From feeding exotic sharks and swimming with dolphins to enjoying a relaxing day with loved ones at the local zoo, the following are the top five spots to see animals in Nevada.
SeaQuest Aquarium
Las Vegas
With land and sea creatures from more than five different continents, the SeaQuest Aquarium in Northern Las Vegas offers visitors a unique experience with many animals to discover. In addition to the sea life, guests can also anticipate unforgettable experiences at the aquarium, like snorkeling with stingrays, interacting with otters and trying the internet craze, fish kisses (where guests dip their feet into the water while tiny fishes gently remove dead skin cells). Tickets are $20 for adults and $14 for kids under 12. Be sure to snag yours online for a 15 percent off discount. To learn more about SeaQuest Aquarium, visit vegas.visitseaquest.com.
Siegfried and Roy’s Secret Garden and Dolphin Habitat
Las Vegas
A hidden gem inside The Mirage in Las Vegas, Siegfried and Roy’s Secret Garden and Dolphin Habitat is a must to visit if you are in the city and a stellar location to see animals in Nevada. The spot is famous for its enchanting Bottlenose dolphin experience, where guests have the opportunity to swim, learn about and play with the sweet sea animals in an intimate and safe environment. In addition to sea life ventures and aquatic shows, the secret garden houses rare wildcats, including albino tigers, white lions and albino leopards. Tickets start at $25 per person. To learn more about Siegfried and Roy’s Secret Garden and Dolphin Habitat, visit mirage.mgmresorts.com.
Lion Habitat Ranch
Henderson
Since opening its doors in 1989, the Lion Habitat Ranch in Henderson has been protecting and caring for retired and injured lions, providing a new, cozy home for them while they recover and retire. Most of these lions are former MGM performers enjoying a roaring post-famous lifestyle. Though there are many lions to visit and feed, the ranch also houses retired giraffes, including Ozzie, who you can feed, watch her paint a portrait or even enjoy a yoga class with (yes—you read that correctly). Tickets are $20 for locals and $25 for visitors from out of state. To learn more about the Lion Habitat Ranch, visit lionhabitatranch.org.
Shark Reef Aquarium
Las Vegas
The Shark Reef Aquarium inside the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas is perfect for those looking to get up close and personal with some aquatic animals. In addition to the 2,000 animals, including giant rays, green sea turtles, Piranhas and Komodo dragons, the aquarium is home to a multitude of rare, exotic sharks that you can meet face to face with Shark Reef Aquarium’s “Shark Feed.” If feeding sharks isn’t your cup of tea, the stingrays are also available to hand feed. General admission starts at $31 for little ones under 12 and $29 for adults. To learn more about Shark Reef Aquarium, visit mandalaybay.mgmresorts.com.
Sierra Nevada Zoological Park
Reno
The Sierra Nevada Zoological Park in northern Reno houses the most extensive variety of exotic animals to see in Nevada, featuring primates, big cats, reptiles and more. The zoo is donation-based and has been open for over 30 years. Aside from spotting some of your favorite furry and not-so furry friends, the zoological park also features monthly events and spots to relax and grab a quick bite to eat during your visit. Admission is $12 for adults and $8 for children ages 3 to 12. To learn more about the Sierra Nevada Zoological Park, visit sierranevadazoologicalpark.org.