24 Best & Fun Things To Do In Henderson (Nevada)

Known as the gateway to southern Nevada, Henderson is the second largest city in Nevada.

Because of its wonderful fusion of contemporary luxury and charming environment, the city has always gotten thousands of visitors from different parts of the world.

Its closeness to Las Vegas at just about 26 kilometers makes it a perfect resort location.

In addition to its proximity to Las Vegas, it is also close to two of the most well-known man-made sites in the world; the hoover dam and lake mead.

Take a tour of the Grand Canyon, Hoover Dam, Bowl of fire, and several other wonderful sights.

You can also visit the City of Henderson’s Acacia Park, which offers information and exhibits on water conservation and innovative landscaping methods.

One of the best times you can enjoy Henderson is at night time. With all the nightlife of the Las Vegas strip nearby, Henderson comes alive at night.

Try your luck at the several casinos too.

From the hoover dam to the various casinos and parks, here are the top things to do in Henderson.

Things to do in Henderson

1. Clark County Museum

The first thing you might want to do on getting to Henderson is to learn a thing or two about the city and even about Nevada.

With renovated historic buildings and exhibits examining Southern Nevada history, the charming Clark County Museum transports visitors back in time.

Furthermore, Henderson Chambers of Commerce established the Museum in 1967 and has been serving the county for many years.

The 30-acre museum complex includes a modern exhibit hall with a timeline exhibit about southern Nevada’s history from prehistoric to modern times.

There are also collections of renovated historic structures that portray daily life in Las Vegas, Boulder City, Henderson, and Goldfield during various decades.

In addition, the museum’s 30 acres feature a display hall, a “ghost town,” mining equipment, a train depot with vintage train cars, and more.

Ready to get your hands dirty as the museum has a lot of interactive exhibits.

You will get to touch and hold a variety of artifacts, including a butter mold, a branding iron, a chamber pot, fossils, and more.

One of the Museum‘s most intriguing features is Heritage Street, a tree-lined boulevard with eight historically significant buildings that were all moved to the museum from southern Nevada.

Another exhibit will also show the history of gambling in Las Vegas. Here you will come across an 1898 Dewy slot machine, a poker table, and a roulette.

Make sure to plan your visit earlier in the day to enjoy milder temperatures, as most of the museum requires strolling outside.

Address: 1830 S Boulder Hwy, Henderson, NV 89002, United States

2. Hilton Lake Las Vegas Resort & Spa

If you need a place to lodge in Henderson, then you should consider the Hilton Lake Las Vegas resort & spa.

The resort, which is 27.4 kilometers from the Las Vegas Strip, features Mediterranean-inspired architecture.

The Hilton Lake Las Vegas Resort & Spa offers an exciting escape with simple access to the city’s bright lights.

Reserve a private cabana, indulge at the on-site spa, and unwind in their resort-style pool.

Furthermore, if you’d like to go about your business, don’t worry as the rooms at the resort are equipped with a flat-screen television, a work desk, a seating area, a refrigerator, and ironing equipment.

With its on-site dining options, you are sure not to go hungry. Fresh salads, sandwiches, wraps, and healthful foods are available for breakfast, lunch, and dinner at the Medici Café and Terrace.

There are also tropical cocktails, fresh wraps, seafood, and salads available.

Address: 1610 Lake Las Vegas Pkwy, Henderson, NV 89011, United States

3. Sloan Canyon National Conservation Area

Do you fancy nature or do you love hiking? If yes, then Sloan Canyon National conservation area should be on your list of places to visit in Henderson.

In fact, one of Southern Nevada’s most notable rock art locations is the Sloan Canyon.

The 48,438 acres of Sloan Canyon National Conservation Area offer visitors tranquility and seclusion in addition to its distinctive geographical and geologic features.

The Sloan Canyon Petroglyph Site, one of Southern Nevada’s most important cultural resources, serves as the area’s focal point.

Furthermore, the 1,700 distinct design elements on the more than 300 rock art panels, according to research, were produced by indigenous tribes between the Archaic and Historic periods.

