Need a desert escape with outdoor beauty and resort-style relaxation? Head to Henderson! Located just southeast of Las Vegas, Henderson offers a quieter side of the valley with scenic trails, lake views, family attractions, and upscale dining. Whether you’re golfing by day or stargazing at night, Henderson blends natural charm with modern comforts.
Henderson, NV Highlights:
- For Adventurous Travelers: Hike Sloan Canyon National Conservation Area – Discover petroglyphs and stunning desert views in this peaceful canyon.
- For History Buffs: Visit Clark County Heritage Museum – Explore restored buildings, vintage trains, and exhibits showcasing Southern Nevada's past.
- For Shoppers: Stroll The District at Green Valley Ranch – Open-air shopping with boutiques, name-brand stores, and eateries.
- For Couples: Take a sunset walk at Lake Las Vegas – Enjoy romantic lakeside paths, paddleboarding, or wine with a view.
- For Families: Explore Lion Habitat Ranch – See big cats up close and learn about conservation at this fun wildlife facility.
Best Time to Visit Henderson, NV
The best time to visit Henderson is from October through April, when temperatures are pleasant for hiking, outdoor dining, and sightseeing. Spring and fall offer the most comfortable weather, while summer can be very hot but great for pool and resort stays.
How to Get to Henderson, NV
- If you are traveling by car: Henderson is located off I-515 and I-215, just 15–20 minutes from the Las Vegas Strip or McCarran International Airport.
- By Air: Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) is the closest major airport, with easy access via rental car or rideshare.
- By Bus: RTC Southern Nevada offers public bus routes between Henderson and Las Vegas, including express lines.
Where to Stay in Henderson, NV
- Recommended for Families: Green Valley Ranch Resort – Upscale hotel with a pool, spa, kid-friendly dining, and easy access to The District.
- For Couples: The Westin Lake Las Vegas Resort & Spa – Tranquil lakeside resort with golf, paddleboarding, and romantic dining options.
- For a Boutique Hotel Stay: Hilton Lake Las Vegas Resort & Spa – Mediterranean-inspired retreat with elegant rooms and scenic surroundings.
Best Things to Do in Henderson, NV
1. Hike the River Mountain Loop Trail
I like:
"Explore scenic desert landscapes and enjoy an invigorating outdoor adventure."
Hike along the River Mountain Loop Trail, a 34-mile set of trails that link Henderson, Boulder City, the Hoover Dam, Lake Mead National Recreation Area, and other parts of the Las Vegas Valley in Nevada.
Part of the trail is paved for cyclists and hikers, and there are other areas that have a secondary trail for horseback riding.
Completed in 2012, the project involved the cooperation and efforts of local, regional, and federal agencies as well as businesses.
There are three trailheads in Henderson: the Equestrian Park Trailhead on Equestrian Drive, the Mountain Lake Park Trailhead on Golda Way, and the Silverman Connector Access Point.
2. Learn about local history at the Clark County Museum
I recommend:
"Discover fascinating exhibits and explore Southern Nevada’s rich past."
Check out the Clark County Museum which is devoted to the local history of Clark County, the southernmost county in Nevada. The museum’s collection includes objects related to Native Americans (such as the Paiutes), mining, and much more.
The collection also features items related to gaming such as an 1898 Dewy slot machine, cars like a 1946 Plymouth Coupe and a 1959 Studebaker Lark, and railroads like a 1932 Boulder City train depot. Eight historic buildings make up the Anna Roberts Parks Exhibit Hall and the Heritage Street exhibit. There is also a recreated ghost town.
Find it at this Address: 1830 South Boulder Highway, Henderson, NV, Phone: 702-455-7955
What to do if you are traveling with kids:
3. Admire lions at the Lion Habitat Ranch with the whole family
I love:
"Witness majestic lions up close and enjoy an exciting experience."
Visit the Lion Habitat Ranch which is dedicated to housing lions and other animals. The ranch strives to educate the community about lions, and, at the same time, it supports an organization called Conservation International in Kenya.
