i'm your damn tour guide

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Vegas Vacation 1997

Hoover Dam Guide: I am your dam guide, Arnie, please don't wander off the dam tour and please take all the dam pictures you want. Now are there any dam questions?

Cousin Eddie: Yeah, where can I get some damn bait?

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• Vegas Vacation

“Vegas Vacation” quotes

“- Cousin Eddie: I haven't seen a beatin' like that since somebody stuck a banana in my pants and turned a monkey loose. - Clark Griswold: Thanks for the pick me up Eddie.” Randy Quaid - Cousin Eddie Chevy Chase - Clark Griswold

“Bet with the bank. Bet with the player. Nine is a natural.” Chevy Chase - Clark Griswold

“You don't know when to quit, do ya Griswold?... Here 's an idea : why don't you give me half the money your were gonna bet, then we'll go out back, I'll kick you in the nuts , and we'll call it a day!” Wallace Shawn - Marty

“- Rusty: Dad ? - Clark Griswold: In a minute Russ. - Clark Griswold [talking to Cousin Eddie]: You see the promise of material possesions can often blind one to... - Clark Griswold: [Rusty taps Clark on the arm] What is it, Russ? - Rusty: Those four cars over there... they're mine. - Clark Griswold: What do you mean they're... they're yours? -...” (continue) (continue reading) Ethan Embry - Rusty Griswold Chevy Chase - Clark Griswold

“I'll have some of that there yella'... and don't you get cheap on me ya hear ?” Randy Quaid - Cousin Eddie

“- Wayne Newton: Very special lady. - Clark Griswold: That's why I entered into the sacred bond of marriage with her.” Wayne Newton - Wayne Newton Chevy Chase - Clark Griswold

“You're in food preservatives? What a gas.” Wayne Newton - Wayne Newton

“I don't care if you ruined my life. I love you!” Miriam Flynn - Cousin Catherine

“Nice place for a pearl necklace .” Chevy Chase - Clark Griswold

“It is a blazer out there. You're lucky you got air conditioning in here like mother nature intended.” Randy Quaid - Cousin Eddie

“Don't think unnatural thoughts about your cousin , Russ.” Chevy Chase - Clark Griswold

“- Clark Griswold: Audrey! What are you doing? Ten years of tap dancing lessons and this is the way you repay us? - Audrey Griswold: What? You told me to get a summer job.” Chevy Chase - Clark Griswold Marisol Nichols - Audrey Griswold

“ Sorry , my pen burst in the... altitude.” Chevy Chase - Clark Griswold

“- Pit Boss: No, uh, corrective lenses tonight? - Rusty: No, I do not require them.” S.A. Griffin - Pit Boss Ethan Embry - Rusty

“Who knew, my sister has the legs of a thoroughbred? Am I right?” Ethan Embry - Rusty Griswold

“Have you ever swam with the dolphins? Them things are hard to catch!” Randy Quaid - Cousin Eddie

“- Hoover Dam Guide: Welcome everyone. I am your dam guide, Arnie. Now I'm about to take you through a fully funtional power plant, so please, no one wander off the dam tour and please take all the dam pictures you want. Now are there any dam questions? - Cousin Eddie: Yeah, where can I get some damn bait?” John Finnegan - Arty, the Hoover Dam Guide Randy Quaid - Cousin Eddie

“Isn't there legalized prostitution?” Ethan Embry - Rusty Griswold

“Oh My God! It's Wayne Newton! Can I be your bodyguard? I'd die for ya.” Randy Quaid - Cousin Eddie

“- Rusty: Holy crap, Wayne Newton's hittin' on mom ! - Clark Griswold: It's all part of the act, Russ.” Ethan Embry - Rusty Griswold Chevy Chase - Clark Griswold

“- Marty: Come on, Griswold, You think that sign is there to hold the table down? - Clark Griswold: What can I do with five dollars ? - Marty: Gee, I don't know. Buy a bullet and rent a gun ?” Wallace Shawn - Marty Chevy Chase - Clark Griswold

“- Ellen Griswold: Oh my Lord... Rusty! - Girl in Hot Tub: Oh, you must be lost. This is Mr. Pappagiorgio. - Clark Griswold: His name is not Pappagiorgio! His name is Rusty Griswold and he's a C+ student ! Now out of the pool, let's go young man! Now!” Beverly D'Angelo - Ellen Griswold Hayley Mortison - Girl in the Hot tub Chevy Chase - Clark Griswold

“Where the hell is the damn dam tour?” Chevy Chase - Clark Griswold

“Pick a number? ! I'm great at that! Coin toss!! Eddie, these are my games!!” Chevy Chase - Clark Griswold

“Clark, its not the way it looks. We were just having pasta.” Beverly D'Angelo - Ellen Griswold

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Visiting Hoover Dam with a “Dam” Tour Guide

“My name is Arcelia and I’ll be your dam tour guide.”

This was our introduction to visiting Hoover Dam. Arcelia milked the joke as much as she could – “this dam wall,” “these dam generators,” and so on – but somehow, it worked, earning a chuckle from the visitors every time. Her cheerful approach impressed me, given that she must have to go through the same spiel and make the same jokes all day long every day.

Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. If you click on one and make a purchase, I will receive a small amount of what you spend. This will not affect your price.

Even without all the damn jokes (See what I did there?), Hoover Dam is an interesting and starkly beautiful place. I had been there before, but never taken the tour inside the dam, and it was my daughter’s first time seeing it.

History of the dam

Hoover Dam was built between 1931 and 1936, when the country was struggling through the Great Depression. President Roosevelt’s New Deal directed government money to massive government projects – irrigation, dams, highways, electrification – that would benefit the workers in the short term by giving them jobs and benefit the economy in the long run by investing in infrastructure. Hoover Dam was one of these projects.

Spanning the Colorado River, the dam led to the creation of Lake Mead. It took me by surprise how arid the landscape is around the lake: even along its shores nothing grows, despite so much fresh water nearby.

The dam looks, not surprisingly, enormous on the downriver side: a vast expanse of earth-colored concrete in a graceful curve, flanked by jagged, brown hills. The curve, according to our dam tour guide, is what makes the dam so secure: essentially, the weight of the water holds the dam in place.

Tours of Hoover Dam

Entering the Visitor Center on the Nevada side of the dam, we first had to pass through a security check. We were given a choice of two tours, the Powerplant Tour and the Hoover Dam Tour. The Powerplant Tour only includes a 30-minute guided tour of the powerplant, while the Hoover Dam Tour includes a one-hour tour of more of the passages within the dam. We chose the latter.

The tour was much less dry – no pun intended – than I expected it to be. Yes, our dam guide told us lots of very large numbers: how thick the walls are, how much electricity the dam produces, and so on. But she also told us how the thing actually works, and about the first-of-its-kind process that went into building this massive project back in the 1930s. The story is pretty mind-boggling in terms of the sheer size of the project, the amount of concrete that was used, the need to divert the river while they built the dam, and so on.

Some of the hallways we walked through were cut through solid rock, which was shiny with water seeping through its pores. Some hallways had rough concrete walls, and our dam guide showed us cracks here and there – nothing to worry about, she assured us – and other small details we never would have noticed otherwise. The corridors near the massive turbines are tiled in white, creating an almost hospital-like atmosphere.

One of the highlights was a simple air vent on the downriver side. I could spot a few of these vents about halfway down the vast wall when I looked down from the end of the dam, as in the photo below. If you look at the picture above of the same downriver side, you probably can’t even spot the vents: that’s how small they are.

From the inside, the air vent is a round tube about two meters (6 feet) in diameter. We walked single-file to the louvered opening at its end. Peering out of the louvers, we tried to get photos by holding cameras out through the slats and randomly clicking.

We also visited the room holding some of the massive turbines, where our guide explained the workings of the dam.

Art Deco on the Hoover Dam tour

One of the beauties of New Deal projects is that they built with style in those days: in this case, Art Deco. Even utilitarian projects like a dam, intended simply to produce hydroelectric power, shows skilled workmanship in the details.

