DISCOVER HENDERSON
ACTIVITIES FOR EVERY EXPLORER
Adventure Seekers - Outdoor Thrills Near Henderson
Henderson is home to one of the most extensive trail systems in the state of Nevada with more than 300 miles of hiking, biking, and walking. From leisurely strolls in the city to mountainous hikes, a few fan-favorites include:
McCollough Hills Trail is a 16-mile out and back trail providing a more challenging route for seasoned hikers and bikers. For a more leisurely nearly 8.5 mile walk, follow Lake Mead Parkway Trail from Lake Mead Parkway & the I-515 all the way to Lake Mead National Recreation Area.
Along the way you’ll find Mountain Lake Park which connects the Lake Mead and River Mountains Loop trails with a quaint park featuring sculptures of lizards of the Mojave desert, a bocce ball court, and other regular park amenities like barbecue grills and a playground.
For those looking to make a splash, make the short trek to Lake Las Vegas, a 320-acre man-made lake. Here you’ll find an aquatic playground where you can kayak, paddleboard, flyboard, jetpack, and even ride an electric surfboard!
For a more low-key and serene outdoor adventure, visit the Henderson Bird Viewing Preserve, an approximately 140 acre home for thousands of migratory waterfowl and numerous resident desert birds. The preserve features five miles of walking trails from which you can view the birds and is known as one of the “Best Place to Bird Watch.”
History Buffs - Henderson Cultural Landmarks
Step back in time in Henderson, NV—where wartime roots meet vibrant modern charm. History buffs, especially those fascinated by WWII, will love exploring this city that began in 1942 as Basic, Nevada, home to the vital Basic Magnesium Plant. The plant produced lightweight magnesium for incendiary bombs, playing a key role in the war effort.
Today, echoes of the past line the historic Water Street District. Sip a pint at Mojave Brewery inside a former Bank of America—vault and all—or visit the Rainbow Club, which started as the original grocery store for plant workers before transforming into a casino in 1967. Murals throughout the district colorfully tell Henderson’s story, offering a self-guided history lesson as you stroll.
Don’t Miss: The Clark County Museum, a 30-acre treasure featuring an immersive timeline of Southern Nevada’s history and a collection of restored homes and buildings like the Candlelight Wedding Chapel that capture everyday life from decades past in Las Vegas, Boulder City, and Henderson.
Bonus for art lovers – stop by City Lights Art Gallery, a nonprofit space that showcases student artwork from across the valley and supports local scholarships—proof that Henderson’s creative spirit is as strong as its historical legacy.
Family Travelers - All Ages Fun in Henderson
Looking for family-friendly fun beyond the Strip? Just a short drive from Las Vegas, Henderson offers some unforgettable experiences! Animal lovers will enjoy The Lion Habitat Ranch, where you can see lions that once roamed the MGM Grand—including descendants of the famous MGM movie lion.
Can You Dig It? Plan your trip around the first Saturday of the month to catch The Mine Experience, Nevada’s only simulated underground gold mine! This hands-on, family-friendly attraction lets you explore replica mine shafts, vintage equipment, old trains, and more. Bonus: admission is usually free—just check their Facebook page for updates!
Got a sweet tooth? Head to Ethel M Chocolate Factory & Cactus Garden for a peek at how their tasty treats are made, followed by a stroll through Nevada’s largest cactus garden. During the holidays, it transforms into a glowing wonderland—perfect for festive family photos (and maybe a Santa sighting!).
Road Trippers & Weekend Explorers - Wander-Worthy Finds
Henderson, NV is the perfect basecamp for desert adventures and unexpected gems. Just minutes from Las Vegas, it offers easy access to scenic beauty, quirky roadside stops, and iconic landmarks.
Start your day with some lakeside relaxation or water sports at Lake Las Vegas, where you can kayak, paddleboard, or sip cocktails by the shore. Craving something a little more offbeat? Don’t miss the Wheel of Misfortune—an abandoned graffiti-covered cement wheel hidden in the desert that’s equal parts creepy and cool (and totally Instagram-worthy).
