On one of the day trips out of Vegas, my friend and I decided to visit the Hoover Dam. I think it had to be the hottest day ever known to man. The reports on the radio stated it was about 113 degrees.
As we drove we saw breathtaking views of Lake Mead and the Colorado River. We pulled off several times to take photos of these bodies of water. When we arrived at the dam we found a massive parking garage structure. There was a charge for parking, but it was under $10. This made parking no problem at all. The Hoover Dam also offers a tour; however, my friend and I didn't take it. If I were to do the experience again, I would definitely take the tour.
After leaving the car, we walked on part of the dam and grabbed some great photos. We went back to the gift shop and grabbed some ice-cream. I'm telling you, it was so hot it was hard to breathe. I think most of my ice-cream was melted before I took my first bite.
After finishing our ice-cream we grabbed the car and drove across the Arizona/Nevada state line.
All in all, it was a fun way to spend an afternoon. I don't think that the dam by itself would be a full day trip.
To get to the Hoover Dam from Vegas go southeast on I-515. It will turn into US-93. Just continue on 93 till you get to the dam. Unlike the Valley of Fire State Park, the Hoover Dam was a breeze to find.