We saw some of these details inside: Native American-inspired inlays in the floor, for example, and Art Deco touches on the elevator doors.

After the tour, we wandered along the top of the dam. The last time I was here, decades ago, this was a busy highway. Drivers of huge 18-wheelers, in a hurry to cross the Nevada-Arizona border, vied with tourists slowing down to admire the dam. Recently, though, a bypass bridge has opened above and downriver from the dam. A simple, elegant structure, it didn’t seem to me that it detracted from the dam’s beauty at all. And it allowed us to take a stroll across Hoover Dam without trucks zooming by.

If you like New Deal Depression-era art and design, you might like Coit Tower & Telegraph Hill: An Unmissable Walk in San Francisco .

Cars can drive on top of the dam, but only as far as a viewpoint on the Arizona side. We preferred to walk. We could see the Art Deco details much better that way: the clocks, set an hour apart on the Nevada and the Arizona sides, the entrance to the women’s room, which was surprisingly prettily detailed, and the tall intake towers in Lake Mead.

On the Nevada side of the dam is a small plaza with an Art Deco memorial designed by Oskar J. W. Hansen. It honors over 100 workers who died during the construction of Hoover Dam. Inlays in the floor of the plaza show the seals of the seven states along the Colorado Basin. If you’re into Art Deco, the plaza is worth lingering over. Make sure to read the sign explaining the symbolism.

Practical Information for visiting Hoover Dam

Taking a tour: To visit Hoover Dam you can take a tour from Las Vegas or drive yourself. Here are some of the available tours from Las Vegas:

Driving: If you drive, it is about 45 minutes from Las Vegas, off route 93 at the Nevada-Arizona border. Approaching from Arizona, take the bypass bridge into Nevada and then follow the signs off of route 93.

Admission and hours: Check the Hoover Dam website to make sure it’s open as usual. Admission to just the Visitor Center is $10; the Powerplant Tour is $15; the Hoover Dam Tour is $30. Open daily from 9-17:00 (Nevada time).

If you’re going to be in Las Vegas, you might enjoy this article: The Neon Museum Las Vegas: Nostalgia in the Desert .

If you’re travelling on to Colorado, you can find lots of Colorado travel ideas on Pura Vida Moms .

The dam image below is perfect for Pinterest!

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Hi, I’m Rachel!

I haven’t been here yet. But it must be a real sight to see. Nice post.

We took the Hoover Dam tour in 2009 and loved it! I was amazed at how interesting it was to learn about the dam and the increasing water shortage in the American southwest. I noticed how low the water was then. Would be curious to see how much it’s gone down in the past 9 years.

I don’t know if it’s down from then, but it certainly was quite low when we visited in December.

We pass by the Hoover Dam every time we go to Vegas from Phoenix and back (this year it would be three times since Vegas is a favorite place for reunions: family, high school classmates, former company officemates). Bill and I did go take a self-guided tour once. But your dam tour guide must have made it very enjoyable. But your exploration of the art deco details is quite interesting! Didn’t notice them, And your close-up photos of the dam bring in such great perspective!

Stop next time and look for the art deco: there’s quite a lot of it, especially around the memorial on the Nevada side.

Very cool! I learned so much here about the dam – and I love the Art Deco!

There’s much more of it that I didn’t include in this post!

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7 Must-Know Tips For Visiting The Hoover Dam

This post is all about The Hoover Dam, featuring seven must-know travel tips for visiting The Hoover Dam in Nevada!

I imagined visiting the Hoover Dam about a thousand times. I imagined the moment I first saw the giant slice of concrete, the moment I looked down and down and down, the moment I felt dizzy and excited, shocked and in awe.

This was years ago when I was in fourth grade. I had just finished reading The Titan’s Curse and I couldn’t shake Rick Riordan’s Hoover Dam description from my head.

“Then we straggled back toward the dam. It was cold and windy on top. On one side, a big lake spread out, ringed by barren desert mountains. On the other side, the dam dropped away like the world’s most dangerous skateboard ramp, down to the river seven hundred feet below, and water that churned from the dam’s vents.” Rick Riordan (From Percy Jackson & The Olympians, The Titan’s Curse)

Fast forward a decade and I’m now wedging a beat-up copy of The Titan’s Curse into our car’s map pocket. I didn’t consider the logistics of this trip. I probably should have. So as I’m heading out to see “The Greatest Dam In The World” (as Franklin D. Roosevelt called it), I have a dozen questions cycling through my head.

Does the Hoover Dam have an entrance fee? Can you park near the Hoover Dam? How far is the Hoover Dam from Vegas? How long does it take to visit the Hoover Dam? Is there anything to see at the Hoover Dam besides the dam itself?

The short answer: no, yes, further than you think, a half-day, yes. I promise I’ll get into more details in this travel guide.

Here are seven tips you need to know before visiting the Hoover Dam!

Table of Contents

Know That Visiting The Hoover Dam Is Free

The Hoover Dam is free to visit. I came to the Hoover Dam, prepped with my National Park pass (which I absolutely did not need. The Hoover Dam isn’t even part of the National Park system. What was I thinking?), ready to bypass a hefty admission. After all, this is the Hoover Dam. I assumed it was going to cost an arm and a leg. And it can.

“Wait, Anshula,” you ask. “I thought you just said the Hoover Dam was free.”

Well…it depends on how you want to visit the Hoover Dam. Seeing the Hoover Dam is absolutely free . Touring the Hoover Dam is up-there in cost. And then there’s parking (ah, parking fees. I love you so). Parking at the parking garage costs $10. There’s free parking closer to the Arizona side of the dam, but it’s a walk (a giant, I-don’t-remember-signing-up-for-The Unlikely-Pilgrimmage-Of-Harold-Fry walk).

Note that the Hoover Dam’s tour packages are also tiered . So you’ll find an all-inclusive package (Guided Dam Tour), the mid-range package (Guided Powerplant Tour), and the Self-Guided Visitor Center Tour (the cheapest deal).

I really wanted to go on the Guided Dam Tour (you get to walk through inspection tunnels. need I say more?), but unfortunately, only the Self-Guided Tour was available when I visited the Hoover Dam.

Hoover Dam Travel Tip: Although you can officially purchase Hoover Dam tour tickets on the Bureau Of Reclamation website (I’ll link it here ), I highly recommend purchasing the tour in person! You’ll get a better feel of the area, what you can do, and whether or not the tour is a good fit for you.

For me, personally, the Self-Guided tour wasn’t worth it . It wasn’t the fault of the tour itself, we just weren’t well-matched (here’s my it’s not you, it’s me momen t). I mean, I loved the presentation and exhibits (they were thoughtful, to-the-point, and informative), but I have a body-numbing fear of heights so I couldn’t appreciate the full glory of the views from the observation deck.

I think that if you get a chance to go on the hour-long Guided Dam Tour, do it. And if you don’t, I recommend listening to this podcast episode during your Hoover Dam visit instead (it’s not officially an audio guide, but it works well as one).

General Info

ADDRESS: 81 Hoover Dam Access Rd, Boulder City, NV 89005 COST: Free + $10 PARKING + $30 Guided Dam Tour Per Person

Know Where To Park At The Hoover Dam

• Hoover Dam Parking Garage: This 450-plus space parking garage is right next to the Visitor’s Center. There are stunning views of Memorial Bridge from the upper levels of this garage. Although it will set you back $10, it’s the most convenient location.
• Initial Parking Lot: Drive past the Hoover Dam parking garage and you’ll see one outdoor lot up ahead. Due to its proximity to the Hoover Dam, this lot also costs $10.
• Arizona Side Parking Lots: Later on, as you drive closer to the Arizona side, farther and farther away from the dam, parking fees halt. I don’t recommend walking from these lots in the summer. The Arizona side parking lots are, at the very least, over a quarter of a mile away, which doesn’t seem like much on a cool weather day, but in the heat…(I don’t even want to think about it).

Hoover Dam Travel Tip: Mike-O’Callaghan-Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge has its own dedicated parking lot. If you’re interested in walking across the bridge, park here!