Just 30 minutes away, the legendary Hoover Dam awaits. Tour the historic engineering marvel or enjoy sweeping views from the bypass bridge. For even more Wild West charm, take a short drive to Eldorado Canyon Mine near Nelson, NV. This quirky ghost town features old mining relics, vintage cars, and one of the oldest gold mines in Southern Nevada—you can even take a guided tour into the tunnels!
Whether you’re in it for the photo ops, the history, or the stunning desert landscapes, Henderson offers the perfect mix of relaxation and exploration.
Event & Festival Goers - Mark Your Calendar
Henderson is the go-to destination to experience small-town vibes with big events that happen year-round!
Starting in March the St. Patrick’s Day Festival & Parade brings the luck of the Irish with a lively downtown parade, and weekend-long festival featuring carnival rides & games, live celtic music, food & beverage vendors including pop-up Irish pubs.
In summer, it’s time for the night air to fill with the sounds of summer as venues like Sunset Station Hotel & Casino and the M Resort Spa & Casino launch summer concerts featuring local and touring acts under the desert sky in a relaxed, outdoor setting.
When fall rolls around, Henderson Hot Rod Days takes over Water Street with 600+ classic cars, muscle machines, vendors, and live rock music for a revved-up weekend of automotive nostalgia – all free to attend!
WinterFest lights up Water Street Plaza each December with a magical tree-lighting ceremony, dazzling electric parade, and drone show—perfect for families and festive spirits.
From green parades and glittering winter wonderlands to hot rod festivals and sultry summer concerts, Henderson offers a vibrant, community-driven calendar that ensures fun, flavor, and festival vibes for everyone.
Never miss a beat: There’s plenty more events and festivals to explore year-round in Henderson. Visit the City of Henderson website for the latest happenings.
Business & Convention Travelers - Henderson Means Business
Henderson, NV is where business meets balance—making it the ideal destination for business travelers and corporate events. Just minutes from the Las Vegas Strip and Harry Reid International Airport, Henderson offers a more relaxed, off-the-Strip atmosphere with all the amenities you need to work, meet, and unwind.
Host your next meeting, seminar, or corporate retreat at one of Henderson’s full-service hotels and resorts, which collectively offer more than 350,000 square feet of flexible meetings space. Properties like the Green Valley Ranch, and Hilton Lake Las Vegas Resort & Spa provide state-of-the-art facilities, customizable event spaces, and dedicated business services. Get more info on meeting spaces available in Henderson, NV.
When the workday wraps, the nightlife of the Strip is just a short drive away—or stay local and enjoy upscale dining, wine bars, and entertainment in Henderson’s own Water Street District or The District at Green Valley Ranch.
For a unique team-building twist, check out Chicken N Pickle, a fun indoor/outdoor venue with pickleball courts, lawn games, and great food—perfect for mixers or casual corporate gatherings.
And for some downtime, hit the links at one of Henderson’s championship golf courses including Revere Golf Club, Chimera Golf Club, or Reflection Bay Golf Club, each offering stunning desert backdrops and premium amenities.
Foodies - Where to Eat & Drink in Henderson
Calling all foodies—Henderson, NV is your next delicious destination! Just minutes from the Las Vegas Strip, this culinary hotspot offers everything from upscale dining to cozy local gems, all with a side of small-town charm.
Start your flavor tour in the Water Street District, a revitalized historic area packed with wine bars, craft breweries, and laid-back lounges. Dine at Azzura Cucina Italiana for house-made pastas and modern Italian dishes—but don’t skip a stop at the Azzura Wine Bar next door for pre-dinner drinks and apps in a stylish, intimate setting.
Next, head over to The District at Green Valley Ranch, a trendy outdoor shopping and dining hub where you’ll find everything from gourmet burgers to globally inspired cuisine, plus patios perfect for people-watching. Be sure to check out local’s hot spot Echo & Rig, which provides a modern reimagining of the classic steakhouse. Afterwards, indulge in a scoop of Ben & Jerry’s ice cream as you stroll through the outdoor shopping plaza.
