The Hoover Dam is a concrete, arch-gravity dam and its purpose is to provide hydroelectric power, water storage, irrigation and flood control. It is located in Black Canyon on the Colorado River, in Nevada, 35 miles from Las Vegas.

In 1994, the American Society of Civil Engineers named the Hoover Dam as one of America's Seven Modern Civil Engineering Wonders. The Hoover Dam was built during the Great Depression. Construction work began on April 20, 1931 and the dam was completed on March 11, 1936.

The design themes, colors and patterns on the exterior of the dam reflect the Art Deco style and are inspired by original motifs used by the Navajo and Pueblo Native American tribes. The awe-inspiring Hoover Dam and Lake Mead attract over 10 million visitors a year. The Lake Mead National Recreation Area is one of the most popular U.S. national parks.