Henderson, Nevada is a beautiful city located just outside of Las Vegas. With its close proximity to the entertainment capital of the world, Henderson offers visitors fun things to experience without breaking the bank.

Activity	Description
Hike at Lake Las Vegas	Scenic hike around a 320-acre artificial lake with wildlife views.
Henderson Bird Viewing Preserve	A 50-acre refuge for spotting over 200 bird species.
Clark County Museum	Covers regional history with various exhibits.
Relax at Sunset Park	A park with fields, ponds, and picnic areas for outdoor activities.
Henderson Farmer’s Market	Weekly market with local produce, arts, and live music.
Self-Guided Art Walk	Tour through the city’s public art installations.
Henderson Space and Science Center	Interactive science exhibits and educational programs.
Visit Hoover Dam	Iconic engineering feat with tours and stunning views.
Attend Free Concerts or Festivals	Variety of outdoor concerts and cultural festivals.
Historic Walking Tour of Downtown	Explore the city’s history through a self-guided tour.
Acacia Demonstration Gardens	Public garden emphasizing water conservation and nature.
Browse Public Art at Clark County Government Center	View large public art collection at the government center.
Attend a Library Event	Participate in arts, cultural events, and programs at the library.
Play Disc Golf at Wilbur and Theresa Faiss Park	Enjoy 18-hole disc golf courses and other park amenities.

If you’re looking for free activities and attractions during your next trip to Henderson, this list has you covered.

Take a Hike at Lake Las Vegas

Name and Location: Lake Las Vegas, Henderson, NV

History and Significance: Man-made lake with scenic trails surrounding it.

What to Expect: Hike the peaceful trails around the lakeshore. Spot birds and wildlife. Trails range from easy to strenuous.

Visitor Information: Free access. Trails open daily from dawn to dusk.

One of the best free things to do in Henderson is taking a scenic hike around Lake Las Vegas. This stunning 320-acre artificial lake is surrounded by high-end homes, hotels, and golf courses. The 3.2 mile Shoreline Trail loops around the perimeter of the lake, offering outstanding views of the water and surrounding landscape.

The paved pathway is perfect for walking, running, or cycling. Benches are conveniently placed along the trail if you need a break. Visitors can enjoy the peaceful setting and observe wildlife like ducks, geese, and turtles in their natural habitat.

Explore the Henderson Bird Viewing Preserve

Name and Location: Henderson Bird Viewing Preserve, 350 E Galleria Dr, Henderson, NV

History and Significance: Wetlands habitat with over 200 bird species.

What to Expect: Walking trails and observation decks to spot migratory birds and wildlife. Peaceful natural oasis.

Visitor Information: Free access daily, sunrise to sunset. Bring binoculars.

Nature lovers will enjoy spending time spotting birds at the Henderson Bird Viewing Preserve. This 50-acre refuge is dedicated to protecting migratory birds and other wildlife native to the Mojave Desert. A 2,040 foot elevated boardwalk winds through a wetland area filled with ponds, streams, and native vegetation.

Over 200 species of birds have been observed here throughout the year. Grab a pair of binoculars and see how many different birds you can identify during your visit. The preserve is open daily from sunrise to sunset and admission is completely free.

Stroll Through the Clark County Museum

Name and Location: Clark County Museum, 1830 S Boulder Hwy, Henderson, NV

History and Significance: Museum chronicling the history and development of Southern Nevada.

What to Expect: Exhibits, artifacts and multimedia displays bringing local history to life. Outdoor heritage railroad train.

Visitor Information: Open daily 9am-4:30pm. Admission fee required.

Discover the exciting history of Henderson at the Clark County Museum. This educational museum covers topics ranging from Native American artifacts to Hoover Dam construction to pioneer farming equipment. Fascinating permanent exhibits highlight early settlers, railroads, mining, and ranching in the region.

Visitors can also view artifacts from Las Vegas hotels that were imploded to make way for new developments. The museum campus includes historic homes and buildings to explore as well as a nature trail. General admission to the Clark County Museum is free for all visitors.

Relax at Sunset Park

Name and Location: Sunset Park, 2601 E Sunset Rd, Henderson, NV

History and Significance: Large park with amenities like ponds, pools, golf course and amphitheater.

What to Expect: Jogging paths, fishing, playgrounds, sports fields, aquatic center, concerts and events.

Visitor Information: Open daily 6am-11pm. Some facilities have fees.

Sunset Park is one of the best places in Henderson to enjoy the outdoors free of charge. This sprawling park consists of over 300 acres filled with fields, ponds, and picnic areas all set against a stunning mountain backdrop.

