Springs Preserve and the city's "original oasis"

Springs Preserve is a 180‑acre cultural and historical attraction that sits on the site of the original Las Vegas Springs, the natural water source that enabled early settlement of the valley. The site includes botanical gardens, museum exhibits, and trails interpreting Mojave Desert ecology and local history; it opened to the public in 2007. Locals often jokingly refer to Springs Preserve as the area’s true "oasis"-a tongue-in-cheek contrast with the neon-and-concrete image of the Strip-while it continues to serve educational and recreational functions.