Visiting Springs Preserve Las Vegas? These are the highlights and local tips to help you make the most of your visit.
Springs Preserve has 180 acres of nature, exhibits, and attractions perfect for everyone, especially families with kids. If you love nature, they have trails and botanical gardens. They have educational exhibits about Vegas’ rich history. They have a wildlife exhibit with the cutest gray fox, an art gallery, a theater, bike rentals, a café, and more!
This post may contain affiliate links, where we receive a small commission on sales of the products that are linked at no additional cost to you. All opinions are always our own. Read our full disclosure for more info. Thank you for supporting the brands that make Local Adventurer possible.
Last Updated: May 5, 2025
About the Springs Preserve
The Springs Preserve is located on the original Las Vegas Springs site, discovered in 1829 by a group of Mormon pioneers. The springs were a vital water source for the early settlers and played an essential role in developing Las Vegas.
In the late 1990s, the Las Vegas Valley Water District acquired Springs Preserve, restored the springs, and developed the preserve into a museum and educational center.
Today, the Springs Preserve includes several museums, galleries, and exhibits that showcase the natural and cultural history of the Mojave Desert and the Las Vegas Valley. The extensive botanical gardens feature plants native to the desert region.
Springs Preserve Address
333 S. Valley View Blvd
Las Vegas, NV 89107 (map)
Springs Preserve Hours
Springs Preserve: Thursday to Monday, 9 AM to 4 PM (last entry at 3 PM)
Cafe: Thursday to Monday, 9 AM to 3:30 PM
Nevada State Museum: Thursday to Monday, 9 AM to 4 PM (last entry at 3 PM)
*Check this site for any closures or changes in hours before visiting.
Springs Preserve Ticket Prices
Tickets can be purchased online or at the Ticketing Office.
Nevada Residents: $9.95 for adults / $4.95 for children ages 3-17
Non-Residents: $18.95 for adults / $10.95 for children ages 3-17
Memberships start at $30 for individuals and $60 for families
Local Tip: We highly recommend the membership for families living in Las Vegas. Members can access the Outdoor Natural Areas at 8 AM.
See More: 101 Things to Do in Las Vegas Bucket List
Best Things to Do at Springs Preserve
1. Nevada State Museum
The Nevada State Museum’s primary focus is on the history and culture of Nevada, emphasizing southern Nevada and the Las Vegas Valley. The museum’s exhibits cover topics, including the geology of Nevada, Native American cultures, the mining and railroad industries, and the history of Las Vegas and its famous Strip.
One of the popular exhibits is a replica of a 19th-century Las Vegas, complete with a saloon, blacksmith shop, and general store.
The museum also features several interactive exhibits, such as a virtual reality experience that allows visitors to explore a prehistoric Nevada landscape and a simulated earthquake demonstrating seismic activity’s effects on buildings.
See More: 15 Best Museums in Las Vegas + Local Tips
2. Origen Museum
We love the Origen Museum at Springs Preserve! It focuses on the ecology and wildlife of the Mojave Desert and Las Vegas Valley. Don’t miss:
- The Flash Flood Exhibit simulates a flash flood in a desert environment. It helps you understand why it’s dangerous and how plant and animal life have adapted to survive.
- The Live Animal Exhibits include a gray fox (our favorite), desert cottontails, lizards, frogs, snakes, and Gila monsters. They house many animals that we can naturally see in the area.
They also have a rotating exhibit in the Origen Museum. So far, we’ve seen Wicked Plants and a Mini-Golf Exhibit.
See More: 15 Unique Bucket List Worthy Experiences in Las Vegas
3. Botanical Garden
The botanical gardens at the Springs Preserve are a beautiful and unique attraction that showcases the diverse plant life of the Mojave Desert and the surrounding areas. The gardens cover over eight acres and feature various plants native to the region.
One of the highlights of the botanical gardens is the Cactus Garden, which features over 300 cactus species and other succulent plants, including some rare and endangered.
You should also check out the Rose Garden, the Herb Garden, and the Sustainable Desert Garden. The Sustainable Desert Garden showcases plants and landscaping techniques designed to conserve water and reduce the impact of human activity on the environment.
Local Tip: If you’re interested in plants, they hold events and classes, including a plant sale, gardening tips, and more.
See More: 15 Fun Outdoor Activities in Las Vegas If You Love Adventure
Seasonal: Butterfly Habitat
Although it’s only opened seasonally (October 5 to November 25, 2024), the Butterfly Habitat is a popular exhibit at the Springs Preserve. You wander through the habitat while the butterflies from all over the world fly around you.
