3 days in Boulder City in Feb 2025; Qs

Question

Hi, my son (age 12) and I will be flying in/out LV in mid-Feb for a week of vacation. First half will be staying in Boulder City for Hoover Dam, Lake Mead and Valley of Fire. the second half will be at Death Valley.

For the front half, there is my itinerary:

Monday (Presidents' Day)-

flight arr 10am @ Harry Reid, pick up rental car

Call Eldorado Mine to see if we can get on 2pm tour

(if mine tour not available, will try to head to Hoover Dam for Guided Dam tour, or to Lake Mead VC for a hike/junior ranger booklet)

Tuesday -

Daytrip to Valley of Fire, drive up via Rt 167. Plan to go north first and work our way back south

(so Fire Wave / 7 wonders trail, then White Domes, then rainbow Vista and Elephant Walk)

Wednesday -

Stop by Lake Mead Visitors center for exhibit and junior ranger book

Stop by Hoover Dam VC to get guided dam tour for the afternoon

10:30am half-day kayak tour to Emerald Cove

Afternoon return to Hoover Dam for guided tour

Thursday -

Check out of hotel,

Nevada Railroad Museum

stop at Alberton's in Boulder city for food (to bring to Death Valley)

12noon Lake Mead cruise on the Desert Princess paddle wheeler

Drive over to Death Valley for second half of our trip

Questions:

1. Does this itinerary seem okay?

2. Do you have restaurant suggestions for Boulder City for dinner ? Places that serve lighter/ healthier options?

3. Driving on Rt 167 to/from VoF, are there any interesting sites along the way that is worth stopping for? We may have time to check them out on our way back

4. Suggestions for places in Boulder City to grab pre-packaged sandwiches (besides Albertson's)?

5. Places for lunch between Airport rental car and Eldorado mine on our first day?

6. Has anyone done the Lake Mead cruise?

Thank you!

Answer

Hi there! Your itinerary looks fantastic for a fun and varied trip. Here's some additional info to help you fine-tune it:

1. Does this itinerary seem okay?

Your itinerary looks great overall! You've balanced outdoor activities, sightseeing, and relaxation quite well. A couple of small suggestions:

On Monday, the Eldorado Mine tour sounds fun, but if you’re not able to get in, visiting Hoover Dam and/or Lake Mead for a junior ranger book is a great backup plan. Keep an eye on the timing to make sure you don't feel rushed.
For the Valley of Fire, it might be worth adjusting the hike times. The Fire Wave and Seven Wonders Trail can take a bit longer, depending on your pace. You might want to consider adjusting the order or simplifying the day if you find yourself running short on time.
For the Hoover Dam tours, be mindful of the time it takes for the tours, as they can take up a chunk of the afternoon. You might want to adjust the kayak tour timing if you're running behind.

2. Do you have restaurant suggestions for Boulder City for dinner? Places that serve lighter/healthier options?

Boulder City has a few great options for healthier meals:

The Bistro at the Hacienda - A great spot for fresh salads, grilled fish, and other lighter fare. They also have vegetarian options and a nice atmosphere.
The Coffee Cup - A popular local spot with lighter breakfast options, but they also serve healthy lunch dishes, like salads and wraps.
Pasta Farina - While it’s an Italian place, they offer many healthy options like grilled fish, pasta with fresh veggies, and salads.

3. Driving on Rt 167 to/from Valley of Fire, are there any interesting sites along the way that are worth stopping for?

There are a few great stops along Route 167 that you might enjoy on your way to and from Valley of Fire:

Red Rock Canyon (Southwest of Vegas) - Though not directly on Route 167, it's worth the small detour if you're interested in seeing stunning desert landscapes and red sandstone formations.
Lake Mead National Recreation Area - If you’re passing by this area, it’s worth stopping to check out some of the scenic overlooks or the historic Hoover Dam Bypass Bridge.
Echo Bay - This small community on Lake Mead offers some nice views and a chance to stretch your legs.

4. Suggestions for places in Boulder City to grab pre-packaged sandwiches (besides Albertson's)?

Beehive Sandwich Shop - Known for their delicious sandwiches, you can grab one to go. They offer some healthier options as well.
Park’s Market - This local grocery store offers a variety of sandwiches, including some fresh and healthier choices, perfect for taking with you.
The Coffee Cup - While it's more of a breakfast and lunch place, they may have pre-packaged options if you're looking for something quick and easy.

5. Places for lunch between Airport rental car and Eldorado Mine on our first day?

The Coffee Cup - Located in Boulder City, it's a great spot for a quick, casual lunch. They offer great sandwiches, salads, and wraps.
Grimaldi’s Pizzeria (at the Palms or Downtown) - If you’re looking for something slightly closer to the airport, they serve amazing pizza and have a few lighter options.
Sunset Park - There are a few great options around here for lunch, like local delis and quick eateries where you can grab sandwiches or lighter meals before heading to the Eldorado Mine.

6. Has anyone done the Lake Mead cruise?

The Desert Princess paddle-wheeler cruise on Lake Mead is a popular activity, and many people love it for its relaxing vibe and beautiful views of the lake and surrounding desert landscape. It’s a great way to spend a couple of hours on the water. You’ll see stunning views of the Hoover Dam and the Lake Mead shoreline. It’s a very family-friendly activity, and kids often love being on the boat. It’s definitely a nice change of pace if you're looking to unwind and enjoy the surroundings.

Overall, it sounds like you've planned a wonderful trip with a good mix of outdoor adventure and exploration. Enjoy your time in Boulder City and beyond!

3 days in Boulder City in Feb 2025; Qs

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