Hoover Dam seasonal timings

The Hoover Dam is open year-round, except on Thanksgiving Day and Christmas. The following are the timings:

Hoover Dam: 5am–9pm
Visitor Center: 9am–5pm
Hoover Dam tours: 9am–5pm

Doors close at 4:15pm, and the last tour departs at 4:10pm.

Timings notes & visitor warnings

Interior tours of the dam (generator room, power plant) have limited slots; arrive early to secure tickets.
Extreme heat in the summer months can affect walking on exterior areas; carry water and wear hats.
The last entry for self-guided areas is typically 30 minutes before closing.
Certain areas may close unexpectedly due to maintenance or security measures.
Road closures or construction near the dam can affect arrival times; check traffic advisories before visiting

Sub-attraction timings

Sub-attraction	Opening	Closing	Notes
Hoover Dam Visitor Center	9am	5pm	Exhibits open daily; last entry 30 minutes before closing.
Hoover Dam Museum (Boulder City)	10am	4pm	Closed on Mondays; check special programs online
Interior Tours (Generator Room, Power Plant)	9am	3:30pm	Tickets first-come, first-served; age restrictions apply
Mike O’Callaghan–Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge	24-hour access	N/A	Observation decks are open daily.

Best time to visit Hoover Dam

By season

Season	Weather & conditions	Crowds	Notes
Spring (Mar–May)	Moderate temperatures, comfortable walking	Moderate	Ideal for guided tours, photography, and outdoor exploration.
Summer (Jun–Aug)	High heat, dry desert climate	High	Morning visits recommended; stay hydrated and wear sun protection.
Fall (Sep–Nov)	Cooler, pleasant conditions	Moderate	Excellent for photography and extended tours.
Winter (Dec–Feb)	Mild, occasional wind	Low	Less crowded; best for indoor tours and museum visits.

By time of the day

Morning: Cooler temperatures, lighter crowds, ideal for interior tours.
Midday: Peak sun; best for observation deck photos with strong light.
Late afternoon / golden hour: Softer light for photography and exterior views; visitor numbers start to drop.

How long to spend at Hoover Dam?

Based on the Hoover Dam tour you are on, the time you spend varies.

Duration: ~4–5 hours
This small-group tour lets you explore the Power Plant, generator room, Visitor Center, observation deck, and Boulder City, with ample time for photos and guided insights.

Duration: ~3–4 hours
Walk across the dam, visit the Lake Mead overlook, explore Boulder City, and tour the Hoover Dam Museum in a well-paced, guided experience.

Duration: ~4–5 hours
Glide along the Colorado River through Black Canyon with a local guide, enjoy close-up views of the dam from below, and return via scenic viewpoints.

Duration: ~1 hour
Experience aerial views of Hoover Dam, Lake Mead, the Colorado River, and the Las Vegas Strip from the helicopter, perfect for a quick yet unforgettable perspective.

Duration: Full day (~12 hours)
Explore Hoover Dam, stop at Lake Mead overlook, then continue to Grand Canyon West for Skywalk, Eagle Point, and Guano Point, all with guided commentary.

Frequently asked questions about Hoover Dam hours

Is Hoover Dam open year-round?

Yes, Hoover Dam and its Visitor Center are open throughout the year, except on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day.

Can I visit the dam after dark?

No, public access to the dam’s observation points and Visitor Center is limited to daytime hours for safety. Evening visits are not permitted.

What time does the ticket office close?

The Hoover Dam Visitor Center ticket office typically closes at 5pm, with minor seasonal variations.

When is the Hoover Dam least crowded?

Weekday mornings, especially Tuesday through Thursday, are generally quieter. Early arrivals avoid large tour groups and enjoy better photo opportunities.

Do I need to book Hoover Dam tours in advacne?

Booking is recommended, particularly for VIP and raft tours, as these small-group experiences often sell out. Standard entry and Highlights tours may have same-day availability.

Are there evening tours of Hoover Dam?

No, guided tours conclude during daylight hours.