Las Vegas Animal Experiences For the Whole Family

Lions, tigers and bears, oh my! Las Vegas may not have a famous zoo, but several smaller experiences are available around town to interact on a more personal level with exotic animals. Get up close and personal with lions, giraffes, dolphins and more with your fellow animal lovers.

Lion Habitat Ranch

The Lion Habitat Ranch is a lion sanctuary and education center where visitors can view lions, wild birds, and Ozzie the giraffe. Located in the southwest area of Las Vegas and visits are appropriate for groups of all ages, with local discounts on ticket prices. In addition to seeing several lions up close in their habitats and learning about them from posted plaques and staff members, visitors can also add on “experiences” to hand-feed the animals (guests must sign waivers to participate). Visitors can also book behind-the-scenes tours to learn more from the animal handlers, and the space is available to be rented out for private events.

(Courtesy Lion Habitat Ranch)

Shark Reef Aquarium

The Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay is a family-friendly spot to see all your favorite aquatic friends, from giant rays and sharks to crocodiles, jellyfish and endangered sea turtles. The aquarium is open daily, and timed-entrance tickets are available. The space includes several tunnels you can walk through with sea creatures swimming above and around you for a unique, immersive view. Animal Encounters to add for a next-level experience include private feedings with stingrays, sea turtles and sharks.

Seat Turtle at Shark Reef Aquarium Inside Mandalay Bay (©Darrin Bush/Las Vegas News Bureau)

SeaQuest 

Located inside the Boulevard Mall on the east side of Las Vegas, Aquarium Vegas offers an interactive aquarium experience and petting zoo for kids, featuring animals from the land and sea. Kids can make their way through a maze of tanks and exhibits with fish and critters from all over the world.

Baby Sloth at Seaquest (©Melanie Lee)

Flamingo Wildlife Habitat 

Need a break to regroup and rest? The serene atmosphere at the Flamingo Wildlife Habitat is excellent to unwind during a mid-day break exploring the Strip with the family. Tucked into the Flamingo Hotel and Casino courtyard, this exhibit gives guests an up-close look at the namesake feathered friend in a four-acre garden with waterfalls, birds, turtles and fish. Adults can grab a drink at the nearby Patio Bar and imbibe while exploring.

Flamingo Wildlife Habitat at Flamingo Las Vegas (Courtesy Caesars Entertainment)