Ethel M Botanical Cactus Garden

While Nevada might conjure images of a vast, lifeless desert—only broken by the glittering lights of the Vegas strip—the Ethel M Botanical Cactus Garden, located between Las Vegas and Henderson, gives its visitors a look into the inherent beauty of the desert. 

Contrary to popular belief, the desert's flora is as wide-ranging and diverse as any other environment.

In addition to the cactus garden, there's a chocolate shop on site. More on that shortly. 

Situated just 20 minutes east of the casinos and other traditional Vegas attractions, the Ethel M Botanical Cactus Garden is "Nevada's largest and one of the world's most prolific collections of its kind." Over 300 different species of plants, ranging from various cacti and succulents to desert trees and shrubs, dot the three acres the garden rests on.

Have you wanted to try nature photography but don't want to hike for hours in the heat for the perfect picturesque cactus or shrub? Then, visit the Ethel M Botanical Cactus Garden, where photography is allowed and encouraged! You can take that ideal desert sunset pic without hiking through the brambles!

A trip through the world's deserts can be a stroll or a hike; it's up to you! You'll never have to pay to visit the Ethel M Botanical Cactus Garden. 

Self-guided tours of one of Nevada's most fantastic nature attractions are available year-round, and there's even a cafe for you to refresh yourself if it gets too hot out. 

Fun Facts & Cool Features

So, let's discuss the aforementioned chocolate shop. 

If you're scratching your head about how chocolate and cactus are related, it's simple. The "M" in "Ethel M" stands for "Mars," the namesake of the Mars company. Everything from chocolate bars to gift boxes and even tasting tours is available at the factory.

And if you're visiting during the winter, you're in luck! The Holiday Cactus Garden Lights take place annually to warm the winter sky. The lights go up as the sun goes down, giving the garden a festive feel that will surely put anyone in the holiday spirit. Admission to the special event is $1, which goes to help local charities, like Help of Southern Nevada and Three Square Food Bank. The garden also collects toys and non-perishable food items for donations at this time.

For an educational and sweet experience on your Nevada vacation, visit the Ethel M Botanical Cactus Garden.

Getting There

Here are directions to Ethel M Botanical Cactus Garden from Las Vegas:

• Get on southbound I-515 towards Henderson, Nevada. 
• Follow I-515 toward East Tropicana Avenue and take Exit 68.
• Turn right onto South Mountain Vista Street.
• From South Mountain Vista Street, turn left onto Sunset Way and then take another left onto Cactus Garden Drive. 
• Address: 2 Cactus Garden Dr, Henderson, NV 89014.

Cost

Entrance into the Ethel M Botanical Cactus Garden and the attached chocolate factory is free!