Last Updated on April 9, 2026
Looking for an affordable and fun place to stay in the Las Vegas area? Try Boulder City, Nevada, just a 30-minute drive east of Las Vegas and only 10 minutes west of Lake Mead. This charming town provides easy access to both vibrant city life and outdoor adventures.
My cycling club journeys to Boulder City most years to ride the beautiful River Mountains Loop Trail. We always stay at the Boulder Dam Hotel for its value, location, and enchanting experience.
Situated in the center of downtown, the Historic Boulder Dam Hotel is a shining tribute to one of the most important and dangerous engineering feats in the history of America: the creation of the Hoover Dam (originally the Boulder Dam).
The hotel’s 1930s Colonial Revival architecture and elegant accommodations transport you back to a storied time known as the golden age of Hollywood. Whether you are a history buff, an architecture connoisseur, or looking for an adventure, the Boulder Dam Hotel is a must-visit destination.
The Birth of an Icon
Jim Webb’s vision was to build a grand hotel that would welcome world dignitaries traveling to view the dam’s progress. Erected in 1933 and designed by renowned architect Henry Smith, the hotel provided previously unheard-of private baths and air conditioning. Popularity grew as Hollywood celebrities frequented the area to view the dam’s progress. Notable guests include Howard Hughes, Bette Davis and Will Rogers.
Today, many of the rooms are decorated with memorabilia from the golden age of Hollywood. Room 209 has a display celebrating Shirley Temple’s career. My husband and I stayed in room 217, which is a tribute to actress Carole Lombard, who tragically died in the 1942 TWA Flight 3 crash on Mount Potosi. The room’s décor commemorates her legacy and adds a special historical touch to the hotel experience. The original fireplace, gum wood paneling, chandeliers, windows, and masonry remain, and room 218 still has the original furniture from 1933.
Historic Significance
In addition to its architectural beauty, it is the only remaining hotel from the Dam’s construction period, and has been lovingly restored to capture the spirit of the 1930s. Currently owned by the Boulder City Museum and Historical Association, the Boulder Dam Hotel is a living museum and is proud to be on the National Register of Historic Places. The property features operating guest rooms, a museum, an art gallery, a restaurant, a massage room, a research center, and a speakeasy.
Guest Rooms and Amenities
With 22 guest rooms, the Boulder Dam Hotel offers a range of layouts. Guests can choose between comfortable 210-square-foot queen rooms, 310-square-foot king rooms, or spacious 420-square-foot King Suites. Each room is equipped with complimentary Wi-Fi and a television, ensuring modern conveniences alongside historic charm.
In addition to the guest rooms, the hotel provides a cozy den area where visitors can enjoy complimentary coffee and tea. This inviting space is ideal for relaxing and socializing, and it often brings together both new and returning guests.
During our stay, I met Jerry Collins from New Orleans while drinking coffee in the den. A frequent visitor to the hotel, Jerry shared his enthusiasm for the Boulder Dam Hotel, saying, “I wouldn’t stay anywhere else in the Las Vegas area. You can’t beat the price and the history is fantastic.”
He used to live in Las Vegas and would frequent the historic hotel to get away from the busy city. After moving to New Orleans, he still finds himself drawn back to the Boulder Dam Hotel. He was spending a week here for a solo getaway, appreciating both its value and unique historic atmosphere.
Hawaiian Restaurant 1933
The onsite restaurant was purchased two years ago by the Licavoli family, who are Native Hawaiians. Since acquiring the establishment, the Licavoli’s have introduced authentic Hawaiian cuisine to the menu while also preserving some of the original offerings.
Guests can now enjoy dishes such as musubi, Spam, and Loco Mocos alongside traditional favorites like the “Dam Breakfast,” which features eggs, sausage or bacon, and potatoes. The updated menu reflects a blend of Hawaiian flavors and the restaurant’s historical roots, providing a unique dining experience within the Boulder Dam Hotel.
I tried the Sugar Pearl Waffles with Guava Strawberries and Cream that tasted like a trip to the county fair! The waffle was crispy with a sweet kettle corn essence, while the topping was a mildly tangy treat. My husband enjoyed an omelet with lomi tomato topping alongside perfectly seasoned breakfast potatoes. We would both like to dine at this establishment again.
The Boulder City/Hoover Dam Museum
The museum, located on the hotel’s first floor, offers free admission. Its exhibits immerse visitors in the lives of the people who built the Hoover Dam, while interactive displays and artifacts provide a vivid window into the founding of Boulder City. My favorite displays showcase artifacts from the 1930s Hollywood guests.
The Boulder City/ Hoover Dam Museum is open daily from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM and situated partway up the hotel’s grand staircase and around a corner to the left.
Planning Your Stay
Booking ahead is recommended, especially during peak travel seasons and local events. Contact the front desk at (702) 293-3510 or book online at https://www.boulderdamhotel.com.
Rooms are currently available for (USD) $111 – $131 nightly. Ask about the Shirley Temple room or the vintage 1933 room when you call.
Include the Boulder Dam Hotel on your next Hoover Dam, Lake Mead, or Las Vegas trip. Explore nearby antique stores, boutiques, and try local favorites like Boulder Dam Brewing Company and The Dillinger. Take the free self-guided walking tour around Boulder City, starting and ending at the hotel. Rent bicycles to ride the River Mountains Loop Trail or drive through the Lake Mead National Recreation Area. This charming town offers a wide array of attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy.
The Boulder Dam Hotel is more than a place to stay—it’s a portal to a pivotal chapter in American history. With its elegant accommodations, rich heritage, and central location, this landmark hotel invites you to relive the golden age of the Hoover Dam and discover the enduring spirit of Boulder City.
As my friend Mary Gravelle likes to say, “This is a dam good place!”
