Henderson, the second largest city in Nevada, may not be as well-known as nearby Las Vegas, but that doesn’t mean it lacks excitement. On the contrary, Henderson has quietly created a variety of attractions and a laid-back atmosphere that will attract many travelers.
The city offers all the enjoyment of Vegas, minus the hectic crowds, thanks to its beautiful resorts and casinos. It’s an ideal family-friendly destination with plenty of activities for kids, including water parks and a lion sanctuary.
And for those who love the outdoors, there are plenty of protected lands nearby where you can explore canyons and lakes without straying too far.
12. Sunset Station Casino

If you’re visiting Henderson, you should definitely consider staying at Sunset Station Casino, also known as Henderson’s luxurious palace. Even if you’re not staying there, it’s still worth checking out because it’s the most impressive building in town.
At Sunset Station Hotel, you can get a taste of the Vegas Strip experience without actually going to Vegas. The hotel has a large casino area with a variety of gambling options like poker, blackjack, slot machines, roulette, and craps. However, what really completes the experience is the wide range of restaurants and nightly entertainment offered.
You can enjoy a delicious meal at Pusta Cucina or the Oyster Bar, and then settle in for live music on the Sunset Station stage.
11. Lake Las Vegas

Lake Las Vegas is a popular place for watersports in and around Henderson, similar to the Hoover Dam but more localized. In the 1990s, the area gained popularity and many luxurious summer homes and resorts were built along the lake.
Both locals and travelers enjoy waterskiing, wakeboarding, and kayaking on the large lake, but sailing is the favorite activity. Visitors to Henderson can easily rent kayaks and paddleboards to fully enjoy the experience. Along the lake, there are also man-made beaches where you can relax and soak up the sun.
10. Lion Habitat Ranch

The Lion Habitat Ranch is located a short distance away from the M Resort Casino, and it offers a unique experience for travelers. Around 50 lions currently call this large ranch their home, and their numbers are growing thanks to adorable cubs joining the group. Lucky visitors can even have the chance to feed these lions.
For more than 25 years, the Lion Habitat Ranch has been committed to educating the community about the incredible lion species. Additionally, they dedicate a lot of their time to supporting Conservation International, an organization that helps lions in Kenya.
Many of the lions at the ranch have been rescued from unfortunate situations and are now living in a safe, authentic habitat. Guests can take tours of the facility and not only learn about the lions, but also about the remarkable work done by the ranch.
What makes this experience even more special is that the feeding program allows guests to interact not only with lions, but also with giraffes, providing a rare opportunity to get close to these stunning animals.
9. Henderson Bird Viewing Preserve

Located on East Galleria Drive, the Henderson Bird Viewing Preserve offers a wonderful opportunity to observe the diverse array of local bird species. The preserve has become popular among migratory birds, attracting a wide range of different birds.
It features a combination of marshland spread across its nine ponds, which serves as a major attraction for migrating birds. The preserve also offers various trails that provide an excellent vantage point to appreciate the surrounding nature. With every season, the preserve undergoes changes, ensuring a unique experience with each visit. Don’t forget to bring your binoculars and, as a gentle reminder, avoid feeding the birds.
8. Cowabunga Bay Water Park

Henderson has great weather all year round, except for the very hot summers. Visitors, especially families, have many chances to visit the Cowabunga Bay Water Park. This park is one of two in the entire United States and offers a wide variety of fun and refreshing activities.
It is located at the northern end of the town, and as you approach, you can see the vibrant water slides and feel the excitement in the air. Once inside, you can choose from a range of options, such as thrilling water slides and wave pools, as well as relaxing lazy rivers and swimming pools.
For an adrenaline rush, make sure to try out the Point Panic slide and the Surf-A-Go-Go, which combines surfing and water sliding in an exciting way.
7. Las Vegas Distillery

