Ethel M Chocolates & Botanical Cactus Garden

Hand-crafted in the heart of Henderson, Ethel M Chocolates has been making delicious, small-batch chocolates for more than 40 years. Between bites of delectable caramels, brittles, and liqueurs, stroll the three-acre botanical cactus garden or become an honorary chocolatier through a tasting experience.

Founded by Forrest Mars—the man who brought the world M&M’s, Milky Way, and countless other confections—and named in honor of his mother, Ethel M Chocolates prides itself on creating exceptional chocolate using the finest ingredients available. Choose from classics like truffles and nut clusters, or let unique fillings like prickly pear, passion fruit, and bananas foster steal the spotlight. For more spirited tastes, opt for Ethel M’s line of liqueur-filled chocolates, ranging from champagne and cognac to rum and tequila.

For a free, self-guided glimpse of how the chocolate-making process works, watch expert chocolatiers at work on the factory viewing aisle. If you want to feel like an expert chocolatier yourself, book a tasting experience. These interactive events teach attendees how to enjoy four Ethel M chocolates using all your senses—and those ages 21 and up can add a wine or mimosa pairing.

Botanical Cactus Garden at Ethel M Chocolates

Less than 30 minutes from the Las Vegas Strip, Ethel M’s Botanical Cactus Garden is a true hidden gem. See more than 300 species of cacti and succulents—some native to the region and others from as far away as Australia and South America—thriving in the Mojave Desert region.

While the Ethel M cactus garden is stunning any time of year, it becomes extra magical during the holidays. From early November through Christmas, bring the whole family to meet Santa and sip hot cocoa while being surrounded by more than a million sparkling lights. For Valentine’s Day, the garden goes romantic for Lights of Love. Treat your loved one(s) to a stroll and some chocolate-dipped strawberries, along with other seasonal treats.