The ranch provides the best habitat for its own lions while helping to protect African lions in their own natural environment. There are nearly 50 lions, and visitors are able to see them. Many of the lions have been rescued from unhealthy situations. There is also a feeding program where you can feed the lions as well as giraffes.
Find it at this Address: 382 Bruner Avenue, Henderson, NV, Phone: 702-595-6666
Activities and Attractions for Couples and Singles:
4. Check into Lake Las Vegas Resort Spa for a birthday celebration
I enjoy:
" Relax with luxurious treatments and enjoy a memorable celebration."
Visit Lake Las Vegas Resort built around a 320-acre man-made scenic lake where you can have lunch and relax a the spa.
The Lake Las Vegas Resort Spa consists of a team of experienced professionals who assist guests in relaxing and refreshing with the many treatments offered by the spa. Ravella Spa has a variety of facial treatments that use all natural ingredients, as well as several kinds of massage treatments.
Make it a spa vacation:The spa also offers a hair and beauty area that provides services such as makeup treatments, manicures, pedicures, and other services. The fitness center includes a variety of cardio equipment, strength training equipment, a dry sauna, a eucalyptus steam room, and a whirlpool.
Find it at this Address: 1610 Lake Las Vegas Parkway, Henderson, NV, Phone: 702-567-4700
5. Take the kids to Henderson Bird Viewing Preserve
I like:
"Explore peaceful trails and spot diverse bird species."
Visit Henderson Bird Viewing Preserve, located on East Galleria Drive at Moser Drive, which is a 140-acre home of many desert birds as well as a temporary home for numerous migratory birds.
There are paths around the nine ponds of the preserve, and these make it easy for bird watchers to enjoy the area. It is suggested that visitors wear sturdy shoes and bring water, sunscreen, a hat, and binoculars. Visitors are asked not to feed the birds. Each season is special at the preserve; different kinds of birds and other wildlife can be seen at different times of the year.
Find it at this Address: 350 East Galleria Drive, Henderson, NV, Phone: 702-267-4180
6. Play on the Rio Secco Golf Club nearby
I Recommend:
"Tee off on a championship course and enjoy panoramic views."
Play on the Rio Secco Golf Club, a highly rated country club and golf course. Built in 1997 by golf course designer Rees Jones, the eighteen hole course is divided into three areas: six holes are located in a broad desert mountain range, six holes can be found on a plateau overlooking the city, and six holes are located in steep canyons.
The Rio Secco Golf Club is also home to Butch Harmon, one of the best golf instructors in the world. The golf club also has a restaurant and bar, as well as a golf shop.
Find it at this Address: 2851 Grand Hills Drive, Henderson, NV, Phone: 702-777-2400
7. Go on a tour with Big Horn Wild West Tours
I like:
"Explore rugged desert terrain and experience an unforgettable adventure."
Book one of the Big Horn Wild West Tours which offers tours to a variety of locations, including the Joshua Tree Forest, the Mohave Desert, and the Grand Canyon. The company uses Hummer H2 vehicles and limits its group sizes to between two and six people.
Guests are picked up at their hotels and taken on the guided tours. The Grand Canyon Tour is the company’s most popular tour. It lasts approximately ten hours and passes Lake Mead, the Hoover Dam, and the Joshua Tree Forest on the way to the Grand Canyon where guests can talk with members of the Hualapai Nation.
Find it at this Address: #357, 2657 Windmill Parkway, Henderson, NV, Phone: 702-385-4676
8. Hop aboard Maverick Helicopters
I enjoy:
"Soar above breathtaking landscapes and enjoy thrilling aerial views."
Check out Maverick Helicopters, a helicopter tour company that offers a variety of trips to the Grand Canyon. The tour begins with a complimentary pick up and then continues with a narrated tour on an ECO-Star Helicopter.