Henderson offers numerous options for enjoying a drink, but one place that stands out is the Las Vegas Distillery. It is a unique distillery that is owned and operated by a family. What makes it special is that it was the first distillery in the whole state.
They focus on making small quantities of high-quality bourbons, gins, rums, vodka, and even moonshine. When you enter the distillery, it feels like stepping back in time and witnessing local history. Visitors can take a guided tour and tasting session that lasts just under an hour.
During this time, you will learn about the entire process, from the beginning to the end, and appreciate the family’s meticulous attention to detail. Afterward, you can try some samples and maybe even purchase a bottle to take home with you.
6. Clark County Heritage Museum

If you want to learn more about the area of Henderson and its surroundings, you should definitely visit the Clark County Heritage Museum. This county, located in the southern part of Nevada, has a fascinating history involving Native Americans and the expansion towards the west.
The museum is organized into different sections that represent different time periods and themes. One of the main attractions is the collection of Native American artifacts that provides a glimpse into the past.
Las Vegas, the most famous city in Clark County and in the whole state of Nevada, is also represented at the Heritage Museum with various gambling machines, including a Dewey slot machine from 1898. Additionally, visitors can see vintage cars and a replica of the Boulder City train depot, offering a sense of the area’s history.
5. M Resort Casino

Even though Henderson is often overlooked compared to Las Vegas, you still have the opportunity to play poker there. If you’re interested in trying your luck, you can head to the M Resort Casino for a fun night. The casino has a captivating modern design and is located close to Sloan Canyon, which adds to its appeal.
Inside, you’ll find a large and impressive complex with all the amenities you would expect from a high-end casino, such as rows of slot machines and lively roulette tables. Additionally, guests can enjoy dining at the various on-site restaurants and bars or even spend the night in the luxurious hotel rooms.
4. Emerald Island Casino

Located in the center of Henderson, the Emerald Island Casino offers a more local atmosphere compared to the flashy resorts on the Vegas Strip. It provides a friendly and welcoming environment for visitors. Unlike other casinos, the Emerald doesn’t have excessive theatrics, allowing guests to enjoy a relaxed and entertaining experience.
Those who enjoy casual gambling will appreciate the complimentary tasty snacks and beverages that are on par with what you would find in a bar. Moreover, the Emerald Casino is the only place in Henderson where you can find a 24-hour restaurant, making it an ideal spot for a late-night meal.
3. Sloan Canyon National Conservation Area

Despite being close to Las Vegas, Henderson surprisingly has its own natural spaces. The desert ridges surrounding the town offer an intriguing nature experience. Hikers will particularly enjoy Sloan Canyon National Conservation Area, which is similar to Red Rock Canyon.
Sloan Canyon features stunning geography, such as rugged ochre rocks with petroglyphs and tall ridges that descend sharply into a vast gorge. This gorge has even been nicknamed the Sistine Chapel of Nevada due to its collection of ancient rock art. To witness the finest rock art, hikers should explore the Dutchman Pass trail.
2. Ethel M Chocolate Factory

There are many great reasons to visit the Ethel M Chocolate Factory. If you love sweets, you’ll definitely want to check out the factory and try their delicious treats. But what may surprise you is the beautiful cactus garden nearby. Ethel M offers the best chocolate experience in the area.
You can take a self-guided tour of the factory and even get to taste their high-quality chocolate along with some wonderful wine. The best part is that the tour is completely free! Once you’re done with the factory, take a leisurely walk through the stunning cacti garden.
It’s one of the best collections in Nevada and adds a unique touch to the otherwise traditional English garden setting.
1. The District at Green Valley Ranch

Located just a short drive away from downtown Henderson, the District at Green Valley Ranch offers a unique blend of shopping, entertainment, and nightlife. During the day, the District is a charming collection of boutique shops and well-known stores, making it the perfect place for a retail therapy session.
There are also plenty of eateries to choose from if you need to refuel. Families with young children can take part in the daily Stroller Strides program or enjoy the Outdoor Picture Show. Furthermore, the District hosts a lively farmers market every week.
As the sun sets, the District transforms into a bustling hub with restaurants buzzing with customers and others heading straight to the casino located within the Green Valley Ranch Resort.