The 4.1-mile round trip follows a rough track and features spectacular petroglyphs and pictographs.

Consider taking part in a BLM-guided trek, where a BLM ranger will explain this area’s biological, geological, and historical elements.

In addition to the hiking, unending possibilities to see wildlife will make your day at Sloan Canyon unique.

The region is home to an astounding number of animals, reptiles, and birds, including the Desert Bighorn Sheep, Jackrabbit, Desert Kangaroo Rat, Desert Tortoise, Chuckwalla, Coyote, Kit Fox, Roadrunner, Quail, and a few bats.

Between October and May, the Sloan Canyon Visitor Contact Station is open daily, seven days a week, from 8:00 am to 4:30 pm.

As a heads up, try not to touch the rock in order to preserve the petroglyphs. You can, however, snap them.

Address: Nawghaw Poa Rd, Henderson, NV 89052, United States

4. Lion Habitat Ranch, Henderson

Lion Habitat Ranch is a great way to spend an hour or two in Henderson.

With Ozzie the giraffe as the sole exception, Lion Habitat Ranch only houses lions, unlike most wildlife habitats in Nevada.

Stroll along the paved walks and observe the lions relaxing, having fun, and sleeping in their enclosures.

You will also get the opportunity to interact with around 40 lions and their cubs.

Upgrade to include a fun and behind-the-scenes educational tour of the ranch as an additional choice.

The sanctuary’s expert trainers feed, clean, hydrate, and bathe the animals during this unique, 90-minute small-group tour as they do regularly.

Furthermore, one of the best parts of this tour is seeing these majestic animals and their relationships with the staff.

You can also spend time hand-feeding Ozzie under the trainer’s close supervision.

Don’t forget to pick up souvenirs at the gift shop, including Ozzie’s artwork on canvas and shirts.

Depending on the season, the Lion Habitat Ranch is open at various times. Lion Habitat Ranch is open on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm during the summer.

While it is open on Monday and Thursday from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm during winter.

Address: 382 Bruner Ave, Henderson, NV 89044, United States

5. River Mountain Loop Trail

If you enjoy cycling and want a safe but interesting experience, this is for you.

The River mountain loop trail was designated a National Recreation Trail in May 2010.

This non-motorized trail provides locals and visitors with an outdoor circle walk that features breathtaking views, rich animals, and the great expanse of the Mojave Desert.

The Loop Trail circles the River Mountains near Henderson at 2800 Great Basin Highway.

In addition, the loop links Henderson, Boulder City, Lake Mead Recreation Area, Hoover Dam, and the rest of the Las Vegas Valley.

Horseback riding, biking, and hiking are all common along the 34 miles of the loop.

Furthermore, the track has drawn tourists from all over the world and has become a popular cycling destination.

You will also have spectacular views of the Eldorado Valley, Lake Las Vegas, Lava Butte, the Muddy Mountains, and the Las Vegas Valley.

Address: Henderson, NV, United States

6. Borracha Mexican Cantina, Henderson

Celebrating culture and craftsmanship, Borracha Mexican Cantina is just the right place to grab some Mexican cuisine.

The food at Borracha Mexican Cantina is as alluring as the setting and features creative burritos and tasty tacos.

The restaurant also features a variety of traditional Mexican meals in addition to specialty tequilas, cervezas, and drinks.

Fresh Baja seafood, homemade tortillas, and succulent rotisserie chicken make up the menu at Borracha.

You will also find the decor to be captivating as it features hand-painted murals and a vibrant decor that takes design cues from Dia de Los Muertos.

Additionally, the ambiance is lively and tv monitors put on sports while you eat and converse with friends and family.

Every Tuesday night, go to Borracha Mexican Cantina for only $29. Then you will get access to all-you-can-eat tacos and unlimited tequila and margaritas.

Don’t forget to make reservations ahead of time to avoid waiting too long.

