The many exciting things to do in Henderson, NV, will leave you looking forward to another vacation.
Henderson is the next biggest city in Nevada, located just a few meters away from Las Vegas. This city is home to unique attractions, museums, shops, and restaurants.
You can enjoy an unforgettable bike ride on the River Mountain Trail, visit the Clark County Museum to learn the city’s history, tour the Henderson Bird Preserve, and be amazed by lions at the Lion Habitat Ranch.
You can also spend the morning at the Lake Las Vegas Resort, where you can treat yourself to the best spa treatments, have lunch and watch the view of the stunning man-made lake.
Even though Henderson is the second largest city in Nevada in terms of population, it exists quietly in the shadow of nearby Las Vegas. But being next to such a juggernaut did not diminish Henderson. Quite the opposite, actually.
The city has slowly developed many tourist attractions and a laid-back culture that appeals to many travelers. Thanks to several beautiful resorts and casinos, Henderson has all the fun of Vegas but without the chaos.
Without the craziness, it’s a family destination with plenty of activities in Henderson that will appeal to kids, such as water parks and lion reserves.
The number of protected areas will also occupy outdoor adventurers. You can explore towering canyons and glistening lakes without having to venture far.
Fun Things to Do in Henderson (NV)
1. Visit the Mustang Helicopters Park
Mustang Helicopters is a tour company that offers a variety of Grand Canyon tours. With more than 19 years of experience, the company prides itself on its safety and quality of service.
The tour starts with a free pickup and then continues with a guided tour in the ECO-Star helicopter.
The four-and-a-half-hour Free Spirit Tour takes visitors past Lake Mead and the Hoover Dam to the Grand Canyon, where champagne and refreshments are served.
Another tour the company offers is the Grand Canyon Helicopter Ride Splendor – a wedding package that includes a private helicopter, minister, photographer, cake, and champagne.
2. Visit the Las Vegas Distillery
Las Vegas Distillery, Nevada’s first distillery, is located on Eastgate Road in Henderson. It is a family craft distillery with two stills for spirits production.
Las Vegas Distillery is a grain-to-bottle distillery that produces several spirits, including bourbon, gin, marigold, vodka, and whiskey.
Tours and tastings last for 50 minutes and are offered from Monday through Saturday and Sunday.
Be aware that tastings are offered only on an appointment basis. The distillery also hosts special events like corporate meetings, workshops, birthday parties, weddings, and private tours and tastings.
Distillery Spirits & Gift Shop deals in the sales of spirits and distillery-related gifts.
3. Humor Your Tastebuds at Borracha Mexican Cantina
Borracha Mexican Cantina is an upscale restaurant that offers both traditional and modern Mexican dishes, handcrafted cocktails, and an extensive tequila menu.
Located at Green Valley Ranch in Henderson, Borracha is famous for its Day of the Dead decor, featuring a beautiful hand-painted floor, mural, and decorative festival skulls watching over guests.
The menu is equally enticing, with a variety of Mexican-inspired dishes such as made-from-scratch tortillas, inventive burritos, and tacos filled with slow-cooked short ribs, grilled chicken, and fresh Baja fish.
The drink menu boasts a number of cervezas, tequilas, and special cocktails to add more atmosphere to the already vibrant space.
Borracha Mexican Cantina is open for dinner through the week and for lunch on Saturdays and Sundays.
Things to Do in Henderson (NV) at Night
1. Lake Las Vegas Resort Spa, Henderson, NV
Visit the Lake Las Vegas Resort built to circle a 320-acre man-made lake where you can have lunch and relax at the spa.
The Lake Las Vegas Resort Spa is staffed by experienced professionals who help guests relax and rejuvenate with the spa’s many treatments.
Ravella Spa offers a range of facial treatments that use all-natural ingredients and several types of massages.
The spa also offers a beauty salon, which provides services such as manicures, pedicures, and other services.
The fitness center includes various cardio equipment, weight machines, a dry sauna, a eucalyptus steam room, and a hot tub.
2. District at Green Valley Ranch
District at Green Valley Ranch, stationed on Village Walk Drive, is a mixed-use complex with hotels, office spaces, residential homes, restaurants, and shops.
Green Valley Ranch Resort, is a classy resort in Green valley ranch with several restaurants, casinos, and spas set amidst beautiful countryside.
The district has many dining options, from grills and ice cream shops to elegant restaurants. Shops include home furnishing stores, clothing retailers, and many more.
Several events are held in the county, including Stroller Strides exercise programs, Safe Kids Clark County, the Outdoor Picture Show with family-friendly movies, and a weekly farmers market.
