various facts about the dam as well.

Outside there are various things to take in. There are the Winged Figures of the Republic. This is a huge bronze sculpture that sits right across from the Visitor Center. There is a large presentation at the base of the figures describing the artists concept and the Star Map as well.

The Old Exhibit Building can be found just beyond the Winged Figures. This was used as the soldiers' headquarters during World War II.

Inside the Visitor Center, you can purchase tickets for about $12 per person to take a tour deep into the belly of the Hoover Dam, learning about how it was built, how long it took to build, how it operates and the benefits it provides for the neighboring communities and states.