Address: 2300 Paseo Verde Pkwy, Henderson, NV 89052, United States

7. M Resort Spa Casino

Located just a few miles south of Mandalay bay, the M Resort’s beautiful architecture brings casual elegance and cuisine to the southern end of the Las Vegas Strip.

In fact, this is the place to be if you want a night of exciting entertainment and thrill.

You can access a huge gaming floor with more than 1,000 slots, 40 table games, and a High Limit lounge when you reserve a stay at this casino hotel.

From penny slots to video slots to progressive slots, to blackjack to roulette, and more, you are in for a treat.

Additionally, there are 5 pubs and lounges, as well as 6 hotel restaurants serving a variety of meals.

Take a plunge in the pool and grab a drink at the poolside bar, or spend the entire day being pampered in the luxurious spa.

Perhaps you need to keep fit. There’s a fitness facility available here.

In addition to premium accommodations, this resort is imbued with unsurpassed amenities, flawless and quality service.

If you’re looking for a premium casino hotel in Henderson, you should consider staying at the M Resort Spa Casino.

The best part? You can also get breathtaking views of the valley and the strip from your suite.

Address: 12300 Las Vegas Blvd S, Henderson, NV 89044, United States

8. Henderson Bird Viewing Preserve

Take binoculars with you. It’s time to go bird-watching.

Both local desert birds and tens of thousands of migrating waterfowl call the Henderson bird viewing preserve home.

There are a series of nine ponds where you can view a large variety of waterfowl and other wildlife.

Four miles of easy, flat trails provide plenty of angles to see birds of all sorts.

A few blinds with viewing ports allow you to observe while remaining largely hidden. Furthermore, raised observation decks also give you views from above the thick reeds that line some of the banks.

Expect to walk a lot when you go and give yourself enough time to explore the region.

Wear some comfortable shoes, bring a hat, bring drinks and enjoy the rest of it. Don’t worry if you don’t have a binocular as you can borrow one from the preserve.

Although you are not permitted to feed the birds, you can still enjoy viewing them.

While you’re here, don’t forget to stop by the gift shop.

Henderson Bird Viewing Preserve is open daily 7:00 am-2:00 pm

Address: 350 E Galleria Dr, Henderson, NV 89011, United States

9. Acacia Demonstration Gardens

Acacia demonstration gardens is an open-air park in Henderson that offers numerous illustrations of how to landscape in a desert.

The Southern Nevada Conservation District, Henderson, and several other neighborhood groups worked together to create the Acacia Demonstration Gardens.

The Acacia Demonstration Gardens host a number of free workshops in addition to offering a visual representation of landscape possibilities.

Furthermore, a variety of local native species have been placed strategically around the area. You can even stop and sit around to enjoy and take in the beauty of the plants.

There are also a lot of signs that display information regarding sustainable gardening practices and identifying plants.

Address: 50 Casa Del Fuego St, Henderson, NV 89012, United States

10. Todd’s Unique Dining

Tucked away in an older part of Henderson in an unassuming plaza, Todd’s really is a hidden gem in Henderson.

The dining should be an option for anyone looking for a romantic dinner or if you like superb meals with a twist from the chef.

Daily adjustments to the menu are usually directly selected by Todd.

The food served at the cafés and restaurants is particularly good.

While a rectangle-shaped private room at Todd’s Unique Dining provides seating for up to 50 people, there’s also a smart TV available to keep you entertained.

The menu features satisfying meals and dishes, and all the meat and vegetables used in food preparation are of the highest quality.

In fact, there is something special about this place that makes you want to come back for more and you shouldn’t miss it.

Address: 4350 East Sunset Road#102, Henderson, NV 89014, United States

11. Bad Beat Brewing, Henderson

Bad Beat Brewing is one of the amazing breweries in Henderson, which a beer lover shouldn’t miss.

The story of how the brewery came about is inspiring, and it’s a beautiful success story you’d love to know.

Nathan Hall founded Bad Beat Brewing in July 2014 as a result of his passion for craft beer and poker. Nathan sold his house and used every penny of his savings to pay for his goal.

