[jlawrence01]

Here is all of the critical admission and tour information:

Bureau of Reclamation: Lower Colorado Region - Hoover Dam: Visitor Center/Tour Information

[St8kout]

I just moved to Boulder City recently (which is about 6 miles from the Dam) and it's certainly worth the tour. Note that there are two tours: one is a partial tour only as far as the generator room and the other continues on from there into the tunnels of the Dam itself, which I found more interesting. Overall it's all worth seeing IMO. As mentioned by others, there is also a free parking lot where you can walk over the bridge and see the Dam from a downstream view.

There's not much traffic at the moment but I was told it gets pretty hectic when the summer tourists start pouring in, so renting a car is the way I would go for now. If it was a crowded national holiday the bus tour might be easier.

There is also Lake Mead National Park which you will pass by on your way to the Dam. It's kind of a shame they made it into a National Park and charge to get in. We have big lakes where I'm from and they are all free to use. Not really worth seeing unless you happen to have a nationwide National Parks pass. Just a big lake surrounded by an even bigger desert, but to each his own. You can rent Waverunners but they are expensive, about $90 for the first hour.

As far as renting a car in Vegas, unless you are staying close to the strip it would be a good idea. You can park free at the casinos. I always use the Bellagio parking garage myself. There is also an all-day pass for the busses on the Strip that makes it easy to get around. Regardless, you will end up doing a whole lot of walking if you want to see everything. Wear comfortable shoes and enjoy your time here.

One more note, I haven't been there yet but everyone says Mt Charleston is worth a visit. It's about 35 west of Vegas. You go from the desert valley of Vegas to almost cold weather conditions. Mountain views with waterfalls and hiking trails, and even skiing when there's snow. Just a thought.