Know The Best Way To See The Hoover Dam

Grab a thesaurus. Look for the words big, huge, ginormous. Combine all the words suggested into one singular idea, one singular thought. The Hoover Dam is larger than that.

I find it hard to describe the Hoover Dam. It’s one of those places that pictures can’t capture fully . No matter how many angles I take, I can’t capture the depth and breadth of the Hoover Dam. I can’t capture the hollow space and the water that flows just beyond. I can’t capture the way the mud-colored mountains tighten the landscape. And I can’t capture feelings – the pride in people’s eyes as they snap a picture with the dam in the background, the laughter of kids as they bounce along the pathway screaming “look, look”, the erratic heartbeats of Hoover Dam visitors as they look down and down and down.

The best way to see the Hoover Dam is in person. You need to let the sight of the dam overwhelm you, amaze you, and inspire you.

Here are the best vantage points of the Hoover Dam:

• Mike O’Callaghan–Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge Pedestrian Walkway: This is a wind-whipped path where you can see it all: the dam, Lake Mead, the mountains beyond. It’s also unbelievably high-up. I didn’t realize how far Memorial Bridge shoots up until a little too late. Although this walkway offers one of the best views of the Hoover Dam, my legs felt wobbly as soon as I neared the rail. My mind blanked, I forgot how to breathe, and I froze a fourth of the way down the path. If you have acrophobia, like me, I do not recommend this viewpoint at all. But if you don’t have a fear of heights, this might turn out to be your favorite viewpoint! It was just too much for this lil’ blogger to take.
• Observation Deck: This viewpoint was included in the self-guided tour package. I loved that I could see the hauntingly deep drop of the Hoover Dam from behind glass windows. There’s also an outdoor area perfect for grabbing a selfie with the dam! I didn’t venture out for long because I was still trying to regain my senses after Memorial Bridge but the view from here is incredible .
• Hoover Dam Bridge Bypass Trail: this isn’t really a trail. It’s a massive, paved walkway from the parking garage to the Hoover Dam. You’ll find thick crowds moving in one continuous photo-taking mass along the path. Hoover Dam Bridge Bypass Trail is one of the most accessible and popular Hoover Dam viewpoints.
• Initial Parking Lot: I was taken aback by the views from the first open parking lot past the parking garage. Smooth dark blue water stretched out to brown-toned rocky edges like a poured-in glaze. The cloudless sky above was bluer, brighter. And the mountains – oh my goodness, if I wasn’t a mountain person before, I was in that moment.

Know That The Hoover Dam Takes A Half-Day To See

I originally planned for the Hoover Dam to be a day trip from Las Vegas (it’s about a one-hour drive from The Strip). Including the tour, the dam takes four-ish hours to see (I think I would have spent longer had I been in a position to savor the views). Traffic from the entrance to the parking garage halted our trip a little (the line took thirty minutes to get through and it took us twenty minutes to find parking ).

If you’re visiting the Hoover Dam, plan to spend at least a half-day here.

🎟️ Guided Tours Of The Hoover Dam

Ultimate Hoover Dam Tour

Lunch, round trip transport from select Vegas hotels, and a Hoover Dam Powerplant Tour are included in this small group VIP tour of The Hoover Dam.

Hoover Dam Electric Bike Tour

A guided e-bike tour (e-bikes provided) that cycles along The Historic Railroad Trail. You’ll see beautiful views of Lake Mead and end your trip at The Hoover Dam!

Black Canyon Kayak Hoover Dam Day Trip

A full day guided kayak excursion (perfect for all experience levels ) with unique views of The Hoover Dam! Hotel pick-up and drop-off included.

as a Viator Affiliate , I may earn a fee when you book through this widget.

Know What To Bring To The Hoover Dam

Before visiting the Hoover Dam, I wish I knew to leave my hat at home. Back then, I only knew that this part of Nevada was unshaded, so I happily planted my hat on top of my head and went out to explore the Hoover Dam area.

Big mistake.

The region right around the Hoover Dam is windy . If Chicago is one of the windiest cities, the Hoover Dam is definitely one of the windiest attractions in the United States. The winds here don’t howl, but they are big and strong and forceful. Imagine a parade of sumo wrestlers sneaking along a walkway and then hitting you, one at a time, at full blast. That’s what the winds at the Hoover Dam felt like. It’s a miracle my hat made it.

Hoover Dam Travel Tip: There are two security checkpoints at the Hoover Dam. The first checkpoint is a vehicle checkpoint (don’t bring any weapons or fireworks, etc). The second checkpoint happens when you enter the Visitor Center for the tour (it’s very TSA-like and yes, you need to take your shoes off).

Here’s what you can and can not bring during your Hoover Dam visit:

Know Where To Eat Near The Hoover Dam

The food at the Hoover Dam is exactly what you’d expect: typical tourist trap. I usually don’t dine in heavily-trafficked areas, but I made an exception for the Hoover Dam. Remember when I said I visited the Hoover Dam because I read about it in The Titan’s Curse?

Well, there’s this scene:

“Nothing,” Grover said, trying to keep a straight face. “I could use some dam french fries.” Rick Riordan (From Percy Jackson & The Olympians, The Titan’s Curse)

So I ended up ordering this…

I’m the ultimate tourist.

On that note, I’d highly recommend bringing your own food and just eating it in your car (since food isn’t allowed in any of the Hoover Dam buildings). You could also picnic at Lake Mead National Recreation Area ($25 per vehicle) or dine in Boulder City.

If I could redo my trip, I’d visit Dam Roast House & Browder Bookstore first and grab a specialty latte and a filling breakfast-to-go (alongside some light snacks).

Know That The Hoover Dam Is Worth Visiting

Is the Hoover Dam worth visiting? Yes! Absolutely. Visiting the Hoover Dam felt like a bucket-list moment ticked off. It’s one of those places that’s 100% more magical in person than in pictures. The scale. The brilliance. The grandeur.

Sure, I made tons of travel mistakes while visiting the Hoover Dam (who doesn’t?), but you live and you learn. And even with my fear of heights, I don’t regret visiting the Hoover Dam one bit . It was everything I dreamed it would be and so much more.

Have you ever visited the Hoover Dam? What tips would you add to this list? Let us know in the comments below! As always, I love hearing from you!

Hotels Near Las Vegas (Nevada)

Wynn Las Vegas

Wynn’s rooms are spacious , polished, and functional! Each room is enhanced by subtle luxurious details: floor-to-ceiling windows (with sprawling views of Vegas), smart shelving, and deep bathtubs .

Caesars Palace

One of the oldest and most iconic hotels in Las Vegas, Caesars Palace, surprisingly, doesn’t feel dated (you may remember it from Friends). Check-in is easy and rooms have a standard level of comfort.

If you opt to stay here, be sure to get a fountain view room ! You’ll be enviously positioned , and granted window-side access to The Bellagio’s dramatic, evening-to-midnight waterworks show.

as an Expedia Affiliate , I may earn a fee when you book through this widget.

Editor-In-Chief

Anshula grew up with a love of stories and places. Thirty-five states and 100 bookstores later, she's made her hobbit home in Middle Tennessee. Her Tookish side still takes over and leaves her chasing window seats, literary destinations, adventure books, sunrise coffee, and indie bookshops. She's appeared as a travel source on HuffPost, Reader's Digest, and MSN.

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John finnegan: hoover dam guide, quotes .

Hoover Dam Guide : Welcome everyone. I am your dam guide, Arnie. Now I'm about to take you through a fully funtional power plant, so please, no one wander off the dam tour and please take all the dam pictures you want. Now are there any dam questions?

Cousin Eddie : Yeah, where can I get some damn bait?

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How to Visit Hoover Dam – Things to Do + Tips

Home | Travel | North America | United States | Nevada | Hoover Dam | How to Visit Hoover Dam – Things to Do + Tips

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The Hoover Dam is one of the coolest historical landmarks in the American Southwest. An impressive feat of human engineering and hydropower, the dam continues to amaze visitors nearly 90 years after it was built.