He ended up nailing it, and currently, there are 4 incredibly delicious year-round selections and 8 rotating specialties at the taproom.

You enter the tap house through the front door. It is simply decorated, with a vintage Nintendo NES in the corner and a projection screen that broadcasts sporting events.

They also have little info sheets on each beer they offer that outline the inspiration behind it, grain bill, and yeast used.

In addition, they always introduce new beers every month at the taproom, so you are sure to get something new anytime you come.

If making your own beer intrigues you, a door opens to the Brew House, where you can observe the magic take place.

Address: 7380 Eastgate Rd #110, Henderson, NV 89011, United States

Planning a road trip outside of Henderson? Be sure to check out our list of things to do in Laughlin!

12. Hoover Dam

Hoover Dam, named for the 31st President of the United States of America, is the most visited dam in the world.

Since it was finished in 1935, the Hoover Dam has been hailed as a beautiful engineering achievement. In fact, it is considered one of the Top 10 building accomplishments of the 20th century.

The Hoover Dam construction got underway on April 20th, 1931.

Even though it was built more than 80 years ago, this enormous structure receives a huge number of tourists every year.

The Hoover Dam is now a National Historic Landmark.

If you appreciate magnificent architecture and construction, then you shouldn’t miss this location in Nevada.

Address: Nevada 89005, United States

13. Green Valley Ranch

With a laid-back vibe, Green Valley Ranch is a good place to have some fun while one is in Henderson and it is about 10-15 minutes from the strip.

Asides from its laid-back vibe, Green Valley Ranch is also one of the best resort hotels you will find around.

Green Valley Ranch Resort is gorgeous on the inside as well as the outside.

The Ranch Resort offers everything you need, including exquisite lodging, and rejuvenation at The Spa.

The spa is nice and has a very relaxing environment with a large variety of services. The spa also has its own pool and jacuzzi area with cabanas and lounge chairs, complete with servers for drinks and food.

In addition to the spa, there is also entertainment for all ages and a great selection of beverages.

Address: 2300 Paseo Verde Pkwy, Henderson, NV 89052, United States

14. Cowabunga Bay Water Park, Henderson

Cowabunga Bay Waterpark is the perfect place to retreat from the Vegas heat.

This water park is one of the best places to spend a summer day with the whole family because it has daring water slides, calming lazy rivers, sandy beaches, a children’s area, and so much more.

Furthermore, one of the largest in the state, the park’s 35,000-square-foot Surf-A-Rama Wave Pool features a 1950s Drive-In Theater motif.

In short, there are plenty of things for little kids, teens & adults

If you love adventure, you will also adore attractions like the seven-story-tall Zuma ZOOMa body slide.

Other rides at Cowabunga Bay include the 600-foot-long tube slide Good Vibrations, and the six-lane mat racer slide Surfin’ USA.

This water park is a great family vacation spot in Henderson, and if you are here with your family, you should spend some hours here.

Address: 900 Galleria Dr, Henderson, NV 89011, United States

15. Ethel M. Chocolates Factory and Cactus Garden

Do you like the idea of chocolate and wine tasting? Then, come to the Ethel M. chocolate factory.

One of the most incredible free things you can do in Henderson is to take a self-guided tour of the Ethel Chocolate Factory and Cactus Garden.

In fact, this could be Henderson’s best chocolate experience.

With over 300 species of plants in the garden, the Botanical Cactus Garden is the biggest and most extensive collection of its kind in Nevada.

In part to Nevada legislation permitting the production and sale of liqueur-filled chocolates, for which the Ethel M brand has become well known, Ethel M Chocolates was established in this Las Vegas suburb in 1981.

Enjoy the self-guided chocolate viewing aisle and see how they create the chocolates, take a leisurely stroll through the cactus garden and through the floral desert landscape.

While self-guided tours are free of charge, guided tours of the chocolate factory and garden require entry fees.

Make sure to visit the shop to buy chocolates to take home or other treats to eat like shakes, cannolis, and more.

