Collage of new visitor center exhibits.
Hoover Dam—one of America’s most iconic engineering achievements—has once again captured national attention. Recently honored as a 2026 Las Vegas Magazine Hall of Fame inductee, Hoover Dam continues to stand as a symbol of ingenuity, resilience, and public service nearly a century after its construction.
“As impressive today as it was when first built, Hoover Dam remains a compelling marvel,” wrote Katie Dixson, publisher of Las Vegas Magazine. “Not only is it a great destination for tours and amazing views, it’s a piece of cultural history.” Appearing in iconic films, television shows, and video games, Hoover Dam welcomes more than 4 million visitors annually, reinforcing its place in Southern Nevada and American history.
That legacy now has a powerful new chapter. The Hoover Dam Visitor Center’s newly remodeled Exhibits has officially reopened following a soft opening on May 26 and a celebratory ribbon-cutting ceremony on June 17. Fully operational and open to the public, the transformed exhibit space delivers an immersive, multi-sensory experience that brings the story of Hoover Dam vividly to life.
“This is an exciting project that educates the public on the fascinating history of Hoover Dam and the dedication of everyone involved in its construction,” said David Palumbo, Deputy Commissioner of the Bureau of Reclamation. “This engaging narrative is brought to life through the voices of workers and their families.”
Visitors are invited to step into history through interactive displays that engage sight, sound, and touch. From feeling the vibrations of jackhammers in Black Canyon to walking through a recreated Rag Town shack, the exhibits provide an authentic glimpse into daily life during the Great Depression. A stunning 17-foot model reveals the dam’s hidden inner workings, while hands-on features allow guests to start a generator or trigger the echo of a dynamite blast.
Acting Regional Director Genevieve Johnson emphasized the collaborative effort behind the project, noting that the exhibits are designed to be both educational and fun while honoring the people who built one of the world’s most recognizable landmarks.
Terri Saumier “It was exciting to be part of this project. We look forward to sharing the story of Hoover Dam, why it was built, how it was built, and how it works, with millions of visitors from across the country and around the world.”
Remarkably, Hoover Dam operates on a self-funding model, supported by hydropower and tourism revenues. The $16 million exhibit renovation was made possible through the Southern Nevada Public Lands Management Act and Boulder Canyon Power Contractors, ensuring the dam’s continued role as a center for education and innovation.
From the thunderous roar of a seven-story generator to the stories of perseverance etched into its walls, there has never been a better time to visit Hoover Dam—where history meets innovation and inspires generations to come.
