When most people think of Las Vegas, they imagine neon lights, bustling casinos, and extravagant shows.
However, nestled just a few miles from the glitz of the Strip lies a tranquil oasis that tells the story of the city’s origins and celebrates its natural beauty: the Springs Preserve.
Spanning 180 acres, this cultural and historical attraction offers a refreshing escape for nature enthusiasts, families, and history buffs alike. We’ll delve into everything you may want to know to make the most of your visit, from its fascinating history to the things we wish we had known.
In this guide:
- Springs Preserve Quick Stats
- History of the Springs Preserve
- Highlights of the Springs Preserve
- Tips for visiting
- Is this Springs Preserve worth it?
Springs Preserve Quick Stats
| Location | 333 S. Valley View Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89107 |
| Official Website | Springs Preserve |
| Entrance Fee | NV Residents: $9.95 adults, $4.95 kids Non-Residents: $18.95 adults / $10.95 kids (Subject to change) *The Springs Preserve currently participates in the Bank of America “Museums on Us” program which will get you in for free on certain days. See the current rules here. |
| Activities | Nevada State Museum, Botanical Gardens, Hiking Trails, Waterworks, Boomtown 1905, Train Rides and more… |
| Hours | 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. – Thursday through Monday |
| Parking | Free |
| Rating | 5 Mooses |
The History of the Springs Preserve
The Springs Preserve is built on the site of the Las Vegas Springs, which were once a vital water source for Native Americans, early settlers, and wildlife in the Mojave Desert.
These springs played a pivotal role in shaping Las Vegas into the city it is today. In the early 20th century, the springs were a lifeline for the railroads, which helped establish the city as a transportation hub.
By the 1960s, the springs had dried up due to overuse, but their significance as a historical and ecological landmark remains undeniable.
In 2007, the Springs Preserve opened its doors to the public as a conservation and educational facility, aiming to reconnect visitors with the natural and cultural history of the area. Today, it stands as a testament to the resilience of the desert and the importance of sustainability in an ever-growing city.
Highlights of the Springs Preserve
Botanical Gardens
The Botanical Gardens covers 8 acres and showcase more than 1,200 species of native and desert-adapted plants.
You can wander through themed areas like cactus and succulent gardens, herb gardens, and the famed palm tree oasis.
Interpretive signs provide information on the plants’ uses and adaptations, making the gardens both beautiful and educational.
Origen Museum
The Origen Museum offers an in-depth look at the natural and cultural history of Las Vegas and the surrounding Mojave Desert. Interactive exhibits cover topics such as desert wildlife, early settlers, and the evolution of water use in the region. The museum also features live animal exhibits (outdoors), including desert tortoises and lizards.
Nevada State Museum
Located within the Springs Preserve, the Nevada State Museum provides a comprehensive overview of the state’s history.
From prehistoric fossils to artifacts from the mining and gambling eras, the museum offers a fascinating journey through Nevada’s past.
Highlights include a replica ghost town and a recreated woolly mammoth skeleton.
More exhibits at the Nevada State Museum.
Butterfly Habitat
Seasonally open, the Butterfly Habitat is a must-see for visitors of all ages. Step inside this enchanting enclosure to observe hundreds of colorful butterflies fluttering amidst flowering plants.
Unfortunately, the day we visited the butterfly exhibit was closed. We will be back in the Spring / Fall.
Train Rides
We opted not to take a train ride, but it seemed popular with families that had kids. Train rides are free if they are running that day.
Boomtown 1905
Take a step back in time at Boomtown 1905, a recreated streetscape that showcases what life was like in Las Vegas during the early 20th century.
Explore historic buildings, interact with period artifacts, and learn about the city’s humble beginnings.
Nature Trails
Explore over 3 miles of trails that wind through the preserve’s desert landscape. The trails feature interpretive signs, shaded rest areas, and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Keep an eye out for native wildlife such as quail, roadrunners, jackrabbits and coyotes.
Tips for visiting the Springs Preserve
- Wear Comfortable Shoes: With so much to see and do, you’ll be doing a lot of walking. Opt for sturdy, comfortable footwear.
- Stay Hydrated: The desert climate can be dehydrating, even in cooler months. Bring a reusable water bottle and refill it at the preserve’s water stations.
- Check the Weather: While much of the preserve is shaded, parts of the trails and gardens are exposed. Dress appropriately for the season and bring sunscreen.
- Arrive Early: To make the most of your visit, arrive early to beat the crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures.
- Plan Ahead: Check the Springs Preserve’s website for event schedules, seasonal attractions, and any temporary closures.
Is visiting the Springs Preserve worth it?
Rating: 5.0 Mooses
What we liked:
- It was a serene and unusual escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
- The attention to detail of exhibits, wide variety of films, and the interactive and unique historic displays were excellent.
- We enjoyed the diversity of plants in the botanical gardens area including abundance of cactus and rose bushes.
- We saw a coyote in the trails area of the park.
- We were able to take advantage of the “Museums on Us” program that Bank of America runs to get in for free.
What we didn’t like:
- The butterfly exhibit wasn’t open when we visited. It’s only available in the Spring and Fall.
- The grounds were extensive and it was easy to get lost, despite the number of signs around the property.
- A plus or minus depending on your point of view, but we spent 4 hours during our visit and the area was so extensive, we weren’t able to cover everything. Oh well, we’ll have to go back.
Verdict: We felt visiting the Springs Preserve was worth it. It’s a unique retreat that invites you to pause and appreciate the wonders of the desert. So, the next time you’re in Las Vegas, take a break from the casinos and make your way to the Springs Preserve. You’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for the city’s history and a perhaps a newfound respect for the desert ecosystem.