Address: 2 Cactus Garden Dr, Henderson, NV 89014, United States

16. Las Vegas Distillery, Henderson

The Las Vegas distillery is an amazing family-run distillery renowned for its distinctive whiskey, vodka, and bourbon concoctions.

Although the distillery began with making vodka; however, it has since worked diligently and ardently to produce a variety of spirits.

The distillery not only produces goods of incomparable quality but also provides tours and tastings. Each fascinating tour is led by the head distiller and personal bottler.

The tour will familiarize you with the whole start-to-finish production of alcoholic beverages. In fact, you will learn so much about the process of distilling; taste, touch, smell, sight, and sound. The whole process is brought out in front of you to experience firsthand.

In addition, you can even visit the distillery school at Las Vegas Distillery to learn how to produce your own whiskey if you want to go even more hands-on.

The spirits from Las Vegas Distillery have won gold, silver, and bronze prizes in the American Distilling Institute spirits competition, so you know you are getting quality Here.

Address: 7330 Eastgate Rd #100, Henderson, NV 89011, United States

17. The Salt Room Henderson

Salt room Henderson should be on your list if you want an ideal place for meditation, daydreaming, taking a nap, or even massaging.

The salt room is Henderson’s first naturally therapeutic Himalayan salt cave.

At the Salt Room, salt therapy is used to treat a variety of skin and respiratory problems, including cystic fibrosis, bronchitis, and asthma.

You receive wonderful service and such welcoming faces from the moment you walk in.

In a salt-made room with dark lighting and a ceiling covered in twinkling stars, you lie or sit in a zero-gravity chair and receive one of the best treatments of your life.

In fact, everyone should experience this at least once. It is difficult to put into words the sensations you have when you are in the salt room; you get to feel the salt from the air on your skin and lips.

Remove your shoes, sink into a zero-gravity chair, and take in the room’s ceiling projection of stars as you soak up the salt. It is one amazing feeling.

Address: 10624 S Eastern Ave Ste G, Henderson, NV 89052, United States

18. Las Vegas Sky Combat Ace

Sky combat ace in Henderson is just the perfect place for adrenaline junkies.

One of the closest things you’ll ever get to becoming a fighter pilot without enlisting is going to Las Vegas combat ace in Henderson.

Sky Combat Ace was founded in 2011 by Air Force pilot Richard “Tex” Coe in Las Vegas. Since then, it has grown to include accredited flight schools in San Diego and Lake Tahoe as well.

Furthermore, the sky Combat Ace professional flight training school in Las Vegas is where you can take to the skies and perform practice attack missions.

You will also learn the fundamentals of aerial dogfighting, all while closely supervised by skilled professionals who know what they’re doing.

Whether you’re looking for an action-packed adrenaline rush or a means to live out your childhood fantasy for real, just come here.

Top Gun adventures, aerial combat and dogfighting, Operation Red Flag, and other activities are available here.

Las Vegas Sky combat ace is open seven days a week from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm.

Address: 2705 Airport Dr, North Las Vegas, NV 89032, United States

19. Rainbow Club Casino

Located in downtown Henderson, rainbow club casino is a great place to spend an afternoon.

The casino was opened in 1967, and Peppermill Resorts has owned it since that year.

The club is well known for the restaurant, which is housed inside a casino and was once renowned for its extended hours and an extensive menu of breakfast selections.

While the Rainbow is an older casino, you will still get to enjoy yourself.

In fact, the restaurant is one of the best around, and it is not overly crowded.

Address: 122 S Water St, Henderson, NV 89015, United States

20. Bowl of Fire, Henderson

Often overlooked by people, the Bowl of Fire is tucked away in the Muddy Mountain Wilderness and is composed of a dramatic conglomerate.

The Bowl of Fire Loop is a stunning structure of red sandstone surrounded by grey limestone.

You will find some good hiking trails here. This trip, which is just over 5 miles long and climbs rather steeply, calls for water, sunscreen, and other desert necessities.