With decades of experience, the company prides itself on its safety and quality service. The four and a half hour Free Spirit Tour takes visitors over Lake Mead and Hoover Dam to the bottom of the Grand Canyon where champagne and snacks are served. Another tour offered by the company is the Grand Canyon Helicopter Ride Splendor, which is a wedding package complete with a private helicopter, minister, photographer, cake, and champagne.
Find it at this Address: 1620 Jet Stream Drive, Henderson, NV, Phone: 702-262-6199
Where to Eat:
9. Have dinner at Borracha Mexican Cantina
I like:
"Savor flavorful dishes and enjoy a vibrant dining atmosphere."
Dine at Borracha Mexican Cantina, an upscale restaurant serving traditional and modern Mexican fare along with handcrafted cocktails and an extensive tequila menu. Located in the Green Valley Ranch in Henderson, Borracha is renowned of famed Day of the Dead décor and features a beautiful hand-painted floor, wraparound mural and decorative and festival skulls watching over diners. The menu is just as seductive with a variety of authentic Mexican-inspired dishes such as made-from-scratch tortillas, inventive burritos, and addictive tacos filled with slow-cooked short ribs, rotisserie chicken, and fresh Baja fish. The drinks menu boasts an abundance of cervezas, and tequila, as well as specialty cocktails to bring an extra vibe into the already vibrant space. Borracha Mexican Cantina is open for dinner every night of the week and lunch on Saturday and Sundays.
Find it at this Address: 2300 Paseo Verde Pkwy, Henderson, NV 89052, Phone: 702-489-2129
Where to Eat in Henderson, NV
- Recommended for Families: The Cracked Egg – Local breakfast and brunch favorite with generous portions and kid-friendly plates.
- For Fine Dining: Hank’s Fine Steaks & Martinis – Elegant steakhouse at Green Valley Ranch with top-notch service and ambiance.
- For a Casual Meal: Juan’s Flaming Fajitas & Cantina – Lively Mexican eatery with tableside guacamole and sizzling plates.
If you are interested in local events:
- For Music Fans: Henderson Hot Rod Days (October) – Classic cars, live music, and food trucks in the Water Street District.
- For Holiday Cheer: WinterFest (December) – Celebrate the season with light displays, parades, and family-friendly fun.
- For Foodies: Art Festival of Henderson (May) – Juried art, local food, music, and family activities in the historic downtown area.
Day Trip Itineraries Within 30–60 Minutes of Henderson, NV:
- For Nature: Hoover Dam and Lake Mead (30–40 min) – Tour the dam, walk the bridge, or boat on the lake.
- For Hiking: Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area (45–60 min) – Stunning desert trails and scenic drives west of Las Vegas.
- For Adventure: Eldorado Canyon Mine Tours (45 min) – Tour a historic gold mine and explore the ghost town of Nelson.
- For Urban Exploration: The Las Vegas Strip (20–25 min) – World-class entertainment, casinos, and nightlife right next door.
- For Stargazing: Boulder City and beyond (30–45 min) – Escape city lights and enjoy the desert sky near Lake Mead or Sloan Canyon.
I get asked this a lot so I decided to include it:
- Where is Henderson, Nevada located?
- Henderson is the second largest city in Nevada, located just 20 minutes from Las Vegas.
- What attractions can visitors explore in Henderson?
- Visitors can discover unique attractions, museums, shops, and restaurants throughout the city.
- What outdoor activities are available in Henderson?
- Enjoy a scenic bike ride along the River Mountain Loop Trail.
- Stroll through the Henderson Bird Viewing Preserve to observe local wildlife.
- Where can visitors learn about the history of Henderson?
- The Clark County Museum offers exhibits about the region’s history and cultural heritage.
- Are there any unique wildlife experiences in Henderson?
- Visitors can see lions up close at the Lion Habitat Ranch.
- What relaxation options are available in Henderson?
- Spend a morning at the Lake Las Vegas Resort to enjoy spa treatments, have a leisurely lunch, and take in scenic views of the stunning man-made lake.
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