





The Springs Preserve is a 180-acre cultural institution dedicated to showcasing Las Vegas's vibrant history and a sustainable future.
The Springs Preserve is a 180-acre cultural institution dedicated to showcasing Las Vegas's vibrant history and a sustainable future. It is widely considered the "birthplace of Las Vegas," offering a unique blend of botanical gardens, museums, and trails in the heart of the Mojave Desert.
Within the Preserve, the 8-acre Botanical Garden boasts the largest collection of Mojave Desert cacti and succulents, featuring a nationally accredited Mojave Cactus and Succulent Collection. Visitors can also explore themed areas like the colorful Rose Garden, fragrant Herb Garden, tranquil Palm Garden, and the innovative Sustainable Desert Garden. Beyond flora, the Preserve offers over 3.5 miles of trails, a seasonal Butterfly Habitat teeming with species like Painted Lady and Monarch butterflies, and live animal exhibits showcasing desert dwellers such as Gila monsters, desert cottontails, gray foxes, and the iconic desert tortoise, Mojave Max. Interactive exhibits like the exhilarating "Flash Flood Exhibit" and the historical "Boomtown 1905" streetscape further enrich the experience.
This exceptional venue provides a refreshing escape from the city's hustle, offering a serene environment to connect with both nature and the region's deep history. Its commitment to water conservation and the preservation of rare Mojave Desert species makes it a memorable destination. With interactive museums like the Origen Museum and the Nevada State Museum, alongside its beautifully curated outdoor spaces, the Springs Preserve provides an engaging and educational experience for all ages. Turn your visit into a safari! Use the Snappit app to scan and log wildlife sightings here.
buffs:** Comprehensive museums and historical streetscapes detailing the history of Las Vegas and Southern Nevada. * **Those interested in sustainable living:** Exhibits and gardens focused on water conservation and desert adaptation.
Stroll through the award-winning botanical gardens, hike or bike the scenic trails, learn about Southern Nevada's natural and cultural history in the museums, experience the thrilling flash flood simulation, and observe native desert wildlife.
The seasonal Butterfly Habitat is open in spring and fall. During summer months, outdoor areas and activities like the playground, trails, and train rides may close early due to extreme heat advisories, so it's best to check ahead.
The Springs Preserve is largely wheelchair-accessible, with the Exploration Loop Trail being fully paved. Strollers and wheelchairs are available for rent at the ticketing window. Free on-site parking is available, including electric vehicle charging stations.
Explore diverse themed gardens, including the Mojave Cactus and Succulent Collection, Rose Garden, Herb Garden, Palm Garden, and the innovative Sustainable Desert Garden.
Features the interactive "Flash Flood Exhibit" and live animal displays of native Mojave Desert species.
Houses exhibits on Nevada's history, including a 20,000-year-old Columbian Mammoth skeleton and artifacts from early Las Vegas.
Step back in time in this recreated historical streetscape of early Las Vegas.
Each card links to a full Explore page with photos, traits, and fun facts.
Start with the big picture, then zoom in to explore individual wildlife observations around this place.
Visit in Spring or Fall
These seasons offer the most comfortable weather for exploring outdoor areas and coincide with the seasonal opening of the Butterfly Habitat.
Arrive Early
Especially during hotter months, outdoor attractions may close early due to extreme heat. Arriving early allows more time to enjoy everything safely.
Wear Comfortable Shoes and Hydrate
With over 3.5 miles of trails and expansive gardens, comfortable footwear is a must. Bring a water bottle, especially if exploring outdoor areas.
Utilize the Train Ride
The train is a convenient and enjoyable way to reach Boomtown 1905 and offers a narrated tour of parts of the Preserve.
Explore Indoor Exhibits
Take advantage of the air-conditioned Origen Museum, Nevada State Museum, and WaterWorks, which provide educational and interactive experiences.
Consider the CafΓ© or a Picnic
The Springs Cafe offers food and drinks, or you can bring your own outside food and non-alcoholic beverages for a picnic.
Jun 4, 2026
Photo attribution
(c) Katrina Smith, some rights reserved (CC BY)
License: CC BY 4.0 β
Image may be shown cropped inside the card frame.
Jun 4, 2026
Photo attribution
(c) Katrina Smith, some rights reserved (CC BY)
License: CC BY 4.0 β
Image may be shown cropped inside the card frame.
Jun 4, 2026
Photo attribution
(c) Katrina Smith, some rights reserved (CC BY)
License: CC BY 4.0 β
Image may be shown cropped inside the card frame.
Jun 4, 2026
Photo attribution
(c) Katrina Smith, some rights reserved (CC BY)
License: CC BY 4.0 β
Image may be shown cropped inside the card frame.
Jun 2, 2026
Photo attribution
(c) Katrina Smith, some rights reserved (CC BY)
License: CC BY 4.0 β
Image may be shown cropped inside the card frame.
Massachusetts, US
You might spot Virginia Bluebells and Great Golden Digger Wasp.
View guide β
.jpg)
Maryland, US
You might spot White-Tailed Deer and Japanese Knotweed.
View guide β

Illinois, US
You might spot White Mulberry, House Finch, and Scissor Grinder.
View guide β

Maryland, US
You might spot Great Blue Heron, Eastern Bluebird, and White-Tailed Deer.
View guide β