3. Todd’s Unique Dining, Henderson, Nevada
Located in an unassuming mall in Henderson, you’ll find a small, intimate bistro-style restaurant featuring soft, neutral colors.
With soft jazz in the background, the atmosphere is perfect for the fine dining experience you can always expect from Chef Todd Clore.
This is a great place to check out if you’re looking for romantic date ideas in Henderson, NV.
The menu changes almost daily, and Chef Clore always uses the freshest, seasonal ingredients that are artfully and artfully combined.
Try the lobster wrapped in the sole and dipped in a delicious butter sauce. The genius is in its simplicity.
The menu is rich in possibilities, and there is something for everyone with influences from all corners of the world.
They have delicious, affordable food with excellent wines. It’s no secret that Todd’s Unique Dining is always full.
Things to do in Henderson, Nevada, For Couples
1. Clark County Museum, Henderson, Nevada
Located in the South Boulder area of Henderson, the Clark County Museum is dedicated to the local history of Clark County, Nevada’s southernmost county.
The museum’s collection includes items related to Native Americans (such as the Paiutes), mining, and much more.
The collection also includes gaming-related items such as an 1898 Dewy slot machine, automobiles such as the 1959 Studebaker Lark, and railroads such as the Boulder City Train Depot.
About Eight historic buildings make up the Anna Roberts Parks Exhibition Hall. There is also a restored ghost town.
2. Lion Habitat Ranch
Lion Habitat Ranch is located at the corner of Bruner Avenue and Bermuda Road. It is dedicated to breeding lions and other animals.
Established 26 years ago, the ranch works to educate the community about lions while supporting Conservation International in Kenya.
The ranch provides the best environment for its own lions while helping to protect African lions in their natural habitat.
There are nearly 50 lions, and visitors can see them. Many lions have been rescued from unhealthy situations. There is also a feeding program where guests can feed both lions and giraffes.
3. Have Dinner at the Railroad Pass Hotel and Casino
As you leave Las Vegas and head toward the Hoover Dam, you’ll come across the historic Railroad Pass Hotel and Casino.
It is not the most extravagant casino you can find around. It is, however, the longest-running casino in the country.
It also has the best buffet selections in the area, another great reason to stop by. Box Car Buffet changes its menu daily and offers you specialties from countries like China, Mexico, Italy, and many more.
Eating out is like taking a train from country to country, stopping for something to eat in each one.
The buffet offers everything you can eat, from juicy steak and shrimp to slow-roasted Prime Rib.
Things to Do in Henderson For kids
1. River Mountain Loop Trail, Henderson, Nevada
The River Mountain Loop Trail is a set of trails that connect Henderson, Hoover Dam, to other parts of the Las Vegas Valley. Part of the trail is paved for bicyclists and hikers, and other areas have a side trail for horseback riding.
The River Mountain loop trail project was completed in 2012 and involved the collaborative efforts of various local, regional, and federal agencies and businesses.
Henderson has three trailheads: the Equestrian Park Trailhead, the Mountain Lake Park Trailhead, and the Silverman Connector Access Point.
2. Cowabunga Bay Water Park
Beat the summer heat at Cowabunga Bay Water Park, Henderson’s favorite weekend water attraction.
Rent a cabin or enjoy a VIP cabin if you fancy it, then head out to enjoy the dozens of amazing attractions the park has to offer.
At Wild Surf, guests can enjoy the world’s largest artificial wave on a four-seater raft, while Beach Blanket Banzai will send you speeding through more than 600 feet of turns, drops, drops, and stunning 180 degrees turns.
If that’s not enough, Zuma Zooma sends you on a 73-foot freefall through a trap door, while Point Panic lets you slide down a pitch-black slide with amazing light fixtures.
However, there are too many amazing attractions to mention, so suffice it to say that you will have an unforgettable time at Cowabunga Bay Water Park.
3. Sunset Station Strike Zone
At a whopping 77,000 square feet, Sunset Station Strike Zone is the most extravagant bowling center in Las Vegas.
It is also the perfect location to host parties or bowling nights with friends. Offering great packages along with the already reasonable open game and hourly rates.
Sunset Station Strike Zone is open to guests daily, with extended hours on Fridays and Saturdays.
Sunset Station is home to 72 state-of-the-art bowling lanes, each with its own pop-up screens and music, and is even equipped with black lights for a psychedelic nighttime bowling experience.
Visitors can also use pool tables, and a game room or pick up the equipment at the bowling pro shop.
Hungry pitchers can stop by the Sunset Station full-service lounge to pick up snacks and drinks between games.
Indoor Activities in Henderson For Adults
1. The Salt Room Henderson
Experience self-care at its best Salt Room Henderson, a halotherapy and salt therapy facility that first opened its doors in 2014.