Butterflies creep me out, so I haven’t been yet, but maybe we’ll have Jacob check it out at some point.
4. Train Rides
Trains were a significant part of the Old West and still play an important role today. The train ride is a great way to get to Boomtown 1905. On the 8-minute tour, the conductor tells you more about the areas you’re passing through.
Local Tip: The train schedule changes throughout the year. When you arrive at Springs Preserve, ask about the train to time your visit.
See More: 25 Free Things to Do in Las Vegas
5. Boomtown 1905
Boomtown 1905 is a recreated historical streetscape that gives you a glimpse of Las Vegas between 1905 and 1920. You can visit multiple buildings, including a train depot, railroad cottages, a mercantile, a hotel, a bank, and a saloon.
Local Tip: The train will drop you off and pick you up here. Just check the schedule.
See More: 15 Best Things to Do on the Las Vegas Strip
6. Waterworks
WaterWorks is an interactive exhibit that focuses on the importance of water conservation and management in the desert environment. While visiting, you can learn more about the different stages of the water treatment process and even see it in action.
You can also touch replicated quagga mussels, use a microscope to look at harmful water contaminants, check out rock samples excavated hundreds of feet below Lake Mead’s surface, and more.
Local Tip: The entrance to Waterworks is on the left as you walk towards Boomtown 1905.
See More: 25 Best Las Vegas Photo Spots with Tips from a Local
7. Hike the Trails
Springs Preserve has 3.5 miles of trails. These are four trails:
- Exploration Loop Trail (2.21 miles) – passed by Boomtown 1905 and is the longest trail
- Crossroads Trail (0.54 miles) – see an adobe home foundation, well derrick, and prehistoric spring mound
- Springs Trail (0.45 miles) – historic structures and tortoise habitat
- Cienega Trail (0.37 miles) – lush desert wetlands and cottonwood groves
Local Tip: Members can access the trails and other outdoor areas at 8 AM.
See More: 25 Best Las Vegas Photo Spots with Tips from a Local
More Things to DO at the Springs Preserve
- DesertSol – a 754-square-foot solar-powered home showcasing what sustainable living can look like
- Nature Exchange – a place for young naturalists to trade found items like shells, rocks, bark, and more
- Playground and Splash Pad – great for kids
- Sustainability Gallery – Learn about eco-friendly lifestyles and the natural world
Map of the Best Things to DO at the Springs Preserve
Upcoming Special Events
Butterfly Habitat
Open through Monday, May 26 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Wander through the vibrant Butterfly Habitat and witness the fascinating dance between free-flying butterflies. Learn about the plants that sustain them and their important role as pollinators in the ecosystem. Dates for this seasonal attraction may vary depending on weather. Members receive early entry at 9:30 a.m. Check springspreserve.org for updates. Free for members or included with general admission.
Mariposa Splash Pad Reopens
Now Open 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Little ones can soak up the sun and cool off at the Mariposa Playground. This splash pad and tot lot for children ages 2 to 5 years is located on the south end of the Springs Preserve near the Butterfly Habitat. Free for members or included with general admission. Learn more at springspreserve.org.
Spring Garden Series: Peppers
Saturday, May 3 9 a.m. & 1 p.m.
Ignite your passion for peppers in all their colorful, spicy glory. Get your hands dirty and learn how to plant, grow, and harvest a variety of peppers. Explore the history and health benefits of these fiery fruits. Cost: $15 for nonmembers; $10 for members. Tickets for the 3-class spring series are $30 for nonmembers; $20 for members. Reservations are required; seating is limited. Purchase tickets at springspreserve.org.
Master Gardener Class: Garden Adventures
Thursday, May 15 10 a.m. to noon
Interested in planting an edible garden in your backyard? Learn some of the first steps to take and mistakes to avoid as a beginner vegetable and herb gardener. Free for members or included with general admission.
Brick Planet: A magical journey made with LEGO® bricks
Saturday, May 17 through Monday, Sept. 8 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
The new exhibit Brick Planet: A magical journey made with LEGO® bricks will debut at the Springs Preserve. Created by award-winning artist Sean Kenney in partnership with Imagine and Science North, this exhibition brings the beauty of our natural world to life through the artistry of LEGO® bricks. Step into immersive environments inspired by Earth’s ecosystems, from the vibrant savannas to the icy polar regions, the bustling cityscapes, and the colorful ocean depths. Featuring many of Sean Kenney’s masterful sculptures, Brick Planet blends art and science in a way that sparks curiosity and inspires visitors to see the world in a new way. Free for members or included with general admission. Purchase tickets at springspreserve.org.
