Hoover Dam was built during the Great Depression, between 1931 and 1936. The project employed thousands of workers, cost more than 100 lives and gave rise to Boulder City.
All the best things of Las Vegas are away from the strip. You can drive over the Hoover dam and get to free parking on the Arizona side (saves $10). You can also walk on the bridge.
The dam was built during the Great Depression and provided flood control, crop irrigation, and hydroelectric power for the southwestern states, and many jobs. To learn more watch this C-SPAN video.
Purchase a guided tour or pay for parking and explore on your own. I highly recommend going on the bridge. It's a beautiful view and a nice walk. Eat at The Coffee Cup on the way through Boulder City.
This is an amazing sight to see and story to hear of how the Dam was built. I have new respect for the security they have-the Dam is very important to life to the Western states! Wonderful trip!
Incredible!! Amazing finally getting to see this place up close!! Definitely a place You have to see up close to actually be able to comprehend how Massive it is!!!