Both halotherapy and salt therapy have been around since the reign of Queen Cleopatra herself. They are popular for helping with skin conditions, strengthening the immune system, and alleviating several respiratory problems, among others.
In addition to these therapeutic treatments, visitors can also enjoy various relaxing massages, such as a Himalayan lava stone massage, a deep tissue massage or a pure relaxation massage.
There are other services to enjoy, custom facials, body treatments, and even yoga and meditation classes.
2. Rainbow Club Casino
Gambling opportunities and delicious grub are within easy reach at Rainbow Club Casino, a vibrant, bustling, and beloved casino in Henderson, Nevada.
Since 1967, Rainbow Club Casino has been an iconic fixture in Henderson’s Historic Water Street District, home to an 8,760 square foot casino, 24/7 gaming, and 330 slot machines.
In addition to the casino, the Rainbow Club is known for its brunches and burgers, which have received numerous awards from the Las Vegas Review-Journal, including silver and bronze medals.
While you’re at Rainbow Club Casino, be sure to sink your teeth into Triple B, also known as Brooks Brother’s Burgers.
It’s popular for its double patty burger made with fresh USDA Angus beef and served with fries, coleslaw, dill pickles, and a drink.
2. Barley’s Casino and Brewing Company
When you’re in Nevada, you’ll never be short of a great casino and beer garden all in one place. That’s exactly what Barley’s Casino and Brewing Company offers, with an exciting on-site casino and award-winning microbrewery all under one roof.
Barley’s Casino is home to over 190 slot machines, video poker machines, and even high-value reel games.
The casino also has a bookie lounge where those looking to try their luck can bet while enjoying a cold beer and a great game on one of the 14 high-definition television screens.
Meanwhile, Barley’s Brewing Company has plenty of famous microbrews for visitors to sample. For the best experience, beers should be paired with pub food at Brewer’s Cafe, serving American fare from classic bar bites to delicious slow-roasted ribs.
Romantic Things to Do in Henderson
1. Rachel’s Kitchen, Henderson
At Rachel’s Kitchen, you can get a delicious, quick, wholesome, healthy meal that won’t cost a fortune.
At Rachel’s Kitchen, recipes are homemade and simple, and ingredients are fresh as the season allows.
All day long you can have breakfast, make your own omelet or enjoy fancy salads (for example peach and arugula), great burritos and sandwiches and of course burgers with meat or vegetarian.
Their signature pasta is delicious and has a homemade taste.
2. King’s Fish House
King’s Fish House, located in the District Mall at Green Valley Ranch, is the place to go when you’re craving seafood but not sure what exactly to order.
King’s Fish House has a little bit of everything; if it floats in water, then expect it on the menu.
They have Wild Columbian River King Salmon, Wild Soft Shell Crabs, and Wild Alaskan Flounder from all the oceans in the world, seas, lakes, and rivers.
They also serve sushi, ceviche, lobster rolls, oysters in every shape and form, many types of seafood chowder, sandwiches, and pasta plates.
This restaurant is a hub for seafood, and they do it great. Your only problem is deciding what you want to eat.
If you need ideas, try their macadamia-crusted Alaskan halibut with orange and ginger in a warm butter sauce. King’s Fish House also offers a great selection of draft beers and a decent wine list.
Choose a table on the outdoor terrace that is pleasant and welcoming.
3. Pasta shop
Pasta Shop Ristorante and Gallery will charm you even before you get your food.
This Italian restaurant and art center is bright and cheerful, with simple but comfortable furniture and many original artworks on the walls.
Owner and Chef David Alenik was the personal chef to greats like Frank Sinatra and Steve Wynn, so it’s an honor to know he’s cooking for you.
Chef David carefully prepares his own pasta and sells it to all of Vegas’s major hotels and restaurants.
He likes to combine his delicate pasta with seafood and fresh vegetables for delicious, original dishes, but the menu also includes meatballs, sausages, chicken dishes, and many vegetarian options.
In addition to classic favorites such as linguine with prawns, you’ll find exciting delicacies such as Black Squid pasta served with giant tiger prawns in a delicate creamy saffron sauce.
Pasta Shop has an excellent wine list that includes wines mostly from Italy and California.
Free Things to Do in Henderson Nevada
1. Crafthaus Brewery, Henderson.
Crafthaus Brewery produces craft beers such as Resinate, a West Coast India Pale Ale; Evocation, a Belgian beer; Jean Claude, a Belgian golden stout; Any Which Way, white India Pale Ale; and many others.
The brewery hosts events such as Geeks Who Drink, Half Time Blitz, Bottle Share, and more.