Moreover, its close proximity to Sin City makes visiting the Hoover Dam one of the best things to do outside of Las Vegas . You can easily rent a car in Vegas and get to the dam in less than an hour. If you don’t want to drive, I recommend taking a Hoover Dam day tour like this one or flying over this monumental structure on a Hoover Dam helicopter tour .

To help you decide how to visit Hoover Dam and plan your trip, I’m sharing everything you need to know about this landmark attraction. I’ll share how to get there, the 10 best things to do at the Hoover Dam , and more.

Guide to visiting the Hoover Dam

This guide includes everything you should know about Hoover Dam tourism , including ticket prices, directions, and activities. Feel free to read through the entire guide or skip to the topic you’re curious about:

How to visit Hoover Dam

• Best things to do at the Hoover Dam
• Hoover Dam tourist information

Tips for visiting Hoover Dam

Where is the hoover dam located.

The Hoover Dam is on the border of Nevada and Arizona, on the Colorado River in Black Canyon. It’s just 40 minutes from Sin City and one of the best stops on a road trip from Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon .

You can visit the Hoover Dam by car or take a tour from Las Vegas. An organized tour is the most convenient option especially if you don’t have a vehicle or don’t want to drive.

Directions to Hoover Dam from Las Vegas

The Hoover Dam is just 37 miles southeast of Las Vegas, so the drive only takes about 40 minutes.

If you don’t have a vehicle, renting a car in Las Vegas is the best option since you can go on your own schedule and spend as much time at the dam as you want. Plus, you’re free to take any detours or pit stops you’d like. The directions to the Hoover Dam from Las Vegas are quite simple:

• Take I-515 S/US-93 S and follow it for about 34 miles to NV-172 (Exit 2).
• Continue on NV-172, which converts to Hoover Dam Access Rd. You’ll see signs for Hoover Dam bridge parking and the Visitor Center.

Hoover Dam tours from Las Vegas

Of course, if you don’t want to drive, you can take a Hoover Dam tour from Las Vegas . This is definitely the easiest option since most of the tours include the Hoover Dam shuttle from Las Vegas and a live guide. Some of these Hoover Dam tours even include extra stops along the way, so they’re perfect for a day trip.

I recommend this full or half-day tour , which passes through Boulder City and Lake Mead before arriving at the Mike O’Callaghan – Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge. Then, you’ll take a tour through the construction tunnels, powerplant, and Hoover Dam Visitor Center. This tour is included in several Las Vegas tourist cards , including the Las Vegas Go City Pass . I suggest getting the pass if you plan on seeing other Vegas attractions so you can visit them at a discount.

Another option is a Hoover Dam helicopter tour to get a unique aerial view of the Hoover Dam . I like this heli-tour , which flies over the dam and the Grand Canyon West Rim .

10 Best things to do at the Hoover Dam

There is more to do at the Hoover Dam than meets the eye. In addition to some great lookout points, there are interesting attractions and nearby places to check out. Keep reading to see my top 10 recommendations below!

1. Hoover Dam Visitor Center

The first place you should check out is the Hoover Dam Visitor Center . It costs $10 to enter and see the informational exhibits. Here, you can learn more about the history of the Hoover Dam , its legacy, and the power systems and infrastructure that keep it functioning. You can also watch a short documentary about the dam’s construction, including the engineering prowess and manpower it took to build such a huge structure.

The Visitor Center is also where you can purchase tickets for a Hoover Dam tour . There are three tours to choose from:

Hoover Dam self-guided tour

The self-guided Hoover Dam tour costs $10 and is the tour that’s included in your Visitor Center admission. You’ll be able to walk through the narrated exhibits and watch the historical Hoover Dam film. The tour also includes access to the Visitor Center observation decks, which offer panoramic views of the Hoover Dam and Lake Mead, the Colorado River, and the Bypass Bridge in the distance.

Guided Powerplant Tour

The powerplant tour through Hoover Dam costs $15 and grants you access to the dam’s original construction tunnels. A guide will lead you through the passageway and take you to the Nevada Powerhouse to see its commercial generators. You can even feel the force of the water rushing through the pipes below. This tour also includes everything in the self-guided tour.

Guided Dam Tour

For $30, you can take the complete Hoover Dam tour , which includes everything in the powerplant tour, plus an elevator ride to the inner workings of the dam. Take a walk through the old inspection tunnels and check out the ventilation shaft, where you can also see the Colorado River churning. It’s the best deal if you’re interested in the behind-the-scenes logistics of the Hoover Dam.

2. Hoover Dam Bridge – Mike O’Callaghan – Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge

When you visit the Hoover Dam , you’ll also be able to see the Mike O’Callaghan – Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge . From here, you’ll get some of the most impressive views of the dam and its surroundings.

This Hoover Dam Bridge was named after former Nevada Governor Mike O’Callaghan and football player Pat Tillman, who died while on military duty in Afghanistan. It was built to provide a safer route over the dam and ease traffic congestion.

The arch bridge runs across the Colorado River, connecting Nevada and Arizona and measuring 1,900 feet long. Since it opened in 2010, it’s been the widest concrete arch in the Western Hemisphere, and the second-highest bridge in the U.S., at 890 feet tall.

You can walk or drive across the bridge, although you’ll have to get out of your car if you want to get the full view.

3. Hoover Dam Lookout – Kingman Wash

Another one of the best ways to see Hoover Dam is by visiting Kingman Wash . This Hoover Dam Lookout is on the Arizona side of the dam and has the most breathtaking views of the massive structure. From here, you can take in the magnitude of the manmade dam and witness the rushing water while glimpsing Lake Mead, Black Canyon, and the desert environment in the distance.

Best of all, this overlook tends to be less crowded than the others, so you can get a front-row seat to the beautiful views. To get there, follow the Hoover Dam Bridge into Arizona and take the Kingman Wash exit. You’ll find the access road, which is unpaved, and you can take that about a half-mile to the overlook.

If you’re up for it, you can continue along this trail and see the stunning expanse of Fortification Hill, Black Mesa, and the surrounding mountains.

4. Historic Railroad Tunnel Trail at Lake Mead National Recreation Area

I’ve mentioned that you can get nice views of Lake Mead from Hoover Dam , but it’s also worth visiting this place for yourself. Lake Mead was formed as a result of the construction of the Hoover Dam and spans 247 square miles. The Lake Mead National Recreation Area is the largest of its kind in the U.S.

4. Historic Railroad Hiking Trail at Lake Mead National Recreation Area

The calm blue water of the lake is the perfect contrast to the concrete and steel parts of the Hoover Dam . It’s worth spending some time in this area, especially if you enjoy water sports like boating, kayaking and swimming. If you prefer on-land activities, you’ll find hiking trails here, including the Railroad Tunnel Trail .

This family-friendly trail starts at the Lake Mead Visitor Center and has sturdy terrain and signposts, so it’s quite easy. Since it travels along the Boulder City Highway, you’ll be able to see the Hoover Dam’s construction tunnels while you hike. You’ll also see the Hoover Dam Boneyard, the Lake Mead – Lakeview Overlook, and natural scenery, so it’s one of the best hikes near Las Vegas .

5. Gold Strike Hot Springs Trail

Hiking the Gold Strike Hot Springs Trail is one of the best things to do at the Hoover Dam , especially if you love outdoor activities like us. This 6-mile off-road hike is a bit of a challenge, but most people can do the first mile or so without any problems. Just be sure to bring plenty of water and snacks and to dress appropriately for the weather.

The trail has a few areas where you’ll have to scramble over boulders and watch your footing, but it’s worth the effort. As you make your way through the wash canyon, you can find scenic grottoes, natural pools, and maybe some bighorn sheep.

Some of the hot springs in the area have dried up, but there are a few you can swim in, and there are some thermal waterfalls, too. It’s one of the coolest places to visit near the Hoover Dam , so I highly recommend it.

6. Dam Builders Memorial at Hoover Dam

By the entrance to the Hoover Dam , you can see the beautiful, winged figures built by Norwegian sculptor Oskar J. W. Hansen. The figures represent guardian angels looking over the dam, and they’re accompanied by a plaque dedicated to the people who died during the dam’s construction.