Don’t Miss: Nestled in an industrial complex, the Henderson Artisan Booze District features watering holes for every palate. From breweries to a winery, distillery, and even a meadery all within walking distance! Check out their Facebook page for the latest district-wide events and happenings. Pictured Las Vegas Distillery.
Craving a more refined food experience? The area surrounding St. Rose Parkway is quickly becoming Henderson’s culinary corridor. Indulge in upscale Italian at Gaetano’s Ristorante or explore the exceptional wine and craft beer selection at Khoury’s Fine Wine & Spirits, which also hosts regular tastings and food pairings.
From handcrafted cocktails to chef-driven menus, Henderson offers a taste of everything—without the crowds or chaos of the Strip. Come hungry, leave happy!
Dive into the heart of Nevada’s second largest city – the Water Street District, where locals come to experience the small town-vibes with big city gumption. Here you’ll find an eclectic mix of boutique shops, spas, restaurants, breweries, coffee shops, professional sports, entertainment and a whole lot more. This is the place where the community gathers for seasonal, small-town parades and cultural events, and for official Vegas Golden Knights hockey watch parties. Water Street and the nearby Artisan Booze District are also known as home to several locally-owned and operated watering holes including long-standing bars, several breweries, a meadery, a distillery, a winery and their sister wine school where you can learn to make your own wine!
A beautiful man-made desert oasis, Lake Las Vegas is a 3,600-acre resort community surrounded by its own 320-acre lake. Less neon, more nature, the area features resorts perfect for hosting conventions and group events away from the hustle and bustle of the Strip. Visitors and locals alike also enjoy golfing on the lake-side courses, taking a ride on the La Contessa Yacht, getting wet & wild at Lake Las Vegas Water Sports, or enjoying a nice walk through the village shops, restaurants, and year-round community events. Bonus – it’s just a short drive away from the Strip, so you can still get your Vegas Vacation on!
Coming in from California on the I-15, head down St. Rose Parkway and you’ll see one of Las Vegas’ most up-and-coming hot spots. The road starts at I-15 and stretches just over 6.5 miles to the intersection at I-215, and used to be a state route leading people to Lake Mead National Recreation Area. Now it’s an up-and coming residential and local hotspots for dining and entertainment. Stay at the M Resort Las Vegas, and play at the area’s growing number of chef-driven restaurants and local bars.
Getting there by car is easy, but for the corporate out-of-town traveler, you can also get there by plane landing at Henderson International Airport (HND). This small to medium-sized airport caters to general and corporate aviation, and is home-base to many private flight schools.
Several notable residents have moved in including the Raiders practice facility and corporate headquarters. Nearby the once-famous MGM Lions who appeared at the MGM Grand now rest at the Lion Habitat Ranch which also houses Ozzie the Giraffe, the only giraffe in the world who knows how to paint.
Henderson is the perfect spot for a family getaway or easy business trip with boutique hotels that make for a great vacay. With selections such as Green Valley Ranch, the M Resort and Lake Las Vegas, guests get unique experiences with amazing resort pools, spas, and even rooftop cocktail bars. Henderson also offers a variety of family and budget-friendly accommodations. Check out our Hotels & Resorts page for our partner options.
Ready to plan your perfect Henderson visit?
Frequently Asked Questions
Planning a trip to Henderson? Find quick answers to the most common questions all in one place.
Henderson is located in the southeastern part of the Las Vegas Valley, just 16 miles from the Las Vegas Strip. It’s the second-largest city in Nevada and offers a mix of suburban charm, outdoor adventure, and easy access to big-city attractions.
Henderson is about 15–20 minutes from Harry Reid International Airport (LAS). You can rent a car, take a taxi or rideshare, or book a shuttle to your hotel.
You’ll find a variety of options—from luxury resorts to budget-friendly hotels and extended-stay suites. Henderson also has short-term vacation rentals, ideal for families or longer visits.
Yes! Henderson is quieter than the Strip but close enough for day trips into Las Vegas, Hoover Dam, Lake Mead, and even the Grand Canyon.
Absolutely. Hoover Dam is just a 30-minute drive from Henderson and makes for a great half-day trip. Many local tour operators also offer guided excursions from the city. Check out our list of trusted partners for your next guided tour!
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