The brewery offers free tours of the facility on Sundays; tours begin at the taproom, and visitors get a detailed behind-the-scenes look.
The taproom is open every day except Tuesdays, and the brewery sells t-shirts, hats, and other merchandise.
2. Ethel M. Chocolate Factory and Cactus Garden
There is no disputing that the Ethel M. Chocolates Factory and Cactus Garden is considered the best chocolate experience you will find in Nevada.
Not only are the people behind this chocolate factory known for quality preservative-free chocolate, but the place is also known for being home to the largest botanical cactus garden in Nevada.
After customers are finished watching the skilled chocolatiers and innovative chocolate-making machinery that the factory is known for, they can venture into the 3-acre garden to explore more than 300 different species of plants.
The garden is home to ornamental cacti and succulents, which visitors can see up close on free self-guided tours.
3. Emerald Island Casino
In the heart of Henderson sits majestically, the Emerald Island Casino. Away from the Vegas Strip and some of the city’s extravagant resorts, Emerald presents a friendly local atmosphere.
It’s the best little casino in Henderson, where you can enjoy a carnival experience without the over-the-top drama.
Lovers of light gambling can make the most of the delicious free snacks and mixed drinks that are actually the same as what you get at the bar.
Emerald Casino is also home to Henderson’s only 24-hour restaurant, which means it’s the perfect place to go for a late-night meal.
Cheap Things to Do in Henderson Nevada
1. Sloan Canyon National Monument
Henderson is so close to the bright lights that you’d be forgiven for thinking there would be few natural spots.
But the vast desert ridges that flank the city have their own interesting nature. In fact, for those who like to hike, you’ll find plenty to do in Sloan Canyon National Conservation Area.
Similar to nearby Red Rock Canyon, Sloan Canyon has all the spectacular topography to keep you on your toes.
These include rugged ocher rocks studded with petroglyphs and towering ridges that drop steeply into a vast gorge.
The gorge itself has earned the nickname the Sistine Chapel of Nevada due to its array of ancient rock art.
Take the Dutchman Pass Trail to see the best of them.
2. Henderson Bird Viewing Preserve
On East Galleria Drive, the Henderson Bird Viewing Reserve is the perfect opportunity to learn about the local bird life.
The reserve has become a prominent stopover for migratory birds, resulting in a wide and diverse number of species.
Henderson Bird Viewing Preserve comes with a mix of marshes scattered around the preserve’s nine ponds.
The water is a major attraction for migrating birds, and several trails provide excellent vantage points to admire the local wildlife.
Each season brings the wind of change and gives you a unique experience every time you visit.
So bring your binoculars and, as always, don’t feed the birds,
3. M Resort Casino
Henderson can exist in the shadow of the monster otherwise known as Las Vegas. But that doesn’t mean you won’t be able to try your hand at the poker table in town.
If you’re ready to put your best poker face on, get ready for a night at M Resort Casino.
The mesmerizing endless metal and glass building will catch your eye next to the nearby Sloan Canyon.
But it’s inside that really grabs your attention. The sprawling complex has everything you’d expect from a luxury casino, from rows of slot machines to screams of joy and sorrow at the roulette table.
Guests can also indulge in fine dining at several local restaurants and bars or stay the night in luxurious hotel rooms.
Cool Places to Visit in Henderson
1. Rio Secco Golf Club, Henderson
Rio Secco Golf Club is an excellent country club and golf course located on Grand Hills Drive within the Seven Hills neighborhood of Henderson in the Las Vegas Valley.
The 18-hole course divided into three areas, was built in 1997 by golf course designer Rees Jones: six holes are located in a wide desert mountain range, six holes are located on a plateau overlooking the city, and six holes are located on steep canyons.
Rio Secco Golf Club is also home to Butch Harmon, one of the top golf instructors in the world. The golf club also includes a restaurant and bar, and a golf shop.
2. Big Horn Wild West Tours
Located on Windmill Parkway, Big Horn Wild West Tours offers tours to various locations, including the Joshua Tree Forest, the Mohave Desert, and the Grand Canyon. The company uses Hummer H2 vehicles and limits group size to two to six people.
Guests are picked up from their hotels and taken on guided tours. The Grand Canyon Tour is the company’s most popular tour.
It takes approximately ten hours and passes Lake Mead, Hoover Dam, and Joshua Tree Forest en route to the Grand Canyon, where guests can speak with members of the Hualapai Nation.
Conclusion
From tours to hotels, bowling spots, and great food, Henderson holds all the fun you imagined to have before setting out for this vacation.
To have the best vacation experience, we urge you to try out all or almost all of the things to do in Henderson, as listed above.
Cheers to a fun and an unforgettable experience.