Hidden only a few minutes from the Las Vegas strip is my favorite off-strip attraction, the Springs Preserve. Having lived in Las Vegas for over 5 years, I have been many times. It combines a desert botanical garden with a state museum and a replica of Las Vegas from the 1900s.
Las Vegas, renowned for its vibrant entertainment and lively nightlife, may not immediately bring to mind images of tranquil gardens and natural beauty. However, just a short distance from the iconic Strip, Springs Preserve offers a captivating escape into the wonders of the desert ecosystem.
As a nerd for artifacts from the past and anything related to the early 1900s, I love visiting the Springs Preserve. I spent many solo weekends exploring the grounds and taking visitors here when they were in town. It’s one of the best family things to do in Las Vegas off the strip.
Springs Preserve offers biodiversity, rich history, and immersive experiences. There is a botanical garden, the Nevada State Museum, the Origen Museum, a life-size replica of Downtown Las Vegas in the early days, as well as plenty of hands-on activities for all ages.
Spend the day meandering through winding trails adorned with native flora and discovering interactive exhibits showcasing the region’s cultural and ecological significance.
Let’s explore Springs Preserve together!
Springs Preserve Map
Below is the map of the trails and buildings. Click here for the website version. There is also a free app you can download called Spring Preserve on both Apple and Android.
How to Buy Tickets for Springs Preserve
Your ticket gets you entrance to all areas which includes the Botanical Gardens, the two museums, all interactive areas, and Boom Town.
- Tickets range from $10 for residents to $19.95 for general admission. There are discounts for children, seniors, and the military.
- You must select a date to visit.
- It is suggested to purchase your tickets in advance. Tour groups could potentially sell out the preserves so be sure you get your ticket early.
- Purchase tickets in advance here.
How to Get to Springs Preserve Site
Located northwest of the Las Vegas strip, you have two options.
- If you drive yourself, there is ample free parking
- Use Uber, or Lyft or order a taxi. From MGM Grande, it is a 13-minute drive as a reference.
- Take the public bus. Download the rideRTC app for the schedules and bus stations.
What to See at the Springs Preserve
Whether you’re a Nevada history buff, a budding botanist, or simply seeking a peaceful retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle, there’s something magical waiting to be discovered amidst the desert landscapes.
Check out the Springs Preserve Events calendar for rotating exhibits HERE.
Botanical Gardens and Butterfly Habitat
Stroll around the Botanical Gardens where vibrant blooms and lush foliage create a serene oasis amidst the desert landscape. Don’t miss the captivating Butterfly Habitat, where colorful butterflies flutter among flowers, offering a mesmerizing experience for nature lovers of all ages.
Nevada State Museum
If you love history and seeing artifacts from the past, then you will enjoy the state museum. It is part Natural history, part Nevada history, and part casino history. There is always a special exhibit on display, such as costumes from a famous Las Vegas performer.
Origen Museum
The Origen Museum features more than 75 permanent exhibits, an indoor theater, and a traveling exhibit space. Learn about the original Las Vegas railroad, dinosaur tracks found in the desert, and a Hoover Dam exhibit.
WaterWorks
This exhibit is inside the Charleston Heights Pumping Station, an operational water pumping facility owned and operated by the Las Vegas Valley Water District.
It’s the only place in Southern Nevada with a behind-the-scenes look at the journey water takes to reach your tap. They have a lot of interactive displays as well.
Boom Town 1905
This is my FAVORITE part of the Springs Preserve. I used to run a prohibition cocktail tour in NYC so history from the early 1900s fascinates me.
They recreated a street in downtown Las Vegas, featuring a bank, a bar, a hotel, and the original train station. You can touch most of the recreations in each building so it’s very hands-on.
Desert Living Center
My second favorite exhibit is the Desert Living Center. It is a facility designed to promote sustainable life in the Mojave Desert.
Garden exhibits are used to further Mojave education, conservation and protection, planting design, and “how-to” areas for irrigation and planting. You can walk through a fully solar-powered home as well.
Walk the Trails or Ride the Train
There are a few trails to explore on the property. You can either walk approximately 7 minutes to Boom Town or take the free train.
If you walk past Boom Town, there are additional trails to explore which also give you landscape views of Downtown Las Vegas.
What to Expect During Your Visit
- No Cash is accepted. Credit or Debit card only
- If you are a resident, ID will be required for proof of Nevada address
- They offer refillable water stations so bring a bottle, or you can purchase bottled water on-site
- There is a cafe for food and beverage purchases
- For your safety, some activities, including trails, train rides, and outdoor tours, will not be available when excessive heat warnings of 105 degrees or more are issued by the National Weather Service
Final Thoughts
I hope my article helps you enjoy the Spring Preserves as much as I do. You can spend a few hours or an entire day exploring every area. Any questions, let me know in the comments below!
FAQ
It all depends on how much you want to read and participate in activities. Most people spend 2-3 hours here.
Yes! It’s very hands-on at all exhibits and they have a full events calendar with additional interactive play.
From the south of the strip, it will take approximately 15 minutes by car.
No, they are on flat ground and open to all abilities. Sneakers are recommended, however.
Approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour to explore only the state museum.
It is home to a variety of Mojave wildlife. Including native mammals, reptiles, invertebrates, and over 150 species of migratory birds. Coyotes are often sighted on property in natural areas along our trails and wetlands.
You are allowed to bring outside food and nonalcoholic beverage items for self-consumption. Coolers and bags can be no larger than 24″ x 15″ x 18″. There is also a cafe on-site.