Visitors can go fishing, play sports on one of the many fields, exercise on the fitness course, or have a picnic with beautiful sunset views. Two off-leash dog parks provide space for pets to play and socialize as well. With so much to see and do, you can easily spend a whole day relaxing at Sunset Park.

Visit the Henderson Farmer’s Market

Name and Location: Henderson Farmers Market, 104 S Water St, Henderson, NV

History and Significance: Local produce, goods and crafts sold Thursdays year-round.

What to Expect: Browse fresh, locally grown fruits, veggies, baked items, jams, crafts and more from area vendors.

Visitor Information: Thursdays 9am-2pm year round. Free to attend.

For fresh local produce and wares, check out the Henderson Farmer’s Market. This weekly market takes place every Friday from 10am to 3pm in Water Street Plaza. Local farmers and artisans sell fresh fruits, vegetables, baked goods, arts & crafts and more at affordable prices.

In addition to shopping, visitors can dine on food truck fare, listen to live music, enjoy cooking demos, and participate in children’s activities. Supporting local businesses and stocking up on farm-fresh goods make the Henderson Farmer’s Market a must for area residents and tourists. Admission to the market is free.

Take a Self-Guided Art Walk

Name and Location: Throughout downtown Henderson

History and Significance: Downtown features many works of public sculpture and art.

What to Expect: Stroll downtown and admire outdoor sculptures, murals, and architectural details. Use online map.

Visitor Information: Free access. Available anytime. Pick up map at visitor center.

Henderson has an impressive collection of public art installations located throughout the city. Visitors can enjoy these works of art on a free self-guided walking tour. Notable pieces include the neon art at the Clark County Government Center, bronze sculptures along Water Street, and interactive elements like the Glass Bend at Liberty Pointe Park.

Download a public art walking tour map online before your trip to learn about each piece and plan the best route. It’s an educational and Instagram-worthy way to experience Henderson’s culture.

Visit the Henderson Space and Science Center

Name and Location: Henderson Space and Science Center, 721 E Horizon Dr, Henderson, NV

History and Significance: Educational center with exhibits, shows about space, aviation, and science.

What to Expect: Hands-on exhibits, simulations, movies in the dome theater related to space and science.

Visitor Information: Open Tuesday-Saturday, closed Sundays and Mondays. Admission fee.

The Henderson Space and Science Center provides a wealth of free educational activities for families. Visitors can view interactive science exhibits in the gallery hall focused on earth science, physics, chemistry, and space exploration. Other highlights include a large-scale planet walk, climbing tower, and outdoor garden.

The center hosts free weekly programs like Science Saturday with different science experiments and Space Storytime with astronomy themed books. Members of the Las Vegas Astronomical Society also hold occasional star parties at dusk where visitors can observe the night sky through high-powered telescopes.

See the Hoover Dam

Name and Location: Hoover Dam, Boulder City, NV

History and Significance: This massive dam provides power and water to the Southwest. An engineering marvel.

What to Expect: Take a tour to explore and learn about how the dam was constructed and operates. Visitors center and museum on site.

Visitor Information: Open daily with varying tour times. Ticket required for visitor center and tours.

One of America’s most iconic engineering feats, the mighty Hoover Dam, is located just 25 miles outside of Henderson. Visitors can take a tour of the massive dam, explore the Powerplant, and admire the stunning views of Lake Mead.

Self-parking and access to view the dam are completely free of charge. For just $15 per adult, you can upgrade to the Powerplant Tour which takes you 500 feet below the earth’s surface to see the massive generators. Walking across the Hoover Dam pedestrian walkway offers one of the best views of the structure. Make sure to stop by on your trip to Henderson and marvel at this incredible feat of engineering.

Attend a Free Concert or Festival

Name and Location: Henderson Events Plaza, 200 S Water St, Henderson, NV

History and Significance: Location for regular community concerts, festivals and events.

What to Expect: Outdoor concerts, food festivals, car shows and more. Family-friendly free events.

Visitor Information: Event schedules vary. Check city website calendar of events.

Throughout the year, Henderson hosts a variety of free outdoor concerts and festivals that promise fun for all ages. Groove to live music at the Green Valley Sounds summer concert series at The District or rock out at High Note Thursday at Water Street Plaza.

Annual events like the Water Street Festival, Shakespeare in the Park, and Independence Day celebration feature live entertainment, art, food trucks and more. For a full schedule of all upcoming free concerts and events, visit the city’s website. It’s an easy way to experience Henderson culture on a budget.

