Hoover Dam was built over several years and completed in 1935. It was a huge undertaking at the time, and total cost for the project was $49 million. Adjusted for today's inflation, this amount is a staggering $676 million. If you've never visited Hoover Dam, this engineering marvel is something to see, and its close proximity to Las Vegas makes it an easy trip.

For those who don't want to spend an entire day touring Hoover Dam and its environs but still want to see the impressive structure, express-tours are available.

Included in the Hoover Dam Express Tour tickets price is transportation to and from the dam in the comfort of an air-conditioned motor coach. In a mere half hour, you will be transported from your hotel on the Las Vegas strip to this Registered National Historic Landmark.

Hoover Dam was built to harness the power of the mighty Colorado River, and the structure soars over 720 feet above the river. Guests have the opportunity to see the river, along with Lake Mead, on the tour.

Upon arrival to Hoover Dam, guests will have two hours to spend at the structure. There will be plenty of time to tour the facility, explore the visitor's center, and visit the Old Exhibit Hall. The Old Exhibit Hall was used to house soldiers in WWII, and information on this event is covered as well. Visitors will be able to view historic photographs, maps, and murals of the construction of the dam and view genuine artifacts from the dam as well. A film presentation of the historical events surrounding the building of Hoover Dam and the significance of the event in shaping the West is shown in the Hoover Dam Theater.

There is ample opportunity to take lots of pictures during the Hoover Dam Mini Tour. The Overlook offers an observation deck where guests can take in the stunning views of Lake Mead and the Colorado River, along with a panoramic view of the structure itself. The Penstock Viewing Platform gives visitors a glimpse inside the inner workings of the dam.

In addition to exploring on their own, ticket holders will be given a guided tour of the facility. Guests will learn the fascinating history of the dam, fun facts about the dam, and how it functions today. The dam generates energy for Nevada, Arizona, and a handful of Southern California cities.

On the way back to Las Vegas, the tour stops at the famous Ethel M chocolate factory and botanical gardens. You'll have time to sample some of the delicious chocolate creations of Ethel M, and you'll also have time to stroll the botanical gardens.

The tour also makes one final stop to the Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood. Guests will be given a coupon book with $2,000 in offers in discounts. Finally, the coach will take you right back to the hotel you started from.

The Hoover Dam transformed the Southwestern U.S. in 1930s, and the legalization of gambling transformed Las Vegas in the 1930s as well. Combining a trip to Las Vegas with a trip to Hoover Dam is an interesting way to link the area's past with its present.