As the second largest city in Nevada, Henderson covers a lot of ground. But it all began in what is now known as the historic Water Street District. After a downturn, the neighborhood is once again thriving as a hub of repurposed buildings, walkable sidewalks, and timeless elements that look to the future while acknowledging the past.
⛏️ How It Began
Henderson developed in 1942, due to the presence of the Basic Magnesium plant, which helped supply the war effort. Water Street was the main drag for workers to eat, drink, and do business. Many of their homes — ordered from a Sears catalog in nine floor plans — are still around today.
🍷 A New Look
Much of the recent growth is driven by Windom Kimsey, the founder of the TSK architecture firm, which has an office on the south end of Water Street. He opened Azzurra Cucina Italiana — the closest thing to fine dining on Water Street — and Public Works Coffee Bar, which doubles as the Azzurra Wine Bar in the afternoon and evenings.
🍦 Lots To Eat
Create your own on-the-spot food crawl with visits to Juan’s Flaming Fajitas, Chinitas Tapas & Sushi, and Chef Flemming’s Bake Shop, which serves authentic Scandinavian pastries. The BLVD Grille is a touch more formal with an open dining room that faces the sidewalk. Save room for ice cream and other frozen treats at Purple Penguin or the World of Scoopz.
🍺 Bottoms Up
You don’t have to walk far to find a drink on Water Street. Enjoy local craft beer at the Lovelady Brewing Company or Mojave Brewing Company, which was built inside an old bank, with food (and whiskey) next door at Biscuits & Bourbon. The Gold Mine Tavern is a historic dive bar that dates back to 1965. Ask for a boozy pudding shot while checking out the live music.
🎸 Neighborhood Art and Entertainment
The Water Street Plaza is a gathering spot for festivals, farmers markets, and seasonal events. You can’t miss the America First Center. The imposing practice arena for the Vegas Silver Knights welcomes the general public for ice skating and pizza at the MacKenzie River Grill. A trio of old-school casinos — The Pass (formerly Eldorado), Rainbow Club, and Emerald Island — have a locals-friendly mentality that’s becoming increasingly rare in other corners of the Las Vegas Valley.
👷 New Development
Atwell Suites opened in late 2024 as part of The Pass, giving Water Street its first hotel — and one with a contemporary boutique image, matched by a wine bar in the lobby. After stalling out, the $50 million mixed-use apartment complex known as The Watermark got back on track and opened last year.
- The City Cast Las Vegas team took a food and drink crawl of Water Street and has thoughts to share on the neighborhood’s growth spurt. [City Cast Las Vegas 🎧]
