Grand Coulee Dam Tour — Coulee Dam, Washington

Discover the Grand Coulee Dam Tour in Washington

Experience one of the most impressive engineering achievements in the United States at Grand Coulee Dam, a massive hydroelectric and irrigation powerhouse on the Columbia River. Guided tours introduce visitors to how the dam was built, how it generates electricity, and how it transformed agriculture and development across the Columbia Basin. The visit combines indoor exhibits with sweeping outdoor viewpoints for a memorable, educational experience.

Why it’s special:
Grand Coulee Dam is one of the largest dams in the world and the largest hydroelectric power producer in the U.S. Its sheer scale, historic significance, and ongoing role in renewable energy make it a must-see industrial landmark.

History / Story of Grand Coulee Dam

Construction of Grand Coulee Dam began during the Great Depression as part of a bold federal effort to bring irrigation and electricity to the Pacific Northwest. Built to harness the Columbia River, the dam enabled large-scale farming in arid regions while supplying power to cities, industries, and wartime manufacturing. Over time, it became both a symbol of American engineering ambition and a reminder of the complex environmental and cultural impacts of large dams.

What You’ll See & Do on the Grand Coulee Dam Tour

• Join a guided public tour led by knowledgeable staff

• Ride by bus to the pump-generating plant and across the crest of the dam

• Learn how water is lifted, stored, and converted into electricity

• Explore the Visitor Center exhibits explaining construction, power generation, and irrigation

• Take in panoramic viewpoints overlooking Roosevelt Lake and the Columbia River

• Ask questions about dam operations, energy systems, and regional history

Hands-On Elements: Interactive exhibits, guided narration, and Q&A with tour staff.
Photo/Video Policy: Photography is allowed in approved areas; bags and large cases are not permitted on tours.

Pricing of the Grand Coulee Dam Tour

Price: Free
Both the guided dam tour and Visitor Center admission are free of charge.

Practical Info for Visiting Grand Coulee Dam

Duration: Approximately 50–60 minutes for the guided tour; allow extra time for exhibits and viewpoints
Format: Guided tour with bus transport and short walks
Tour Season:

• Tours typically run seasonally from May through October

Tour Times:

• Usually offered several times daily (commonly mid-morning through mid-afternoon)

Visitor Center Working Hours:

• Daily: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM (seasonal extensions possible)

Audience: Families, students, engineering enthusiasts, history lovers, road-trip travelers
Accessibility: Visitor Center is accessible; some tour areas include stairs and outdoor walking
Safety & Restrictions:

• Security screening required

• No bags, backpacks, or purses on tour buses

• Children must remain with adults at all times
  Languages: English
  Group & School Visits: Groups welcome; large groups should arrive early for availability
  What to Bring/Wear: Comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, water
  Facilities: Visitor Center, restrooms, parking, scenic overlooks
  Closures: Visitor Center closed on major federal holidays; tours may pause for security or operations

Nearby

• Lake Roosevelt National Recreation Area – Boating, fishing, camping, and hiking

• Electric City Viewpoints – Scenic overlooks of the dam and reservoir

• Coulee Dam Townsites – Small communities with cafés and river views

FAQs About Visiting Grand Coulee Dam

Do I need a reservation for the tour?
No reservations are required. Tours operate on a first-come, first-served basis, so arriving early increases your chances during busy periods.

What will I actually see during the tour?
Visitors see the pump-generating plant area, learn how water is lifted for irrigation, and ride across the top of the dam with guided explanations.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is family-friendly, but children must stay close to adults due to security rules and industrial surroundings.

Can I walk across the dam on my own?
Access across the dam is generally included as part of the guided tour rather than independent walking.

How much time should I plan overall?
Plan at least 1.5–2 hours to enjoy the tour, Visitor Center exhibits, and scenic viewpoints.