The plaque was on the canyon wall on the Arizona side of the dam but was moved so it would be closer to the sculptures. The accompanying plaque reads, “They died to make the desert bloom. The United States of America will continue to remember that many who toiled here found their final rest while engaged in the building of this dam. The United States of America will continue to remember the services of all who labored to clothe with substance the plans of those who first visioned the building of this dam.”

Visiting this little piece of the dam is even more meaningful after going through the Hoover Dam Visitor Center and learning about the history of this monument.

7. Hemenway Park

Not far from the dam, off Highway 93, you’ll find Hemenway Park in Boulder City. I recommend taking this detour to visit the park, get some fresh air, and spot some wildlife.

Hemenway Park is a pleasant green space that’s perfect for the whole family. It’s mostly known for its herds of bighorn sheep, who often graze in the park. The bighorn sheep is Nevada’s state animal, so keep your eyes peeled for strays snacking on the grass or resting in the shade.

There are also tennis courts, picnic areas, and a playground at the park, so you can take a brief break here before continuing your journey to the Lake Mead and Hoover Dam area .

8. Boulder City/Hoover Dam Museum

The Boulder City/Hoover Dam Museum is inside the Boulder Dam Hotel at 1305 Arizona Street. This is another Boulder City attraction near the Hoover Dam that you should add to your itinerary.

The museum chronicles the construction of the dam as well as the history of Boulder City through artifacts, photos, and an educational theater. Many of the objects on display date back to the Great Depression, offering a look back at the social and political climate of the time. You’ll also learn more about the Hoover Dam’s impact and how it paved the way for hydroelectric power and engineering.

The Boulder City/Hoover Dam Museum is free and open daily from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.

9. Nevada Southern Railroad Museum & other places to visit in Boulder City

Given its proximity to the Hoover Dam , Boulder City is a great place to explore during your trip, so I recommend spending a few hours here if you have time.

In addition to the Boulder City/Hoover Dam Museum and Hemenway Park, the city is home to the Southern Railroad Museum , one of the most popular attractions in Nevada . This museum has a collection of historic trains and locomotive models dating back as far as the 1840s. There are also interpretive exhibits and a 7-mile heritage railroad ride that you can enjoy. This family-friendly attraction is one of the best things to do near Hoover Dam with kids.

Another cool place to check out is Bootleg Canyon Park , a haven for mountain bikers and hikers. The cross-country and downhill trails here wind through the desert landscape and pass by some stunning viewpoints overlooking Lake Mead.

For a scenic change of pace, head to Veteran’s Memorial Park , a 25-acre green space with several sports fields and courts, a 3-acre fishing pond, a skatepark, and walking/biking paths. Another outdoor option is the Alan Bible Botanical Garden , which is home to various species of desert shrubs and cacti.

10. Get stunning aerial views of the Hoover Dam

Finally, to make your visit to the Hoover Dam extra special, consider taking a Hoover Dam helicopter tour . It’s the best way to get aerial views of Hoover Dam and fully grasp the magnitude of this massive structure.

Keep in mind that most helicopter tours from Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon also fly over the Hoover Dam . So, if you’re traveling from Vegas and don’t mind just doing a helicopter ride over the dam, this type of tour can be a great deal. We took this heli-tour and got some exceptional photos of the Hoover Dam and the Grand Canyon from above. The birds-eye view was so amazing that we’ve taken additional helicopter tours over the area. I highly recommend seeing it for yourself !

Hoover Dam tourist information (hours, ticket price, map, and more)

Now that you know the best things to do at the Hoover Dam , here is some important information you’ll need to plan your visit.

Hoover Dam hours

The hours for the Hoover Dam are 5:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. daily. The Hoover Dam Visitor Center is open from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 pm, and official tours operate from 9:00 a.m. to 3:45 p.m. You can visit Hoover Dam 365 days a year, except for Thanksgiving and Christmas Day.

Entrance fee and tickets to Hoover Dam

There is no cost to see the dam, but if you want to go into the Hoover Dam Visitor Center and see the exhibits, you must pay the $10 admission. There are also different guided tours of the Hoover Dam , which range from $15-$30 per person and include admission to the Visitor Center.

Hoover Dam map

You’ll have an easier time planning your visit with this Hoover Dam map . It includes an overview of the dam, the parking lots, and attractions surrounding the dam.

Parking at the Hoover Dam

There is free Hoover Dam parking across from the Mike O’Callaghan – Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge. There is another free lot on the Arizona side. Paid parking at the garage by the Visitor Center costs $10 per vehicle.

Hoover Dam hotel

If you want more time to visit the Hoover Dam and the surrounding area, consider staying overnight. The Hoover Dam Lodge in Boulder City is the best hotel by the Hoover Dam . It’s just a 5-minute drive away and offers good nightly rates and free parking.

The accommodation features spacious and tidy rooms that are ideal for families. Plus, there are additional guest amenities like an outdoor pool, a fitness center, a casino, a general store and a restaurant.

Otherwise, we have a full guide on where to stay in Las Vegas , for more accommodation options.

Hoover Dam history & facts

What’s so special about the Hoover Dam anyway? You’ll learn all about it when you visit and take a tour, but for now, here are some Hoover Dam facts to entice you:

• The dam was built between 1931 and 1936 to hold back the waters of the Colorado River and supply hydroelectric power to the surrounding area, which was rapidly developing. Today, the Hoover Dam still fulfills this purpose and provides power to over a million people in three states and irrigates 2 million acres of land.
• The Hoover Dam’s height of 726.4 ft made it the world’s tallest dam until 1968 when it was surpassed by California’s Orville Dam (770 ft).
• The Mike O’Callaghan – Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge is the Western Hemisphere’s longest single-span concrete arch bridge . It replaced the portion of US-93 that crossed over the top of the dam to help ease traffic congestion.

• The construction of the Hoover Dam was a huge project and provided employment for thousands of people who were out of work due to the Great Depression. As these laborers flocked to the area, they needed a place to live, so Boulder City was built to house the workforce .
• During the five years it took to build the dam, over 130 workers died , either from accident or illness.
• The dam is named after U.S. President Herbert Hoover , whose administration approved the project’s construction. However, President Hoover wasn’t invited to the dedication ceremony, and the dam wasn’t officially named until 1947.
• In 1939, the United States discovered that the Hoover Dam was the target of a German military bomb threat , and U.S. officials were able to stop the attack .

Before you plan your visit to the Hoover Dam , here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Plan to spend 3-4 hours here. This will give you time to take pictures, go to the Hoover Dam Visitor Center, take a tour, and explore the Lake Mead area.
• The best time to visit Hoover Dam if you want to avoid crowds is between 9:00 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. or 3:00 p.m. to 4:45 p.m .
• Remember that it takes about an hour to visit the Hoover Dam by car from Vegas. Make sure you give yourself enough time to get there and maximize your visit.
• It is free to cross the Hoover Dam Bridge , but there is a fee to get into the Visitor Center. Also, the tours at the Hoover Dam range from $15-$30 per person.
• Parking at the Hoover Dam Visitor Center costs $10. You can find free Hoover Dam parking on the Arizona side, across from the Memorial Bridge.
• Be prepared for desert heat and bring plenty of water to carry with you. There isn’t much shade around the dam, so sunscreen, sunglasses, and hats are must-haves.

FAQs about visiting Hoover Dam

To round out this guide on how to visit the Hoover Dam , here are the answers to some common questions:

How tall is Hoover Dam?

The total height of the Hoover Dam is 726.4 feet.

The Hoover Dam is on the border of Nevada and Arizona, on the Colorado River in Black Canyon.

How far is Hoover Dam from Las Vegas?

The Hoover Dam is just 37 miles from Las Vegas, or about a 40-minute drive.

When was the Hoover Dam built?

Construction on the Hoover Dam began in April 1931, and it opened in March 1936.

Why was the Hoover Dam built?

The purpose of the Hoover Dam was to control flooding on the Colorado River and to help with agricultural irrigation and hydroelectric power to Nevada, Arizona, and California.