Despite the fact that this route has a well-delineated path, you are free to explore and stray wherever you choose in the surrounding area. You can also choose to climb rocks.

Address: Henderson, NV, United States

21. Whitney Mesa Park Recreation Area

Another place you could come spend some time with the family is the Whitney Mesa park recreation area.

The recreation area has constructed amenity zones encompassing more than 30 acres of the approximately 100-acre property.

Similarly, more than two miles of multipurpose trails on the property go to the more natural areas.

Here, you will find bocce courts, a basketball court, a playground with open turf, and picnic tables.

Restrooms, a specially designed tot lot with Old West-inspired town walls, playthings for Native American games, and a stormwater retention area are also present.

The recreation area is open from 6:00 am to midnight.

Address: 1550 W Galleria Dr, Henderson, NV 89014, United States

22. Big Horn Wild West Tours

If you want to see a lot while also feeling comfortable and catered to in Henderson, you should take this tour.

This tour transfers you in a spotless, smooth-riding Hummer H2 ace from your hotel on a tour and back.

Depending on the group’s requests, the tour lasts about 7-8 hours.

Similarly, group sizes are relatively small, ranging from two to six members.

You get guided tours through various different attractions and public tourist places in Henderson.

The Grand Canyon tour is one of the best tours to do on this trip.

In addition to the Grand Canyon tour, you will also get to visit attractions like Lake Mead, the Joshua Tree forest, and Hoover Dam.

You can also try going on the Canyon helicopter trip.

Address: 2657 Windmill Pkwy #357, Henderson, NV 89074, United States

23. Rio Secco Golf Club

Regarded as one of the best in Las Vegas, Rio secco gold club is one of the best places you can golf in Henderson.

This gorgeous golf course layout has six holes on plateaus, six holes through valleys, and six on level ground.

Rees Jones created this 18-hole, par-72 golf course in 1997.

Rio Secco is renowned for its outstanding customer service and top-notch playing conditions, and it offers vistas of the famous Las Vegas Strip throughout the year.

In addition, the property has a complete practice area with a putting green, chipping green with a bunker, and grass practice range.

Similarly, the 2,000-square-foot golf shop features several top brands and provides a full-service shopping experience.

You can even visit the Janelas Restaurant & Bar for drinks and a bite to eat in a casual and comfortable setting after your games.

Looking for the signature hole? The par-4 second hole on the Rio Secco Golf Course is the course’s emblem.

Address: 2851 Grand Hills Dr, Henderson, NV 89052, United States

24. Jokers Wild Casino, Henderson

Just as Las Vegas is home to various casinos, Henderson is also home to quite some casinos, and Jokers Wild Casino is one of them.

With approximately 500 machines to select from, Jokers Wild Casino in Henderson, Nevada has your game, whether you prefer playing reel slots, video slots, machine keno, or video poker.

This casino is the final opulent casino built and run by Gotham City real estate billionaire Cameron Kaiser.

Although when the casino was built, the initial response was contentious as to whether the casino was paying tribute to the joker.

However, Kaiser refuted these claims, saying that he was simply honoring the symbol’s classic roots and not a “fruitcake criminal,”.

Because of its small size, the service here is excellent and personalized.

Play keno, wager in the sports book, spend time in the arcade, enjoy drinks and entertainment in the Troubadour Lounge, or have a meal at one of the fine restaurants.

You can also visit the Court Cafe to grab something to eat as it is located next to the casino. Here, you can satiate your hunger at any time of the day or night.

Whether you’re craving a filling breakfast, a tasty lunch that you can grab on the run, or a peaceful dinner, you’ll find it here and get it exactly the way you want it.

Address: 920 N Boulder Hwy, Henderson, NV 89011, United States

Final remark

With so many things to do here, you will agree that Henderson is a great vacation spot, even for families.

From magnificent structures to great entertainment opportunities, you are in for a treat.

After leaving Henderson, you can even choose to explore Las Vegas, which is just 20 minutes away.

Safe Travels!