Las Vegas is incredible, but sometimes you need a break from the relentless energy of the Strip. Just a 40-minute drive southeast lies Boulder City, a picturesque and historic town that feels worlds away from the neon lights and casinos (in fact, gambling is entirely banned here!).

Built in the 1930s to house the workers who built the Hoover Dam, Boulder City offers a wealth of history, outdoor adventure, and small-town charm. Here is your ultimate itinerary for a perfect day trip.

The Majestic Hoover Dam

No trip to Boulder City is complete without visiting the engineering marvel that birthed it. The Hoover Dam straddles the border of Nevada and Arizona, holding back the mighty Colorado River to form Lake Mead. You can simply walk across the top of the dam for free to take in the breathtaking views of the canyon and the lake.

For a deeper experience, book a guided dam tour. You will descend deep into the concrete walls to see the massive generators that power the Southwest. The sheer scale of the dam is something you have to see in person to truly appreciate.

Lake Mead Cruises

After seeing the dam from above, experience it from the water. Head down to the Lake Mead marina and hop aboard a Lake Mead Cruise. A scenic cruise on a multi-level paddlewheeler offers a relaxing way to see the colorful desert canyon walls and get a stunning, up-close view of the Hoover Dam from the water level. It is especially beautiful during the sunset dinner cruises.

Hemingway Park

If you want a guaranteed wildlife encounter, make a stop at Hemingway Park. This beautifully maintained public park overlooking Lake Mead is famous for its resident herd of desert bighorn sheep. The sheep come down from the surrounding mountains daily to graze on the green grass and rest under the shade trees. It’s an incredible spot for photography and a peaceful place to enjoy a picnic.

Historic Downtown

Take a stroll through Historic Downtown Boulder City. The tree-lined streets are filled with beautifully preserved Art Deco architecture from the 1930s. You will find charming antique shops, local art galleries, and fantastic diners and cafes. Grab a bite to eat at the famous Southwest Diner or grab a coffee at Boulder City Co. Store to soak up the small-town Americana vibe.

Nevada State Railroad Museum

For history buffs and train enthusiasts, the Nevada State Railroad Museum is a hidden gem. It preserves the history of the railroad that was specifically built to transport men and materials to the Hoover Dam construction site. On weekends, you can actually take a scenic, 7-mile ride on historic open-air train cars along the same tracks that helped build the dam.

Local Tip: Start your day early! The Hoover Dam gets very crowded by mid-day, and the desert heat is intense in the summer. Visit the dam first thing in the morning, then retreat to the shaded parks and air-conditioned shops of Historic Downtown for the afternoon.