The Gardens at the Las Vegas Springs Preserve photo
ParkNevada, US

The Gardens at the Las Vegas Springs Preserve

The Springs Preserve is a 180-acre cultural institution dedicated to showcasing Las Vegas's vibrant history and a sustainable future.

About

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.

What to do here

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.

Seasonal info

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.

Accessibility

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.

Don't miss

1

Botanical Garden

Explore diverse themed gardens, including the Mojave Cactus and Succulent Collection, Rose Garden, Herb Garden, Palm Garden, and the innovative Sustainable Desert Garden.

2

Origen Museum

Features the interactive "Flash Flood Exhibit" and live animal displays of native Mojave Desert species.

3

Nevada State Museum

Houses exhibits on Nevada's history, including a 20,000-year-old Columbian Mammoth skeleton and artifacts from early Las Vegas.

4

Boomtown 1905

Step back in time in this recreated historical streetscape of early Las Vegas.

Wildlife you might spot

12

Each card links to a full Explore page with photos, traits, and fun facts.

Snap map for this place

Start with the big picture, then zoom in to explore individual wildlife observations around this place.

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Good to know before you go

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.

Frequently asked questions

The Springs Preserve is typically open Thursday-Monday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., with last entry at 3 p.m. It is closed on Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day. General admission for non-residents is approximately $18.95 for adults and $10.95 for children aged 3-17, with discounted rates available for Nevada residents. Admission includes access to the entire Preserve, including the Origen Museum, Nevada State Museum, botanical gardens, and trails.
Yes, the Springs Preserve features various live desert animals. The Origen Museum houses exhibits with creatures like Gila monsters, lizards, desert cottontails, snakes, scorpions, and a gray fox. The Preserve also includes a 15-acre habitat for federally threatened desert tortoises, home to the notable Mojave Max. Additionally, a seasonal Butterfly Habitat (open in spring and fall) allows visitors to walk among free-flying butterflies such as Painted Ladies and Monarchs.
Yes, a significant portion of the Springs Preserve is wheelchair-accessible. The Exploration Loop Trail, in particular, is fully paved and designed for easy access. For visitor convenience, strollers and wheelchairs can be rented at the ticketing window on a first-come, first-served basis.

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