How long does it take to visit Hoover Dam?

You should plan to spend about 3 hours touring the Hoover Dam .

When is the best time to visit Hoover Dam?

The best time to visit the Hoover Dam is in fall or winter when there are minimal crowds, and the temperatures are mild.

Can I see the Hoover Dam without a tour?

Yes, you can walk across the Hoover Dam and see the lookout points, but if you want to go into the Visitor Center, you need to pay the admission fee.

Can you see the Hoover Dam for free?

Yes, you can see the Hoover Dam for free, but it’s worth taking the tours.

How much does it cost to visit Hoover Dam?

It’s free to go to the Hoover Dam, but the Visitor Center costs $10 per person. The tours at the Hoover Dam range from $15 to $30.

Is Hoover Dam worth seeing?

Absolutely! It’s worth visiting the Hoover Dam and learning about its history while seeing it up close. Plus, the dam is close to Las Vegas and on the way to the Grand Canyon.

Can you walk across the Hoover Dam?

Yes, and it’s free to walk across the Hoover Dam Bridge .

Can you drive across Hoover Dam?

Yes, you can drive across the dam and park in one of the free lots or the paid parking garage.

That’s it from me! I hope you feel better prepared for your Hoover Dam visit and that you make the most of your time here. If you have any other questions, feel free to leave me a comment below. I’d also love to hear about your experience touring the Hoover Dam .

Stay safe and have a wonderful trip!

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Hoover Dam Private Tour

Explore technological marvels on our private hoover dam tour.

Marvel at the remarkable feat of 20th-century engineering – the Hoover Dam. Completed in 1936, this massive structure continues to supply hydroelectricity to California, Arizona, and Nevada, standing as a testament to human ingenuity.

Experience the thrill of standing on the Mike O’Callaghan – Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge, towering nearly 900 feet above the Dam. The tour provides a grand vista of Lake Mead, the largest man-made lake in the Western Hemisphere, and a drive through Boulder City, a town originally established to house the Hoover Dam’s workforce.

Enhance your visit with a guided Power Plant tour, where you’ll venture into the historic tunnels of the Hoover Dam. Knowledgeable guides from the Bureau of Reclamation will lead you on this fascinating journey into the Dam’s inner workings, including the Power Plant and Generator Room. Tickets for this additional guided tour can be purchased on-site for $15. Join us for an unforgettable exploration of this engineering marvel and witness the monumental legacy of the Hoover Dam.

Please contact us if you have any questions.

Highlights: 

• 2 hour Government guided tour inside Hoover Dam – Descend 500 feet into the heart of the Dam
• Access to the Visitors Center, museum, monuments, and gift shops.
• Multiple photo stops at the Dam
• Lake View overlook
• Hemenway Park / Home of the Big Horn mountain sheep – Seasonal

Tour Provisions: 

• Friendly and Knowledgeable guide
• Stop at the “Welcome to Las Vegas” sign
• Hot morning breakfast
• Courtesy stop at Starbucks
• Unlimited bottles of water
• Tour approximately 5.5 hours

1-5 passengers ($420). Each additional person is $55. Max 8 people. 9 passengers ($945). Each additional person is $49. Max 14 people. (We use the Mercedes Benz 16 person Sprinter for 9 people or more.)

Your family. Your friends.

Prices are subject to change during holidays and special events. Non-English tours are also available.

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Visiting the Hoover Dam: The Complete Guide

TripSavvy / Deanna Mazzola

History of the Hoover Dam

How to visit the hoover dam, how to drive across the hoover dam, the best views of the hoover dam, tours of the hoover dam, how to get there, where to stay nearby, tips for your visit.

The  Hoover Dam (originally known as the Boulder Dam), which holds back the mighty Colorado River forming Lake Mead , is located on the Arizona-Nevada border on Highway 93. It's 30 miles southeast of Las Vegas . 

It's a popular tourist destination whose Bureau of Reclamation tour alone draws nearly 1 million visitors every year. The bureau has been leading visitors through the dam and power plant since the '30s, and it is no less impressive today. If you're planning a trip to see the Hoover Dam in person, here's what to know.

The construction of the Hoover Dam originally named the Boulder Dam, backed up the Colorado River, resulting in the formation of Lake Mead. The dam was completed in five years. The contractors were allowed seven years from April 20, 1931, but concrete placement in the dam was completed May 29, 1935, and all features were completed by March 1, 1936.

Nearby Boulder City was built in 1931 to house the dam workers. It is the only city in Nevada where gambling is illegal. Visitors can enjoy antique shopping and restaurants.

If you want to visit the Hoover Dam, the first place to start is at the visitor center . Here, you can make your reservations, get the opening hours, learn about special events, and more.  Yes, you can enjoy the Dam for free. Park in one of the free parking areas and walk across the dam, where you will find plenty of great photo opportunities and interesting information posted along the way. Look up as you walk and see another marvel of engineering: the construction of an immense bridge across the river just downstream from Hoover Dam, on the Hoover Dam Bypass.

There are restrooms in the visitors center, parking garage, adjacent to the Old Exhibit Building and in the downstream face towers on top of the dam. Shopping for a souvenir? You'll find some interesting things at the gift shop on the lower floor of the parking garage. There is also a food concession at the dam.

Look for the warning signs before you cross the Hoover Dam. Not all types of vehicles are allowed to cross the dam. Even better, do a little research on the important  information  before you leave. You might be surprised to know that RVs and rental trucks can cross the dam (but they may be inspected). 

It's tempting to want to stop and take photos of the Hoover Dam or just pause and take it all in. Look for the many pullouts to safely do this. Don't stop on the street. 

The visitors center is on the Nevada side of the dam and it can be a bit more crowded but is another place to park. If you want covered parking or primo parking spots, be prepared to pay. Oversized vehicles, those with trailers and recreational vehicles can't park in the garage closest to the visitors center, though. They have to park in a lot on the Arizona side of the dam. If you're on a budget, you can find lots on the Arizona side a bit further up the canyon that offers free parking, if you don't mind the walk across. There is a closer lot on the Arizona side that costs a fee.

TripSavvy / Taylor McIntyre

Tours of the Hoover Dam are available at the visitors center a first come, first served basis for those over 8 years of age. (Younger children cannot go on the tour.) For those wanting to see the Power Plant, too, you can reserve a ticket online or at the visitors center. All ages are allowed on the Power Plant tour. Neither tour is accessible for those in wheelchairs or with limited mobility.

The Hoover Dam is about a 45 minute drive from the Las Vegas Strip . Exact times may vary due to traffic. Rideshare services can cost around $60 one way depending on the time of day. If you are taking your own car, a parking garage can be found on the Nevada side of the dam. This garage costs $10 and only accepts cash.

There are no public transportation options that go directly to the dam. Take note that the Hoover Dam does not have an exact address, so make sure to set your GPS to the Hoover Dam Visitors Center.

The closest nearby cities to the Hoover Dam are Boulder City, Nevada, Henderson, Nevada, and Winchester, Nevada. A few affordable options are the Hoover Dam Lodge & Casino , the Boulder Dam Hotel , and the Best Western Hoover Dam .

You can find more mid-range options in nearby Lake Las Vegas , including The Westin Lake Las Vegas Resort & Spa and the Hilton Lake Las Vegas Resort & Spa .

If you're planning on staying in Las Vegas and road tripping, make sure to check out our list of the best hotels to book in Las Vegas .

• The Hoover Dam is a major attraction. It is worth visiting, but you may want to avoid the crowds. The slowest months for visitation are January and February. The least crowded time of day for tours is 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. and 3 p.m. to 4:45 p.m.
• Remember that you are in the desert. It can get hot at Hoover Dam (lots of concrete, remember?). Dress accordingly and bring water.
• When you are at the Hoover Dam, be sure and take the time to look at the Hoover Dam Bypass. The bridge over the Colorado River is viewable from the dam and as you drive across. The immense bridge is both amazing and scary. It is 900 feet above the river, making it the world's highest concrete arch bridge and the second-highest bridge in the United States, behind the Royal Gorge Bridge in Colorado.
• The main part of the bypass, which rerouted the highway to have fewer sharp turns, is named the Mike O'Callaghan–Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge. The bypass opened in 2010.

