Las Vegas honored military families this Memorial Day weekend with a special event at the Springs Preserve, a 180-acre cultural and natural history center located at 333 S. Valley View Boulevard. The occasion was part of the city’s ongoing efforts to recognize and appreciate the sacrifices made by members of the Armed Forces and their families.
Memorial Day at the Springs Preserve
On May 25, 2025, the Springs Preserve hosted a family-friendly Memorial Day event titled “Conservation for Kids: Endangered Plants & Animals.” This special program aimed to educate children and attendees about the importance of preserving Nevada’s native plants and animals, many of which face threats to their survival. The event combined education with fun, providing interactive activities designed to engage younger audiences while also honoring the spirit of Memorial Day.
The event was free for members of the Springs Preserve, while non-members were able to join by purchasing general admission tickets. This approach allowed broader community participation while encouraging visitors to explore the preserve’s rich natural and cultural exhibits.
Blue Star Museums Program
As part of the broader recognition of military families, the Springs Preserve participates in the Blue Star Museums program, a nationwide initiative that offers free admission to active-duty military personnel and up to five family members from Armed Forces Day through Labor Day. This program is designed to give military families access to museums and cultural institutions across the United States, offering opportunities for recreation, education, and family bonding.
During the Memorial Day weekend, this program was especially significant as it enabled many military families to visit the Springs Preserve without the barrier of admission fees. This gesture reflects Las Vegas’s commitment to supporting and appreciating the local military community.
Springs Preserve: A Hub of Culture and Nature
The Springs Preserve is more than just a park. It serves as a vital cultural and environmental landmark that offers visitors a chance to explore the natural history and ecology of the Las Vegas Valley and surrounding desert regions.
Visitors to the Springs Preserve can experience a range of exhibits and attractions, including the Origen Museum, botanical gardens featuring native plants, walking trails through desert landscapes, and the Butterfly Habitat. Each attraction offers educational insights into the delicate balance of ecosystems in the Mojave Desert and the ongoing conservation efforts to protect them.
For military families attending the Memorial Day event, the preserve offered a meaningful way to connect with nature while celebrating the values of service and sacrifice that Memorial Day represents.
Support for Military Families in Las Vegas
Las Vegas is home to a significant population of active military personnel, veterans, and their families. Various organizations and government initiatives in the city actively work to support this community through programs such as free or discounted access to cultural institutions, healthcare, housing assistance, and employment support.
Events like the Springs Preserve Memorial Day program highlight the importance of community recognition and appreciation. They provide an opportunity for military families to come together in a welcoming environment, fostering a sense of belonging and gratitude.
How to Visit the Springs Preserve
The Springs Preserve is open to the public Thursday through Monday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. General admission prices are $18.95 for adults and $10.95 for children aged 3 to 17, while children under 3 are admitted free of charge. Military personnel and their families may access the preserve free of charge during the Blue Star Museums program by presenting valid military identification.
Whether you are a military family or a visitor interested in nature and culture, the Springs Preserve offers a valuable experience to learn about Nevada’s natural heritage and appreciate the sacrifices made by those who serve the country.