I really enjoyed Hoover dam. It was a great detour from doing the normal "vegas" tourist stuff. Its only about 45 minutes from the strip.
The drive there was pretty cool once you get outside city limits. You get to see what at actual desert landscape looks like. You dont see that everyday living in the foothills.
There is ample covered parking in a multi level garage which is imperative since it was 110 degrees. Its a fair distance to walk so be sure to wear tennis shoes. The elevators tend to get pretty full so I just ran up the stairs.
Theres a metal detector and a security area you have to pass through once you enter just like the airport. It went fairly quick. Ticket booth is right there. We got the powerhouse tour which was $15.
We saw a movie of how the dam was built and it really was a testament to American ingenuity and Pride which is something we forget these days. I actually learned a lot from the tour and the kids enjoyed it too.
A lot of good vantage points throughout to see the dam and the lake and reservoir. You can even walk across the dam into Arizona. Lots of places to take pictures so bring your selfie stick : )