Take a Historic Walking Tour of Downtown

Name and Location: Downtown Henderson, NV

History and Significance: Learn about the history of Henderson’s downtown on foot.

What to Expect: Guided or self-guided tour of historic buildings, landmarks and architecture with informative plaques.

Visitor Information: Free tours. Maps at visitor center. Guided tours monthly or by appointment.

The city of Henderson has a rich history that can still be seen today in its historic downtown district. Visitors can take a self-guided walking tour to explore important cultural sites and learn about the city’s past. Notable stops include the Henderson Water Street Historic

District filled with early 20th century architecture, Pittman Wash Greenbelt petroglyph site, Clark County Museum in the old Henderson Hotel, and Victory Town site built during WWII to house magnesium plant workers. Download a guide online and discover Henderson’s unique heritage first-hand without spending a dime.

Spend Time Outdoors at Acacia Demonstration Gardens

Name and Location: Acacia Demonstration Gardens, 50 Casa Del Fuego St, Henderson, NV

History and Significance: These public gardens demonstrate water efficient landscaping.

What to Expect: Walk through exhibits of xeriscape plants and enjoy peaceful fountains and benches.

Visitor Information: Free access daily from 8am – dusk.

For a peaceful oasis in the desert, visit the CSN Henderson Acacia Demonstration Gardens. This 7-acre public garden space contains lush gardens, serene water features, and ecological exhibits emphasizing water conservation.

Visitors can get lost wandering through fragrant rose gardens, artfully trimmed hedges, citrus orchards, and cactus gardens all set against majestic mountain views. Educational plants signs teach garden design ideas for your own yard. Pack a lunch or book and unwind surrounded by nature at Acacia. Admission and parking are completely free.

Browse Public Art at the Clark County Government Center

Name and Location: Clark County Government Center, 500 S Grand Central Pkwy, Las Vegas, NV

History and Significance: Features one of the largest public art collections in Nevada.

What to Expect: View paintings, sculpture, multimedia pieces throughout the campus. Self-guided or free tours available.

Visitor Information: Free access weekdays 7am-5:30pm. Closed weekends and holidays.

Clark County’s Government Center campus is home to one of the largest public art collections in the state, all available to see for free. Visitors can park at the complex and then take a stroll around the grounds to view over 20 unique sculptures and installations.

Artworks include the iconic neon sculpture Daemonorops at the front entrance, winding copper Undulations piece, and massive abstract Monumental Gourd. Descriptive plaques provide details on each project. It’s a fascinating way to experience art and architecture at your own pace.

Attend a Library Event

Name and Location: Henderson Libraries – various branch locations

History and Significance: The public libraries host free events and classes.

What to Expect: Attend free classes, demonstrations, author talks, children’s storytimes, book clubs and more.

Visitor Information: Event schedules vary by location. Check library website for details.

The Henderson District Public Libraries host a plethora of free arts and cultural events year-round. Patrons can attend free musical concerts, art exhibits, lectures, book readings, children’s programs, crafting classes, and much more.

Special events like WritersFest celebrate local literary arts while cultural heritage months feature activities honoring Black, Hispanic, and Native American history. Browse the online calendar and stop by your local branch to experience enrichment free of charge. From family storytimes to jazz jams, there’s always something interesting happening at the library.

Play Disc Golf at Wilbur and Theresa Faiss Park

Name and Location: Wilbur and Theresa Faiss Park, 1525 W Horizon Ridge Pkwy, Henderson, NV

For something fun and active, try your hand playing disc golf at Wilbur and Theresa Faiss Park. The park contains two professional level 18-hole disc golf courses winding through pine tree groves. Just bring your own discs or borrow from a friend.

As you walk the scenic course, you’ll toss discs into elevated baskets and aim through hilly terrain, tracking your total throws at each hole. The park also contains playgrounds, pools, sports fields, and walking trails to enjoy when you need a break from disc golf. With beautiful scenery and a mental and physical challenge, disc golf makes for a perfect free day.

Conclusion

Henderson has so much to offer visitors who want to experience attractions and culture while sticking to a budget. From stunning outdoor spaces and historic sites to markets, concerts, and community events, Henderson has many options for free entertainment.

Whether you’re interested in architecture, art, nature, or sports, you’re sure to find an activity that excites your interests. Use this list to plan out unique stops during your trip. Enjoy discovering all the great free experiences waiting to be uncovered in the beautiful city of Henderson, Nevada.