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I'm your dam tour guide.

Discussion in ' General ' started by dtalbott , Aug 29, 2006 .

dtalbott Driving somewhere, hauling something.

While you're on the dam tour, take all the dam pictures you want. Now are there any dam questions? Yeah, where can I get some damn bait. I love that movie.  

Hammer 4 Can't Touch This

I musta missed that one....  

Hammer 4 said: I musta missed that one.... Click to expand...

stickboy274 Stick-a-licious Tire Dude

We have a dam bar. It's on the lexington side near Jakes landing.  

stickboy274 said: We have a dam bar. It's on the lexington side near Jakes landing. Click to expand...

I havn't checked to see if it has a dam view yet.  

eurobiketrash Well-Known Member

stickboy274 said: I havn't checked to see if it has a dam view yet. Click to expand...

iomTT Well-Known Member

dam Tip Anonymous Bidder said: How many dam drinks do you need? And don't forget my dam tip. Click to expand...

No, I answered it today, of course I was working on three dam things, and so Mike let me go back to them. I don't get to talk on my dam phone during the dam day much right now. Lori has to check my dam VM for me. I need a dam vacation  

stickboy274 said: No, I answered it today, of course I was working on three dam things, and so Mike let me go back to them. I don't get to talk on my dam phone during the dam day much right now. Lori has to check my dam VM for me. I need a dam vacation Click to expand...

They may be larger than the average dam $$$. but they aren't worth any dam more.  

Spicoli Cannoli Owned

Anonymous Bidder said: While you're on the dam tour, take all the dam pictures you want. Now are there any dam questions? Yeah, where can I get some damn bait. I love that movie. Click to expand...

R Acree Banned

Dam, I feel stupid for reading this dam thread.  

WebCrush Banned

It may have been a joke in the movie but the tour guides at Hoover dam really do say that  

R ACREE said: Dam, I feel stupid for reading this dam thread. Click to expand...

eurobiketrash said: familar surroundings? Click to expand...

I understand --oh why oh why didnt I buy one of those bikes in there instead of...........  

eurobiketrash said: I understand --oh why oh why didnt I buy one of those bikes in there instead of........... Click to expand...

SOFG Well-Known Member

I feel left out. BTW, We went out and ran every inch of dam trail at Whitmire a couple of weeks ago. I'm hoping to get back out there dam soon, maybe on Monday.  

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I’m Your Dam Tour Guide! - Dam Good Tours

• Europe    
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Best tour ever! Sergio knows how to stay in the sweet spot of culture, history and story telling... read more

My husband and I did a private tour with Geert yesterday and had a wonderful time. Geert is clever... read more

I’m Your Dam Tour Guide!

When in Amsterdam, do yourself a favor and book Dam Good free walking tour. We were fortunate enough to have Sam as our guide. He was informative, passionate, and entertaining while showing us his beloved city. I do recommend signing up in advance via email to secure a spot. Some people just showed up and were turned away because the tour was full. Learned a great deal about Amsterdam and the Dutch history. Very enjoyable and enlightening!

Sam was our guide, and the experience was terrific. You get to see the historic landmarks of old Amsterdam and more interestingly how they shaped Amsterdam of the past and today. Well worth the time. Our guide indicated that these tours will be phased out in 2020 due to the overcrowding of Amsterdam. They await new regulations and will structure a future touring company to meet the new regulations.

Geert was a great tour guide, funny and knowledgeable made the two hour tour interesting and full of facts. Would totally recommend him to anyone for a tour guide. Just less mountain climbing next time .... too much hard work ;) :P

Most unbeliveable tours with Geert, We loved the first so much we booked a second tour for the same day! Dont go to Amsterdam without doing a tour with this guy!

I took a tour today and it was amazing, funny and full of wonderful information about Amsterdam...thanx a lot

We went to Amsterdam with my family and this tour is the thing that I enjoyed the most from this trip. Geert is such a cool guy (as you can see). Me and my sister went to the Red Light District tour aswell and it was just excellent. Seriously, go on this tour. You won’t regret it. Thanks Geert!<3

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Can You Just Drive By and See the Hoover Dam?

Unfortunately, the road that runs across the top of the Hoover Dam is now closed to through-traffic, which means you can’t just drive over it anymore. However, if you’re just passing through the area and you’d like a glimpse of the nation’s most famous dam, you can get a pretty decent view as you cross the Colorado River on Arizona Highway 93/Interstate 11. The dam is located to the east of the bridge, so the best way to see it is if you’re traveling north and you look to your right. Be warned: it’s not the best view, so you’ll probably have to crane your neck to see it.

If you’re willing to backtrack, you can still drive along the top of the Hoover Dam . In fact, there’s no charge unless you want to stop at one of the parking lots, so you can drive across and back for free. However, the Arizona side of the access road has been closed, which means you won’t be able to meet back up with the highway on the other side. You’ll have to enter from the Nevada side, drive across the dam, and then turn around and drive back to Nevada.

It’s worth keeping in mind that you’ll have to pass through a security checkpoint before you can reach the dam itself. Weapons aren’t allowed on the dam, so you won’t be allowed past the checkpoint if you keep a firearm or pepper spray in your car. You’ll also be stopped if you have a drone or any marijuana on you, so stoners and filmmakers should make sure these things are packed away.

If you’re interested in learning more about the Hoover Dam, we offer a self-guided driving tour starting in Las Vegas and ending at the dam. More frequent travelers might also be interested in Action+ , a yearly subscription that grants access to all 100+ of our US tours.

Essential Travel Guide:

• How much is the entrance fee to Hoover Dam?
• What is so special about the Hoover Dam?
• What do I need to know before going to Hoover Dam?

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Betting Bites: Player quotes to help guide your Masters market choices

10 Min Read

Golfbet News

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If you’re looking for a last-minute nugget before making your final bets for the Masters make sure you’ve covered all the angles.

Here’s what those speaking to the media at Augusta National this week have had to say that may or may not influence your betting choices, with the start of the year’s first major just one day away.

Jordan Spieth (+2200)

“Constant TLC,” Spieth said when speaking of how he tends to his wrist issue that flared up at the Valero Texas Open last week.

“I had it reoccur in January after Hawaii and I had it Monday of the PLAYERS Championship and then Monday of last week. When it happens, I can't do anything that day. Typically, as the week goes on, it gets better and better, using it more and more, and I'm recovering more and more than, say, my days off at home. I'm getting treatment daily here. That's included with everything else that I didn't used to do.

“It's an ECU tendon issue that unfortunately I've not fixed, but when it flares up, it flares up for like 24 hours, and then it just slowly gets better, versus last May when I couldn't play the Byron and then in October it was another week and a half or so. And since then, since I've gotten more on top of it by December, I at least know what it is and how to get it quickly better.

“It's something that I don't think there's really anything I can do other than rest. And I'm not resting it anytime soon. So, I'll probably take quite a bit of time when the season's over and see if it kind of sets it back in place and doesn't flare up as much.”

Min Woo Lee (+6600)

The firebrand Aussie revealed Tuesday he’s playing with a broken finger suffered in the gym .

“I dropped a dumbbell on my hand… Broke it. But I have it bandaged up right now. I hit my first shot for the last week on Friday, so hit my first full driver. Honestly, it's actually amazing how fast the recovery was. It was bruised, still swollen, but not actually that painful which is really strange,” Lee revealed.

“I went to the doctor and I thought it was OK because I could move it. It was just red. I thought it would be fine. Then they came in and said, you've broken it. So, yeah, a lot of anxiety.

“Somehow recovering very good, so icing and elevating as much as I can. Yeah, I guess it wasn't the best prep, and I got the flu two days ago.”

Scottie Scheffler (+400)

The shortest-priced favorite at the Masters since Tiger Woods in 2013, Scheffler is looking to return to the summit reached in 2022. Comes in with wins at THE PLAYERS and Arnold Palmer Invitational and in rare ball-striking form.

