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Las Vegas Springs Preserve

The Las Vegas Springs Preserve, a 180-acre protected nature area just a few miles west of the Strip, may seem an unlikely location for a giant showcase of energy efficiency and sustainable living. Among the miles of hiking trails, the $250-million project includes a green Desert Living Center with earth-rammed walls and a water-collecting roof; a living bat cave; a gallery containing a simulation of what it would feel like to be in a flash flood; and an 1,800-seat amphitheater for concerts under the stars. Visitors can wander the trails for free, through a dramatic desert landscape dotted with cacti, acacia and mesquite trees, and re-created Pueblo Indian dwellings, complete with pots, baskets, and tools. Admission: Gardens and trails are free. Tickets for the Origen Experience (three galleries) and the Desert Living Center are $18.95 adults; $17.05 seniors and students; $10.95 children (5-17); free for children under 5.