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5 Free and Almost Free Things to do in Henderson and Boulder City

Activities and attractions in Henderson and Boulder City, Nevada

By Heather Leigh Carroll-Landon, PhD - Publisher Macaroni Kid, Henderson-Boulder City, North Las Vegas, & SW Las Vegas January 18, 2021

Last year was a unique one. After being stuck at home for many months, I bet everyone in the family suffers from cabin fever. As things in our community start to open back up, now is the time to keep kids busy, active, and get out of the house as a family. 

Here are some of the free and almost free things to do in Henderson and Boulder City. 

Black Mountain Hiking Trails - FREE
Sloan Canyon National Conservation Area; Henderson, Nevada 89044

Hours: Vary on time of year - Click here to access current hours of operation.

This time of year is the perfect time for fun, family hikes through the hills. The Black Mountain Hiking Trails take you up the mountainside, and in most areas, you will have a fantastic view of the Las Vegas Strip and surrounding areas. Don't forget to pack a picnic!


Hiking the trails along Black Mountain.

Clark County Museum - $2 for adults; $1 for children and seniors
180 S. Boulder Highway, Henderson, NV 89002
(702) 455-7955

Hours: Daily 9 a.m.-4 p.m.; Closed Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Near Year's Day.

The Clark County Museum offers a way for families to explore the history of our area. The museum features the Anna Roberts Parks Exhibit Hall and Heritage Street, which has eight historic buildings from Clark County. This museum is an excellent place for kids to run around outside and learn about the area's history in a fun, unique way. 



Historical Building at Clark County Museum.

Ethel M Cactus Garden - FREE
2 Cactus Garden Drive, Henderson, NV 89014
(702) 435-2655

Hours: Daily 10 a.m.-6 p.m. 

The Cactus Garden at Ethel M Chocolate Factory in Henderson is always free for families wanting an outdoor venue to explore. This botanical garden is home to more than 300 species of cacti. When done exploring the garden, step inside to see the factory and grab a sample of chocolate. 


Cactus in Ethel M's Cactus Garden.


Henderson Bird Viewing Preserve - FREE
350 East Galleria Drive, Henderson, NV 89011
(702) 267-4180

Hours: December - February 7 a.m.-2 p.m.; March - May 6 a.m.-2 p.m.; June - August 6 a.m.-noon; September-November 6 a.m.-2 p.m.

Get out and enjoy the weather by planning a visit to Henderson Bird Viewing Preserve. This preserve is home to many birds and area wildlife who come to enjoy the many ponds and trails throughout. The paved pathway is about ¾ mile long and will take you to the perfect place to see all the preserve's migratory birds. Some birds you might see include warblers, flycatchers, sparrows, and thrushes. Hours of operation vary depending upon the time of year. 


Screen Shot of the Bird Viewing Checklist from the City of Henderson. 

Hoover Dam - Free
Hoover Dam Access Road, Boulder City, NV 89005
(702) 494-2517

Hours: Daily 5 a.m.-9 p.m.

Discover why more than one million visitors make their way to the Hoover Dam annually. This historic landmark offers an opportunity to drive right across the dam from Nevada into Arizona. (Please note: Due to maintenance, the bridge has limited access for cars through February 5, 2021.) It is free to explore the dam; however, there is a $10 fee if parking in the garage. 



View from the Hoover Dam.

Please note: All locations included in this article follow state guidelines for COVID-19 occupancy and mask mandates. Practice safe social distancing when visiting these locations or any other location in Henderson and Nevada.