Desert Gardening 101
Saturday, May 24 10 a.m. to 11 a.m.
Learn the basics of how to choose and care for drought-tolerant plants that thrive in hot, arid conditions. Get practical tips from Springs Preserve gardening experts on soil preparation, sun exposure, pest control, and mulch to help plants withstand extreme heat. Free with reservations. Make reservations at springspreserve.org.
Spring Garden Series: Cacti & Succulents
Sunday, June 8 9 a.m. & 1 p.m.
Learn how to incorporate these resilient plants into your desert landscape. Master basic care techniques and discover how to protect cacti and succulents from the intense summer sun. Grab your gloves and get ready to create a low-maintenance, stunning garden in even the hottest climates. Cost: $15 for nonmembers; $10 for members. Tickets for the 3-class spring series are $30 for nonmembers; $20 for members. Reservations are required; seating is limited. Purchase tickets at springspreserve.org.
Master Gardener Class: Caring for Cacti
Thursday, June 19 10 a.m. to noon
Cacti-enthusiasts will enjoy learning more about growing and maintaining these fascinating desert plants that are the perfect water-smart addition to any home landscape. Free for members or included with general admission.
Desert Gardening 101
Sunday, June 22 10 a.m. to 11 a.m.
Interested in learning more about landscaping in Southern Nevada or starting your own backyard garden? Learn from the Springs Preserve gardening experts at this introductory class designed for desert climate gardening. Get practical tips on soil preparation, sun exposure, pest control, and mulch to help plants withstand extreme heat. Free with reservations. Make reservations at springspreserve.org.
What to Eat
The Springs Cafe is onsite and offers food from Bronze Cafe and drinks from Aspire Coffee House. They serve sandwiches, salads, burgers, lattes, smoothies, and more. They have vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options.
Best of all, it’s in a beautiful building with indoor and outdoor seating where you can get great views of the valley and the Las Vegas Strip.
Here are some other spots nearby you can check out.
- Herbs & Rye ( 💰💰💰, Steakhouses)
- Island Style Restaurant (💰💰, Korean / Hawaiian)
- Lou’s Diner (💰💰, American)
- Pops Philly Steaks (💰💰, Cheesesteaks)
See More: 49 Best Places to Eat in Las Vegas
Where to Stay
Essential Tips
- Free parking is available onsite. The main parking lot has EV charging stations.
- During excessive heat warnings of 105 degrees or more, they will close trails, train rides, and outdoor tours for the safety of guests.
- You can bring outside food and nonalcoholic beverages into Springs Preserve. Glass containers are prohibited.
- Coolers and bags must be no larger than 24″ x 15″ x 18″. Dry ice and loose ice are not allowed.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes since you will be covering some ground.
- Remember to apply and reapply sunscreen. The Vegas sun is intense.
- Bring a debit or credit card. Cash is not accepted at the preserve.
- Bring your reusable water bottle (our current favorites). Multiple water refill stations are onsite.
- Bikes, skateboards, scooters, dirt bikes, four-wheelers, or other recreational vehicles are prohibited.
- Keep your distance from wild animals, which include mammals, reptiles, invertebrates, and 150+ migratory birds.
- Only service animals (not emotional support) are allowed and must stay leashed.
Planning Checklist
- Get comprehensive insurance for your trip.
- Download these helpful language apps.
- Find a great deal on Las Vegas hotels.
- Arrange a rental car for your trip.
- Book a tour for your visit.
- Get airport lounge access.
- Buy a travel charger to keep your devices charged.
- Get a new backpack for your trip.
- Buy a Las Vegas travel guide.
- Pack the appropriate shoes for your trip.
- Don’t forget your in-flight essentials.
- Save money on attractions with Go City.
Would you visit Springs Preserve in Las Vegas? When was the last time you went to your local Botanical Gardens?
Did you enjoy this post? Pin it for later
SEE MORE LAS VEGAS GUIDES
⟡⟡⟡⟡⟡
“Discovery consists not of seeking new lands but in seeing with new eyes” – M. Proust
Esther + Jacob
Esther and Jacob are the founders of Local Adventurer, one of the top 5 travel blogs in the US. They believe that adventure can be found near and far and hope to inspire others to explore locally. They explore a new city in depth every year and currently base themselves in Las Vegas.
Follow on Instagram (E + J), YouTube, TikTok, and Pinterest.