Hoover Dam

When construction was completed in 1936, which was nearly two years before schedule, the Hoover Dam was marveled as one of the seven man made engineering wonders of the world. Standing 726 feet tall and 1,244 feet long, the Hoover Dam surprisingly was called the Boulder Dam because the initial building site was at Boulder Canyon, but was moved 10 mile up the river at Black Canyon and renamed by the Herbert Hoover administration in 1930.

The amazing structure annually produces 4 billion kilowatts of electricity, which is the same amount Nevada, Southern California and Arizona use every year. The dam sustains massive amounts of pressure. Its curve against Lake Mead allows water to compress it while the dam's walls are fortified against the Black Canyon rock walls, which push-back the massive pressure of the water. The arched concrete walls are squeezed together as water pushes against the canyon walls, which gives it such unbelievable strength.

There is so much more to learn and see and after you visit this impressive site you will be astonished. You can take guided elevator tours inside and outside, not to mention helicopter rides above providing a great view of the structure, Lake Mead and the Colorado River. Being only 35 miles away from Las Vegas, the Hoover Dam is a popular tourist attraction. Discover what role it plays in agriculture and energy.

Depending on when you plan on visiting, we recommend that you plan ahead because the busiest times to visit this astounding construction are during Spring Break and Memorial Day through Labor Day. The less crowded tours are generally between 9-10:30 a.m. and 3-4:45 p.m.