“I'm excited about how I've been playing to begin this year. I had two nice wins, which was obviously a bunch of fun. Then I was close in my last start as well,” Scheffler says.

“I think it's just one of those deals where all I'm trying to do is put myself in contention in the tournament and hopefully finish it off. I really am not looking much past tomorrow. I'm focused on my preparation right now. And those things don't really occupy many of my thoughts day-to-day.”

Wyndham Clark (+3000)

The first reigning U.S. Open champion to be a Masters rookie since 1970 really likes his chances. Recent runner-up results to Scheffler at Bay Hill and TPC Sawgrass have Clark in a confident mood as he chases becoming the first rookie to win the Masters since Fuzzy Zoeller in 1979.

“Stats like that are meant to be broken. I know it's a tall task. It's a challenging golf course. There's a bunch of good golfers. With that said, you have to still bring your game. So it's not like you can just flip a switch and win it,” Clark says.

“But that would be an amazing accomplishment. And I like my chances. I really like myself on this golf course. I feel good on a lot of tee shots and approaches, and there's so much creativity. So I feel good coming into the week.”

Rory McIlroy (+1100)

The chase for the career Grand Slam continues for McIlroy who comes in after a steady third-place finish at the Valero Texas Open last week. The world No. 2 added the event to change up his preparation for Augusta.

“I think it's been beneficial to play a little bit more this year leading into not just this tournament but the spring and the summer. I'm a little more in tune with where my game is and where my misses are and once you play a lot, you learn just how to manage your game a little bit better instead of, if you haven't played that much, and you're a little rusty,” he said.

“I just think that patterns emerge the more that you play. I feel like I've got a big enough sort of data set of rounds to sort of know how to manage what I'm doing right now. So I think that's been a good thing.”

Jon Rahm (+1200)

The defending champion is looking to be the first repeat winner since Tiger Woods in 2001 and 2002.

“If I would go based on how I feel today on a Tuesday, I feel physically better than I did last year. But then once competition starts, it doesn't really matter. Once the gun goes off, whatever you feel is out the window; you got to go out there and post a score.”

Xander Schauffele (+1400)

With four top-17 finishes in the last five years, including a T2 and T3 at Augusta National many believe this is the year for Schauffele.

“A steady drip caves a stone is something I grew up with. People tell me good playing, and they're not wrong, I feel like it was some solid golf that I've been playing. It's not a false statement. Obviously, you just want it to be that much better,” he said.

“But at the end of the day, I think that's also the reason why I keep having these performances where I am close, just because it's bothering me and it's something that I really want. And if I clip one, it's not going to be enough for me to be satisfied. So I think it's definitely what motivates me as a golfer and as a competitor just to keep pushing.”

Tiger Woods (+15000)

The five-time champion still thinks he can make it six at 48 years old. But he’s candid about his physical limitations as he looks to break the all-time record for consecutive Masters cuts made.

“My practice sessions certainly aren't what they used to be. I used to live on the range or live on a short game facility and just be out there all day. That's no longer the case. So I just have to be more focused on when I do get a chance to go out there and practice and really grind out and make every shot count because I just really don't have the ball count in me anymore. So those adaptations… hopefully I've made them for this week.”

Viktor Hovland (+3300)

The current FedExCup champion was on everyone’s lips late last year but some coaching changes and far from great results to start this season have him outside the radar for most pundits. As he continues to work through some changes, he’s not the smiling assassin most are used to.

“Your confidence level is going to be a little bit different than when you don't have any conscious thoughts. That's obviously the end goal when you play this game, is that you show up and you go through your routine and there's almost, like, a blackout. You just react to what you're doing and you see the shots, and the ball flight translates into what you're seeing. That's the goal,” Hovland explained.

Will Zalatoris (+4000)

A former runner-up at the Masters, Zalatoris is happy to be in the field after having to eject pre-tournament a year ago to ultimately get back surgery. He’s posted up top-fives at Riviera and Bay Hill this season.

“My mom actually reminded me this is one year to the day from the surgery, so kind of a fun day to kind of come back and play and play nine holes with Tiger this morning (Monday), a guy who has really helped me a lot I guess with the rehab of coming back from my surgery,” Zalatoris said after a practice round with fellow sore back brother Tiger Woods.

“I feel great. This is the best I've felt… I think the best way to put it is I kept thinking I was at 100% as I've come back, and each month I've picked up a little more speed, had a little more endurance.”

Ludvig Åberg (+2800)

The lowest-priced major debutant ever on a betting board, Åberg is in the crazy position of having won a PGA TOUR and DP World Tour event and a Ryder Cup before even playing in a major! Can he become the first major rookie to win in nearly 50 years?

“I've had a lot of firsts over the last couple of months. Once again, I'm trying to embrace it. I'm not trying to push it away. I'm not trying to fight it. I think that's one of the key things.

And I remember back in last year when we played in Rome, that was a big first as well. And that was very nerve-wracking, but it was also very cool experience and something that taught me a lot that week,” Åberg said.

“I think a lot of those experiences that I'll have in the next couple of months will be very similar, and I think I'm just trying to learn from it, try to have fun. And whether you like it or not, it is going to be different. But it's also just golf, and it's just me and my 14 clubs, I guess.”

Jason Day (+6600)

A runner-up in his debut Masters with three further top-10s on top, Day was the first player to register for this year’s tournament. But the reason – he needed the practice.

“Essentially, I was battling a two-way miss with my shoulders getting a little bit too horizontal or parallel to the ground. Once I start to rotate, my shoulders kind of level to the ground, my arms kind of go away from my body and I kind of dump it in the turf and I get like a right and a left.

“When I try and hit a draw and I miss it right, I don't want to do that, then I get the pull hook left. Essentially, I'm just trying to stay better in the spine angle but get a little bit more pitch through my shoulders. That way my right arm can go under my body a little bit better.”

Rickie Fowler (+12500)

With five top-12 finishes at the Masters to his name, Fowler returns for the first time since 2020. While he held the 54-hole lead at the U.S. Open last year he was unable to close it out and knows his window to claim a major shrinks each year.

“(My game) hasn't been great as of late. I haven't been driving it well, and that's something when you're not driving it well, you're kind of starting from behind the eight-ball. I feel like we're starting to get that sorted, and excited to be back in a good spot,” Fowler said.

For resources to overcome a gambling problem, call or text 1-800-GAMBLER today.

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Solar eclipse 2024: Follow the path of totality

Solar eclipse, here's what time the eclipse will be visible in your region.

Emily Alfin Johnson

Visitors look through a pair of oversized eclipse glasses set up in the town square on Sunday in Houlton, Maine. Joe Raedle/Getty Images hide caption

Visitors look through a pair of oversized eclipse glasses set up in the town square on Sunday in Houlton, Maine.

On Monday, a solar eclipse will cross from Texas to Maine, putting over 30 million people in the path of totality , with a partial eclipse visible briefly for millions more.

Monday's weather forecast for the path of totality

Totality in the U.S. starts around 1:30 p.m. CT/2:30 ET and continues until 2:30 p.m. CT/3:30 p.m. ET, lasting for a few minutes in each location.

The folks at NASA have a detailed breakdown for anyone in the U.S. Just pop in your ZIP code .

If you're lucky enough to find yourself in the path of totality, you can also find a minute-by-minute breakdown of when totality begins in your area, here.

More resources to enjoy the eclipse

• Sharing the eclipse with tiny humans?  Check out these  kid-friendly total solar eclipse learning guides  from Vermont Public's  But Why,  and this great explainer from KERA Kids on  the difference between a solar and a lunar eclipse .
• Feeling whimsical?  Here are three ways to  sprinkle a little magic into your eclipse experience .
• Plan to wander into the wild for the best view?   Here are some tips from outdoor experts.
• Tips from Bill Nye  on the best ways to enjoy the eclipse.

NPR will be sharing highlights here from across the NPR Network throughout the day Monday if you're unable to get out and see it in real time.